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A Master of Business Administration degree from a business school like the Sloan School, Columbia Business School, or Northwestern University is like a passport to corporate leadership opportunities for experienced professionals. When you apply for a job, holding an MBA boosts your prospects by showing that you have the skills and knowledge to master workplace tasks. Possessing an MBA also lends gravity to the degree holder, demonstrating academic achievement in the face of high standards.

Professionals who qualify for the best MBA degree programs enhance the value of their degrees with recognizable university names. There are thousands of colleges and universities with a business school offering a full-time MBA program that will help you achieve your career goals. Of course, not all of these programs are equal. With all the noise in the marketplace, business professionals like you need to focus on programs that fit your needs and expectations and allow you to join the ranks of MBA graduates. 

MBAs have existed since the early 20th century and gained currency in the business world by the 1960s. The first business school in the world to offer graduate degrees was Dartmouth University’s Tuck School of Business in 1900, and Harvard followed suit with the nation’s first MBA program in 1908. In 1916, the Association of Collegiate Schools of Business was created to promote best practices in business education. The ACSB later became the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business. Thanks to these early pioneers, MBA programs produce graduates ready for the rigors of the global economy. 

Statistics from the AACSB and Statista show why professionals and businesses value the MBA: According to the AACSB, most surveyed MBA graduates reached senior leadership positions with their companies within five years of graduation. Of the surveyed companies, 72% said MBAs provide added value to the workplace, while 70% reported that an MBA education helps professionals handle multiple roles. Statista also found that from 2008 to 2019, the percentage of companies that hired MBAs rose from 59% to 76%. 

The best MBA degree programs in the US are designed to connect classroom lessons with real-world skills. In the programs detailed in this guide, you complete core courses that establish foundations in finance and management. However, business schools diverge on how to encourage specialization among MBA candidates. You may be asked to select concentrations or tracks focusing on particular business functions or industries. MBA programs also sometimes allow you to use electives to customize your learning experiences. 

Every business school program encourages you to participate in work experience opportunities like internships, consulting projects, and competitions that test your limits. Universities with successful business programs use evening, executive, and part-time MBA programs to augment their full-time degree paths. Full-time MBA students and working professionals alike emerge from this gauntlet of challenges with marketable skills.

The best MBA programs in the U.S. desire the same outcomes for their graduates: to communicate clearly and manage staff effectively using a variety of skill sets. As an MBA graduate, you will emerge with clearer views of how businesses function in the real world and how you can improve. MBA programs are also important meeting places for future partners, colleagues, and collaborators to learn shared values. With these outcomes in mind, aspiring business leaders like you can tackle the task of completing MBA applications.

COMMON APPLICATION AND ADMISSION QUESTIONS FOR TOP BUSINESS SCHOOLS

The competitive nature of the business world mirrors MBA programs’ high standards. Poets & Quants reports that 10 leading business schools admitted an average of 18.4% of all applicants in 2021. Though this is lower than in 2020 and 2019, it’s higher than the 17.2% mark in 2018 and the 16% admittance rate in 2017.

Still, business professionals around the world are eager to gain entry to these exclusive clubs. The universities in our ranking have developed application processes that carefully evaluate your background and potential, so nailing the application process is critical as a hopeful MBA applicant. 

You are in a strong position for admission if you demonstrate past academic success. Every business school on our list requires official transcripts for previous undergraduate and graduate work as part of the admissions process. These transcripts show your overall GPA and the completion of foundational business courses. In some cases, MBA programs look for successful non-business students interested in business careers. Few programs maintain hard-and-fast GPA standards, though a GPA above 3.0 is generally required for admission.

Applicants to MBA programs are also often asked to submit recent results from either the Graduate Management Admissions Test (GMAT) or the Graduate Record Examinations (GRE). These graduate-level tests demonstrate the writing, logic, and comprehension skills necessary for success in MBA programs.

According to Poets & Quants, the average GMAT score of admitted students in 2019 exceeded 690 (out of a possible GMAT score of 800) at half of the nation’s top 50 business schools. However, according to Coursera, the average GMAT score at all business schools from 2019-2022 is around 568. This includes an average GMAT score of 4.43 out of 6 on the analytical writing assessment and an average GMAT score of 4.6 out of 8 on the integrated reasoning portion.

The GMAT score includes two other measures: verbal and quantitative. The average GMAT score on the verbal test over the last three years is 27.26 out of 51. The average GMAT score on the quantitative test is 40.7 out of 51.

Business school applicants’ GRE verbal, quantitative, and analytical writing scores tend to exceed 310 out of a possible 346. According to U.S. News & World Report, the average verbal reasoning score in recent years is 150.61. The average quantitative score is just over 150. Meanwhile, the average writing score in recent years is 3.6.

MBA programs are unique among graduate schools and heavily emphasize professional experience. The best business schools typically ask for at least one letter of recommendation from a past supervisor or professor. A polished resume showing previous professional experience should detail your path to the program. Top business schools also often ask for at least one essay describing your goals, how you fit with the school’s values, and what unique assets you would bring to the school. 

The application fees for MBA programs vary but often exceed the $77 average for undergraduate programs noted by U.S. News & World Report. Business schools at Texas A&M University ($125), the University of Texas ($200), and Stanford University ($275) far exceed this average. There are exceptions to this trend, however, with Arizona State University’s $70 fee and a $75 fee for the University of North Texas. 

Leading business programs use admissions interviews to bring application materials to life. Led by rotating groups of faculty, staff members, and alumni, these interviews may take anywhere from one hour to a full day. Keeping this in mind, develop a polished and concise sales pitch for your candidacy. Frame the inevitable questions about past challenges or career changes as opportunities for growth. You can also reduce interview anxiety by practicing with colleagues or friends. A successful interview can go a long way toward turning an application into an offer. 

WHAT ABOUT FINANCIAL AID & SCHOLARSHIPS TO TOP BUSINESS SCHOOLS?

If you are admitted to your preferred business school, think about how you will fund your education. Student loan debt has been in the news for years, and an advanced business degree is a significant investment for any professional. The Education Data Initiative notes that the average tuition for business schools is $63,1800. There is wide variability in the expense of MBA programs, though.

For example, the Education Data Initiative reports that the Harvard School of Business is around $112,760 for its two-year program. Meanwhile, the tuition at Binghamton University’s business school is $34,940 for a two-year program.

According to a 2019 report from CNBC, nearly 50% of MBA students at top universities borrowed at least $100,000 to fund their degrees. The return on investment is high but can take years to realize, making a smart financial plan vital for any MBA student. Personal and federal student loans are always options, though scholarships and fellowships put you in a better financial situation. 

Alumni and corporate partners often sponsor scholarships to help continue top business schools’ reputations for business education. There are also scholarships aimed at women, minority, first-generation, and international students who will diversify the student body.

Fellowships often provide two years of funding for MBA students in exchange for teaching, research, and consulting work. Business schools often automatically consider first-year MBA candidates for scholarships and fellowships.

Foundations and business groups often provide MBA funding opportunities to targeted groups as well. The Orbis Investment Management MBA Fellowship is open to any first-year MBA student who is interested in investment. This $15,000 award requires an application, stock analysis, and interview.

The Forte Foundation funds fellowships each year for female MBA candidates at select universities, includes an award and mentoring opportunities, and promotes candidates’ credentials to partner companies. The Association of Certified Fraud Examiners encourages business school students to study this career path through the Ritchie-Jennings Memorial Scholarship. The ACFE awards between $1,000 and $10,000 to successful applicants who demonstrate an interest in fraud prevention careers. 

There are hundreds of additional funding options to fit your background, interests, and career goals. U.S. News & World Report offers additional suggestions to reduce educational costs: You can work with a business school’s career center to find part-time employment opportunities to offset costs and hone marketable skills. Career centers may also work with employers to find consultants who can help with one-off projects. If you’re an entrepreneurial student with a low-overhead business idea, you can also start your venture as you complete your degree. 

U.S. News & World Report also recommends pursuing accelerated MBA options, which are often available at leading business universities. An accelerated or part-time MBA program reduces tuition costs while providing the same degree as the full-time MBA option.

Don’t let funding questions prevent you from working toward a graduate degree. According to Poets & Quants, approximately one-third of students in MBA programs get financial help from their parents or employer. Another third use loans to pay for their degree. And another third use personal savings. 

HOW MUCH CAN I MAKE WITH A MASTER OF BUSINESS ADMINISTRATION? 

The sacrifices and hard work that factor into an MBA education yield great long-term prospects for graduates. PayScale’s salary average for MBA recipients is $96,000. The salary data site published an average salary of $73,000 for Bachelor of Business Administration holders in the same period. PayScale found several MBA career paths with average salaries significantly higher than their baseline figure. Chief financial officers who hold MBAs earned an average salary of $157,829 in 2023. In terms of managerial positions, MBA-holding project managers ($88,111) and marketing directors ($117,757) also enjoy above-average salaries. 

Look for career options that provide high-end compensation and have long-term demand for talent. A career path with more jobs than qualified applicants means plenty of demand for an MBA’s services. The Bureau of Labor Statistics notes that top executive positions are projected to grow by 6% through the beginning part of the 2030s, and the job market for human resources managers should grow by 7% during the same time. Advertising and marketing managers should benefit from a 10% estimated growth in available jobs. All of these career paths exceed the 5% projected growth across all occupations during the same period. 

The Graduate Management Admission Council (GMAC) highlights several trends in MBA hiring. MBAs who are willing to move abroad benefit from 87% of Asian companies and 69% of European companies planning to hire recent graduates. Startup companies are additional sources of employment, with a 62% projected MBA hiring rate in 2019, up from 45% in 2018. The GMAC found that consulting, utility providers, and health care were the strongest areas of demand for MBA graduates. 

As a professional with an MBA, you should further expand your career options to unconventional roles for business school graduates. U.S. News & World Report suggests higher education management as an intriguing possibility for MBAs who want to bring corporate skills to college campuses. The publication also advocates for MBAs in the sports and fashion industries because their analytical skills are valuable for understanding changing consumer trends. 

Another nontraditional career path for graduates of full-time MBA programs is sustainability leadership roles that blend entrepreneurial impulses with progressive values. MBA graduates like you can also consider starting companies of their own, rather than serving the visions of others.

Think of the future when you consider the business functions and industries that fit your interests. For example, forward-thinking MBAs need to consider how cloud computing and artificial intelligence fit into basic functions like customer service and sales. 

The saturation of mobile phone use in Asia, Africa, and Latin America will also provide growth opportunities for companies skilled in digital marketing. The opportunities for professional growth and career advancement are plentiful if you’re a motivated MBA.

Graduate degree programs show you how you can affect change in workplaces around the world. Think carefully before committing your time, energy, and money to an MBA program. The ten MBA degrees listed below feature exceptional faculty, top business school reputations, and return on investment for students.

OUR RANKING CRITERIA FOR THE TOP BUSINESS SCHOOLS

We have a time-tested four-part formula designed to rank the nation’s best colleges that generates far better recommendations than simply Googling “best MBA programs in USA.” We prioritize four major factors when ranking full-time MBA programs: earnings potential, affordability, student satisfaction, and selectivity. Reliable research and well-harvested data are the main ingredients in our recipe for success. 

We don’t make recommendations based on personal opinions or financial incentives, our revenue and content are completely separate, and sponsored business schools have no impact on our rankings. The only way to make it onto one of our lists is to have an incredible academic program. If you want to know more, we encourage you to check out our methodology page. 

Check out the top 10 MBA program ranking below! 

#1 MBA Rankings: UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA, BERKELEY

MASTER OF BUSINESS ADMINISTRATION

Not only is the University of California, Berkeley home to the best MBA programs in California, but it’s also home to the best in the nation.

Berkeley’s sports teams are called the Bears, a name dating back to the late 19th century. Since 1895, this school’s mascot has been the bear in connection to the California state flag. Berkeley has undergone significant changes in its history, originating as an agricultural school and becoming involved in the civil rights movement of the 1950s and 60s.  

In the 21st century, the university system’s flagship campus has continued its commitment to academic excellence. U.S. News & World Report ranks Berkeley #20 among National Universities and #1 (tie) among top public schools. The Haas School of Business at the University of California, Berkeley, is also highly regarded and ranks #11 in the nation. 

The admissions process for Berkeley’s business school ensures you are surrounded by promising colleagues. Even though the Haas School of Business does not maintain minimum requirements for GPAs or test scores, applicants admitted to the Class of 2024 held average undergraduate GPAs of 3.64 and average GMAT scores of 729.

The application requires official university transcripts, two letters of recommendation, and a resume. You must submit GMAT scores and GRE scores, an essay, and a $200 application fee as well. Prospective business school students who advance beyond the initial application review may be asked to interview with business school representatives. Admission is highly competitive – the Class of 2024 has 247 students. 

The Haas School of Business requires MBA students and future managers to complete core courses and electives. You’ll delve deep into advanced business topics like strategic leadership, financial accounting, and data and decisions. You will also complete an Applied Innovation Course like the Haas@Work program, which sends teams of MBA candidates to assist companies with real-world issues. 

The full-time MBA program takes 21 months to complete, packing a good deal of valuable experiences into a brief window. There are alternatives to a full-time MBA if you’re a working professional who wants to balance your studies with professional obligations: The Evening & Weekend MBA option takes 2.5-three years to complete with course schedules that fit around standard work hours. If you’re a mid-level manager or senior executive, you can complete the MBA for Executives over 22 months. The MBA for Executives concentrates classes into three-day sessions every three weeks. In other words, if full-time MBA programs don’t meet your needs, Berkeley has plenty of other options.

In the Class of 2020, 70% of business school students received financial aid, and 40% received scholarships. The university’s Berkeley MBA Grant is available to promising students who demonstrate financial need. The Haas School of Business maintains merit-based funding options like the Galloway MBA Fellowship and the Blue Duck Scholarship as well. You can also pursue fellowships through the university’s Institute for Business and Social Impact and the Center for Gender, Equity, and Leadership. 

The Class of 2024 profile shows an experienced and diverse student body at the Haas School of Business. A majority of students have three to eight years of professional experience upon admission, with an average experience level of 5.6 years. Nearly half – 43% – of MBA students at Berkeley are women, exceeding the 38% average for all MBA programs noted by the GMAC. The University of California, Berkeley, reports that 21.9% of its MBA students are of Asian descent, while 15% are black, African American, Hispanic, or Latino. The program also represents international students from dozens of countries.

#2 MBA Rankings: TEXAS A&M UNIVERSITY

MASTER OF BUSINESS ADMINISTRATION

Texas A&M University became the state’s first public university when it was founded in 1876. The university’s growing reputation in the 20th century made it the natural choice to serve as the main campus of the 11-school system, which was assembled in 1948. Referring back to the university’s origins as an agricultural college, its sports teams stay connected to the school’s history with the Aggies nickname. 

Texas A&M has grown into one of the best public universities in the U.S. Niche places the university at #19 among Top Public Universities and #20 on its Best Big Colleges in America list. The site also ranks the school #30 among the Best Colleges for Business in America, based in part on the strength of its Master of Business Administration program. The Financial Times also regards A&M’s business school well: in 2020, it ranked the full-time MBA program 19th in the nation.

Prospective students like you must demonstrate business acumen to gain admission to the business program. You must have at least two years of full-time experience before the first day of classes. You must also complete essays on your post-graduate goals and formative experiences to show why this MBA program is the right fit for you.

The Mays Business School also requires two professional references, official transcripts, and a resume. An official GMAT score or GRE score is also needed, as is a $125 application fee. Business school faculty and staff participate in application interviews with prospective students prior to making admission decisions. During the application process, you can pursue funding options like the two-year Graduate Diversity Fellowship to reduce tuition costs. 

You can complete the full-time MBA from Texas A&M in as little as 18 months (which is quite fast for full-time MBA programs). There are five optional specializations that you can complete during an optional fourth semester of study. These include:

• Marketing Analytics
• Entrepreneurship
• Supply Chain and Operations
• Financial Analytics
• Data Analytics

The Mays Business School also encourages MBA students like you to add an international business or advanced international affairs certificate during an optional fourth semester of study. 

Required courses like Business Analytics and Strategic Management provide foundations for future leadership positions. This program further allows MBA candidates like you to customize your experiences with electives like Investment Management and Services Marketing. As a second-year student, you will satisfy the capstone requirement by consulting with regional businesses.

Texas A&M provides alternatives to the full-time MBA program if you are further along in your career. The Professional MBA option takes 22 months to complete through evening and weekend courses. The Executive MBA offers business school courses that meet every other weekend to help candidates with at least 10 years of experience complete their degrees in two years. Combined degree tracks like the joint JD/MBA and MD/MBA help ambitious professionals bring an entrepreneurial spirit to the legal and medical fields, respectively. 

You will gain invaluable contacts and experience in the business world through real-world learning opportunities. In your first year, you will be assigned to research startup ventures for viability as part of the MBA Venture Challenge. Faculty and business experts evaluate MBA student groups’ presentations to determine their strength. 

The Mays Business School also maintains study-abroad opportunities for students in Asia, Latin America, and Europe. Student organizations such as the Mays Business School Consulting Club and Aggies Women MBAs provide opportunities for community involvement and professional development. And to provide support for newcomers to the Aggies family, the Partners-Cohort is a group of MBA students’ spouses and significant others. 

#3 MBA Rankings: GEORGIA INSTITUTE OF TECHNOLOGY

MASTER OF BUSINESS ADMINISTRATION

The Georgia Institute of Technology, better known as Georgia Tech, has a rich history dating back to 1885. The school’s business and science programs are steeped in the university’s original mission to help the South recover from the Civil War. The Yellow Jackets football program has topped the nation on four occasions between 1917 and 1990. 

Over time, Georgia Tech grew from its metro Atlanta campus to include satellite centers from France to Singapore. U.S. News & World Report has recognized the school as a national leader in higher education, naming it #44 among National Universities and #15 among Top Public Schools. The university’s Scheller College of Business ranks #26 among Best Business Schools. 

To apply to the Georgia Tech MBA program, you must complete two essays that highlight your interests. The first essay asks why you see the MBA program at Georgia Tech as essential to achieve your long-term goals, and the second essay asks for a list of 10 facts about your personal and professional background. You must also submit two letters of recommendation and a resume with your application to business school. Additional application requirements include GRE or GMAT scores and a $95 application fee. After applications are reviewed, the business school staff completes interviews with admission finalists. 

The MBA program takes 22 months of full-time study to complete, with 12 courses in seven core areas, including accounting, marketing, and strategy. The Schuller College of Business also allows MBA candidates to pursue up to ten elective courses that fit their unique interests, making this a top choice as one of the best MBA programs for real estate and other specialties.

You can select from multiple four-course concentrations, such as Entrepreneurship, Management of Information Resources, and Business Analytics, that drill deep into business trends. You can also further enhance your career prospects with Georgia Tech’s internship and career planning services. The Jones MBA Career Center partners with companies like Delta, Liberty Mutual, and Facebook to connect you with post business school positions that offer valuable work experience.

Additional resources from the center include career planning, interview simulations, and internship identification for business school students. The Institute for Leadership and Entrepreneurship cultivates future leaders through a study abroad program in Eastern Europe, the Ideas 2 Serve competition, and a weekly series of leadership talks. 

The Business Analytics Center relies on graduate student projects and faculty research to refine tools for data visualization and econometrics. You can learn how businesses take the lead in eco-friendly and progressive initiatives through the Ray C. Anderson Center for Sustainable Business. The Cecil B. Day Program for Business Ethics emphasizes responsible leadership through guest lectures and financial support for conference attendance. 

Georgia Tech also offers an Evening MBA program that takes up to three years to complete and focuses on quantitative skills that’s ideal if you can’t attend business school full-time. The 17-month Executive MBA program requires applicants to show at least five years of professional experience. Business professionals interested in terminal degrees can complete the university’s Ph.D. in Management. Opportunities for specialized business research at Georgia Tech connect MBA candidates with world-class faculty and corporate leaders. 

#4 MBA Rankings: UNIVERSITY OF NORTH TEXAS

MASTER OF BUSINESS ADMINISTRATION

This public university in Denton, Texas, opened as a private school for teachers in 1890. Degree programs broadened beyond teacher education throughout the 20th century, and the school adopted its current name in 1988. In recent decades, the University of North Texas added a campus in Frisco, a medical center, and a law school. Students and faculty in the Master of Business Administration program have also benefited from the university’s proximity to the thriving Dallas-Fort Worth business community.

In 2023, Niche named the University of North Texas #86 among the Best Big Colleges in America and #133 among Top Public Universities in America. Furthermore, U.S. News & World Report ranks UNT’s business school among the top 100 in the U.S. and its part-time MBA program #68 in the nation.

Upon applying to the G. Brint Ryan College of Business, you must submit a current resume and at least three letters of recommendation to establish your professional credentials. A 600-700-word essay is also required in which you discuss your qualifications for the program. The Toulouse Graduate School requires a $75 application fee as well.

Successful business school students have a GMAT score of at least 520 and GRE verbal scores of at least 153 (verbal) and 154 (quantitative). These requirements may be waived if you hold a graduate degree in another field. Business faculty interview promising candidates to determine their readiness for advanced studies. MBA applicants are considered for most in-house scholarships and fellowships without additional materials. 

As a newcomer to this business school, you will be treated to an abundance of options for your MBA studies. The full-time MBA in Business Management program focuses on business management with an average completion time of 11 months. You can also select from online specializations like Business Analytics, Health Services Management, and Information Technology. 

The University of North Texas has partnered with the Dallas Cowboys to confer an MBA with a Sports Entertainment Management concentration. This option is available at UNT’s Fresco campus or online. A Ph.D. in Business is also available if you want to focus on careers in business research or academia. 

The full-time MBA in Business Management program is a good example of the school’s approach to business education. As an admitted student, you’ll start with a two-course summer session covering accounting and organizational behavior. The first full-time semester features five courses, including Financial Management, Business Ethics, and an independent study course that includes visits to local businesses.

MBA candidates in their final semester of business school complete five courses on topics such as Data Mining and Administrative Strategy. Every MBA specialization will leave University of North Texas graduates prepared for the challenges of modern business. And since it’s one of the best value MBA programs available, you can do so with less of a financial commitment.

Students and faculty expand their understanding of the business world through on-campus centers and institutes. The Institute of Petroleum Accounting, the Center for Logistics & Supply Chain Management, and the Murphy Center for Entrepreneurship & Innovation connect academic research to trends in the marketplace. 

The University of North Texas MBA program’s student body features talented and diverse professionals. Of the program’s 815 MBA students in 2022, the average GPA was 3.31, and the average GMAT score was 530. International students represent dozens of countries around the world, including Brazil, South Africa, and Japan. The G. Brint Ryan College of Business notes that more than 65% of MBA students complete their business school studies on a part-time basis. 

#5 MBA Rankings: THE UNIVERSITY OF TEXAS AT AUSTIN

MASTER OF BUSINESS ADMINISTRATION

Austin, Texas, is known for its vibrant arts and music scene and the annual South by Southwest festival. The main campus of the University of Texas has also been a fixture of the state capital since its first classes were held in 1883. UT Austin has produced famed alumni like actor Matthew McConaughey and Heisman Trophy winners Earl Campbell and Ricky Williams.

Niche recognizes the university’s national reputation with an Overall Niche Grade of A+, including an A+ for Academics and an A for Value. U.S. News & World Report emphasizes the strength of the school’s business programs, ranking its business school #20 (tie) on its Best Business Schools list. The university’s Master of Business Administration program’s experienced faculty and multiple degree paths support this rank. 

The McCombs School of Business’s MBA application is designed to offer multiple methods to introduce your interests to the faculty. You must submit an introductory essay, a letter of recommendation, and a current resume. Additionally, you must provide recent GMAT or GRE scores and a $200 application fee. If you are interested in joint degrees, like the MBA/JD or the MBA/MS in Social Work, you must meet all requirements for each program. 

As an MBA candidate at UT Austin, you can select from seven specialization areas that define your coursework. These specializations allow you to focus on business functions like accounting, finance, or operations. You complete seven required courses in each concentration, such as Strategic Career Planning, Statistics, and Financial Management. Of the 30 credits earned during your first year and all courses in your second year, 14 are electives. Elective options dig deep into topics like social enterprise, corporate ethics, and high-technology marketing.

The university leverages its statewide presence to help full-time and part-time MBA students and future managers achieve their goals. The Austin campus offers full-time, evening, and executive MBA programs. Working professionals can also earn an MBA through weekend programs held in Dallas and Houston. Business education is not restricted to the classroom at UT Austin, either. The MBA+ Leadership Program trains promising business students like you through consulting projects, personalized coaching, and corporate networking opportunities. 

You can further explore areas of concentration through one of numerous fellowship programs. International travel programs, like Global Connections Study Tours and the McCombs Adventure Program, bring the global economy into perspective. The McCombs School of Business also hosts academic competitions such as the National Energy Finance Challenge, which pushes students to solve real-world problems. 

The MBA Class of 2024 features 220 students and the average student is 29 years old. The university’s reputation for academic excellence is evidenced by an average 3.48 undergraduate GPA and an average 706 GMAT score (though GMAT and GRE scores are waived in certain circumstances).

The business school reports that 36% of MBA students have identified as minorities, including 17% as underrepresented minorities. More than one-quarter of business school students came to Austin from another country. Admitted students represent diverse fields, too, with 40% of MBA candidates coming from STEM majors and 33% with business or economics degrees. This diversity is just one of the reasons why UT Austin’s MBA program is one of the best MBA degrees in the nation.

Further Details: 10 Best MBA in Entrepreneurship

#6 MBA Rankings: UNIVERSITY OF WISCONSIN-MADISON

MASTER OF BUSINESS ADMINISTRATION

The University of Wisconsin-Madison’s influence extends beyond Wisconsin’s capital city, thanks to “the Wisconsin Idea.” This philosophy encourages students and faculty to connect their work with the needs of communities throughout the state. Since the term’s introduction in 1904, university departments have developed environmental, health, educational, and business solutions for Wisconsin cities from Superior to Kenosha. 

Through decades of sustained success, the Badgers football and basketball programs have also made the university a household name. Forbes confirmed the University of Wisconsin-Madison’s national reputation, ranking #17 among Public Colleges and #49 among its Top Colleges 2022 list. The Master of Business Administration is among the school’s top programs, thanks to its customization options and connection to Wisconsin business communities.  

The average GMAT score for an MBA student at the University of Wisconsin-Madison is 665 (though GMAT and GRE scores are optional if you have a U.S.-based undergraduate degree from an accredited institution). Furthermore, you should demonstrate an undergraduate GPA of at least 3.0 to avoid provisional status.

This business school does not include a minimum professional experience requirement, thus helping you improve your odds of admission if you’re less experienced in this field. Finalists for the MBA program are invited to the campus for interviews to help faculty members make their final decisions. 

As an admitted student, you are integrated into the Wisconsin School of Business through an orientation program. This program helps you plan your degree path with experienced advisors prior to the first day of classes.

You will complete ten core courses in your first year, including Introduction to Financial Management, Financial Accounting, and Business Strategy. As a first-year MBA student, you’ll also complete experiential learning activities to get real-world experience. For example, if you concentrate on applied security analysis, you will work with alumni and industry leaders to create a plan to increase a practicing fund manager’s portfolio performance.

This full-time MBA program features ten specializations in areas such as Real Estate, Supply Chain Management, and Risk Management, making this one of the best real estate MBA programs and one of the best options for administration and management focuses.

Electives across the two years of this program are defined by these concentrations. The Wisconsin School of Business encourages you to pursue additional experiences that strengthen your resume. For example, as a first-year MBA candidate, you can complete a summer internship with national and international companies to gain work experience before moving into the program’s second year.

Additionally, Global Learning Experiences offered through the university expose you to global markets like Brazil, Ireland, and Vietnam. You can also add certificate options in Business Analytics, Social Responsibility, Entrepreneurship, and Strategic Innovation to strengthen the MBA’s impact. 

Business education at the University of Wisconsin-Madison extends beyond the full-time MBA program. The university also offers an Evening MBA for full-time professionals and an Executive MBA designed for mid-career professionals. Aspiring lawyers and entrepreneurs can cross into each other’s fields with the combined JD/MBA program. In fact, the entire roster of graduate programs is available for joint degree development with an MBA. 

A glimpse at the MBA Class of 2024 shows the university’s appeal to promising business professionals. The 71-student Class of 2024 has an average age of 28 and five years of professional experience. The Wisconsin School of Business values the program’s diversity, with 38% international students and 21% underserved minority groups. At the same time, 31% of the cohort’s students previously earned business degrees, 22% entered with engineering degrees, and 9% hold social science degrees. 

#7 MBA Rankings: STANFORD UNIVERSITY

MASTER OF BUSINESS ADMINISTRATION

Stanford University’s international reputation is built on generations of award-winning academics and thinkers. As of the 2022-2023 school year, the school employed 20 Nobel Prize laureates and four Pulitzer Prize winners. World-class research emerges from university assets like the National Accelerator Laboratory and the Hoover Institution on War, Revolution, and Peace.

 U.S. News & World Report places Stanford University at #3 among National Universities in its 2022 rankings. The university’s resources and reputation have yielded many prominent business leaders, as evidenced by a #6 rank among the Best Business Schools. The Master of Business Administration in the Stanford University School of Business (Stanford GSB) challenges you to live up to these expectations. 

Your MBA application to the Stanford GSB is evaluated based on your intellectual vitality, demonstrated leadership potential, and personal qualities. During the application process, you will complete essays answering the questions “Why Stanford?” and “What matters most to you?” Stanford’s Graduate School of Business requires letters of recommendation from your current supervisor and one past supervisor. Application packets also include official transcripts, GMAT or GRE scores, and background information on your awards and accomplishments.

There is no minimum amount of professional experience required for admission to the Stanford GSB, but the school conducts hour-long interviews between alumni and finalists for admission. The application fee for the MBA program is $275, though the university reduces fees to $100 based on financial need. At the time of application, you must make it known if you’re interested in programs like the JD/MBA or MS in Computer Science/MBA so you can complete materials for both degrees. 

The Graduate School of Business notes that approximately 50% of MBA students receive fellowship awards, which average $44,000 per year. Fellowship awards are determined based on your student financial need at the time of application. The Charles P. Bonini Partnership for Diversity Fellowship and the Stanford Reliance Dhirubhai Fellowship provide additional funding but require separate applications. The Knight-Hennessy Scholars Program provides full funding for MBA applicants interested in interdisciplinary business solutions. 

As an MBA student, you will start your Stanford career with full-time MBA program studies in eight core courses covering foundational concepts like ethics in management and managerial skills. By the second and third quarters, you select courses from business areas such as marketing, human resource management, and data analysis. As a second-year student, you will complete your degree via electives in nine disciplines, including political economics and accounting to set you up for success as you join the ranks of future managers. 

The university also allows up to 12 credits from non-business graduate programs, such as computer science or design. Every MBA student is required to complete a global experience, such as a 10-day study trip, an immersive management experience, or a global seminar. The Stanford-Tsinghua Exchange Program encourages collaboration between graduate students at Stanford and Tsinghua University in China. 

Stanford University’s Class of 2024 confirms its selective MBA program: Of the 6,152 applicants to the program, only 424 new students were admitted. The MBA student body features 44% women, 37% international students, and 51% members of minority groups. The typical student entered the MBA program with an average of 4.9 years of experience. MBA candidates are the best of the best, with an average GMAT score of 737 and an average combined GRE of 327. Stanford’s global appeal is clear, as international students from 56 countries are part of its MBA program. 

#8 MBA Rankings: HARVARD UNIVERSITY

MASTER OF BUSINESS ADMINISTRATION

Harvard University is the oldest university in the nation, and students have crossed its famed campus since 1636. The school is a known producer of world leaders, including U.S. Presidents John Adams, Franklin Roosevelt, and John F. Kennedy. Harvard’s ubiquity in popular culture includes appearances in fare ranging from the William Faulkner novel The Sound and the Fury to the movie Legally Blonde. 

But pop culture fame and a string of renowned alumni are not sufficient to explain Harvard’s staying power. U.S. News & World Report confirms the university’s standing with a #3 ranking among National Universities and a #1 spot among the Best Value Schools for 2023. The Master of Business Administration is one of Harvard’s leading programs, helping it to obtain a #5 spot among the Best Business Schools. 

The three-step MBA application process for the Harvard Business School reflects the school’s selectivity. In the initial application, you must submit transcripts, GMAT or GRE scores, and a resume. Two letters of recommendation, an essay, and proof of English language proficiency are also required. A $250 fee must accompany each application. 

If you advance past the first stage of applying to the Harvard School of Business, you are asked to complete a 30-minute interview, either in person or via video chat. After the interview, you enter the final stage by submitting an essay reflecting on the application process. Ambitious students interested in joint degrees like the MD/MBA and JD/MBA must complete both degree applications for admission.

The full-time MBA program at Harvard takes two years to complete. In the first semester, you mix required courses like Marketing and Finance with intensive team projects. MBA students like you expand their horizons in the second semester with global immersion experiences and a course in international economics. 

As a second-year student, you’ll choose from extensive elective options covering everything from corporate misconduct to retailing. Harvard Business School also allows you to complete graduate electives at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology and Tufts University. The elective requirements may also be fulfilled through field courses at local, national, or international businesses. 

A Harvard education can be a pricey investment for exceptional students. Harvard Business School notes that 50% of its graduate students qualify for scholarships based on financial need that range from $2,500 to $76,000. Summer fellowships arranged through the business school can help finance tuition following the first year of study. For MBAs who pursue ventures in Africa, the Global Opportunity Fellowship is a post-graduate aid package that provides up to $50,000 per year, with five years of eligibility following graduation. 

The MBA Class of 2021 at Harvard Business School shows the global reach of this venerable institution. Harvard received 9,228 applications for the Class of 2021 and accepted 938 highly talented students. The MBA cohort represents 71 countries, with 37% of all students coming from countries other than the United States.

Admitted students brought stellar academic credentials to the program with an average GPA of 3.7, an average GMAT score of 730, and a combined GRE average of 326. The most common professional backgrounds for Harvard MBAs were venture capital (16%), consulting (15%), and a three-way tie between technology, financial services, and manufacturing (12%).  

#9 MBA Rankings: UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA, IRVINE

MASTER OF BUSINESS ADMINISTRATION

If you search for the “best MBA programs California,” you’ll find the University of California, Irvine, on the list.

UC Irvine has built a national reputation, despite only having been founded in 1965. The university features a teaching hospital, an arboretum, and research centers like the Center for the Study of Democracy. Students selected the university’s Anteaters mascot early in its existence and have cheered on national successes in men’s volleyball, tennis, and track and field. 

Forbes ranks the university #30 among Top Colleges 2022 and #9 among Public Colleges. The University of California, Irvine also sits at #16 among Top Public Universities in America and #33 in Best Colleges for Business in America, according to Niche. These rankings were achieved in part by the students and faculty of the Master of Business Administration program. 

Of course, UC Irvine’s Paul Merage School of Business has plenty of accolades, too. Financial Times ranks it #30 among business schools nationwide, while Bloomberg Businessweek and Fortune rank it in the top 50 programs in the country. Financial Times also ranks UC Irvine’s Executive MBA program #8 in the U.S.

Application to the MBA program requires official transcripts and GMAT or GRE scores. The Paul Merage School of Business does not mandate minimum test scores but notes that you must have a GPA of 3.0 or above. Your complete application must include a current resume, two letters of recommendation, and a $150 application fee. The business school also requires essays on your goals and values to add dimension to your application. 

A video or in-person interview is the final step of the application process for prospective students. If you’re interested in JD/MBA or MD/MBA programs, you must be offered admission to the law school or medical school before your MBA application can be approved. Once admitted, you can complete the full-time MBA program in two years if you enroll in winter and summer sessions. 

UC Irvine allows MBA students like you to specialize in Digital Transformation, Health Care Management and Policy, Innovation and Entrepreneurship, or Real Estate and Urban Development. In the first year, required courses explore topics such as managerial finance and information technology for management.

During the summer following year one, you will complete internships that fit within your specialization. In year two, you’ll add electives like Multinational Finance and Global Negotiations to round out your degree path. The business school also encourages you to pursue study abroad opportunities as you approach graduation. 

The full-time MBA program is not the only option for business school students: The Flex MBA is a part-time program for managers and mid-career professionals. This program schedules courses on two nights during the week if you choose the on-campus option. There is also a fully online option, or you can blend the two as your needs change, making this one of the most flexible business schools on this list.

Senior business leaders can complete the MBA for Executives over 21 months of courses held every third weekend. You’ll explore three primary areas of inquiry: Business Foundations, Executive Leader, and Experiential Learning. The MBA for Executives also includes a health care leadership track focused on health technology. This is just one of the reasons why UC Irvine has one of the nation’s best business schools!

#10 MBA Rankings: ARIZONA STATE UNIVERSITY

MASTER OF BUSINESS ADMINISTRATION

Arizona State University has grown from a small teacher’s college founded in 1885 to a nationally renowned university in the 21st century. This growth includes the addition of multiple Phoenix-area campuses and satellite centers throughout the state. The university is now the fifth-largest in the U.S. by enrollment, reaching 38,212 undergraduate students during the 2022-2023 school year. 

Arizona State’s appeal is due in part to the successes of its Sun Devils athletics programs, including past national championships in softball and track. U.S. News & World Report highlights the strengths of the university’s business programs with a ranking of #35 among the country’s Best Business Schools. The Master of Business Administration at Arizona State University is well-regarded, too. As a student at ASU, you will work with diverse colleagues and faculty members. 

The W.P. Carey School of Business provides a straightforward application process for MBA applicants: You must submit an updated resume, university transcripts, GRE or GMAT scores, and one reference. You will also be asked to complete essays detailing your career path and how you plan to contribute to the community with your business degree. Arizona State charges the lowest application fee on this list, at $70. 

MBA candidates at Arizona State start with required courses covering areas such as managerial accounting and organizational behavior. You will receive career coaching from department faculty and staff in your first year. During the first quarter, you are asked to select from seven concentrations, such as Consulting and Marketing, which feature 15 credits of classes to be completed by graduation. The business school also offers specializations in Finance, Entrepreneurship, and Supply Chain Management, to name a few.

The full-time MBA path described above is not the only option for you as an Arizona State student. The Online MBA program expedites the graduate degree process with courses lasting less than eight weeks per term. The Evening MBA uses twice-weekly courses and online lessons to help professionals complete their degrees in up to four years. Mid-career professionals in the Executive MBA program use advanced courses along with two study trips to enhance their prospects, making this one of the best business schools for masters degrees for working professionals.

No matter which MBA track you choose, you can enrich your Arizona State experience through student organizations. As a current student, you can help applicants as members of the MBA Ambassadors program. Organizations like the Entrepreneurship Society and the Health Care Club provide opportunities outside the classroom to work with fellow students. Additionally, the university hosts clubs like the Wine Society and Golf Club, where you can have fun around your busy schedule. These are just a few amenities that make this one of the best MBA program options in the nation.

Data on Arizona State’s W.P. Carey School of Business illustrates the program’s international appeal. The online MBA school reports having more than 19,000 students from over 100 nations. Of the MBA graduates in the class of 2022, 80% had a job at graduation. A full 96% of the class was employed within 90 days of graduation. All told, 400 MBA degrees were conferred in the 2022-2023 school year.

Further Details: Best MBA in International Business

HONORABLE MENTIONS FOR THE BEST BUSINESS SCHOOLS

#11 MBA Rankings: Northwestern University

Location: Evanston, Illinois

Degree: Master of Business Administration (Full-time MBA)

The MBA program at Northwestern University is offered by the Kellogg School of Management. Several program options are available, including one and two-year programs, a MBA focused on AI, and a dual JD-MBA. Northwestern University has among the most diverse program options of any school on this list.

Northwestern University MBA Website

#12 MBA Rankings: University of Chicago

Location: Chicago, Illinois

Degree: Master of Business Administration (Full-time MBA)

The Chicago Booth School of Business offers multiple MBA options, including a full-time and an Executive MBA program. Master and doctoral degrees are available as well.

University of Chicago Booth School of Business Website

#13 MBA Rankings: Columbia University

Location: New York, New York

Degree: Master of Business Administration (Full-time MBA)

The Columbia Business School utilizes the expertise of top faculty combined with ample opportunities for experiential learning to prepare you as a leader in business, management, and related fields.

Columbia Business School Website

OTHER NOTABLE BUSINESS SCHOOLS

#14MBA Rankings: University of California, Los Angeles

Location: Los Angeles, California

Degree: Master of Business Administration (Full-time MBA)

Website

#15 MBA Rankings: University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign

Location: Champaign, Illinois

Degree: Master of Business Administration (Online MBA)

Website

#16 MBA Rankings: University of Virginia

Location: Charlottesville, Virginia

Degree: Master of Business Administration (Full-time MBA)

Website

#17 MBA Rankings: Boston College

Location: Boston, Massachusetts

Degree: Master of Business Administration (Hybrid online MBA)

Website

#18 MBA Rankings: University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill

Location: Chapel Hill, North Carolina

Degree: Master of Business Administration (Full-time MBA)

Website

#19 MBA Rankings: Cornell University

Location: Ithaca, New York

Degree: Master of Business Administration (Full-time MBA)

Website

#20 MBA Rankings: University of Georgia 

Location: Athens, Georgia

Degree: Master of Business Administration (Online MBA option available)

Website

#21 MBA Rankings: Purdue University

Location: West Lafayette, Indiana

Degree: Master of Business Administration (Hybrid online MBA)

Website

#22 MBA Rankings: University of Pennsylvania

Location: Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

Degree: Master of Business Administration (Full-time MBA)

Website

#23 MBA Rankings: University of Washington

Location: Seattle, Washington

Degree: Master of Business Administration (Full-time MBA)

Website

#24 MBA Rankings: Washington University of St. Louis

Location: St. Louis, Missouri

Degree: Master of Business Administration (Part-time MBA)

Website

#25 MBA Rankings: Yale School of Management

Location: New Haven, Connecticut

Degree: Master of Business Administration (Full-time MBA)

Website

Remember that this is not a comprehensive list of the very best business school options. You’ll note that well-respected schools like MIT’s Sloan School, the University of Michigan at Ann Arbor Ross School of Business, and Yale University School of Management did not make our top ten list. Nor did the Stern School of Business at New York University, the Owen Graduate School of Management at Vanderbilt University, and the Olin School of Business at Washington University. The Kellogg School of Management at Northwestern University was just an honorable mention.

This illustrates the incredible diversity and quality of MBA programs right now. If top schools like the Sloan School, the Columbia Business School, Dartmouth College, and Washington University don’t crack the top 10, you begin to understand the high level of MBA education that you can pursue.

Whether you study at a state school in New Orleans, a private school in New Haven, at Dartmouth College in New Hampshire, or somewhere in between, you can find a high-quality MBA program that will prepare you well for your future in the world of business. Rely on rankings like this as well as information from respected publications like the Financial Times, Forbes, U.S. News & World Report, and others, to make an informed decision about your collegiate future.

IF YOU ENJOYED THIS ARTICLE, CHECK OUT OUR OTHER ARTICLES ON THE BEST ONLINE ECONOMICS MBA PROGRAMS and WHAT’S THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN AN MBA AND A MASTER OF ORGANIZATIONAL LEADERSHIP (MOL)?

Food—it’s something we all need, yet it’s also something that very few of us take the time to think deeply about.

How many calories are in your favorite meal? How much sugar? Carbohydrates? Vitamins and minerals?

If you’ve ever stopped to peruse the nutrition facts or labels on a package of food, you might have wondered whose job it is to evaluate each food for its nutritional content and ingredients. There’s a lot more to the food industry than you might think, and a degree in food science and technology will provide you with the skills you need for a rewarding career in this field.

Food science is one of the largest and most profitable industries in the country. To be a food scientist, you’ll need to be proficient in a variety of disciplines, including biology, chemistry, agriculture, and more. 

Once you earn a master’s in food science and technology, you’ll be able to conduct research that will help companies ensure that the products they produce are safe, nutritious—and perhaps most importantly, tasty! You’ll keep up to date with the latest policies, regulations, and research in food and agriculture so that you can keep consumers well informed.

How do you know if a degree in food science and technology is right for you? For starters, a food scientist is someone who is detail-oriented and has aptitudes in mathematics and science. You might already have a bachelor’s degree in food science or a related field—or you might be starting out fresh in this discipline!

Whatever the case may be, earning a master’s is a smart choice. While a bachelor’s degree can provide you with the prerequisite skills you need for an entry-level career, only a master’s will give you the leverage you need for a higher-ranking position. 

You may find that a master’s degree gives you more hands-on experience and access to professional networking opportunities so that you are able to find a job—even one in management or research—with ease. 

There are so many benefits to earning a master’s in food science and technology. Aside from the tangible opportunities for you to earn a higher salary and obtain a high-ranking position, becoming a food science major will also help you make a difference in the world. You could help develop new food products or a safer food chain, or you could work to develop breakthroughs in nutrition so that global populations can be fed more efficiently. 

We all need food—so as a food scientist, your skills will always be in demand.

Of course, that’s not to say that earning a master’s degree will always be easy-peasy. Pursuing graduate education is a costly endeavor—and it’s one that tends to intimidate students if for no other reason than its cost alone. 

While it’s true that master’s degrees can be expensive, there’s no need to panic. Earning a degree is more affordable than ever, especially when you take the time to research all of the opportunities for financial aid and scholarships that are out there. Of course, starting your search by going over this list of the best affordable master’s in food science and technology is a great place to start, too!

See Also: Best Affordable Online Masters in Food Science and Technology

Common Application and Admission Questions

Food science encompasses a broad swath of fields and industries, so it’s no surprise that you’ll have to have some strong skills in things like mathematics and science. It’s not just about cooking, either—that’s a bit of information that tends to catch people off guard! Although you might find that a food science and technology degree is the right choice for you if you love to cook, it is not the same thing as a culinary arts degree.

Therefore, you’ll need to have some solid undergraduate training under your belt before you enroll in a master’s in food science and technology. Although admissions requirements vary, most master’s programs look for students who have earned a bachelor’s degree in food science and technology or a related field. 

You might choose from options like agriculture, agronomy, crop science, biotechnology, nutrition sciences, or agriculture operations. Of course, a culinary arts degree can provide a great background for candidates looking to enroll in master’s in food science and technology programs, too. 

While most schools vary in their specific bachelor’s degree requirements, almost all programs will require applicants to have taken courses like statistics, biochemistry, organic chemistry, and microbiology. In most cases, a 3.0 GPA in your undergraduate training is required. 

Some schools will still admit you if you have a lower GPA but you may be asked to submit evidence of work experience, excellent letters of recommendation, or other evidence that you’re the right candidate for the program.

Most schools also require GRE, or Graduate Record Examination, scores. This test evaluates your aptitudes in quantitative reasoning, verbal reasoning, and analytical writing. Some schools have specific cut-off scores that need to be met, so be sure to research these before you submit your application materials. That way, you can ensure you are a good candidate for the program before you spend the time and money needed to apply.

You’ll likely need to submit two or three letters of recommendation. For these letters, choose recommenders who know you well and can speak to your strongest attributes. Again, you may want to take a close look at each school’s admission requirements so that you can make sure your recommenders know which traits to speak to. 

You may want to submit a resume or curriculum vitae, particularly if the programs to which you are applying request work experience. Providing a resume will give your schools more information on your academic background, professional experience, awards, publications, and other experiences you may have had to support your qualifications as a prospective student.

There are other materials you may have to supply as part of your application, too, but these vary depending on the institution. Some schools like to see a personal essay or a statement of purpose. They’ll use this document to get an idea of your writing skills as well as how your past academic and professional experiences will support you as you pursue your future goals as a student in the program. 

Other programs may require interviews or more detailed descriptions of past experiences. Whatever the case may be, be sure to take the time to research in-depth what each school is looking for in its applicant profiles. That way, you’ll be sure to hit the mark with your own application, too. 

What About Financial Aid & Scholarships?

Applying to a master’s program can be expensive, and unfortunately, the fees start building up before you’ve even enrolled.

In addition to things like tuition and fees, you’ll also have to submit an application fee for every school to which you apply. Application fees vary. These are typically non-refundable with fees ranging from anywhere between $25 and $250 per school. 

This is one of many reasons why it is so important to take the time to research each school’s admission requirements and program information in-depth. Rather than applying to every school you can find, you should only submit an application to those that match your needs and background. Choose just three or four schools so that you don’t find yourself forking out hundreds of dollars in application fees alone!

Next, consider the format of your program. Is it in person or online? Part-time or full-time? Asking these questions before you commit to a school is important. Online courses, as well as those offered in a part-time fashion, can be extremely valuable for busy students who are already working full-time (or have other obligations, such as caring for a family). 

However, a full-time degree can sometimes be more affordable, as you’ll be able to complete your courses more quickly so you can get back out into the workforce. 

It’s important to think carefully about what kind of format will work best both for your schedule as well as for your wallet. Then, you’ll want to consider the many types of financial aid and scholarships available to graduate students.

Start by completing the FAFSA, the Free Application for Federal Student Aid. This application will determine your eligibility for need-based financial aid such as grants and student loans. Grants are based on economic need and are typically offered by the state and federal government, a university, or even a private outside organization. 

Another option to consider is a scholarship. It can be somewhat tougher to find scholarships as a graduate student—many colleges and universities have a tendency to reserve these for undergraduate students. However, there are still plenty of opportunities out there that you might consider. These are typically offered for academic excellence, but by doing a quick search, you may find that there are tons of local organizations looking to award scholarships to motivated graduate students for all kinds of reasons.

For example, charitable organizations like Kiwanis offer awards to civic-minded students while churches and religious affiliations (and even employers!) offer generous funding to members and employees, too. Look carefully and don’t be afraid to apply, even if you aren’t sure that you’ll be the best candidate. Each year, thousands of dollars worth of scholarships go unawarded simply because students do not apply. 

Don’t forget about federal student loans, fellowships, and graduate assistantships, either! 

Be sure to leave no stone unturned in your search for the most affordable master’s for your needs, as well as for the many financial aid and scholarship opportunities that exist. Although earning a graduate degree can be expensive, choosing an affordable program in food science and technology is a good way to make sure you can still pursue the degree of your dreams without having to rack up serious student loan debt. 

Needless to say, you can have your cake—and eat it, too—if you choose the perfect program.

How Much Can I Make With a Master’s in Food Science and Technology? 

Although it’s likely not just the money that’s inspiring you to pursue a master’s in food science and technology, chances are, money is a major motivator! Earning a master’s degree in food science and technology can be quite lucrative. 

The most common career path pursued by a graduate of this kind of program is as an agricultural and food scientist. In this kind of job, you will work in a laboratory or field setting to research ways to improve the safety and efficiency of agricultural products, processes, and establishments. You’ll need a bachelor’s degree, at the very least, but a master’s degree will enable you to pursue a higher-level role.

Of course, you’ll enjoy a much higher salary, too. The average wage of an agricultural and food scientist is around $73,450, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, with the highest 10% of earners (typically those in leadership roles) bringing in more than $125,280 per year. Most food scientists work in research settings but there are also many who work in food manufacturing, government, consulting, and other environments.

Not only that, but you won’t have to worry about finding a job in this field once you graduate, either. Jobs for food scientists are in demand, with a projected growth of about 6% by 2029. This is significantly faster than the national average and is projected as such because challenges like population growth, increased water demand, and changes in climate necessitate the demand for greater agricultural efficiency and sustainability. 

You might also work as a food science technician. You’ll need an associate degree but many individuals choose to pursue higher-level education as well. In this kind of job, you’ll work to support food scientists as you work in a laboratory or a field-based setting like a farm, greenhouse, or processing plant. 

Again, this is a fairly lucrative career path. You can expect to earn an average salary of $41,790 per year and you’ll enjoy a growth rate of 4%, which is about as fast as the national average. 

A less common, though still fairly popular, career path you could follow is as an environmental scientist or specialist. You’ll work in the field gathering data and monitoring environmental conditions. A degree in food science and technology will lend you the unique skills and expertise you need to consider problems related to agriculture and the food supply. 

Because you will have more specialized skills, those skills may command a much higher salary, too. The average environmental scientist or specialist earns around $73,230 per year, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, but some of the top earners bring in more than $129,450 per year. 

As with the other careers you might pursue as a food science and technology major, the demand is high for environmental scientists, too. The public is growing increasingly aware of the many hazards facing the environment—particularly those related to the food chain. Jobs in environmental science are expected to grow by a whopping 8% before 2029, a rate that is much faster than the national average. 

What Are the Best Food Science and Technology Degrees?

We know that you have educational goals that you’re itching to pursue, but you may not know where to start. The editors of Master’s Programs Guide utilize a unique ranking methodology based on the following five aspects:

25% Overall Degree Affordability: Average cost of undergraduate and graduate tuition per school

25% Graduation Rate: Number of students who start at the university and actually finish there

20% Earnings Potential: Average mid-career salary of school alumni

20% Selectivity: The number of students who apply versus the number who actually get accepted

10% Online Graduate Offerings: The number of programs offered online in each department

At Master’s Programs Guide, we strive to do our best to guide you and your family toward a fruitful academic career. The pursuit of knowledge is a noble one, and we want to help you reach your goals.

#1. Texas Tech University

M.S. in Food Science

A public research university located in Lubbock, TX, Texas Tech University was first established as the Texas Technological College. With degrees in more than 150 courses of study throughout 13 colleges and 60 research centers and institutes, this school is one of the largest in the state of Texas—as well as one of the most prestigious.

Graduates of this university have gone on to rewarding careers in science, medicine, business, education, entertainment, and more. The university serves students from more than 100 countries and all 50 states and is known as a Hispanic-serving institution with more than 25% of its undergraduate population identifying as Hispanic.

Diversity, prestige, and academic rigor—what more could you want? If it’s affordability, then don’t worry—you’ll find that here, too. As the seventh-largest university in Texas, Texas Tech University is also one of the most affordable. It’s ranked as one of the top public schools by publications like the U.S. News & World Report and The Princeton Review. In addition, the Wall Street Journal has recognized Texas Tech as one of the top schools in terms of graduate desirability for job recruiters.

Your odds of finding a job are good—nearly 94% of all graduates either find a job or continue their education within just 180 days of graduation. You don’t have to worry about taking on astronomical student loan debt in order to land such a job, either. Tuition rates are low, starting at just $9,350 for out-of-state students. Plus, there are numerous financial aid opportunities available, like graduate assistantships.

The Department of Animal and Food Sciences offers some of the best majors in food science and technology. In addition to a master’s and a Ph.D. in animal science, the department also offers a cutting-edge Master of Science in food science that can be pursued with both thesis- and non-thesis options. This program will prepare you for a career in research and teaching as well as for work in the management of food enterprises.

You will be able to choose from more than 30 different graduate courses and to pursue your own unique program of study. Many students participate in an internship in lieu of a final thesis, allowing them to work in hands-on settings in various capacities of the food system, from food processing plants to packing companies, feedlots and ranches, and everything in between. You will also have the opportunity to publish your work in a professional journal.

As a student of the Department of Animal and Food Sciences, you’ll be able to work in modern facilities that are second to none. From field laboratories for beef cattle, goat, sheep, and swine in addition to research facilities for feed milling industries, you’ll also be able to work in the Health Sciences Center and the Center for Feed Industry Research and Education. 

Ready to apply? You will need to submit an online application and submit unofficial copies of transcripts and test scores. A 3.0 minimum GPA is recommended.

#2. Iowa State University

Master of Science in Food Science and Technology

At Iowa State University, both faculty and students know to practice what they preach. The motto here is “Science with Practice,” and that makes a lot of sense, given the school’s commitment to undergraduate and graduate research and exploration.

A public land-grant research university, Iowa State is located in Ames, IA. It is not only the largest university in the state of Iowa but it’s also the third-largest in the Big 12 athletic conference. It is classified among R1: Doctoral  Universities-Very High Research Activity, too. 

Iowa State is unique in that it was coeducational from its very beginnings, right at its inception in 1858. It is a groundbreaking university that provides students of all backgrounds the opportunity to gain hands-on experience in their respective fields of study.

The Food Science and Technology program at Iowa State can be completed as a Master of Science, a Doctor of Philosophy and Technology, a graduate minor, or with additional graduate work in meat science offered as a co-major in animal science and food science and technology.

Regardless of the pathway you choose, this program will teach you how to apply scientific thinking and ethical reasoning to the discipline of food science. You can complete this program on its own or with a minor in an additional related topic like anthropology, education, biochemistry, microbiology, or toxicology.

You will complete an average of 20-30 credit hours of courses, including those in subjects like Advanced Food Processing, Advanced Food Analysis and Instrumentation, and Integrated Food Science. 

Not only that, but this program is affordable, too. You will enjoy low tuition rates along with access to generous financial aid. Scholarships, fellowships, and other types of aid, such as the Professional Advancement Grant, are available to students. 

You can even join a variety of professional societies and attend professional meetings with the assistance of department travel grants. Some of the most popular campus organizations you can join include the Institute of Food Technologists, the American Cereal Science Society, and Phi Tau Sigma. 

This school is considered one of the most highly ranked public research universities in the United States, one of only 54 institutions in the country to have earned the Innovation and Economic Prosperity University designation by the Association of Public and Land-Grant Universities. Its agriculture and biological programs, in particular, are ranked as some of the top in the country by publications like the U.S. News & World Report, QS, and more.

Regardless of the accolades, is Iowa State University the right school for you? If so, and if you’re ready to apply, you’ll need to start by choosing from the thesis- or non-thesis option. You’ll need to submit an online application form but you can choose from three different deadlines to make things more convenient. You’ll also have to submit a resume, a nonrefundable application fee, official academic transcripts, three letters of recommendation, and GRE scores. 

#3. University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign

MS in Food Science and Flavor Chemistry

Located in the twin cities of Urbana and Champaign, the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign is considered a “Public Ivy” that is also classified among R1: Doctoral Universities-Very High Research Activity. 

The school has a commitment to hands-on education, comprising 16 schools and colleges and offering more than 250 programs of study at the undergraduate and graduate levels. With a motto of “Learning & Labor,” this school knows what it takes to produce successful graduates—an experiential education from some of the best minds in the country paired with plenty of networking and career development opportunities.

The Department of Food Science and Human Nutrition at the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign offers a variety of degrees for students to choose from, including in-residence master’s and Ph.D. programs, a non-thesis graduate degree, an online master’s, and a professional science master’s. You can choose from majors in food science, human nutrition, and a combination degree.

The master’s in food science will allow you to focus on topics like food chemistry, sensory science, food processing and engineering, chemical and microbial food safety, and food microbiology. You will have the opportunity to study with faculty as they complete research in the genetic and physiological manipulation of bacteria, fermentation, and more.

You’ll have access to state-of-the-art technologies along with the use of acoustic ultrasound in processing. Because you’ll choose a faculty advisor based on your research area when you apply, you’ll also benefit from one-on-one mentorship for the duration of your studies. 

Curious about the classes you will take? These will vary depending on your areas of interest and your professional goals. However, many students take classes such as Food Processing Engineering, Nutrition for Food Scientists, Advanced Food Microbiology, and Grantsmanship and Ethics. Plenty of students also complete a graduate internship experience or independent study courses. 

With that kind of academic quality, you’d expect to pay an arm and a leg in order to attend this university. However, that’s not the case. This university has some of the lowest tuition and fees in the country, with rates starting at just $17,743 per year for Illinois residents. Of course, there are plenty of financial aid opportunities for you to explore, too. In addition to student loans and grants, many graduate students will qualify for assistantships as well.

Washington Monthly has repeatedly ranked this school as one of the best in the country based on its contribution to the public good, something that is measured based on a school’s research, social mobility, and promotion of public service. Because of this, you’ll be hard-pressed to find a food science and technology program that will prepare you quite as well for a life of service in food science like this one.

Is the Food Science and Flavor Chemistry major at the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign checking off all of your boxes? If so, you’ll want to consider the admissions requirements and start working on your application right away. You can submit an online application along with letters of recommendation, transcripts, and your resume for either fall or spring admissions deadlines. 

#4. North Carolina State University at Raleigh

Master of Science in Food Science

Founded in 1887, North Carolina State University at Raleigh is a public land-grant research university that forms one of the corners of the famed Research Triangle of the region, joining Duke University and the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill to offer students exemplary research opportunities. 

Here, the motto is “Think and Do,” a message that is carried forth in earnest in each and every one of the school’s more than 104 different master’s degrees. 

The Master of Science in food science is one such program. In this degree, you’ll work with more than 100 different exceptional faculty and staff, studying among approximately 500 other students as you learn in small classes and enjoy a family-like atmosphere. The department has countless professional and industry relationships, along with active partnerships with national centers like the USDA, so you can learn by doing every single day. 

The department has dozens of research facilities and units, enabling students to pursue topics about which they are passionate. You might work in facilities such as the Center for Advanced Processing and Packaging Studies, Plants for Human Health Institute, and the USDA-ARS foods science and market quality and handling research unit. The school even operates a variety of extension programs.

You’ll learn from faculty who are experts in their fields and join an alumni network that’s more than 2,500 strong. You can connect with NC State alumni and enjoy access to diverse positions in industry, healthcare, government, and more.

You will take core classes such as Thermal Processing of Foods, Exercise Nutrition, Sensory Analysis of Foods, Preharvest Food Safety, Food Industry Study Tour, and more. Both thesis and non-thesis options are available. 

This degree will prepare you for work in unique fields, equipping you with the skills you need to pursue careers like food safety compliance officer, quality control technician, food auditor, or researcher. You can take courses on-campus as well as online so that you don’t have to choose convenience over quality. 

The degrees and courses online are exactly the same as those offered on-campus (and taught by the same faculty) so that you can save money by studying while still employed. You don’t have to give up your day job to earn a degree in food science!

This school is known for its affordability. It is ranked as one of the best value schools by U.S. News & World Report as well as one of the most innovative. You’ll be able to apply for countless fellowships and other awards to help foot the bill for your graduate expenses, too.

Think you have what it takes to apply? North Carolina State University is considered “more selective,” accepting only about a quarter of its graduate school applications. The school has four application deadlines each year, so you can apply when it is most convenient for you. No GRE test scores are required for this on-campus program. 

#5. University of Nebraska-Lincoln

MS in Food Science and Technology

A public land-grant research university, the University of Nebraska-Lincoln has roots that date back to just after the state’s inception. Despite its humble origins, the school now possesses a reputation for high-quality education of the highest caliber.

Here, you will find hundreds of programs that conduct research in fields such as agricultural and food sciences. The university is classified as being among R1: Doctoral Universities- Very High Research Activity. In 2018 alone, this institution spent more than $308 million on research and development. It’s ranked as one of the top schools in the country by U.S. News & World Report, Forbes, Washington Monthly, and other publications. 

The Department of Food Science and Technology at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln offers a Master of Science in food science and technology that consists of 30 to 36 credit hours of study. There are multiple options available that will allow you to fully customize your degree as you live and learn in the Food Innovation Center on campus. 

At this center, you’ll have access to state-of-the-art classrooms, wet-dry lab research spaces, teaching labs, clinical facilities, pilot plants, and sensory labs. As a student in this program, you will also work closely with the Food Processing Center, the Nebraska Food for Health Center, the UNL Dairy Store, and the Food Allergy Research and Resource Program.

While you’ll be able to explore any area of research as a student in this program, the main areas of research for the department include food safety, preservation and transformation, food allergens, and digestive wellness. Because of this, the degree is an excellent program for individuals who are interested in work in major research centers, food companies, government centers, and other related fields. It even has an optional specialization in bioinformatics!

This degree is an excellent starting point for candidates who are interested in Ph.D. programs. The department offers two of its own, with major options including food science and technology and nutrition. You can even tack on an optional certificate in food safety and defense, if you choose! 

There are three curricular options for students to choose from. One is a thesis program, which will allow you to choose a research area of interest. Another option is to complete a minor instead of a thesis. You can also complete additional courses rather than a thesis, taking extra advanced courses in your area of interest. 

An affordable degree, the food science major features tuition that averages $341 per credit hour for resident students. You can apply for a variety of financial aid opportunities, including scholarships and assistantships, if you choose, too.

To apply to the Food Science and Technology program at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln, you’ll want to make sure your credentials are top-notch. This school is rated as being “more selective” by U.S. News & World Report.  You will need to provide the recommendation letters, a set of transcripts, and a personal statement. A minimum GPA of 3.0 is also required. 

#6. University of Maine

M.S. in Food Science and Human Nutrition

A land-grant research university, the University of Maine is located in scenic Orono, ME. Orono is known for its picturesque location on the banks of the Stillwater and Penobscot rivers, as well as its rich and diverse history. 

Of course, the University of Maine is noteworthy in its own regard. It’s one of just a few land, sea, and space grant institutions in the entire country and is classified among R2: Doctoral Universities-High Research Activity. It offers more than 90 different programs of study, many of which are nationally ranked by U.S. News & World Report. 

The Master of Science in food science and human nutrition is one of the two popular programs offered by the School of Food and Agriculture at the University of Maine, with the other being a Ph.D. in food and nutrition sciences.

Through this program, you’ll be able to explore areas of research with faculty such as nutrition behavior change, berry bioactives, food processing and preservation, seafood quality, product development, and sensory evaluation, just to name a few.

The master’s degree comes with three potential tracks: an internship track in dietetics, a food science and human nutrition track, and an online combined human nutrition and food technology track. Within these tracks, there are thesis and non-thesis options to choose from. 

An affordable program, the Master of Science in food science and human nutrition at the University of Maine has low tuition rates. In addition, you’ll be able to apply for assistantships and fellowships (provided that you choose to study on campus). Most students can complete their degrees in less than two years, but there are also accelerated BS+MS tracks for students who wish to complete a full undergraduate and graduate combined course of study in just five years. 

The accelerated program at the University of Maine, also known as the “double-up” program, is a great pathway for students who want to receive a quality education without spending a ton of money. Since you can apply three or more courses toward both undergraduate and graduate requirements, you can save both time and money. 

You’ll take around 30 credit hours of study before you graduate, though the exact courses and number of credits you take will vary depending on the track you select. Some of the courses you take may cover topics such as Fermented Foods and Probiotics, Sensory Evaluation, Infectious Diseases and Food Safety – From Plants to Humans, and Marine Science Seminar. 

Once you’re ready to apply, you’ll need to start by submitting an online or paper application. You will also need to provide an official transcript from every institution you have attended along with a nonrefundable application fee. Three letters of recommendation and GRE scores are required, too. 

#7. University of Idaho

Food Science, M.S.

With a motto of “A Legacy of Leading,” it should come as no surprise that the University of Idaho is one of the country’s leading institutions when it comes to master’s degrees in food science and technology. 

A public land-grant institution, this university in Moscow, ID is the top school in the Idaho Space Grant Consortium. It offers more than 142 degree programs at the undergraduate and graduate levels and is known for its extracurriculars as well as its academics. In fact, this school is home to the Idaho Vandals, athletic teams that compete in the NCAA Division I athletics conferences. 

The Master of Science in food science at the University of Idaho focuses on food “before it hits the marketplace.” You’ll work to create new foods, improve food safety and quality, and to develop more efficient food processes. 

The degree will also provide you with the advanced technical and research skills you need to be successful in food innovation. From studying the microbiology and chemistry of various food products to designing and conducting your own experiments, this program is incredibly hands-on. 

The program is the ideal fit for students who want to lead research projects in the lab as well as those who already hold undergraduate degrees in fields like microbiology, chemistry, and food science. After completing your studies, you might go on to a career as a product developer, research scientist, food safety specialist, or food plant operations manager.

There are plenty of ways for you to get involved on campus. You can get hands-on experience through resources and facilities right on campus and apply for research or teaching assistantships. You can enter into competitions, publishing your own research in the process, or you can participate in grant-funded research projects. Many students choose to intern at companies like Kraft Foods, Land O’Lakes, J.R. Simplot Co., and other big names.

This degree is incredibly affordable, with low tuition rates (just $4152 per semester for in-state students!) that are further offset by extensive financial aid. More than 400 scholarships are awarded exclusively to the College of Agricultural and Life Sciences (the department in which the food sciences major is housed) each year. These awards are typically based on GPA and similar qualifications. 

When it’s time to apply, you’ll need to submit copies of your undergraduate transcripts. Applicants are encouraged to have completed undergraduate programs in majors like microbiology, chemistry, or food science. Individuals who like research and lab work are especially encouraged to apply. 

You will need to have a minimum GPA of 3.0. GRE scores are also required. You can apply for admission in the fall, spring, or summer semester, choosing from both thesis- and non-thesis options. You will need to submit supporting documents like letters of recommendation, transcripts, a writing sample, a statement of purpose, and a resume, too.

#8. Kansas State University

Food Science Master’s Degree

Kansas State University is a public land-grant institution located in Manhattan, KS. Although Manhattan, KS doesn’t have all the glitz and glamour of its New York counterpart, Kansas State University has plenty to offer prospective students regardless—especially those who are interested in studying food science and technology. 

This university ranks nationally among public universities in its output of Rhodes, Goldwater, Truman, Marshall, and Udall scholars, a clear indicator of its high academic quality. It’s also highly ranked by publications like Washington Monthly, U.S. News & World Report, and more. 

The food science master’s degree offers a variety of research opportunities, with emphasis areas including food chemistry, food microbiology, food safety, food processing, food engineering, and sensory analysis. You can work with several different food commodities including dairy, cereal, fruits and vegetables, and meats and poultry. 

It is available both online as well as on-campus. Regardless of the format you choose, you will be able to take classes such as Food Chemistry, Masters Research in Food Science, Food Analysis, Flavor Chemistry, Quality Assurance of Food Products, Food Protection and Defense-Essential Concepts, Fundamentals of Food Processing, and Food Microbiology.

You may also want to take on an optional food safety and defense certificate. This certificate will prepare you to work directly in the food industry, providing you with the skills you need to work to protect the human food supply. It includes 12 credit hours of core classes such as Food Toxicants; Advanced Food Microbiology and Biotechnology; and Price, Income, and Trade Policies in Agriculture. 

This degree is incredibly affordable. Because you can choose between classes that are offered face-to-face, online, and in a hybrid setting, you can customize your studies to meet your budget and career goals. You’ll pay right around $312.50 per credit hour and have access to generous financial aid opportunities. Both research and teaching assistantships are available on a limited basis, both of which offer generous tuition discounts and ample hands-on experience. There are competitive research stipends available too.

Of course, as a student in this program, you will be able to enhance your experience by participating in internships, research opportunities, and extracurriculars. There are plenty of resources available to undergraduate and graduate students at Kansas State, too, such as career development assistance, tutoring, a writing center, and more.

To be eligible for admission, you will need to submit an online application. GRE scores are not required. Instead, you’ll submit a one to two page statement of objectives, official transcripts, and three letters of recommendation. A bachelor’s degree with a minimum GPA of 3.0 or higher is required, as are prerequisite courses in physics, biology, calculus, biochemistry, and statistics. 

#9. Michigan State University

Food Science Graduate Program​​ – Master’s Degree

Michigan State University was first founded as the Agricultural College of the State of Michigan. One of the nation’s first universities dedicated specifically to teaching scientific agriculture, the school is now a coeducational university that is one of the largest in the country. Despite offering one of the best agriculture and food science programs, Michigan State is also known for offering a wide array of other programs as well. 

It is also known for its excellent graduate programs. Many of these are ranked among the best in the country. It is classified among R1: Doctoral Universities-Very High Research Activity and has more than 634,000 living alumni around the world—two facts that are incredibly important for aspiring food science majors to be aware of. Because you’ll be able to conduct plenty of hands-on research and work with industry partners while you are enrolled, you’ll have no problem finding a job once you graduate. 

The food science graduate program is a Master of Science that provides plenty of opportunities for research. You’ll be able to carry out research in food safety and toxicology or in food processing and quality enhancement. You’ll complete around 30 credit hours of study, with both thesis and non-thesis (coursework-only) options available. 

This degree, like many of the others we’ve reviewed so far, is extremely affordable. Tuition rates are low and costs are offset even further by generous department scholarships. These scholarships are available to enrolled graduate students with applications available each spring. 

As a student in this program, you might apply for awards such as the LeRoy and Dorothy Dugan Food Chemistry Fellowship Endowment, the J. Robert Brunne Fund for Food Science and Human Nutrition Research, or the Dr. Lawrence E. and Violet I. Dawson Professional Development Endowment Fund. Many of these awards include assistantships or fellowships with work experience as a required component, allowing you to gain extensive hands-on experience while you are enrolled.

Of course, all students, regardless of financial standing or research interests, are encouraged to join one of the many professional organizations that partner with Michigan State. As a student member of the American Society for Nutrition, the Institute of Food Technologists, or the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics, you can explore professional development opportunities like conferences and travel and enjoy access to numerous scholarship awards. 

To apply, you will need to have a background in quantitative and organic chemistry, biochemistry, biological and agricultural sciences, nutrition,  and mathematics. You will need to have a minimum 3.0 GPA in undergraduate work and have competitive GRE scores (at least in the 50th percentile). Your letters of recommendation and work experience will also weigh heavily in the application review process. 

When you apply, plan to submit your transcripts, GRE scores, and a statement of purpose. This statement should include your past, present, and future experiences and plans in the field of food science. You can also include a resume or CV. Letters of recommendation are also required. 

#10. Purdue University

Food Science Graduate Program​​

Purdue University is yet another school on this list with somewhat humble beginnings. It was first founded in 1869 with the earliest classes enrolling just 39 students and employing six instructors. 

Today, Purdue has more than 269 majors for undergraduates and graduates to choose from. It also has 18 intercollegiate sports teams and nearly 1000 student organizations for you to participate in as a student. 

As a food science major at Purdue, you’ll find everything you need—and more—within this program’s innovative curriculum. You’ll focus on four signature areas: food chemistry, structure, and function; foods for health; food processing and technology development; and food safety and microbiology. You’ll be able to conduct research in each of these innovative areas as you work closely with faculty mentors. 

Alumni of this program work in all kinds of careers in industry, government, and academia. You’ll be supported in your journey through valuable networking opportunities. The department has extensive career placement resources along with industry partnerships with major players like Cargill, Hershey, Kraft, General Mills, Kellogg’s, and more.

The department has an impressive reputation and outstanding resources. You’ll be able to work in the Nelson Hall of Food Science, a facility that is equipped with a pilot laboratory and a sensory laboratory along with the Whistler Center for Carbohydrate Research and the International Food Technology Center. The department also has relationships with industries and schools in agricultural and biological engineering, nutrition, industrial pharmacy, and even horticulture.

Courses are taught by award-winning faculty and there are opportunities for international and interdisciplinary collaborations. You’ll be able to take on leadership positions and network with companies as you complete your courses. Classes include Nutritional Sciences, Food Chemistry Statistics, and Responsible Conduct in Research. In total, you’ll complete at least 30 credit hours of study. 

Many students extend their studies even further, choosing to participate in extension outreach opportunities. You can work with programs such as Hops and Brewing Analysis, Food Preservation, Retail Food Safety, Safe Produce Indiana, and the ServSafe Training Program, just to name a few.

This program is highly competitive, but if you’re chosen for admission, you’re in luck—it is also extremely affordable. Funding is provided to all graduate students who are admitted. Therefore, only top candidates are accepted. It is a small program with only 75 graduate students between the Master of Science and the Ph.D. program. 

If you think Purdue University is the right school for you, you will need to determine whether you have the skills and background necessary for admission. No GRE is required, but you will need to have a GPA of at least 3.0 on a 4.0 scale. When you apply, you will need to submit an online application, a resume and statement of purpose, and three letters of recommendation. 

OTHER NOTABLE PROGRAMS

#11. Mississippi State University

Location: Mississippi State, MS

Degree: Master of Science in Food Science, Nutrition and Health Promotion

Net Price: $8,650

Website

#12. Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University

Location: Blacksburg, VA

Degree: M.S. Life Sciences

Net Price: $15,510

Website

#13. Cornell University

Location: Ithaca, NY

Degree: MS in Food Science Concentration

Net Price: $29,584

Website

#14. Texas Woman’s University

Location: Denton, TX

Degree: MS in Food Science and Flavor Chemistry

Net Price: $7,336

Website

#15. University of Wisconsin-Madison

Location: Madison, WI

Degree: Food Science M.S.

Net Price: $12,010

Website

#16. Washington State University

Location: Pullman, WA

Degree: Master of Science in Food Science

Net Price: $12,802

Website

IF YOU ENJOYED THAT THEN CHECK OUT OUR ARTICLES ON THE BEST AFFORDABLE ONLINE MASTER’S IN MARKETING MANAGEMENT & THE BEST ONLINE MASTER’S IN EDUCATION!

When you consider how quickly technology is progressing, it’s no surprise that the internet is a place where crime is committed on a daily basis. 

If you have a knack for computers and you want to help make the world a safer place, you might want to consider earning an online master’s in information assurance. This degree is a smart choice for someone who wants to learn how to guard and protect data from unauthorized access. 

Also referred to as information security, this field deals with the creation and maintenance of secure systems that can store data and protect it against cyberattacks. Despite its young age, it’s an incredibly in-demand field, particularly as the world (and its economies) grow more reliant on computer networks and systems.

A specialty that exists within the much larger field of information technology, information assurance is itself home to multiple subspecialties. You might work in areas like data loss prevention, cryptography, or cyber forensics, for example. 

While earning a bachelor’s degree might be the first step you need to take when it comes to securing a job in this in-demand field, a master’s degree will only enhance your marketability and potential for career success. You’ll gain the leadership and technical skills you need to be successful as an upper-level manager or self-employed professional.

You’ll take a variety of courses that will provide you with the skills and training you need to analyze the information security needs of an organization, to identify any potential threats, and to create in-depth recovery plans that can be used in the event of a data breach. You may participate in hands-on activities like internships and research projects to help you gain first-hand experience in this challenging, yet exciting, field, too.

Not sure what kind of program to look for? Some universities offer specialized information assurance and cybersecurity m majors. However, others offer this degree as a concentration as part of the information technology major or similar disciplines. 

Whatever the case may be, an online degree could very well be your best bet.

Online degrees used to be considered “less than” their on-campus counterparts, but today, that’s far from the case. In fact, today’s online degrees present many advantages over traditional programs on-campus. Not only can you study when and where it’s most convenient to you, but you can often save a ton of money doing so, too.

It’s not just that online programs are inherently cheaper because you don’t have to drive to campus and pay for on-campus housing and food. Online course offerings are often coupled with lower tuition and just as many opportunities for financial aid. 

If you’re a professional who is already working in the field of information assurance—or a career changer who’d like to explore new opportunities—earning an affordable online master’s in information assurance is the best decision you can make for your career. Here are some of the best affordable online master’s in information assurance—as well as some tips on what you should look for in your search for the right program for you. 

Common Application and Admission Questions

If it’s been some time since you’ve been in college, you might be wondering how the college application process has changed. 

Even if you’re fresh out of undergraduate school, it’s important to note that there are some differences between applying for a bachelor’s versus applying for an online master’s degree. 

In general, you’ll be expected to complete anywhere between 30 and 40 semester credit hours toward your degree. Most of these will be a mixture of core and specialization courses, depending on the nature of your degree. You might also complete an internship, a thesis, or a final capstone project.

You will need to have a bachelor’s degree to apply to most master’s in information assurance programs, although there are some 4+1 programs out there that will make it possible for you to apply as a high school student (although you will of course be applying to the bachelor’s degree at the same time).

Some schools have strict guidelines on what kind of bachelor’s you must have for admission. Some accept bachelor’s degrees in any discipline, while others prefer to see that you majored in computer science, finance, math, engineering, or a similar field. What do all of these programs have in common? Often, they are technologically-based but more important than that, they all tend to be grounded in quantitative skills and data analysis.

To show that you have the coursework necessary to be successful in one of these programs, you will likely be asked to submit copies of your transcripts from any universities you have attended in the past. While some schools list minimum GPA requirements, this isn’t standard for all. If you do need to have a certain GPA, it will usually be around a 3.0 on a 4.0 scale (though this can, of course, vary). 

In many cases, if you haven’t taken all the classes required by your university of choice, you can make up for what you are missing by taking some general education credits when you start your master’s degree. This will allow you to catch up to your peers and gain the background knowledge necessary before starting your primary program of study.

While work experience is not a prerequisite for all universities, many schools do like to see that you’ve spent some time on the job before applying to graduate school. To that end, you may be asked to submit a letter from your employer evincing your ability to handle graduate-level work. More often than not, though, a resume or CV detailing your accomplishments along with a  few letters of recommendation from professionals who know you and your talents well is more than sufficient.  

In general, applying to an online master’s program is no different than if you were to apply to a master’s degree on campus. You can usually submit all required documents, including your transcripts, essays, letters of recommendation, and proof of work experience, entirely online. Most applications can also be filled out and submitted online, sometimes with the addition of an interview.

What About Financial Aid & Scholarships?

You probably don’t need us to remind you that college is expensive. Earning a degree is pricier than ever now, thanks to tuition hikes and other expenses that are more or less unavoidable when it comes to earning a degree.

Fortunately, earning a degree online is innately less expensive than earning one on campus. Since you don’t have to worry about paying for room, board, and transportation, your costs of earning a degree in a distance learning format are automatically going to be much lower than if you chose to attend school on-campus.

However, tuition and fees can still add up. Most online degrees charge tuition by credit hour, rather than charging a flat rate per semester (although this does still occasionally happen). You’ll pay a set dollar amount per credit hour, meaning it won’t matter much if you take classes full vs part-time. 

Check on this, though, as some schools do offer tuition at a flat per-semester rate. If that’s the case, you can sometimes save money by taking additional credits per semester—plus, you’ll earn your degree more quickly than if you only took a few classes here and there. 

Some schools offer substantial discounts for students who live in the same state. Public schools are an example. If you attend a public school, your tuition rates might be lower, but it’s worth it to check the cost of tuition against the cost of tuition at any private school you might be interested in attending, too. 

That’s because private schools, despite having higher tuition rates, are often able to provide students with much more generous financial aid packages. The sticker price might be more, but after things like scholarships, grants, and work-study are taken out, it could cost you less to attend a private school than it would for you to attend a public school.

Always research the financial aid opportunities that are available to you. Regardless of your age, employment status, or level in college, it’s imperative that you complete the FAFSA. The FAFSA, or the Free Application for Federal Student Aid, can be completed as early as January 1 of the year in which you plan to attend college. This document will use your earnings information, including that which is pulled from your W2s, tax returns, pay stubs, and other documents, to figure out how much need-based financial aid you might qualify for.

Even if you don’t think you’ll qualify, it’s worth your time to fill out this quick form. That’s because many colleges use the information you will provide on your FAFSA to determine your eligibility for institutional financial aid, such as fellowships and assistantships. 

There are all kinds of resources available to graduate students studying both online and on-campus—if only you’re willing to look for them! Do your research and you’ll likely find a myriad of resources offered by your college, by outside organizations, and potentially, even by your own employer. Many employers offer tuition reimbursement as an incentive to encourage their workers to go back to college!

How Much Can I Make With a Master’s in Information Assurance? 

A master’s degree in information assurance can prepare you for a wide variety of careers, so it’s tough to say exactly how much you will make when you earn one of these versatile degrees. More than likely, you will probably work as a computer systems engineer, an information security analyst, or as a computer network architect—but although these are the three most common degrees, they are far from being the only options.

That’s not to say that the pay in this field isn’t worth it, however. As an information security analyst, you could earn a median salary of more than $99,730 per year, according to 2019 figures by the Bureau of Labor Statistics. These jobs are in high demand, too—in fact, the Bureau of Labor Statistics estimates a growth of a whopping 31% before 2029. 

This rate is much faster than the national average and reflects the desire of banks, financial institutions, and other corporations to increase their information security and data protection capabilities in the face of new and growing cybersecurity threats. 

Even the lowest 10% of earners in this career still earned a respectable salary, according to 2019 Bureau of Labor Statistics data, bringing in around $57,810 per year. The highest 10%? They brought in well over $158,860 per year. Not too shabby—especially when you consider that some information security analysts don’t work full time and many are able to work from home. 

The job opportunities in this niche are diverse as well. Although the best-paid professionals work in the insurance and finance sector, you could also earn a high salary if you choose to work in computer systems design or related services. Work in information, management, or administrative and support services, and you’ll still command a high starting salary.

Another job you could pursue is as an information systems manager. The earning potential for this career is even higher—on average, graduates earn more than $146,000 per year and will enjoy a growth of 11% by 2028. 

Even as a computer systems administrator, computer network analyst, or risk management specialist, you’ll earn a high median salary. Expect to earn anywhere between $70,000 and $112,690 if you choose to pursue one of these jobs. 

Earning a master’s degree is one of the best ways to improve your chances of earning a high starting salary. Not only will it provide you with the skills you need to be successful as a mid- to upper-level manager, but you’ll gain greater familiarity with relevant technologies and learn how to troubleshoot common security issues, too. 

Possessing a master’s degree in information assurance can give you a leg up when it comes to applying for any of these jobs. Many require prior experience in the field, typically more experience than what you might possess with just an undergraduate degree. Not only that, but earning a master’s degree will lend you the confidence and resume you need to market yourself well as a qualified, capable candidate. 

What Are the Best Master’s in Information Assurance Degrees?

We know that you have educational goals that you’re itching to pursue, but you may not know where to start. The editors of Master’s Programs Guide utilize a unique ranking methodology based on the following five aspects:

25% Overall Degree Affordability: Average cost of undergraduate and graduate tuition per school

25% Graduation Rate: Number of students who start at the university and actually finish there

20% Earnings Potential: Average mid-career salary of school alumni

20% Selectivity: The number of students who apply versus the number who actually get accepted

10% Online Graduate Offerings: The number of programs offered online in each department

At Master’s Programs Guide, we strive to do our best to guide you and your family toward a fruitful academic career. The pursuit of knowledge is a noble one, and we want to help you reach your goals.

#1. Sam Houston State University

Master of Science in Information Assurance and Security

Sam Houston State University is located in the state that’s larger than life—Texas, of course! And while this public university’s programs are equally monumental, you don’t have to study on campus in order to receive the benefits of an education from this historic school.

For more than 139 years, Sam Houston State has been preparing students for lives of achievement and success with its motto, “the measure of a life is its service,” carried forth through all of this school’s 60 master’s degree programs. With more than 90 bachelor’s degrees and 10 doctoral programs as well, this university has some of the best online programs around.

One of these is the dynamic Master of Science in information assurance and cybersecurity. The curriculum of this program prepares learners for professional careers in industrial, commercial, and governmental information assurance, providing them with the skills and training necessary to utilize various methods and knowledge to protect corporate information resources.

Not only that, but the program will teach you how to come up with plans for disaster recovery and to perform detailed risk assessments to prevent them in the first place. Consisting of 36 credit hours of study, the degree includes online courses that are delivered during the spring, summer, and fall months. 

Curious about what kinds of classes you’ll take? The curriculum will vary for each student, as you can take up to six approved elective courses. Core specified courses include Database Security, Operating System Security, and Business Continuity Management, just to name a few. The program is identical to similar degree offerings that are available on campus and can help you reach your personal, professional, and academic goals. 

To be eligible to apply, you will need to have a baccalaureate degree in a relevant technical field along with professional experience. Many students pursue enrollment in this program after completing an undergraduate management information systems or computer science minor or major. 

You will need to submit a formal graduate application, an application fee, and an official transcript from any undergraduate institution you may have attended. A resume, GRE scores, and two letters of recommendation are also required. In many cases, you may be able to waive the GRE requirement by submitting evidence of an awarded Master of Science degree along with five or more years of relevant work experience. 

This program offers exceptional opportunities for career networking, as you will learn right alongside fellow students who have bachelor’s degrees in similar areas. You’ll likely qualify for a significant pay increase upon completing this degree, too. 

You don’t have to break the bank in order to enroll in this program, either. Tuition is incredibly affordable, particularly if you are a resident of the state of Texas. The estimated tuition cost is just $4,268 per semester. Because tuition is billed by the semester rather than the per-credit rate, you may be able to save money by taking additional credits beyond the recommended 12 each term, too. 

#2. Iowa State University

Master of Science in Information Assurance

Study abroad. Internships. Integrated learning communities. At Iowa State University, located in Ames, IA, you’ll have plenty of opportunities to take your learning outside of the classroom.

Although the school has a traditional sort of background, having been founded in 1858 as one of Abraham Lincoln’s first land-grant universities, its mission is anything but ordinary. Here, students learn by doing, and they are able to “create, share, and apply knowledge to make Iowa and the world a better place.”

The school is home to more than 33,000 students, many of whom will never even step foot on campus. That’s because the university has a large selection of online programs, making it possible for learners to benefit from a rigorous, diverse, and hands-on Iowa State education even when they are studying from halfway around the world.

Iowa State is a leader in information assurance, having offered courses in this in-demand area since 1995. As a result, the school now has one of the largest programs in the country. You can pursue a degree both in a traditional on-campus setting or as an online program. Whatever you choose, you’re sure to graduate with the skills necessary to help fill the need for well-trained system security specialists who are prepared to work in academia, the private sector, and government.

There are four separate degree options for this program: you can choose to pursue a Master of Science with a thesis, a Master of Science without a thesis, a Master of Engineering that includes coursework only, or a graduate certificate.

Regardless of which option you choose to pursue, you will leave campus with the skills necessary to enhance and engineer complex systems. You’ll also have a keen understanding of information assurance ethics along with major policy and strategic issues. 

As a graduate student, your core courses will include Information Warfare, Cryptography, Legal and Ethical Issues in Information Assurance, and Network Protocols and Security, just to name a few. While these classes are more classroom-based and theoretical in nature, you’ll also be able to take a multitude of hands-on courses to build your practical understanding of the field.

For example, you can engage in experiences such as the Cyber Security Operations Practicum, Current Research Problems in Cyber Security, and Information Assurance Capstone Design. You’ll also be given the option of completing an information assurance summer internship. This one-semester internship is offered on a pass-fail basis and can be completed at one of many large organizations or industries around the country. 

You don’t have to spend a fortune for this kind of experience, either. You’ll be billed for tuition and fees based on the number of credits in which you are enrolled—you won’t have to pay for credits you aren’t actually taking. Although you’ll pay slightly higher tuition rates if you are not a resident of the state of Iowa, there are plenty of financial aid opportunities available to residents and non-residents alike. 

#3. Nova Southeastern University

Master of Science in Information Assurance and Cybersecurity 

Nova Southeastern University is a university located in scenic Fort Lauderdale, FL. In addition to its sunny, idyllic location, this school has a whole host of other accolades that you need to know about. 

Don’t just take our word for it. Nova Southeastern is nationally ranked by U.S. News & World Report, Forbes, and other major ranking publications. It is within the top five in the United States when it comes to rewarding graduate degrees to minority students—and it has a $3.7 billion economic impact on the state of Florida. 

While many students choose to benefit from Nova Southeastern’s gorgeous campus location, it’s important to note that you don’t even have to step foot on campus in order to study in its exceptional programs. The school offers many degrees entirely online.

The Master of Science in information assurance and cybersecurity at Nova Southeastern University is one of the best in the country. It is certified by both the Department of Homeland Security and the National Security Agency, meaning that this program “meets or exceeds the requirements and standards expected of a leader in cyber city research and education.”

Because of this, you can rest assured that when you choose Nova Southeastern University for your information assurance education, you’ll be meeting additional requirements for specializations in security policy development and compliance along with network security engineering. Designated as a National Center of Academic Excellence in Cyber Defense Education and the host of the Center for Information Protection, Education, and Research, this program is a great option for students who know they’d like to work for the government or in a related setting one day.

Even if you aren’t sure where you want your studies to take you, this degree is an excellent choice. A 30 credit-hour program, it is available both online and on-campus in South Florida. It’s offered by the College of Computing and Engineering and has a unique emphasis on network security engineering. The university also has a related but separate Master of Science in cybersecurity management for students who possess different but ancillary interests in this field. 

Consisting of ten courses, this program can be completed in as little as 12 months as a full-time student (or you can take as long as 24 months to finish if you’d rather study part-time and continue working). Either way, you will receive high-quality instruction from the College of Computing and Engineering faculty members, all of whom hold terminal degrees and are highly respected for their research. 

You’ll take core required courses like Operating Systems, Software Engineering, Database Security, and Computer and Network Forensics, learning alongside some of the most esteemed professions in the field.

A highly affordable program, this degree has a myriad of financial aid opportunities available. Be sure to apply by the deadline for your admission date of choice for top priority when it comes to financial aid—you only need to submit the application, application fee, transcripts, and a resume. 

#4. Norwich University

Master of Science in Information Security & Assurance

Norwich University is a private institution located in sleepy Northfield, VT. Perhaps best known for its strong military tradition, this school is also home to a myriad of virtual learning opportunities. In fact, Norwich has been serving students with varied work schedules and lifestyles since 1819—the advent of the internet and the expanded reach of distance learning have only bolstered its efforts to connect with students all over the world.

The Master of Science in information security and assurance is also referred to as the Master of Science in cybersecurity at Norwich. The degree has concentrations in a variety of fields, including computer forensics, response team management, project management, critical infrastructure, vulnerability management, and critical infrastructure protection and cybercrime. With a maximum enrollment of just 15 students per class, you’ll enjoy a close, tight-knit learning environment that will enable you to learn at your maximum potential.

Most students take only 18 months to complete their degrees in this format, but you can take more or less time as you choose. All courses can be completed entirely online, with the exception of a one-week residency that will require you to visit Norwich’s scenic Vermont campus.

Because you can tailor your learning experience with one of the five concentration options, you’ll have the flexibility necessary to customize your degree to your unique learning goals. As a student in this program, you’ll have plenty of opportunities to learn outside of the classroom, too, in events like hackathons, summits, and forensics exercises. 

Ranked second in the country for cybersecurity education by the Ponemon Institute, this university is also one of the first to have been recognized as a Center of Academic Excellence in Information Assurance Education by the National Security Agency and Department of Homeland Security. You can receive continuing professional education credits as a member of (ISC)2 or ISACA and enroll during one of four convenient start dates each year. 

Choose to study online with Norwich University’s College of Graduate and Continuing Studies, and you’ll benefit from a learning environment that is both dynamic and interactive. Because of this, you’ll enjoy immediate opportunities to apply your coursework in your community or workplace. 

Faculty are engaged and offer learners a highly personalized experience—plus, you’ll enjoy access to a community of fellow lifelong learners and the flexibility to complete your classes at the times that work best for you.

To apply, you will need to submit a completed application with a resume, three professional references, and an official transcript. You will also need to supply a letter of intent. Tuition is incredibly affordable, charged at both a per-term and per-credit rate. You’ll pay around $850 per credit, with numerous financial aid opportunities available. 

Norwich offers financial aid both for active military and veterans as well as for online students. Some of the most notable awards include the Achievement Scholarship, the Norwich Alumni Scholarship, and the Active Duty Military Scholarship, all of which are available for graduate and undergraduate students alike. 

#5. Regis University

Master of Science in Information Assurance

With only 1900 students studying on campus and online, it might seem like Regis University is a school that’s far too small to make an impact. 

How far from the truth that is, however! This school, also known as Regis College, offers values-centered education that makes a major difference with plenty of opportunities for service learning, cross-cultural study abroad experiences, and academic internships. At Regis, you can truly take your education into your own hands. You’ll have all kinds of opportunities for hands-on learning, whether you’re a traditional student or an adult learner—or perhaps a little bit of both.

You’ll be able to make a positive impact by enrolling in any of Regis’ fifty hands-on programs, and you’ll benefit from a rigorous liberal arts curriculum rooted in the Jesuit tradition in any of them. However, the Master of Science in information assurance is, without a doubt, one of the best.

In this program, you’ll gain valuable industry expertise in a learning environment that’s founded on the Jesuit vision of positive change. You’ll acquire the skills you need to make a difference in a technology-focused world, completing around 36 credit hours of study. You can complete this degree 100% online as you move through courses that are built on recommendations and guidelines from the Committee on National Security Systems 4000 training standards, the NIST workforce development standard, and the ISC Ten Domains of Knowledge. 

You can pursue this degree as a stand-alone program or you can choose to pursue one of two in-demand specializations: IA policy management or cybersecurity. 

While this program provides learners with a great opportunity for career enhancement regardless of your chosen career path, it will also enable you to sit for in-demand industry certification exams such as the Cisco Certified Network Professional Security, Certified Information Systems Auditor through ISACA or the Certified Ethical Hacker exam through the Electronic Commerce Council.

Still not satisfied? You can pursue additional graduate certificates to help you build your career, too. The university offers a cybersecurity graduate certificate, which consists of 12 credit hours (or four courses) and can be completed online in less than a year. You can also pursue a stand-alone information assurance policy management graduate certificate. Both of these certificates include courses that can be easily transferred to the Master of Science in information assurance. 

Regardless of the path you choose to take, you’re sure to be satisfied with your educational experience at Regis. 

The computer information systems, computer networking, and computer science degrees at Regis are the only ABET-accredited programs of their kind that are offered online or in-person, and the College of Computer and Information Sciences has been designated as a National Center of Excellence in Information Assurance Education by the National Security Agency (NSA) and the U.S. Department of Homeland Security, too. This is a distinction it has held since 2007.

An affordable and relevant program, the degree features numerous opportunities for professional networking, hands-on internships, and significant amounts of financial aid. 

#6. Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University-Worldwide

Master of Science in Information Security and Assurance

With top-ranked programs in business, aviation, applied science, computers and technology, space, engineering, security, and more, Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University offers a no-nonsense approach to students seeking efficient and effective online degrees.

This school is home to the first College of Security and Intelligence program in the country and has an impressive 94% job placement rate. That means that 94% of all Embry-Riddle graduates are either employed or continuing their education within just one year of graduation. Students at this school represent all 50 states and 148 countries, creating a diverse community of learners that continues to grow and learn each day.

Although this school only achieved university status in 1970, it has since expanded rapidly. The school is home to tens of thousands of online students along with numerous worldwide locations. When it comes to online education, Embry-Riddle really stands apart from the rest. 

The degrees offered here are valuable and offer 24/7 support to all students. You’ll benefit from dedicated online staff who can help you as you pursue your degree. As an online learner, you can connect and engage with faculty and staff from virtually anywhere, staying connected, joining groups, or participating in hands-on learning activities just like you would on campus.

If you want to earn an online master’s in information assurance, you won’t find many better options than by doing so with Embry-Riddle. The online Master of Science in information security and assurance is one of the most rigorous and hands-on, uniquely focused on business and organizational life in the information age.

The program is taught from three major perspectives—quality management, knowledge management, and enterprise management. As a result, you will graduate with an incredibly well-rounded foundation in the field. You will study from instructors who hold terminal degrees and extensive expertise and benefit from classmates who can help relate their firsthand professional experiences.

The university has a large, extensive network of educational facilities both in the United States as well as abroad. You can choose to study fully from home or attend a campus near you. 

With this degree, you can even customize your degree path by choosing from one of three different specializations. All are incredibly relevant in today’s ever-changing business climate, with options including Information Assurance in a Global Context, Information Systems Security, and Protecting Business Intelligence. The curriculum takes an interdisciplinary approach and requires 30 credit hours of study. 

Before completing your degree, you will take hands-on classes such as Assured Business Systems: Managing and Protecting the Information Systems Enterprise, Risk Management, and Business Continuity and Cyber Law, Cyber Compliance, and Information Assurance. 

This degree is also extremely affordable. Most courses last nine weeks with tuition starting at $1847 per term. There are plenty of financial aid options available for most students who qualify, too. The school is known for offering a multitude of scholarship and aid programs to military members and veterans in particular. 

#7. Western Governors University

Master of Science in Cybersecurity and Information Assurance

If you’re looking for a diploma that more or less speaks for itself, you should consider earning a degree from Western Governors University. 

This school has an unmatched 97% employer satisfaction rate—it’s a school with degrees that will not only speak for themselves but as you can see, will pay for themselves, too. 

Western Governors University offers degrees that exist primarily online. You can learn at your own pace and finish your program of study quickly. With more than 60 flexible online degree programs at one highly respected national university, Western Governors is a clear choice if you’re looking to progress toward a highly rewarding career path.

The master’s degree in cybersecurity at Western Governors University recognizes the very real threat that cybercrimes present. Formally known as the Master of Science in cybersecurity and information assurance, this program will prepare you to build your arsenal of skills so that you can help top organizations protect their most valuable data. 

Designed for industry professionals, the program will enable you to work while you earn a degree at the same time. You can not only earn precious industry certifications, but you’ll also be able to engage in a multitude of hands-on experiences that will enable you to build your resume before you even graduate.

Closely aligned with the National Initiative for Cybersecurity Education, this program was designed with input from leading cybersecurity experts and IT employers to meet the guidelines from the National Security Agency and the Department of Homeland Security.  Most students finish their degrees in less than 24 months—but you’ll be given the ultimate level of flexibility when it comes to how and when you complete your classes.

This is because Western Governors has a unique course policy that allows you to advance as soon as you are ready—as long as you can show that you have mastered the material, you can move on to a new course module. 

You’ll gain expertise in key skills like ethical hacking, secure software design, and secure network design. You will also have the ability to earn top industry citations at no extra cost, with exam fees covered by low, flat tuition rates. Example certifications you can earn include the EC-Council Computer Hacking Forensic Investigator and EC-Council Certified Ethical Hacking Certification. 

You’ll be guided through your courses by supportive, attentive faculty who want nothing more than to help you progress from the day you start to the day you graduate. You’ll have access to all kinds of other support services, too, including counseling, tutoring, financial aid, and more. 

The tuition for this program is incredibly affordable. It’s charged per term rather than per credit so that you can take classes as quickly or as slowly as you like. However, the faster you take your classes, the less money you will pay for your degree. For one six-month term, you’ll pay just $3,895. You can see how the savings will begin to stack up for you!  

#8. National University

Master of Science in Cyber Security and Information Assurance

With more than 75 degree programs at the associate, bachelor’s, and master’s level (and plenty of credentials and certificates to choose from, too) National University is a smart choice for students who want to take control of their own education. 

Since 1971, National has offered accessible, achievable, and affordable higher education to adult learners. Whether you’ve been out of school for a while or you’re fresh out of a bachelor’s degree program, you’ll find exactly what you’re looking for with National. With more than 25,000 students studying all over the world, National has a large variety of educational partnerships with top employers like the City of San Diego, AMN Healthcare, and the YMCA. 

National University is headquartered in La Jolla, CA, but you don’t have to live in California to benefit from these remarkable programs. You can take classes online or at a variety of military bases nationwide. Each class lasts just four weeks, meaning you will be able to focus on just one subject at a time, one month at a time. You’ll finish your degree faster while still earning the credentials you need to be successful. 

A professional degree, the Master of Science in cybersecurity at National University is best for individuals who want to enhance their managerial and technical know-how. In this program, you’ll take a required core set of courses along with a required specialization. Through this, you’ll be able to take courses that support a variety of backgrounds and enhance your knowledge in a variety of domains.

Before graduating, you will be required to take at least 58.5 graduate units. Core classes include Cyber Security Technology, Cyber Security Ethical Issues, Net Defense and Cloud Security, and Wireless and Mobile Security. You’ll also be able to take a variety of project-based courses that allow you to further explore your specialization area. 

There are plenty of benefits associated with choosing this program at National. Not only will you be able to study on-campus or online, choosing the format that’s most convenient for you, but you’ll also be able to enroll year-round. Classes start monthly so you can transfer in or apply at any time. 

A military-friendly school, National is also incredibly affordable. Not only is it innately more affordable with its wealth of locations (you don’t have to pay to travel to campus, if you don’t want to) but National is also a Yellow Ribbon school that offers steep discounts on tuition to service members and their dependents. 

You will remain a member of the National family even after you’ve graduated. In fact, you’ll join a large community of alumni (more than 175,000!) around the world once you enroll at this university. This community will help to connect you with job opportunities, career networking, and plenty of other professional development experiences to help you as you set out toward a rewarding career. 

#9. Davenport University

Master of Science in Information Assurance and Cyber Security

Davenport University doesn’t just offer online programs. This school, with campuses located in Detroit, MI, and a number of other strategic locations around the world, is known for its immersive and accessible degrees—many of which are offered fully online and accompanied by extremely low tuition rates.

A private, non-profit university, Davenport was founded in 1866. This school serves more than 7000 traditional and adult students at 11 campuses throughout the state of Michigan as well as online. The school has four degree-granting colleges and more than 60 different majors of study.

The Master of Science in information assurance and cybersecurity, a 34-credit hour program, offers a unique combination of courses to develop your skills in management and technology. You’ll develop the highly sought-after skills in analysis and risk management you need to help businesses navigate cumbersome ethical and legal issues in cybersecurity. 

Through the curriculum of this program, you’ll uncover the many ways in which organizations can fight cybercrime, both domestically and internationally. It is aligned with industry certification tests so that you’ll be poised for long term success regardless of the job in cybersecurity you pursue.

You’ll take nine core courses along with two industry-specific electives, such as banking and financial security and health care security. Core courses cover in-demand topics such as Network Security, Application Security, and Applied Cryptography. Most students are able to finish their degrees in cybersecurity at Davenport in as little as two years (often less!).

With a highly practical curriculum, this degree will enable you to start taking courses in your major immediately. Internships are offered to most students and with a 95% employment rate (meaning 95% of all Davenport students are employed in their field of study upon graduation) you can rest assured that you’ll be receiving an education that will really help you get ahead. 

This program can be pursued either fully online through the innovative Global Campus, or you can take courses on the Detroit or Grand Rapids campuses. You don’t have to have a background in tech or in cybersecurity in order to apply, nor do you need GMAT or GRE test scores. 

It is one of the most affordable programs of its kind, offering a number of full-tuition scholarships from the Department of Defense and the National Science Foundation. Tuition is some of the lowest out of all private universities and colleges in the state of Michigan.

The school is registered as a Cisco Networking Academy and is one of only 13 schools in the state of Michigan to be designated as a National Center of Academic Excellence in Cyber Defense Education by the Department of Homeland Security and the National Security Agency. 

You can further reduce your expenses by getting credit for your work experience. By submitting evidence of past work experience and earned certificates, you can qualify for reduced curricular requirements—when you don’t have to take as many classes, you won’t have to pay as many fees. It’s as simple as that. 

#10. Walden University

Master of Science in Cybersecurity and Information Assurance

Founded in 1970, Walden University is a relatively young university—but its programs are second to none in quality and convenience. The school has more than 53,000 students, many of whom are studying remotely in other countries. In fact, there are more than 150 different countries represented at this university! 

The level of satisfaction expressed by students is unparalleled, with 91% of international students saying that they are “satisfied or very satisfied” with the university and 85% of students saying that they are “likely or very likely” to recommend Walden University to others. You can’t beat that kind of prestige. 

The Master of Science in information technology at Walden offers a multitude of specializations so that you can progress toward your professional and personal goals. In addition to in-demand concentrations like software engineering, health informatics, information systems, and big data analytics, information assurance and cybersecurity concentration is one of the best. 

This specialization will teach you all the techniques you need to know to detect major threats and to define and protect companies’ resources against threats. You’ll also learn about the security governance structures that organizations use to prevent and to manage risks and the methods you can use to investigate, respond to, and prevent security breaches. 

Consisting of 30 total semester credits, this degree is broken down into 12-semester credits of core courses and 18-semester credits of specialization courses. You’ll take courses such as Enterprise Database Design, Principles of Programming, and Information Technology in the Organization.

Because the school is part of the National CyberWatch Center, you’ll benefit from some of the most fascinating hands-on experiences here. National CyberWatch Center is a consortium of higher education institutions, government agencies, and businesses, all of which are committed to a collaborative effort meant to improve and enhance cybersecurity education. 

You will learn from experienced and knowledgeable IT professionals, all of whom have valuable experience in the classroom and on the job. You’ll learn by doing, engaging in simulations, virtual lab, and other authentic learning opportunities offered in real-time. Designed with working professionals in mind, this program will help you shape the career of your dreams, whether you’re switching careers or seeking advancement in the career you already have. 

Walden University has a reputation as being one of the most affordable online universities in the country. Tuition starts at just $880 per semester hour and you can transfer in up to 15 credits to help make your progress toward a degree faster and more affordable. 

Walden has many financial aid opportunities, too. In addition to scholarships and tuition reduction opportunities, the school also offers multiple grants and loans. With more than 144,000 alumni all over the world, you’ll benefit from a strong Walden network that will help you grow personally and professionally after you graduate.

IF YOU ENJOYED THAT THEN CHECK OUT OUR ARTICLES ON THE 50 HIGHEST-PAYING MASTER’S DEGREES & 50 MOST POPULAR ONLINE MASTER’S DEGREES!

Earning an MBA is one of the smartest educational choices you can make to improve your salary and employment security.

These strategic management programs are versatile. They are perfect for a variety of modern positions. In addition, all MBAs prepare students for administrative or managerial roles. These often pay more than regular or middle-management jobs at the same company.

But many MBAs require that you choose one specialization over others. We’re making the process a little easier for you with our list of the best online master’s in Strategy. You can learn on your own time, on your own couch. Earning a strategic management credential has never been easier. 

Of all the specializations out there, a masters in strategy is one of the most valuable. You can also choose to pursue a master’s degree in strategy itself. This is often presented as a Master of Science in Strategy. A Master of Strategy is one of the top degree choices if you’re interested in developing a business in a broad, long-term sense. But what does an MBA in Strategy or a master’s degree in strategy prepare you to do? Strategic management specializations teach online students about big-picture management strategies in business or economic contexts. 

These strategic management programs will prepare you to make decisions about various aspects of a company’s internal structure or business strategy. You’ll take classes incorporating subjects about:

• Finance
• Psychology
• Communication
• Business education
• Organizational behavior
• Business leadership
• Leadership.
• Human resources management

An MBA in Strategy focuses on broader business education and business theory. That is rather than the nitty-gritty aspects of running a business day to day. Strategic management is a valuable degree for individuals who want to take the reins of a business or organization rather than settle for middle management. 

Many master’s-level strategy courses involve case studies. These are historical records of actual business decisions made by executives. Online students study these decisions. They then attempt to determine if the right course of action was taken. They develop their own philosophies and strategies for business. 

A master’s degree in strategy requires such a broad course list. Therefore, it is often considered to be interdisciplinary. It incorporates more hard STEM ideas or courses than many other business-focused paths. This versatility is part of the strategy degree’s strength. It’s designed for high-level decision-making and business strategy in a broader context. The strategic management major itself is general enough that you could get any business position. 

In many ways, strategy is one of the best concentrations you could pursue for an MBA. It keeps many doors open and doesn’t lock you into a particular career path like more niche specializations (such as healthcare management) often do. 

Attending an MBA program with an emphasis on strategy will afford you multiple networking opportunities in your business education. The best strategy masters incorporate a cohort structure. You’ll progress through the curriculum with the same group of students. You will learn from each other, forging bonds that can last for a lifetime. In the business world, personal connections are just as important as academic knowledge and business theory. If not more!

MBAs in Strategy often place you on an upper-level executive career trajectory. This often leads to a great salary. The exact earnings of your position can vary from those of your peers. Most professionals with master’s degrees in strategy are paid well for their efforts. 

All in all, an online masters in strategy is versatile. It offers exceptional growth opportunities. It prepares you for multiple business-oriented jobs. Those in a managerial or strategic context are common. It’s an excellent degree choice for future business professionals or executives.

See Also: 10 Best Master’s in Industrial Engineering

COMMON APPLICATION AND ADMISSION QUESTIONS

To be considered for a master’s in strategy online program, you’ll need to meet typical program admission requirements typical of most universities. The most common application or admission requirements are:

• Work experience
• GPA minimums
• GRE scores

The exact GPA requirements for any program in strategy can vary from university to university. Most strategic management programs do not accept applicants without at least a 2.5 GPA. 

This is the minimum GPA to be considered for a program in strategic management. However, these programs are competitive. Therefore, it’s recommended that you aim for a 3.0 GPA or higher. If your GPA is not yet at this level, you can always take a few bachelor’s level courses to boost your GPA. 

Many master’s in strategy will require some previous work experience in business or economics. That is due to the program’s emphasis on managerial aspects and business strategy. Some programs accept people straight out of a bachelor’s program. Often this is just if it is related to strategy or business. Students who hold bachelor’s degrees in an unrelated field, such as liberal arts or science, will often need to submit a resume. This should detail their business experience. 

You must next consider their GRE scores. Your Graduate Record Examination scores are critical entry requirements for the majority of masters in strategy online programs. That is regardless of major. The GRE is a series of in-depth tests that examine your quantitative and verbal reasoning skills. That is as well as your critical writing and thinking capabilities. The GRE is taken on a computer. It can be repeated up to five times within one 12-month period. The GRE can be taken once every 21 days within that period, as well. Most master’s  have specific GRE thresholds for suitable applicants. Be sure to check admission requirements before applying. They may have higher or lower scores than your last GRE test. 

Many top master’s programs in strategy also require one or more letters of recommendation from your former teachers or employers. These letters act as character references. They help the university determine if you’re a good fit for their program. Be sure to pay attention to their application periods. Some universities often have a single application window for their master’s. Others may have various windows throughout the year. There is no universal mandate across universities.

See Also: 20 Best Online MBA in Strategy

WHAT ABOUT FINANCIAL AID & SCHOLARSHIPS?

Anyone interested in going back to school for any reason should begin their financial aid efforts with the FAFSA. The Federal Application for Student Aid must be filled out at the beginning of every academic year. Be sure to tackle the financial aid process as soon as possible. That is regardless of whether you’ve taken a break from education or are pursuing master’s straight out of your bachelor’s program. 

The FAFSA is valuable. It allows you to take advantage of certain government-funded scholarships or loans. Several types of financial aid awards, like the Pell Grant, are accessible only through the FAFSA. You can also subsidize the loans you receive through this application. This makes them easier to pay off once you complete your education. Your financial aid is determined by your economic needs. If you are in need of more financial assistance, you will be eligible for greater help. 

Any students looking to pursue a master’s degree in strategy should also investigate school-specific scholarships and financial aid. A masters in business strategy is often awarded by a university’s school of business or business administration. There are often several grants or scholarships available throughout the year. This kind of financial aid is funded by the alumni of the university, many of whom are successful business people. These alumni networks often award scholarships to a large portion of the incoming class. Be aware that these grants also often have competitive requirements. There are a high number of applicants. You have to jump on these possible awards as fast as you can. That way you can give yourself the best chance to receive them. 

Investigate teaching assistantships. Many of the best schools for business or business administration will offer teaching assistantships to students. These agreements require you to dedicate 15 to 20 hours of your week to grading or similar tasks for a teacher. In exchange, you’ll receive paid tuition. Often you will receive a small stipend for any other expenses you may incur. Teaching assistantships are quite difficult to get for most master’s in strategy. They’re well worth the effort. They can make your graduate studies a much more lucrative prospect. 

If you have work experience, you should contact your advisor or administrator. Ask how your work experience could count toward program credit. A masters degree in strategy deals with business and economics subjects. Therefore, your prior work experience may be close enough to what’s covered in one or more of your strategic management courses. This pathway can lead you to an early graduation. It can also save you money since you won’t have to pay for extra credit hours learning what you already know. Not every program allows you to exchange work experience for credit, however.

HOW MUCH CAN I MAKE WITH A MASTER’S DEGREE IN STRATEGY?

A master’s degree in strategy—or an MBA with a strategy specialization—is such a versatile degree. The possible professions you could hold with the strategic management curriculum can lead to a wide range of potential salaries. Experience plays a huge factor, as well. When you estimate your potential earnings with this strategic management program, remember that a Master of Business Administration is suitable for high-level positions in business or corporations. Oftentimes that is in managerial or administrative capacities.

Most individuals with MBAs in strategy end up in supervisory or managerial roles. This may necessitate a higher salary than middle-management roles. Exact salary levels can vary. 

General management occupations can earn a median wage of $104,000. They are growing at a rate of about 7% per year. Most managerial professions require a bachelor’s level of education. Earning a master’s degree in strategic management shows greater dedication to the job in question. It allows you to demand a higher salary than your peers. Those with a master’s degree in any managerial profession should expect a higher salary than the above figure. 

Still, your initial salary may be as low as $73,000 a year. For example, if you become some kind of project manager and don’t have any work experience right out the gate. The potential for salary growth is quite high as you gain experience. Those with MBAs in Strategy are well-equipped to bolster the growth of their home company or business. They may receive accolades and salary increases as their business performs better. 

It’s even possible to become a top executive, such as a CEO or CFO. These jobs are growing at about 6% per year. They have a median salary of $104,000 per year. This figure can be much greater. Many famous CEOs earn tens of millions of dollars per year or more. It all depends on the business you choose to run and your experience level. You could also adopt a freelance lifestyle and become a management analyst, according to U.S. News and World Report. 

Companies hire management analysts to improve their organizational efficiency. They might change their managing style to afford better returns. An MBA in Strategy, according to U.S. News and World Report, prepares you well for this kind of work. You’ll know how to look at things in a big-picture format to see what works and what doesn’t. Management analyst jobs are growing at about 14% per year. They earn a median annual salary of $83,000 per year. 

The potential earnings for an individual with a masters in strategic management online are determined by their market or business focus. It is also determined by their own drive and ambition. Some individuals  achieve salaries upwards of $140,000 per year. Others earn median annual salaries closer to $60,000. This variation doesn’t have to be worrisome. Many successful businesspeople with MBAs in strategy enjoy this aspect of their field. It indicates that their salaries are more affected by their performance and ambition than in many other professional fields.

OUR RANKING CRITERIA

We have a time-tested four-part formula designed to rank the nation’s best colleges that we’d love to share with you. We prioritize four major factors:

• Earnings Potential
• Affordability
• Student Satisfaction
• Selectivity

Reliable research and well-harvested data are the main ingredients in our recipe for success. We don’t make recommendations based on personal opinions, or financial incentives. Our revenue and content are separate. Sponsored schools have no impact on our rankings. The only way to make it onto one of our lists is to have an incredible academic program. Want to know more? We encourage you to check out our methodology page. 

Check out our ranking of the ten best master’s programs in strategy. 

#1. STEVENS INSTITUTE OF TECHNOLOGY

ONLINE MASTER OF SCIENCE IN MANAGEMENT

You will find one of the best strategic management programs at Stevens Institute of Technology. Stevens Institute of Technology’s online Master of Science in Management program is one of eight different graduate degree programs offered 100% online. The Master’s in Management in the College of Business uses analytical techniques and new technologies. This is done to bring top educational courses right to your computer. It’s a perfect program, even for students with low business exposure. It relies on practical instruction. It has strategic management courses focusing on economics, strategy, leadership, and innovation. This program has an interdisciplinary curriculum. It focuses on collaboration and practical application of accumulated knowledge. It’s a fantastic online MS in Management program. It provides all students with everything they need to know to succeed in the business sphere. 

The program incorporates a core of eight classes. Six of these can be taken during the shorter summer semester instead of the spring or fall semester. This structure allows you to fast-track your graduation. You can earn your master’s degree in strategy in less than two years. This particular program is designed to be completed in 12 months. It’s an ideal choice for working professionals. It’s a 30-credit program in total. There are three application cycles. This program is difficult to get into compared to other strategy programs. You must submit a resume that demonstrates your leadership capabilities. 

You may be interviewed prior to receiving your admissions decision. This interview is similar to what you might experience when you apply for a regular job. Despite Stevens’ rigorous acceptance standards, you can rest assured that the program is worth it. Your faculty and peers are also guaranteed to be of a high caliber. They offer exceptional networking opportunities and collaboration in the future.

There are also several excellent graduate certificate programs. You can complete these programs at the same time as your main curriculum. This will bolster your credentials and make yourself more attractive to employers. This MBA in strategic management will help you gain serious strategic leadership skills. 

Any credits you take in pursuit of a graduate certificate in the College of Business can be used for the MBA core itself.  Stevens is a fantastic university anyone would be lucky to attend. 

This program has small class sizes of just 10 each, according to U.S. News and World Report. You’ll receive full-time attention from your instructors. Stevens enlists a small army of career placement professionals. They can help you find employment or an internship after graduation. This school is ranked seventh in the nation by The Princeton Review for career placement. It is also highly ranked by U.S. News and World Report. Add to that its extensive alumni network of successful businesspeople. It’s a great university for any aspiring company manager or executive.

#2. THE UNIVERSITY OF TEXAS AT DALLAS

ONLINE MBA IN STRATEGIC MANAGEMENT

The strategic management program at the University of Texas is another one of the best online master degrees. University of Texas at Dallas has an excellent strategic management masters degree online in the College of Business, according to U.S. News and World Report. It has maximum flexibility to allow you to pursue other career goals, or continue working while you complete your education. There are no on-campus requirements. Not even for orientation or graduation! You can observe classes to see how things are done on the main campus. UT Dallas accepts a broad student body with diverse backgrounds and experience levels. The MBA in Strategic Management is a perfect choice. That’s regardless of your prior business experience. You need a bachelor’s degree and a decent GPA to be eligible for acceptance. There are even GRE waivers available. 

The UT Dallas MBA curriculum in the College of Business can be completed in as little as 16 months. You have 72 months to fulfill all of the curriculum requirements. The program is known for its academic excellence. It’s ranked as the #6 Best Online Program. That’s according to U.S. News and World Report. It’s no wonder that it’s ranked so high. You will have access to some of the best faculty in the nation. There are also dedicated career management services. Even from afar as an online student, you can access the dedicated MBA program office. It helps place graduates in careers after completing the program. The main curriculum is comprised of 32 spring and fall semester credit hours of required core strategic management courses. There are 21 extra spring and fall semester credit hours for electives. You’ll gain hands on experience to build your strategic leadership skills.

You’ll join a cohort of fellow students. That’s regardless of whether you pursue this MBA as a full-time student or a part-time student. You won’t lose any networking or collaborative opportunities with students of your age range and experience level. Not even if you can’t devote a full amount of time to your studies at the moment! UT Dallas offers combined MBA/MS degrees. There are several additional concentrations in the college of business that you can add to further your credentials and qualifications. The double MS/MBA option in the college of business is robust. It can be completed in less than two years if you choose. 

It’s a fantastic program that affords you lots of opportunities to personalize your experience. It’s even affordable for most. It is ranked as the #1 Best Value Public University in Texas according to Forbes. It’s also top-ranked by U.S. News and World Report. It has a diverse student body and capable faculty. You’ll always be able to receive help when you need it. You will feel surrounded by fellow ambitious professionals who raise the bar of your program. When you attend this program, you’ve got both the tools and the time needed to make the most of the opportunity.

#3. EMBRY-RIDDLE AERONAUTICAL UNIVERSITY-WORLDWIDE

ONLINE MASTER’S OF SCIENCE IN MANAGEMENT

Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University is home to a top strategic management online master program. This school is famous for its bachelor’s degree programs in aeronautics. Yet it offers a compelling Master of Science in Management, too. The MS in strategy is well-suited for individuals who want to take charge of aviation companies or subsidiary industries. 

The aviation industry is an interesting sphere by itself. It’s a quite lucrative one if you can manage to master its intricacies, according to U.S. News and World Report. You don’t have to go into aviation with this program. It’s robust and general enough to compete with other master’s business programs for strategy across the nation. This program in the College of Business emphasizes the scientific and statistical side of things. That is reflected with its science specialty. It emphasizes management and operations. That is more so than communications or socialization like a traditional MBA. All courses are taught in a practical and hands-on manner. Each class’s curriculum offers multiple research opportunities. 

This program in strategy is a great choice for students pursuing a more research-oriented field. The program’s core curriculum emphasizes major management fundamentals and strategic leadership skills. It also allows you to specialize in one of five different pathways:

• Human resources management
• Global management
• Leadership
• Operations management
• Project management. 

This strategic management option is suitable for future business executives who will lead the charge. This is valuable in the aviation industry and in other spheres as well. The curriculum is comprised of 30 credit hours. It offers many opportunities for credit transfers. This schools is one of the best to attend if you’re a military veteran. There are special tuition and credit opportunities available to accelerate your timeline.

Embry-Riddle also partners with various aerospace and security companies. It can be difficult to acquire a job after graduating from any  program. Yet this university is connected to various federal and private aerospace companies. Locating a lucrative job is much easier. Both NASA and the Federal Aviation Administration are known to pursue graduates from Embry-Riddle. You can also utilize Embry-Riddle’s career services to prepare you for work right out of graduation.

This university’s pathway to success speaks for itself. It’s a phenomenal choice for young professionals who want to pursue a Master’s in Strategy. Yet it’s worthwhile due to its company connections and possibilities for networking. It is top ranked by U.S. News and World Report. 

#4. VILLANOVA UNIVERSITY

ONLINE MBA STRATEGIC MANAGEMENT

Another top strategic management option can be found at Villanova. This online master degree is one of the newest around. The Villanova School of Business has just begun offering an online MBA degree, though it has offered a bachelor’s degree in business for quite some time.

Since the move, they have allowed thousands of students to pursue professional career goals from the comfort and flexibility of their own home. This MBA program in the College of Business is based on the on-campus curriculum. It incorporates different strategies and courses to create a unique experience. However, the same faculty teach both the on-campus and online courses. You’ll get a top-tier education even if you don’t attend Villanova in-person. Villanova’s faculty have first-hand experience in business and leadership. They forge meaningful bonds with their students. They also impart wisdom that non-specialized faculty cannot provide. 

Villanova’s MBA program in the College of Business consists of 21 courses taken over six semesters. Each of these are split into two terms. You can complete the program in a minimum of two years. That makes it an ideal choice for both full- and part-time students. At the beginning of the program, you’ll attend a community-building campus residency. You can choose to push it to your second spring or fall semester. There are also two required practicum experiences at the middle and end of the program. Be prepared to travel to Villanova’s physical campus if you are some distance away. The rest of the program is online. That’s despite its emphasis on leadership and collaboration. You’ll meet and web-chat with your fellow students and faculty. This will allow you to work together on assigned graduate coursework and projects as you build strategic leadership skills.  

The program ends with a final capstone course. There is an optional seven-day international immersion experience. This allows students to travel abroad and visit companies in emerging economies. It’s valuable for building connections and  experience in the business sphere. This experience takes place in developing economies. Therefore, you will gain real strategic insight to bring to future businesses. Furthermore, the middle of the program involves the Social Enterprise Consulting Practicum. 

This top-tier course has you work in teams with your fellow students for a single client. It’ll teach you what you need to know to become a successful top executive. It will prepare you to become a strategic mastermind and give back to the community at the same time. 

Villanova’s strategic MBA program is perfect for business beginners. It is also ideal for those who are coming into graduate school right after receiving a bachelor’s degree. Its emphasis on real-world experience and practical education provide more value than other online graduate business programs. It is more difficult to complete due to physical requirements. Yet this program is well worth the effort. It may result in an extensive network of collaborators and associates you can call upon through your professional career.

#5. UNIVERSITY OF NORTH TEXAS COLLEGE OF BUSINESS – DENTON, TEXAS

ONLINE MBA IN STRATEGIC MANAGEMENT

You’ll find another leading strategic management online master at UNT’s college of business. The University of North Texas offers an accelerated online MBA program in the College of Business. You can complete it in as little as 12 months. That depends on how many courses you need to complete and your studying intensity. The strategic management variation of the primary MBA program consists of 12 total classes and 36 credit hours. It offers multiple start dates throughout the year. The curriculum will provide you with a broad exposure to the skills you’ll need to manage and strategize the operations of companies. 

It’s an MBA with a minor concentration in strategic management. Therefore, most of the strategic management core courses are generalized. They don’t emphasize strategy over other management aspects. Still, it can be helpful for some young professionals. 

This MBA program provides you with the knowledge necessary to sustain business growth around dips and peaks in the economy. UNT offers all graduates access to their Department of Management. This can help you find career opportunities or internships after graduation. You do need a substantial background in business to take advantage of this accelerated program. There is no other relaxed timeline you can pursue. 

The business School of Business background classes you need under your belt include:

• Micro and macroeconomics
• Statistics
• Finance
• Strategic thinking and emotional intelligence
• Business leadership
• Strategic leadership
• Business law.

Therefore, this online MBA is best pursued by those who already have a bachelor’s degree in business or a related field. UNT does allow you to make up these deficiencies with its own online software. This adds time to your overall graduation track. 

Because of its accelerated pace, this program is great to pursue if your schedule allows you to finish your education full-time. Each class is administered in an asynchronous and flexible forma. It is delivered over an eight-week period. The program continues through the fall and spring, and over the summer. You can jump into the program with six start dates every year. 

The accelerated format doesn’t make use of as much collaboration or teamwork with your fellow students as many other master’s business programs in strategy. But it does afford you plenty of opportunity to connect with your faculty. There are over 4600 faculty members dedicated to the success of UNT’s students. All of the faculty have real-world business experience. 

The University of North Texas also has several historical accomplishments. It was the location of the first jazz studies program. It also had the first retail program and the first graduate applied anthropology program offered online. Firsts are a way of life at UNT. So consider attending if you want to supercharge your career and graduate with an online master’s degree in strategy in as short a period of time as possible.

#6. INDIANA UNIVERSITY-BLOOMINGTON

ONLINE MASTER OF SCIENCE IN STRATEGIC MANAGEMENT

Indiana University has a superior strategic management online master in the College of Business.  It is offered by one of the top business schools. The business school offers a Master of Science in Strategic Management. The Master of Science is more or less the same as a graduate degree in general strategy. The curriculum focuses on improving your problem-solving skills and developing leadership abilities. Both of these are necessary to lead a business in any economy. This curriculum encompasses topics such as:

• Strategic thinking
• Operations management
• Competitive analysis
  
• Strategic leadership
• Entrepreneurship
• Organizational development and change

The broad scope of this Master of Science seems heavy at first glance. That’s because this strategic leadership program is designed for professionals who already have two or more years of manager-level experience. It’s not a great fit for students coming straight out of a bachelor’s program. However, it’s exceptional for working professionals who want to bolster their academic experience and credentials. It’s a 30-credit hour strategic management curriculum program in the College of Business. It can be completed in as little as 15 months. Or you can take as long as three years. 

There is a great degree of flexibility to let you study on your own terms and schedule in this Master of Science graduate school. However, there’s just a single application window each year. It closes on Aug. 1 for the fall semester. All of the students in the program proceed at a similar pace. This allows for exceptional collaborative and networking career opportunities. While it’s not a true cohort structure, you will work with your fellow students and faculty as you investigate case studies.  You’ll learn the strategic processes real business executives use every day in the market. 

Later courses in the Master of Science emphasize the role that technology and innovation play in the development of any business or economy. They are useful for professionals working in techy spheres. This strategic management program is already sufficient for most professionals seeking academic excellence. You can also pursue a dual degree and earn extra credentials without compromising your schedule. It does take longer than the 15 required months. But it may be worthwhile.

Regardless of whether you choose to obtain a single or a dual degree, you’ll be required to attend Kelley Connect Weeks like all other online students. These intense weeks are held at the Indiana University Bloomington campus. Here, you’ll build real relationships with your faculty and peers.  You will also take on a live business case while working alongside a team. Plus, you’ll get lots of exposure to various academic business disciplines. The first connect week begins  prior to your main classes. The second takes place at the beginning of your second year of the program. 

Indiana University also offers you the opportunity to study abroad. This can be fun for students who want to see more of the world before settling down into a career. Overall, Indiana University’s online master’s in strategy program provides lots of value. It’s one of the best programs to choose if you already have manager-level experience under your belt.

#7. HOFSTRA UNIVERSITY

ONLINE MBA WITH A CONCENTRATION IN STRATEGIC BUSINESS MANAGEMENT

Hofstra University offers an MBA with a Strategic Business Management concentration. The strategic management concentration is part of one of the best online master programs you will find. This online MBA program isn’t as in-depth as master’s degrees with strategy-based curriculum. However, it is still quite dense and robust. It has a general focus on how strategy applies to upper-level management and long-term decision-making. That makes this program a valuable choice if you want to keep your options open. You’ll have the ability to float between executive positions at a company or in a freelance, advisory role. 

This 38-credit hour program’s admission criteria are relaxed compared to many other online Master’s in strategy programs. There are GRE waivers for certain conditions in the College of Business. These are often based on your professional experience. It’s a great program if you already have some executive business experience or you’re coming straight from school. All courses are taught by full-time faculty members that have real-world business experience. You’ll gain massive strategic leadership skills.

Even though this program is online, the faculty will have many opportunities to assess your leadership. They can provide individualized executive coaching. This opportunity is fantastic for all students who want to become successful executives. You’ll receive personalized feedback on your leadership and management style. This type of feedback is often ignored in many online MBA programs. That’s due to the distance between students and faculty. 

Hofstra goes even further to bridge the gap between online and brick-and-mortar programs. The online MBA program has many initiatives to let you network and pursue academic excellence. You can find internship opportunities during or after graduation. It also incorporates an online cohort program option. You can choose this pathway to complete the strategic management degree within two years. You will progress with a collection of fellow students. This can provide a sense of camaraderie often missing from many online programs. 

You can also follow a more flexible path that allows you to complete the strategic management degree within a few years. It’s a perfect choice if you have a hectic work and life schedule. If you do select the two-year cohort program option, you’ll have to attend two four-day residencies where you’ll meet the fellow students of your cohort. You’ll make connections at the university. The first residency is at the beginning of the program in the College of Business. The last is at the end. 

Overall, this online MBA program is a perfect balance of rigor and flexibility. Its academic merits are well-known and recognized. It holds the #16 spot for the best online MBA program according to The Princeton Review. If you’re still not sure, you can attend in-person or online information sessions whenever you like. This will allow you to discover whether the program is a good fit for you to achieve academic excellence. 

#8. QUINNIPIAC UNIVERSITY

ONLINE MASTER’S OF SCIENCE IN ORGANIZATIONAL LEADERSHIP

Another top strategic management online master is at Quinnipiac. This online program is relevant to long-term business strategy in a more specific way than other programs. It’s a great degree if you want to become a management analyst or another kind of freelance business advisor. 

As a Master of Science in Organizational Leadership, you’ll be well-equipped to both recognize good leadership. You can bring those same qualities to your own business endeavors. The curriculum focuses on communication, analysis, ethics, and organizational leadership. These are its primary pillars in the College of Business throughout the entirety of its 100% online course load. There are no in-person residencies required for this strategic leadership degree. It’s one of the easier programs to complete if you can’t leave your job or have to complete all your education in a remote setting. You’re sure to achieve academic excellence! 

It is a Master of Science degree. However, this program has a surprising amount of focus on contemporary understandings of social and emotional intelligence. Leadership is such an abstract and humanitarian part of doing business. Therefore, much of the focus of the program incorporates social responsibility, cultural diversity, and performance improvement. This is done through data-driven models and statistical analysis. It’s quite an interdisciplinary program and provides a unique learning challenge. 

There are multiple start dates throughout the year. It’s a great program to jump into even if you missed the traditional fall deadline. The core classes emphasize leadership strategy in interpersonal and broader business levels. This allows you to make small and large decisions with the same strategic concepts. 

This strategic management program is one of the best for learning how to deal with the social elements inherent in every business. It also affords you the expertise necessary to look into a business from the outside. You’ll learn how to determine what might be going wrong on an interpersonal level, or with higher decision-making. You can specialize in one of four professional focus tracks:

• Health care management
• Human resource leadership
• Public service for nonprofit leadership
• Strategic leadership and strategic thinking

Each specialization is well-tailored for specific career paths and professional career goals. You will receive all the benefits of a general degree in business and organizational strategy while still showcasing your expertise to employers and meeting your career goals for career advancement.

 Quinnipiac has several accolades that help with career advancement. It’s listed as one of the best business schools by both U.S. News and World Report and The Princeton Review. In addition, it has one of the best accreditations for business schools. The AACSB accreditation is held by less than 10% of all business schools. 

Quinnipiac’s online master’s degree in strategy is one of the best on the market. It’s well worth your time if you want to double down on the managerial and leadership aspects of strategic decision-making in the workplace.

#9. NEW ENGLAND COLLEGE SCHOOL OF GRADUATE AND PROFESSIONAL STUDIES – HENNIKER, NEW HAMPSHIRE

ONLINE MBA IN STRATEGIC LEADERSHIP

Looking for a strategic management program that’s not too overcrowded? You will find a top strategic management online master at New England College. Not all of the best schools to earn a master’s degree in strategy have thousands of students all attending at once. New England College is a much smaller school with an intimate atmosphere. That’s true even across its online interface. This diverse school has about 900 graduate students from all over the world. There’s a student-to-faculty ratio of just 13:1. This allows instructors to forge personal relationships with each student. This university is great for learners that require a personalized approach. 

NEC’s broad network of partners allows it to provide thousands of internship opportunities. There are few universities better suited for new graduate students than NEC. It’s a lot easier to find professional experience during or after graduation through this strategic leadership professional network. NEC’s MBA with an emphasis on strategic leadership is the perfect choice for professionals who want to master the difficulties of running a business. 

The curriculum capitalizes on strategic opportunities. It focuses on global environment and global economy. It also has lots of material for entrepreneurs. It teaches you to solve problems in practical yet creative ways. It’s a curriculum designed for both full- and part-time working professionals. You can complete it in as few as 20 months. 

There is one track available for all students in the strategic management program. Be prepared to give it your all once you get accepted. There is no slower track if you need to lighten the course load. This strategic management program with a global environment focus might be harder than the courses you took in your bachelor’s degree! Applying to this strategic management program is intense, too. It’s quite a competitive scene. It requires a resume with professional work experience. 

Once you’ve been accepted to this strategic management degree, you’ll proceed through seven four-credit core courses. Then there are three more four-credit courses that focus on strategic leadership rather than general business administration. The core  encompasses the entirety of broad business administration subjects. These range from finance to economics to managerial accounting. But all of these courses are presented through the lens of leadership. These prepare students for an executive spot at whatever business they apply for next. 

The last core course is a capstone project. In it, you will solve a real-world business problem either as an individual or with a team. This is depending on your scheduling needs. Still, you can do all of this 100% online without the need for residency. The focused strategic leadership classes cover:

• Relationship selling strategies
• Project management
• Organizational communication.
• Strategic thinking

This last class is useful for future managers, since it focuses on negotiation and conflict resolution in the workplace.

As a whole, NEC’s MBA in Strategic Leadership is a great choice to gain the tools you need to succeed as a strategic leader on both a small and large scale.

#10. HARVARD UNIVERSITY

ONLINE MASTER OF LIBERAL ARTS MANAGEMENT

Last but not least is the online master degree in strategic management at Harvard University. Harvard University has a long history. It is well-known for the quality of its academic programs, including the Master of Liberal Arts Management. Unlike the vast majority of other master’s degrees in strategy, this strategic management degree emphasizes management techniques and understanding through a liberal arts lens. It’s a unique program that is well-suited for any future professionals in a liberal arts business. It can open up greater professional opportunities than a regular MBA. 

This program’s curriculum doesn’t skimp on the main administrative or dry subjects:

• Accounting
• Economic theory
• Finance
• Marketing
• Strategic thinking
• Organizational behavior

All of these subjects are accounted for in the core classes. You’ll investigate plenty of case studies. These will help you develop your own management theories and practices. You’ll also attend group projects and active learning experiences. This program does require some on-campus presence. 

There are two graduation paths for this strategic leadership program. The capstone track is perfect for future entrepreneurs. It involves a final capstone project. You’ll have to attend two three-week summer courses on the main campus in order to complete all of the requirements. 

The capstone project is intense and exciting. You’ll work with faculty and mentors on a real-world project for an actual business client. The alternative path eschews the capstone project. It does require that you take four of the classes on site. Some weekend options are available for professionals with limited free time.

Think of this program as a hybrid online/on-campus course. This isn’t  a negative. Much of Harvard’s value comes from making connections with your peers and faculty. Some of the most powerful and influential businesspeople in the world have connections to the university. You’ll also have to attend the annual Harvard commencement in order to receive your strategic management degree. 

Due to its prestige and financial position, Harvard offers a plethora of benefits that other universities cannot. There are multiple opportunities for admission. An example is the Harvard Business School Online CORE pathway. To accommodate those in need of a flexible schedule, there are several start dates for this program. Harvard further offers lots of financial aid opportunities to current attendees of the program. Once you are accepted, your financial burdens will be at least somewhat reduced by tuition scholarships or subsidized loans. 

All of these benefits are included along with some of the more important and wonderful aspects of Harvard’s business schools. There is a beautiful campus, an excellent school spirit, and access to a diverse strategic leadership alumni network you’ll be able to call on for the rest of your life. It’s no exaggeration to say that networking is the true advantage of Harvard. It’s safe to say that earning a master’s degree in strategy at Harvard is one of the best steps you can take for your professional future.

OTHER NOTABLE PROGRAMS

#11. Amberton University

Location: Garland, Texas

Degree: Online MBA in Strategic Leadership

Net Price: N/A

Website

#12. National University

Location: San Diego, California

Degree: Online Master’s of Science in Organizational Leadership 

Net Price: N/A

Website

#13. Messiah College

Location: Mechanicsburg, Pennsylvania

Degree: Online MBA with a concentration in Strategic Leadership

Net Price: $27,976

Website

#14. Ottawa University Angell Synder School of Business

Location: Ottawa

Degree: Online MBA with a concentration in Strategic Innovation

Net Price: $25,583

Website

#15. University of St. Francis

Location: Joliet, Illinois

Degree: Online Master’s of Science in Management

Net Price: $19,418

Website

According to American writer and biochemistry professor Isaac Asimov, “Science can amuse and fascinate us all, but it is engineering that changes the world.” 

This quote holds true for anyone who wants to be a chemical engineer and play a positive role in shaping the future world. From researching fuel production and studying air quality and thermal activity to evaluating equipment and processes to ensure they meet adequate safety regulations, chemical engineers have a large collection of duties and responsibilities. 

Chemical engineers apply the principles of chemistry, biology, physics, and mathematics to solve critical problems that complicate the production or use of chemicals, fuel, drugs, food, and large numbers of other products. They also play a leading role in the development and design of the manufacturing process. They essentially make decisions that impact our lives. As the world becomes more innovative, chemical engineers will use new technology to seek answers to the challenges that could determine our environment’s future.

With an online master’s degree in chemical engineering, you will practice and apply the skills you’ve learned in the virtual classroom in real-world situations. You will also apply engineering principles to solve the physiological and medical challenges that are arising in the world today, such as the coronavirus. You will have the opportunity to specialize in different disciplines of chemical engineering, such as biomedical engineering, environmental chemical engineering, and pre-medicine engineering. You will take courses in pulp and paper technology, thermodynamics, transport phenomena, chemical reaction engineering, and process dynamics and control.

The coursework will be rigorous and demanding with the principle goal of teaching you the most advanced concepts so you can succeed in your future career as a chemical engineer. You will get insight and education from highly respected faculty who have actual experience in the field and will share with you the knowledge that will help make an impact. Through online coursework, you can balance your work and school schedule effectively and study at your own pace. You can earn internships and put together projects that will only benefit you and your career.

The field of chemical engineering is one of the most rewarding in terms of salary and one of the fastest-growing. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, chemical engineers make over $100,000 per year on average. Over the next ten years, the need for chemical engineers is expected to grow between 5% and 10%. With the rise in technology, and as more challenges arise, the need will only increase with time.

There is an abundance of careers you can choose with a degree from one of the 20 most affordable online master’s degrees in chemical engineering. According to Glassdoor, you can pursue careers in any of the following:

• Process engineer
• Chemical engineer
• Production chemical engineer
• Chemist
• Physicist
• Quality assurance engineer
• Field engineer

Getting a master’s degree can be a significant achievement in your life. In 1970, barely 200,000 Americans held a degree higher than a bachelor’s. In the present day, over 20 million employees hold a master’s degree, according to the latest U.S. Census data. That is an increase of 22% from what it was 20 years ago for adults over the age of 25. This is the future of education; graduates are more competitive and are cognizant of the fact that getting a graduate degree can separate them from the competition. A master’s in chemical engineering also prepares you adequately for a doctorate degree, which more students are pursuing each year. 

Some of the programs below include a research thesis as a requirement to graduate, while other programs give you a non-thesis option, such as a capstone project or internship that can go in its place. Below, we go over some of the things you can expect when applying for a master’s degree, such as tuition, scholarship information, and financial aid. We also wanted to give you an idea of what to expect as far as salary expectations go and the overall benefits of earning a degree from one of the top 20 most affordable master’s degrees in chemical engineering. 

See Also: 10 Best Master’s in Industrial Engineering

COMMON APPLICATION AND ADMISSION QUESTIONS

The application process for graduate school in chemical engineering is not only a critical part of the process, but it’s also a competitive one. You will want to make your application and personal statement stand out. Your academic work will need to be stellar and the GRE is something to take very seriously as those scores could play a pivotal role in your acceptance. A maximum effort must be put in during the whole application process. The top schools on our list don’t just accept anyone. 

So what is the best advice if you have an essay or personal statement that you want to be perfect? Simply put, be creative. When you write your essay and/or cover letter, make yours stand out. What makes you unique? What story do you have to tell that will showcase your strengths? Compose an anecdote from a life-changing experience or a time in your life that would help show admissions departments who you truly are and why you deserve a spot in their graduate program. This is your chance to illustrate your personality. Talk to them. Make it personal. Make them feel you’re right there in the room.

The admissions requirements for every school are different. In our list of the 20 most affordable schools in chemical engineering, we highlighted some of the key documents and eligibility requirements that each school adheres to. However, always check with the admissions counselor in the engineering department at the school you are applying to and make a checklist so you can verify that you have all the required documents. One missing document could ruin your application. Stay organized and make sure you know your deadline date.

Every program treats the GRE exam differently. However, most chemical engineering colleges require it because of the magnitude and competitiveness of the degree. While some schools don’t require it, most do, so make sure if you haven’t taken it yet that you prepare to sign up and study to take it. There are some schools that waive it if you meet certain requirements, like a high GPA in your undergraduate coursework.

Additionally, prepare a professional and detailed resume. It’s a good idea to send one along with a cover letter regardless of whether the university requires it or not. It’s another opportunity for you to showcase yourself and why you would be an asset to the program. Make sure that you are as thorough as possible in describing your professional and educational experience, and that your cover letter and resume are neat and organized. It is always a benefit to have one or two extra sets of eyes look over it, such as an English professor from your undergraduate institution. 

Research all you can about the university and know as much about it as possible. Showcase this in your cover letter and your interview, should the school require it. You will want to illustrate that you have a good knowledge of the chemical engineering program at the university and what assets you will bring if you are accepted. 

Finally, have an open mind. We all have our dream school we want to go to, but we must also factor in which schools will give us the best chance of advancing our career while also giving the best value. These schools on our list will provide a combination of value and education. Make a list of pros and cons for your top school of choice and don’t ever look back on your decision. Research the faculty and look for students’ comments on how they perform as educators.

See Also: Best Online Masters in Chemical Engineering

WHAT ABOUT FINANCIAL AID AND SCHOLARSHIPS?

Master’s degrees are not cheap by any means. They are more expensive than bachelor’s degrees at most high-level institutions. Before you apply, make sure you can afford it. The schools on our list are some of the best and affordable programs out there, but they still will cost a lot of money. Fortunately, there are options out there to help pay for your education should you need assistance.

First, if you have a very strong GPA from your undergraduate institution, pursue a scholarship. There are hundreds of scholarships, especially in Chemical Engineering programs. Many of these scholarships will help pay for some, if not all, of your university tuition. Some of the best scholarships you can pursue with a master’s degree in chemical engineering include the following, according to Scholarships.com:

• ACF Woodcock Family Education Scholarship Program
• ASNT Fellowship Award
• Blacks at Microsoft Scholarship
• Cameron Impact Scholarship
• Davidson Fellows Scholarship
• First Responders Children’s Foundation Scholarship
• Jesse L. Jackson-Fellows Toyota Scholarship
• Marie Curie Scholarship (up to $80,000)
• Regeneron Science Talent Search Scholarship (up to $250,000)
• The Collegiate Inventors Competition (up to $100,000)
• The Robert Noyce Scholarship
• Woodrow Wilson Teaching Fellowship

Another option you may want to look into is financial aid. Many students take advantage of this opportunity to help them pay for their graduate school. Fill out the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA), provide your social security number, and submit your federal tax records, your income information, and all of your bank statements. After your application is fully reviewed, you will receive a letter on whether your financial aid application was approved and for how much.

Another good way to receive financial help is through your employment. Many workplaces have tuition reimbursement programs for graduate programs. Check with your human resources department to see if they can help assist you with funding for graduate school. Additionally, many employers will help fund your higher education if they see leadership qualities in you. With online learning, you don’t have to miss work; rather, you can head home every day and work on your studies at night. If you’re already in the chemical engineering industry, you will be able to use what you learn from school and apply it to your job on a daily basis.

Student loans are another way that many students fund their education. While we recommend this as a last resort—because it can take a long time to pay off—it’s worth it if you are driven to be successful in your career. According to U.S. News & World Report, the following banks and loan companies are the best places to apply for a student loan:

• Citizens Bank
• CommonBond
• Discover
• Earnest LendKey
• Laurel Road

Many of the banks on our list above can offer loans of up to nearly $21,000 for your master’s degree. Check the interest rate on your loan to verify it’s not too high and is something that you can afford.

The bottom line is don’t let money be the major issue keeping you from pursuing graduate school. There are many ways to get assistance. If you want it bad enough, go out there and find a way to make it happen! Utilize every option and resource so you can get the best possible education and advance your career. 

See Also: Best Petroleum Engineering Schools

HOW MUCH CAN I MAKE WITH A MASTER’S IN CHEMICAL ENGINEERING? 

Chemical engineers don’t just work in one area; they work in an assortment of different operations. Some work in the medical field improving the efficiency of medical needs while others strive to improve the environment by researching methods in which we can improve air quality and conservation. 

Chemical engineers establish safety procedures for those working with dangerous liquids and chemicals and develop processes for separating factors of gases and liquids. They estimate production costs for management and play a leading role in conducting tests and monitoring the performance of different processes throughout production.

Chemical engineers are some of the highest-paid careers in the country. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the average annual salary of a chemical engineer is just under $105,000 per year. With added experience over time and a master’s or doctorate degree to go with it, that salary is likely to be even higher. There are other careers you can pursue as a chemical engineer in other industries that offer a very beneficial salary. According to CollegeGrad, some of those industries include the following:

• Petroleum and coal products manufacturing, $113,000/year
• Research and development, $108,000/year
• Engineering services, $108,000/year
• Wholesale trade, $103,000/year
• Pharmaceutical and medical manufacturing, $101,000/year

Some other positions you can work with a master’s in chemical engineering include being a materials scientist which makes an average of $76,000/year, according to Study.com. The highest job growth in the field, according to Study.com, is with environmental scientists and specialists. These occupations make just $70,000/year and are expected to see a growth of 11% over the next 10 years.

Most chemical engineers work in laboratories or in offices. They also may spend some time at industrial plants, refineries, and other facilities. They directly monitor or manage operations in an effort to solve onsite problems. Nearly all chemical engineers work full-time and even overtime and on weekends.

WHAT ARE THE BEST CHEMICAL ENGINEERING DEGREES?

We know that you have educational goals that you’re itching to pursue, but you may not know where to start. The editors of Master’s Programs Guide utilize a unique ranking methodology based on the following five aspects:

25% Overall Degree Affordability: Average cost of undergraduate and graduate tuition per school

25% Graduation Rate: Number of students who start at the university and actually finish there

20% Earnings Potential: Average mid-career salary of school alumni

20% Selectivity: The number of students who apply versus the number who actually get accepted

10% Online Graduate Offerings: The number of programs offered online in each department

At Master’s Programs Guide, we strive to do our best to guide you and your family toward a fruitful academic career. The pursuit of knowledge is a noble one, and we want to help you reach your goals.

Check out our ranking of the 20 most affordable online schools in chemical engineering!

#1. Texas A&M University at College Station

Master of Science in Chemical Engineering

Founded in 1876, Texas A&M University at College Station is the state’s oldest higher education institution. TAMU not only ranks among the top 30 Public Universities in the Nation, according to U.S. News & World Report, it also ranks No. 15 on the list of Best Graduate Engineering Programs. A Master of Science in chemical engineering will emphasize fundamentals and practices that are applicable to the analysis, development, design and operation of a wide array of chemical engineering systems and processes.

The 32-credit program is tailored toward students developing new understanding and knowledge through research and creativity. The curriculum is a mixture of core courses, electives, seminars, and research with a thesis and non-thesis option. Twenty-five of the credits will come from formal coursework that you will choose when going over your plan of study. The coursework includes a course seminar and a graduate mentoring seminar. Students will work with a research advisor who will guide them through their research. 

For those enrolled in the thesis program, the thesis proposal must be submitted by the end of the first academic year. As part of the final examination, students will present their research to the department. The presentation is open to the public and all students must earn a passing score in order to fully complete the program. The final examination cannot be waived. Graduate courses can also not be re-taken for credit.

Students choosing the non-thesis track do not have to take a final examination. However, they will have to replace the credit with a professional internship coupled with a directed studies project and research assignment. All electives taken must be on the prescribed list of courses from the program. Any course that a student desires to take that is not on the list must get department approval.

Included in the courses that all students will need to take are Transport Phenomena, Chemical Engineering Kinetics and Reactor Design, Applications of Thermodynamics to Chemical Engineering, Chemical Engineering Process Analysis, and Chemical Engineering Laboratory Safety and Health.

When applying to the program, be sure to send all documentation required by the office of admissions. TAMU mandates that a statement of purpose, GRE scores, official transcripts, a resume, and three letters of recommendation be turned in alongside the application. To be eligible for admission, you must have at least a 3.0 GPA in your undergraduate studies and have a degree in chemical engineering or a related field. 

TAMU is most known for its student organizations, most notably the Corps of Cadets, which is the school’s oldest organization and gives the school a military feel. The Corps of Cadets is seen at all home football games and is led by the team mascot, Reveille, a dog who holds the highest rank. Among TAMU’s most recognizable alumni include engineer and astronaut Steven Swanson. If you decide to study on-campus, Kyle Field has one of the best atmospheres for college football and is home to the “12th man”, which refers to the incredibly noise-making crowd that gives the team a boost.

#2.  University of Florida

Master of Science in Materials Science and Engineering

Located in Gainesville, the University of Florida has risen to be a leading educator in the Southeast. Not only does it rank No. 7 on the list of Best Public Universities, but it also ranks No. 15 on the list of Best Graduate Engineering Programs, according to U.S. News & World Report. A Master of Science in materials science and engineering is a distance-learning degree that helps you better understand the properties of metals, ceramics, polymers, and other materials.

The online program does not require you to study on-campus. Rather, you can self-pace yourself in most classes and earn the degree from your own home anywhere in the country. While you can take courses on a part-time basis, you will be withdrawn from the program if you have not completed all the coursework after seven years. UF uses EDGE, which is online learning tailored for off-campus study. Much of the learning is done via streaming video and there will be virtual meetings with your professors.

The 30-credit non-thesis curriculum requires 18-credits of EMA 5000-6000 level courses with a minimum grade of C or better (up to nine credits of courses can be transferred from another institution). The other 12 credits will be obtained through individual work and supervised research for the non-thesis paper. The non-thesis paper requires five parts: a title, an introduction, materials and methods used for research, the overall results found in the research, a conclusion and summary, and a list of references. The paper will be graded by the supervisory committee. 

Students who study on campus will have the option to write a thesis, but if you wish to complete a thesis through online coursework, you must get approval from the program director. 

In order to continue through the program, you must maintain a GPA of 3.0 or higher throughout the coursework. Core courses that you will be required to take include Materials Thermodynamics; Materials Structure and Mechanical Properties; Diffusion, Kinetics, and Transport; and Functional Properties of Materials. 

In order to be eligible for the program, you must hold an undergraduate degree in a qualifying field related to materials science and chemical engineering. You also must have at least a 3.0 GPA to be eligible for consideration. The office of admissions requires the submission of transcripts, a statement of purpose, three letters of recommendation, and GRE scores. After viewing your application, the department will send you a letter notifying you of their decision.

If you decide to study on or near the campus, you will feel the school spirit of the university. College football is a major part of UF, and it competes for national championships in many Division I sports. Many famous names have earned a degree from UF, including quarterback Tim Tebow, journalist Erin Andrews, and senator Marco Rubio. You are also within driving distance of the Florida beaches, Disney World, Universal Studios, Orlando, and Tampa. There are over 1,000 student clubs and organizations at UF, including some in engineering.

#3.  North Carolina State University at Raleigh

Master of Science in Chemical Engineering

When it comes to getting the most bang for your buck, North Carolina State University is among the best. Ranked No. 1 for Best Public College for your Money in North Carolina, according to Money, NCSU at Raleigh helps its students excel in the engineering program. According to U.S. News & World Report, it ranks No. 8 on the list of Best Online Graduate Engineering Programs. With a Master of Science in chemical engineering, you can deepen and build upon your engineering skills and take your career to the next level.

The advantage of NCSU’s chemical engineering program is not just that it’s one of the best in the nation, it’s that you don’t even have to attend campus to complete the degree. The fully online program does not require any residency and can be completed in less than three years with a part-time course load. The purpose of the distance program is to give you the flexibility to advance your career while not having to go through a major readjustment of your schedule and life.

Twelve of the 30 credits required for graduation are taken from core courses in the program. The other 18 credits come from the chemical engineering online graduate list. Any student who wishes to take non-chemical engineering graduate courses for degree credit must seek approval from the director of graduate programs in chemical engineering. There is no thesis attached to the program. While the program is part-time, a student will be removed from the program if they fail to earn their degree within six years.

Core courses that students will enroll in include Chemical Engineering Process Modeling, Thermodynamics I, Transport Phenomena, and Chemical Reaction Engineering. In order to remain in the program, students must maintain a cumulative GPA of 3.0.

If you do not have an undergraduate degree in chemical engineering, you are encouraged to take Core ChE Concepts I and II. If you do not have an undergraduate degree in any engineering discipline, or do not have degrees in physics, biochemistry, chemistry, or a degree-related field, you must contact admissions to see what steps and prerequisite courses you must take in order to qualify for the program. Applicants are required to take the GRE and submit transcripts, a resume, and three letters of recommendation as part of their admissions documentation.

With a degree from NCSU, you will join former Hall of Fame coach Bill Cowher, pianist John Tesh, and famous engineer Christina Koch on the list of people who’ve earned a degree from the school. Along with being a top online engineering school and great value school, it’s also received high rankings for its technology. It ranks No. 31 on the list of Most Innovative Universities, according to U.S. News & World Report. Additionally, its chemical engineering ranks in the top 10 and is also recognized as one of the top research universities, according to the NCSU website. Through online video conferences and virtual lectures, you can learn at your own pace and study when you have the time. 

#4.  University of Virginia-Main Campus

Master of Chemical Engineering

There’s a lot of history behind the University of Virginia. Many of the Kennedy’s, including Robert F. Kennedy, earned a degree from the university, and James Madison, James Monroe, and Thomas Jefferson all lived in Charlottesville. The university is known for many of its programs, including engineering, which ranks No. 36 on the list of Best Chemical Engineering Graduate Schools, according to U.S. News & World Report. The Master of Science in chemical engineering prepares its students for advanced work in industrial and government positions in the field.

The curriculum focuses on six specific core and research areas: biotechnology, catalysis, electrochemistry, energy and the environment, polymers, and separations. Of the 30 credits required for graduation, 24 can be taken through videoconferencing online. Online distance education is offered for those who are unable to attend campus. All students must submit an engineering plan of study assessment, an engineering analysis assessment, and an engineering oral communication assessment prior to beginning the program.

Five courses come from core coursework while the remaining courses can be electives. Included in the core courses that students will enroll in are Advanced Thermodynamics, Chemical Reaction Engineering, Transport Processes, Mass Transfer, and Techniques for Chemical Engineering Analysis & Design. Electives are offered in Applied Surface Chemistry, Polymer Engineering, Biochemical Engineering, and Bioseparations Engineering. 

The program offers a concentration in biomaterials and biotechnology. The faculty places an emphasis on mentoring, entrepreneurship, and leadership in their education. Teachers are experienced in their field and challenge higher thinking so you are best prepared for the field that awaits you. They encourage new ideas, courses, and opportunities through the dynamic research community. UVA presents the perfect environment for you to become a chemical engineer. Through fundamental knowledge and hands-on practice, you will be able to learn and apply your skills to real-world applications.

If you are interested in applying to UVA, you can fill out an online application and submit GRE scores to the office of admissions. Along with the application, you will need to submit transcripts, three letters of recommendation, and a statement of purpose. To see what prerequisite courses you need to have completed before applying, contact an admissions counselor on the UVA website.

For those who decide to study online close to campus or study on campus, UVA offers plenty of opportunities for you to get involved and make a difference. More than 800 clubs and student organizations are out there for you to choose from, including those in sciences and engineering which can help you get more involved in the community and exert yourself in leadership roles. By building more contacts and connections, you’ll increase your job opportunities. Charlottesville is also within driving distance of many big cities, including Washington, D.C., Baltimore, and Philadelphia. 

Having a graduate degree in chemical engineering from UVA will only enhance your resume. The university ranks No. 4 on the list of Best Public Universities, according to U.S. News & World Report. The program itself and the university is highly respected everywhere.

#5.  Villanova University

Master of Science in Chemical Engineering

Located just 12 miles west of Philadelphia, Villanova University is a Roman Catholic institution that serves the purpose of educating students to think critically, act compassionately, and succeed in life while also serving others. The home school to actor Bradley Cooper and artist Toby Keith, VU ranks No. 42 on the list of Best Universities in the Nation, according to U.S. News & World Report.  The Master of Science in chemical engineering is aimed at providing you with sound scientific and technological insight into the scope of chemical engineering.

For those wishing to study on campus, classes are held in the evenings allowing you to successfully balance your work time, family time, and school time. You also have the opportunity to take a mixture of online and on-campus courses or you can earn the degree completely online through mostly self-paced coursework. Through VU’s eLearning program, you can view recorded lectures and access online module videos in the comfort of your own home. Many of the professors who teach on-campus also teach online. The average student-to-teacher ratio is 11-to-1, giving professors ample opportunity for one-on-one feedback.

The 30-credit curriculum requires all students to take three core courses: Thermodynamics, Transport Phenomena, and Chem Kinetics & Catalysis. You then will choose two electives to add to your curriculum along with five additional courses from the CHE offerings. At least four of the additional courses you choose must be 7000-level courses or above. Before you begin, you will consult with your academic advisor and develop a plan of study. 

Among the electives, you can choose to take include Separation Process I, Separation Process II, Advanced Process Model/Analysis, Chem Engineer Reactors, and Advanced Engineering Analysis. A maximum of six may be replaced by an independent study or a thesis project which can take the form of experimental research, process design, theoretical analysis, or a literature survey.

Professors in the program are highly engaged and believe in communication at the highest level. They encourage hands-on practice through internships and work opportunities. Twenty-six students are in the chemical engineering program with three-quarters of them studying part-time. The average age of students in the program is 26.

If you’re interested in applying to VU, you will need to submit to the office of admissions official transcripts, two applicant rating forms, a statement of purpose, a resume, and GRE scores. Anyone accepted into the program without an undergraduate degree in chemical engineering will first have to enroll in VU’s bridging program. This includes prerequisite courses that must be taken before officially beginning studies for the MSCE. These courses can be taken online through Michigan State University.

VU has a strong reputation for not just its academics, but its athletics. If you are a student that studies on or near campus, you can support 24 athletic sports teams, including the men’s college basketball team which has won two national championships in the last five years. If you’re looking for a school that’s affordable, VU ranks No. 48 on the list of Best Value Schools, according to U.S. News & World Report. 

#6.  University of California Los Angeles

Master of Science in Engineering – Materials Science

Known prominently as UCLA, the University of California Los Angeles is the top-ranked public school in the nation, according to U.S. News & World Report. It also has an engineering program that ranks in the top-20 and a medical program in the top-10. With a Master of Science in engineering with an emphasis on materials science, you will learn from some of the best faculty in the world and be further educated on the importance of the microstructure of solids in science.

Materials engineering focuses on the design, fabrication, and testing of engineering materials. The phenomenal study of microstructures looks deeper at how they influence the mechanical, electronic, chemical, and biological properties of solids. Through 36-course credits that can be taken all online, you will conduct research and learn hands-on the importance of materials science in the world.

At least five graduate courses you enroll in must be at the 200-level. Included in the curriculum is a capstone project that culminates the program. However, you can choose an alternative option and instead pass three written examinations for three different graduate-level courses. Six of the nine courses that you sign up for must be from the MAT SCI Department. There is no thesis plan or track required. UCLA requires that the degree be completed within three years. All students must also maintain a 3.0 GPA or higher in order to remain in the program and receive credit.

Sample courses you will have the opportunity to take include Mechanical Behavior of Materials, Materials Science of Thin Films, Principles of Nanoscience and Nanotechnology, Design of Composite Structures, and Material Processing in Manufacturing. The overall expectation is that all the coursework and requirements are completed within two years and one quarter. Each student is assigned an adviser to help them as they progress through their studies.

The office of admissions does require GRE scores to be submitted alongside the application, and you must hold a minimum of 3.0 GPA to be eligible for acceptance. Additionally, three letters of recommendation (at least one from an employer), a resume, a statement of purpose, and official transcripts are all part of the documentation that is required to be submitted with the application. Twenty-percent of those admitted are minorities, according to the program’s statistics site, and 60% of those who registered with eligible applications were admitted last year. The deadline for fall admission is May 15, 2020. 

Located in Los Angeles, UCLA provides a great student life experience for those who study near the campus. UCLA is known for having the most men’s basketball championships of any school in the country. Sports legends such as Kareem Abdul-Jabar and Jackie Robinson earned a degree from this prestigious university. UCLA hosts many campus events and has over 1,000 clubs and organizations for you to join, including many in science. When it comes to rivalries, there are not many bigger than between USC and UCLA. Not only are they two of the best chemical engineering schools in the country and separated by only a few miles, but they are also big rivals on the football field. It’s the game of the year for both schools every year.

#7. Rutgers University-New Brunswick

Master of Science in Biomedical Engineering

Founded in 1766, Rutgers University is the eighth-oldest university in the nation. The New Brunswick campus also stands out as one of the best. According to U.S. News & World Report, RUNB ranks No. 22 on the list of Best Public Universities. It is also ranked among the best engineering schools in the nation, at No. 52, also according to U.S. News & World Report. With a Master of Science in biomedical engineering, you will have the opportunity to engage in and conduct original research and best be prepared for professional advancement in a rapidly advancing field.

The biomedical engineering degree provides innovative courses with the purpose of training future leaders in the industry. There are six key areas of emphasis in the training: molecular systems; nanosystems and microsystems; tissue engineering and regenerative medicine; biomechanics and rehabilitation engineering; physiologic systems; and bioinstrumentation, biomedical imaging, and neuroengineering. You will have the opportunity to take core courses in all of these disciplines.

The online curriculum includes 27 course credits with six credits dedicated to research and a thesis. The written thesis will also require an oral defense. Along with the degree, students can also earn a certificate in medical device development. First-year students can also take advantage of the innovative research rotation program at the New Brunswick campus. 

Sample courses you will have the opportunity to enroll in include Bioimaging Methods; Kinetics, Thermodynamics, and Transport in Biomedicine; Biomechanics and Biomaterials; and Biosignal Processing and Biomedical Imaging. There are also four advanced courses that students can take which includes a professional development option. 

The faculty at RUNB are world-class and are internationally recognized experts in their fields. They work in the science and engineering departments, the medical school, other area academic institutions, and as local industry researchers. They hold prestigious positions in numerous university-wide centers of excellence. They strive to teach ethically responsible research and urge collaboration with peers in an effort to maximize your potential in biomedical engineering.

Applicants to the graduate program are required to hold at least a 3.0 GPA in their undergraduate studies. All students must also submit GRE scores alongside their application. The office of admissions also requires three letters of recommendation, transcripts, and a statement of purpose.

For students who study online near the campus or take face-to-face courses, there are plenty of student life opportunities to indulge in. New Brunswick is less than an hour from New York City and also within driving distance of Philadelphia and Atlantic City. The campus is one of the biggest in the Northeast, occupying more than 2,600 acres of land.

RUNB is also incredibly diverse. More than half of the student population identifies themselves as non-caucasian, and more than 115 countries are represented at the New Jersey campus. With a degree from RUNB, you will join the late actor James Gandolfini, chef Mario Batali, and journalist Natalie Morales as one of hundreds of thousands of alumni to earn a degree from Rutgers.

#8. Auburn University

Master of Chemical Engineering 

Auburn University is the perfect school for you if you want to earn a graduate degree from a school that’s on the rise, both in innovation and education. Located in Auburn, Ala., AU ranks No. 23 on the list of Best Graduate Chemical Engineering Programs, according to U.S. News  & World Report. This is its highest ranking yet—it has been climbing the rankings every year. With this master’s degree, you will further enhance your education in surface science, biochemical engineering, catalysis, environmental engineering, chemical kinetics, and much more. 

AU’s Master of Chemical Engineering degree is one of 13 that you can complete fully online with no residency required. With the online track, a thesis is not required. However, if you do study online and wish to complete a thesis, you can get special approval from the department to do so. Students who study on-campus have the option of pursuing a thesis or going the non-thesis route. 

Of the 30 credits required to complete the program online, 21 of them must be in chemical engineering. Students that complete the six-hour research and thesis component will also need to pass a final oral examination to defend the thesis. The non-thesis track does not have an oral examination component attached to it. Specializations are offered in biomedical engineering; computer-aided chemical engineering; environmental chemical engineering; pre-medicine; and pulp, paper, and bio-resource engineering.

Available courses include Principles of Chemical Engineering, Phase and Reaction Equilibria, Creativity and Critical Thinking in Engineering, Chemical Reaction in Engineering, and Process and Dynamics and Control. There are three start dates throughout the year and each term lasts anywhere from nine to 15 weeks. With online courses, much of the coursework is self-paced with occasional online meetings with the professor and interactive lessons and discussions with your peers. Lessons are streamed via video and are accessed through your internet connection.

If you have an undergraduate degree other than chemical engineering, you will be required to complete a two-semester online bridge program through either Michigan State University or North Carolina State University. You must earn a grade of B- or better in order to begin your graduate work at AU. GRE scores are required along with transcripts and three letters of recommendation. Once admitted, you will work with the school’s graduate school office to create a plan of study.

While you don’t have to study at AU, many do choose to live near the campus. Besides its gains in the engineering program, AU prides itself on its diversity and environment on campus. Over 100 countries are represented at the university, and it was recently ranked No. 4 on the list of Campuses With the Best Quality of Life, according to The Princeton Review. More than 400 student clubs and organizations are available for you to join and 94% of the world-class faculty have the highest degree in their field. Singer Lionel Richie, former NBA star Charles Barkley, and former astronaut Ken Mattingly are just some of the notable alumni to earn a degree from the Southeastern Conference school.

#9.  Johns Hopkins University

Master of Science in Applied Biomedical Engineering

When it comes to respectability, there are not many schools and engineering programs that compare to Johns Hopkins University. Ranked No. 10 on the list of Best Universities in the Nation, according to U.S. News & World Report, it graduated such prestigious names as former President Woodrow Wilson, former secretary of state Madeleine Albright, and former New York mayor Michael Bloomberg. Among its many notable colleges is its engineering program, which ranks in the top-20 among best Graduate Chemical Engineering Programs, according to U.S. News & World Report.

A Master of Science in applied biomedical engineering gives future scientists the opportunity to practice solving critical problems that they will confront in their future career. One of the major goals within the course content is to educate graduates on medical physiology and apply knowledge of life sciences to different biomedical engineering programs. Additionally, professors want students to be able to apply engineering principles so they can solve physiological and medical challenges. 

The coursework can be taken online and requires 10 courses to be completed in no more than five years. There are five core courses required, one additional course from the focus area, and four electives that you can choose from. The program includes three different focus areas: translational tissue engineering, imaging, and instrumentation. As part of the coursework, you will analyze data and use that data in laboratory experiments. 

Sample courses you will see listed on your schedule are Physiology for Applied Biomedical Engineering I & II, Mathematical Methods for Engineers, and Biomedical Practice and Innovation. There are more than 50 electives in the course catalog for this degree, including Topics in Bioentrepreneurship, Cellular Engineering, Neuroscience, Human-Robotics Interaction, and Systems Biology.

As part of the admissions requirements, you must have completed previous coursework in mathematics, calculus-based physics, chemistry, and molecular biology. Your academic and professional background will be considered when your application is reviewed. General admissions requirements include the submission of all transcripts and verification of an undergraduate GPA of 3.0 or higher. GRE scores are not required but can be submitted if you wish to do so. 

A post-master’s certificate is also available for those who wish to pursue it as an option. For the certificate, you must take six courses in less than three years and at least five of the six courses must be from the applied biomedical engineering program. Only grades of B- or better count towards course credit.

Located in Baltimore, those who attend classes on-campus can enjoy many pleasures at the first research university in the U.S. JHU is the home of the Peabody Institute, America’s first academy of music. It is one of the most visited locations among students of JHU along with the city locals and tourists. While athletics isn’t as much of a tradition as it is at some universities, the JHU lacrosse team is very popular and you can go watch a match when you get a break from your studies.

#10.  University of Southern California

Master of Science in Chemical Engineering

Founded in 1880, the University of Southern California is the state’s oldest research university. It scores as one of the best universities to attend in all the country, as well as one the most affordable. According to U.S. News & World Report, it ranks No. 22 on the list of Best National Universities and No. 37 on the list of Best Value Schools. One of the reasons for this is because of its chemical engineering program. It ranks No. 9 in the nation as the Best Engineering Graduate Program, according to U.S. News & World Report. 

USC offers graduate students the opportunity to study a Master of Chemical Engineering which will teach from a variety of disciplines in the field, including thermodynamics, transport phenomena, applied mathematics, kinetics, and reaction engineering. The faculty at USC has extensive experience in the field and brings first-hand knowledge to better educate all students in the program. All coursework can be taken online with the option of going on campus to fulfill many of the required credits. The course uses both an innovative and hands-on approach in its education.

The program can be completed within 18 to 24 months on a full-time schedule and anywhere from two-and-a-half to four years on a part-time schedule. A minimum of 28 required credits is needed to complete the program with 12 of those coming in required core coursework. Additionally, students will have the opportunity to take electives and enroll in workshops which will give them further education on chemical engineering. In order to remain in the program, students must maintain a 3.0 GPA or higher throughout the tenure of the M.S.

As part of the core courses, students will need to enroll in Thermodynamics for Chemical Engineers, Viscous Flow, Modeling and Engineering of Chemical Engineering Systems, and Chemical Engineering Kinetics. Students who attend online will get the same lectures as those who attend on-campus, and many of the same teachers who teach on-campus also teach online. 

If you’re interested in applying to USC, you must meet all the requirements asked by the office of admissions. The selection process is very competitive and USC requires a strong academic record in order to be considered for their master’s program. Part of the selection process is determined by GRE scores, so if you have not taken this test yet, be sure to sign up for it and submit the scores as part of your application process. Furthermore, USC requires that transcripts, letters of recommendation, a resume, and a statement of purpose be included with the application. For more information on all prerequisite courses needed and other documentation, refer to the USC admissions page.

USC has a long list of famous alumni, which include director George Lucas, actor Will Ferrell, and astronaut Neil Armstrong. For those studying on or near campus, you’ll have access to many amenities in Los Angeles where you can take a break from your studies. There are also lots of internship opportunities in the Los Angeles area, and no matter where you live, the program recommends as much practice in the field as possible so you can apply your skills from the course content into your work.

OTHER NOTABLE PROGRAMS

#11. Kansas State University

Location: Manhattan, KS

Degree: Master of Science in Chemical Engineering

Net Price: $18,002

Website

#12. University of Illinois at Chicago

Location: Chicago, IL

Degree: Master of Science in Chemical Engineering

Net Price: $12,248

Website    

#13. University of North Carolina Wilmington

Location: Wilmington, NC

Degree: Master of Science in Chemistry

Net Price: $17,771

Website  

#14. University of Central Florida

Location: Orlando, FL

Degree: Master of Science in Materials Science and Engineering

Net Price: $6,448

Website   

#15. Illinois Institute of Technology

Location: Chicago, IL

Degree: Master of Science in Chemical Engineering

Net Price: $25,814

Website 

#16. Missouri University of Science and Technology

Location: Rollo, MO

Degree: Master in Chemical Engineering

Net Price: $13,993

Website

#17. Lehigh University

Location: Bethlehem, PA

Degree: Master of Engineering in Chemical Engineering

Net Price: $26,782

Website

#18. Clarkson University

Location: Postdam, NY

Degree: Master of Science in Chemical Engineering

Net Price: $31,376

Website  

#19. Columbia University in the City of New York

Location: New York, NY

Degree: Master of Science in Chemical Engineering

Net Price: $21,220

Website  

#20. Stanford University

Location: Palo Alto, CA

Degree: Master of Science in Chemical Engineering

Net Price: $17,271

IF YOU ENJOYED THAT THEN CHECK OUT OUR ARTICLES ON THE 50 BEST ONLINE MASTER’S OF SCIENCE DEGREES IN CIVIL ENGINEERING!

Are you considering a career in law enforcement or public safety?

A Master’s degree in Criminal Justice can open the door to a wide variety of criminal justice careers.

Some common law enforcement careers enjoyed by graduates include basic and leadership positions. These include:

• Roles in federal law enforcement and other government agencies
• Work in the juvenile justice system
• Criminal profilers
• Probation officers
• Criminal law 
• Emergency management directors
• Public administration
• Work with homeland security and other national security organizations 
• Police officers
• Intelligence analysts
• Private detectives
• Public safety professionals
• Forensic science technicians

See Also: 20 Best Affordable Master’s in Information Assurance

Completing a Master’s in Criminal Justice is smart. It can provide graduate students with key technical and conceptual foundations. This will allow you to pursue a career within criminal justice settings.

Graduate students will gain in-depth knowledge of contemporary issues, theories, and research. They will study topics related to crime, victimization, and justice administration.

These advanced programs help to shape a student’s understanding of the legal system. They delve into the complexities of:

• various court decisions
• alternative dispute resolution processes
• security management
• ethical considerations prevalent in the administration of justice

Having a Master’s in Criminal Justice gives graduates an array of opportunities. You can pursue satisfying careers as law enforcement officers and much more. 

Course options include:

• Organizational theory
• Transnational crime
• Forensic science
• State and federal crimes
• Criminal investigations
• Crime control strategies
• Violent crime and dealing with violent offenders
• Legal perspectives
• Fraud management
• Corporate crime
• Social and behavioral science
• Public safety and disaster management (including manmade and natural disasters)
• Organizational theory
• Forensic psychology 
• Collecting evidence for crime analysis
• Emergency management
• Criminological theories
• Criminal profiling
• Technical applications of criminal justice information technology 

Quick Links

1. Michigan State University
2. Florida State University
3. Sam Houston State University
4. Arizona State University
5. Boston University
6. University of Nebraska Omaha
7. Nova Southeastern University
8. Regis University
9. University of Cincinnati
10. University of Colorado Denver

Methodology:

Are you curious about how we decided on the top master’s degree options in criminal justice to ensure student success?

How did we determine the best online Master in Criminal Justice degree programs for our ranking?

We looked at schools with regional accreditation from organizations such as:

• Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
• Western Association of Schools and Colleges
• WASC Senior College and University Commission
• Higher Learning Commission
• Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities

Then, we gathered information to examine from public sources such as:

• the Academy of Criminal Justice Sciences (ACJS)
• the U.S. Department of Labor’s Bureau of Labor Statistics
• U.S. News and World Report
• the school websites

From there, four points served as our guidelines for determining the best programs. In random order, the four guiding points were:

• Affordability
• School reputation
• Availability of focus areas, concentrations or specializations
• Program flexibility and accommodation

Other factors that influenced our decisions were the average tuition and retention rate. Both of these metrics can give you a good idea of a school’s return on investment. 

Ready to learn more about online masters degree programs criminal justice? Here are the 30 best criminal justice graduate programs online!

30 Best Online Masters in Criminal Justice Degrees

#30. Troy University

MS Criminal Justice Program

You will find one of the best online criminal justice programs at Troy University.

The MS in Criminal Justice provides both a thesis and a non-thesis option. The non-thesis online criminal justice degree requires thirty credit hours. The thesis option requires thirty-six.

Classes you will take for your online master’s in criminal justice include:

• Emergency and Crisis Management
• Cyber and Information Threat Management
• Terrorism and Political Violence
• Public Safety

TROY Online provides each prospective student with the “PREPARE Assessment” tool. This computer based test (not a paper based test) in your native language is to make sure online learning is a good fit. 

#29. University of North Texas

This online master’s degree in criminal justice is through UNT’s Department of Criminal Justice (Department of CJUS). It takes 24 months to complete.

The curriculum that students take includes:

• twelve hours of foundational courses
• twenty-one hours of elective courses
• a three-hour capstone course

Your core courses will cover everything from public safety to inequities in the criminal justice system to ensure you are prepared to meet any career goals.

#28. University of New Haven

This master criminal justice online is at the Henry C. Lee College of Criminal Justice and Forensic Sciences. It has 36 credit hours. Students enrolled can complete the entire program in 24 months.

Foundational courses in topics like public safety and data analysis make up twelve of the credit hours. Elective courses make up the remaining twenty-four credits. 

Course options include:

• Advanced Victimology
• Problem Oriented Policing
• Network Security, Data Protection And Telecommunications
• Computer Crime: Legal Issues & Investigative Procedures

Admission requirements for these online criminal justice programs vary. Students may wish to consult with an admissions advisor. 

#27. Liberty University

MS Criminal Justice 

The Helms School of Government at Liberty University is outstanding. It offers a 100% online, 36-credit hour MS in Criminal Justice degree. This award-winning, thesis-optional master’s in criminal justice online also offers four cognate customizations:

• General
• Forensic Psychology
• Homeland Security
• Public Administration

Featured classes for this graduate degree include:

• Rehabilitation & Reintegration of Offenders
• Leadership, Ethics & Policing
• Homeland Security Organization & Administration
• Politics, Strategies & Initiatives of Com. Econ. Development

The online MSCJ at Liberty focuses on “best practices and trends” in higher education. Your courses will cover everything form data analysis to public safety to make sure you are prepared for all kinds of leadership roles in this evolving field.

Graduates leave equipped with the most recent data and most effective methods. The skills they gain in these master’s degrees can help them both achieve their careers goals.

#26. Xavier University

The online master’s degree criminal justice at Xavier provides a focus on administration in the justice system.

The master’s degree has six start dates a year. The curriculum covers everything from research methods in the field of criminal justice to public safety. You’ll be prepared to work at the federal levels and local levels and within a variety of criminal justice careers. These online master’s degree programs are about as well rounded as they get!

Topics covered in the thirty-credit hour criminal justice master’s degree online degree include:

• Sociology of Crime & Delinquency
• Forensics & White Collar Crime
• Human Resources for Criminal Justice Administrators

You can take many courses with real world experience as well.

#25. Columbia College

MS Criminal Justice 

This master’s degree is an online MS in Criminal Justice Administration (MSCJ) degree program. It is through Columbia College’s Criminal Justice Administration and Human Services Department.

This master’s in criminal justice prepares students for a life of public service, either at the federal levels or local levels. The degree focuses on four specific areas:

• trends in criminal justice
• policy development and analysis
• research design and research methods in the field of criminal justice
• ethics in criminal justice
• criminal justice theory
• public policy

Distance learners have the option of pursuing management tracks. These are in Law Enforcement Administration or Corrections Administration. 

Course options in this master’s in criminal justice include:

• Comparative Criminal Justice Systems
• Seminar in Juvenile Justice
• Law Enforcement and the Community
• Community Corrections

#24. University of Wisconsin–Platteville

The MS in Criminal Justice (MSCJ) online program at UW-Platteville gives students three different emphasis areas.

The specializations from which students enrolled in this master in criminal justice online can choose are:

• Criminal Justice Theory
• Criminal Justice Management
• Victim and Offender Services

There is a nine-credit hour certificate in Child Advocacy Studies available.

Some of the classes offered in this criminal law program include:

• Perspectives on Child Maltreatment and Child Advocacy
• Law as Social Control
• Juvenile Delinquency & Justice: Race, Class, Gender, and Youth
• Policing in a Democratic Society

This well-rounded master’s in criminal justice will prepare you for just about any career goals in the criminal justice system. Students will go beyond what you learned in your bachelor’s degree.

The curriculum is designed to provide students with real world experience and a solid understanding of criminal justice so they can pursue all kinds of criminal justice careers and leadership roles.

#23. California University of Pennsylvania

MS in Legal Studies

This master’s degree is offered 100% online. The MS in Legal Studies with a Criminal Justice Concentration degree program at Cal U is outstanding.

Classes criminal justice majors will take include:

• Financial Investigations
• Law and Police Process
• Polygraph and Lie Detection
• Intelligence Practice in Homeland Security

You’ll study criminal justice theory, research method sin the field of criminal justice, and much more. This master’s degree in criminal justice will prepare you for all kinds of career goals in this rapidly evolving field.

#22. Western Kentucky University

WKU Online offers a thirty-credit hour degree. It is a Master of Arts in Criminology degree program. These master’s degrees are 100% online and do not have a thesis. The program requires fifteen hours of core courses.

Course options to prepare you for the criminal justice system include:

• Advanced Social Statistics
• Survey of Criminal Justice Studies

The remaining fifteen credit hours are chosen from electives. Distance learners must select at least two classes from within WKU’s Department of Sociology.

Criminal justice majors will take classes such as:

• Neighborhoods and Crime
• Family Violence

You will be prepared for a variety of positions in the criminal justice system.

#21. University of Louisville

MS Criminal Justice 

U of L’s online MS in Criminal Justice (Justice Administration) (MSCJ) degree program claims a unique program.

This master’s degree is ideal for any role in the criminal justice system or in public safety.

The online master’s in criminal justice includes many networks and partnerships to prepare you for the realities of the criminal justice system.

Core coursework focuses on legal theory, statistics and research methods.

Core courses in the master’s in criminal justice include:

• Crime Prevention Through Environmental Design
• Serial Murder
• Personnel Management in Criminal Justice System
• Public Safety

With an emphasis on student success, this criminal justice master’s is one of the best.

#20. University of California, Irvine

UCI’s Department of Criminology, Law and Society offers two distinct online programs. These explore the psychology behind crime.

First, there is a criminal justice master’s degree that focuses on “theoretical and practical applications central to crime and its control, social policy, and the law.” The Master of Advanced Study (MAS) in Criminology, Law and Society is a thirteen-course degree program. It takes two years. You can take up to 4 years if needed

The major includes classes like:

• Hate Crimes
• Crime Hotspots
• Preventing Errors of Justice

The master’s in criminal justice classes are all delivered online. But there is one introductory accelerated five-day on-campus residency course required.

#19. Colorado State University-Global Campus

Master of Criminal Justice

You’ll find one of the top programs at Colorado State University. The Master of Criminal Justice and Law Enforcement Administration degree is through CSU-Global. It is a practical, foundational 36-credit hour program. It consists of 39 credit hours for students whose undergraduate GPA was less than 3.00. These students must take the graduate-basics “Fundamentals of Research and Writing” course.

Two specialization options await the CSU-Global online campus student. These are the options in Criminal Justice Leadership and Fraud Management.

The Criminal Justice Leadership specialization may need twelve credits of classes such as:

• Criminological Theory
• Working With Criminal Justice Agencies
• Criminal Justice Systems 
• Ethics, Justice, and Social Control

#18. Indiana University Bloomington

These master’s degrees take a year of full time study! The online MA in Criminology leads to research or administrative positions in criminal justice.

Students complete 30 credit hours of study. This criminal justice master’s degree focuses on topics such as:

• Criminological Theory
• Ethical and Philosophical Issues in Criminology
• Crime and Delinquency Prevention Strategies

You will get both a practical and stimulating online education. A final synthesis project culminates the degree. Average tuition is affordable for all online programs here.

#17. University of Massachusetts Lowell

MA in Criminal Justice

An online master’s degree at UMass Lowell includes eleven three-credit hour courses. 

This online master’s in criminal justice includes courses such as:

• Managing Justice Organizations
• Law and Public Policy
• Crime Analysis and Mapping
• Responding to Child Maltreatment
• Violence in America
• Mental Health & Criminal Justice

#16. Rowan University

The online MA in Criminal Justice is through Rowan University’s Rowan Global Learning & Partnerships. It is a good choice for students who have professional goals in career paths such as leadership roles or more higher learning. This online program is an accelerated program. The 30-credit hour degree takes five consecutive semesters. 

You’ll learn everything you need to know about the criminal justice system. You’ll also learn how to conduct criminal justice research.

Classes include:

• Management Of Criminal Justice Organizations
• Contemporary Developments In Theory
• Law And Society

#15. University of Central Florida

MS Criminal Justice 

The online MS in Criminal Justice program at University of Central Florida “pushes boundaries and shifts paradigms.”

This program has all kinds of hands-on experiences.

This is done to create the criminal justice force of tomorrow. Online enrollees will study all aspects of how people come to commit crimes. Students complete classes in how punishment and retribution is shaped by the history of the U.S. criminal justice system. Students must take 36 credit hours to graduate.

Twenty-one hours consist of core coursework in this criminal justice program. You’ll take classes like:

• The Nature of Crime
• Criminal Justice Organizations

You can also take nine credit hours of electives. Plus, there is a Capstone or a thesis. 

#14. University of Oklahoma

This MS in Criminal Justice program requires thirty-three credit hours to graduate. Each course is in asynchronous sixteen-week sessions. Three tracks are available online:

• Corrections Management
• Restorative Justice
• Administration and Leadership

Online enrollees can opt to take six more credit hours to focus on whichever area they choose.

This online master’s in criminal justice has eighteen hours of prerequisite courses. These cover the basics of research methods and theory. There are nine hours of elective course topics such as:

• Restorative Justice Programs for Drug Offenders
• Penology
• Global Drug Trafficking

This online criminal justice master’s degree program has a six credit hour thesis. You can also choose to complete one of the track areas with a comprehensive exam. 

#13. Bowling Green State University

MS Criminal Justice 

You’ll find one of the top programs at Bowling Green State University.

Eleven courses make up the masters of criminal justice online in the BGSU eCampus. There is rolling admission. There are six start dates a year, and two classes offered. That’s for each eight-week term. You can complete the thirty-three credit hour degree program in less than 24 months.

Classes exist in an asynchronous format. There may be some requirements to logon at the same time as the professor and classmates for live discussion.

In this criminal justice master’s degree, students take classes like:

• The Nature of Crime
• Criminal Justice Processes & Institutions

Students choose between a portfolio or final thesis to complete the degree. 

#12. University of the Cumberlands

The online MS in Justice Administration degree at UC is outstanding. It is a practical, experiential program.

It is ideal for students who want to move into or move up in a crime-fighting field. This is a thirty-one credit hour program that takes one year. That makes this one of the fastest criminal justice degree online options.

The master of criminal justice online program requires a one-credit hour Capstone Course in Justice Administration.  

You will learn everything you need to know about the criminal justice system in classes like:

• Legal and Ethical Issues in Homeland Security
• Race, Ethnicity, Gender, and Crime
• Sex Crimes: Myths & Motives

#11. East Carolina University

MS Criminal Justice 

There are eighteen courses at the core of the 36-credit hour program at East Carolina University. This is a non-thesis online MS in Criminal Justice program. It is offered through the Department of Criminal Justice. Classes include:

• Criminal Justice and Terrorism
• Diversity Issues in Criminal Justice
• Civil Liability in Criminal Justice

#10. University of Colorado Denver

The Master in Criminal Justice (MCJ) degree program at CU Denver is in the respected School of Public Affairs. It has 36-credit hours. The program consists of:

• five core courses (focusing on policy, research and theory)
• electives
• either a three to six-hour thesis or three credit capstone project

#9. University of Cincinnati

MS Criminal Justice Program

The University of Cincinnati has an eleven-course, thirty-three credit hour Master of Science Criminal Justice (MSCJ) degree. It is another one of the top master’s to know about. This criminal justice online master degree takes 24 months.

It includes a general track. Students also have choices between three specific concentrations. The Analysis of Criminal Behavior concentration focuses on what makes repeat offenders tick.

In this online criminal justice master’s, you will take classes like:

• Biosocial Factors in Serial Offending
• Computer Criminology: Cybercrime & Digital Security

Then there is the Law Enforcement & Crime Prevention concentration. This concentration examines “theories and practices” in such courses as:

• Applied Crime Prevention
• Seminar on Police Effectiveness

The last concentration option in the online criminal justice master’s is Corrections & Offender Rehabilitation. It offers such classes as “Correctional Theory and Policy”.

#8. Regis University

Regis University’s College of Contemporary Liberal Studies offers a Master of Science in Criminology degree program.

It invites students to examine and research what factors may contribute to crime. Faculty members teach how to establish successful practices for reformation and prevention. The program requires 36 credit hours to graduate.

Three focus areas are available in this online criminal justice master’s. They are:

• Leadership
• Human Behavior
• Cybercrime/Terrorism

You can replace nine credits of the general course with focus-specific classes.

The general curriculum of this master degree criminal justice online covers varied topics like:

• Ethical Conduct and Positions of Power
• Rapid Decision Making
• Crime Prediction and Prevention
• Animal Exploitation

You’ll be able to network with working professionals at the local and federal levels. This is to prepare you for a career in public service as part of this master’s degree in criminal justice.

#7. Nova Southeastern University

MS Criminal Justice

The College of Arts, Humanities, and Social Sciences at NSU provides an online, interdisciplinary MS in Criminal Justice program.

Students in the online master degrees in criminal justice take:

• fifteen hours of required core coursework
• twelve credit hours of a concentration
• a choice between a practicum internship or a master’s thesis

There are twelve concentration options to customize the degree and prepare students for leadership positions. Some are interdisciplinary and in conjunction with another College within NSU. An example is the Emergency Preparedness Leadership concentration. This is through the College of Osteopathic Medicine.

#6. University of Nebraska Omaha

The Master of Science in Criminology and Criminal Justice is at UNO’s School of Criminology and Criminal Justice.

Students in the online master of criminal justice take:

• twelve credit hours of foundational courses
• nine credits of criminal justice electives
• a three-credit Diversity course (either a Capstone or dissertation)
• twelve credits of open electives from other departments

Courses for the criminal justice online curriculum include:

• Survey of Corrections
• Sociology of Deviant Behavior
• Seminar in Theoretical Criminology

#5. Boston University

MS in Criminal Justice Program

This master degree at Boston University offers a choice. There is a general track or a concentration in Cybercrime Investigation & Cybersecurity. There is also a concentration in Strategic Management.

This online master’s in criminal justice is ideal for students who wish to:

• analyze criminal behavior
• apply principles of leadership in organizational settings
• learn theories of social control
• gain an informed perspective of law enforcement, the judicial system, and corrections

The online criminal justice degree masters elective choices include:

• Applied Digital Forensic Investigation
• Trauma and Crisis Intervention
• Criminal Justice Policy and Planning

#4. Arizona State University

The School of Criminology & Criminal Justice at the College of Public Service & Community offers a Master of Arts in Criminal Justice (MACJ) degree program. This is through ASU Online.

Students take twelve credit hours of related classes studying crime motivation.

Core courses in the online master’s in criminal justice and public safety include:

• Criminal Justice Planning and Program Evaluation
• Applied Data Analysis in Criminal Justice

#3. Sam Houston State University

MS in Criminal Justice Program

You’ll find one of the best programs at Sam Houston State University.

The Master of Science in Criminal Justice program at Sam Houston State University is meant to be “Education Everywhere, for Everyone.”

There are 21 integral courses as part of this online master’s in criminal justice.

Core courses include:

• quantitative analysis
• research methods
• policy

They will take classes in the online campus such as:

• Emergent Issues In Criminal Justice Leadership
• Seminar In Organization & Administration
• Communication Theory & Administration Of Justice

#2. Florida State University

It shouldn’t come as any surprise that the Master of Criminology degree program at Florida State University is in our top three.

Florida State University offers us a 36-credit hour program.

Core courses in the online criminal justice master degree include:

• Applied Statistics in Criminology
• Computer Applications in Criminal Justice
• Prevention & Treatment Of Crime & Delinquency
• Race, Ethnicity, Crime & Social Justice

#1. Michigan State University

MS Criminal Justice 

The master’s degree in criminal justice online at Michigan State University has existed at the College of Social Science since 1998. It should be no mystery that this program secures the number one spot on our list.

Students can opt for a general track or one of two specializations. These are Security Management or Judicial Administration.

Many of the courses in the online masters degrees criminal justice cut across a variety of disciplines.

Core courses include:

• Crime Causation, Prevention, and Control
• Policy Analysis under Conditions of Change
• Proseminar in Criminal Justice

Students in the criminal justice master’s online take one to three elective classes.

Related Rankings:

• 50 Best Online Law Degree Programs
• Careers Possible with a Masters of Criminal Justice Degree
• 10 Most Popular and Cheap Online Master’s Degree Programs

Environmental science is a wide-open field. There are many subcategories within this field. Environmental science graduate degrees include:

• Natural resources
• Ecology
• Agriculture
• Conservation
• Environmental biology
• Environmental studies
• Environmental law and environmental policy analysis

If you want to become an environmental scientist, you’re in luck.These careers have exploded in popularity over the last few decades. Because of that, you might be wondering what the best environmental science graduate programs are. There are lots of environmental science degrees out there for you to choose from.

We are pleased to present the top 50 online Master’s of Environmental Science degrees. The list of graduate degrees is sorted by category. The top schools have programs for environmental science. The second tier incorporate similar subfields. The remaining group of top environmental science grad programs offers degree programs related to environmental science or engineering. Graduate school is great for an aspiring environmental engineer or someone interested in environmental policy. However, they are in more peripheral areas among a dozen colleges and schools.

See Also: 10 Best Food Science Masters Programs

1. Troy University

Troy University is a public, comprehensive university. It is a network of campuses scattered across Alabama and worldwide. The University’s main campus is in Troy, Alabama. It rests on a beautiful and historic 820 acres. Troy University is able to offer programs on its several campuses, centers, and online platform. Troy University has high-quality and affordable academic programs.

You will find one of the best environmental science degrees at Troy University. It is an interdisciplinary program that explores all kinds of environmental issues. 

Environmental Science Degree Details

Troy University offers a Master of Science in Environmental Science and Biological Sciences. This first school in our list of the best schools for environmental science is in The College of Arts and Sciences. 

This one of the top environmental science masters programs is available online. The M.S. in Environmental and Biological Sciences is a 30 semester-hour thesis option. There is also a 36 hour non-thesis option. Graduate students must complete a comprehensive examination. The program teaches graduate students how to manage conflicts. 

Applicants must hold a baccalaureate degree (a technical subject area is preferred). They should have completed foundational courses in biological sciences, general chemistry, and course statistics.

See Also: 10 Affordable Online Master’s in Mechanical Engineering

2. University of Illinois at Springfield

The University of Illinois-Springfield is a university in Springfield, Illinois. It first opened as the Sangamon State University in 1969. Today the University of Illinois-Springfield is one of three campuses within the world-class University of Illinois System.

UIS offers many degrees. These are relevant to both the personal and professional student success of graduate students. There are four colleges (each of which house many departments).

UIS offers over 30 bachelor’s, 20 master’s and a doctoral degree program. There are both traditional on-campus and online options. 

Environmental Science Degree Details

The University of Illinois-Springfield offers two different environmental sciences masters programs. There is both a Master of Arts in Environmental Studies and a Master of Science in Environmental Sciences. The M.S. in Environmental Sciences is designed to provide graduate students with a “strong scientific understanding of ways to study, evaluate, and interpret environmental realities and their impact, as well as to manage and mitigate environmental problems.”

The M.A. in Environmental Studies purpose is to educate graduate students in the ways to “balance social and economic needs with environmental realities.” The M.A. is available in three concentrations. It is an interdisciplinary program that explores all kinds of environmental issues. These include:

• Sustainable Development and Policy
• Environmental Planning and Management
• Environmental Humanities

See Also: 40 Fastest Online Master’s Degree Programs

3. Johns Hopkins University

Johns Hopkins University is in Baltimore, Maryland. It is a private institution of higher education. It was the first research university established in the United States. The school  is named for Johns Hopkins, a 19th century Maryland philanthropist.

Johns Hopkins University is accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education. The University offers many undergraduate, masters and doctoral programs. It has nine academic divisions to ensure student success. 

Environmental Science Degree Details

Johns Hopkins University offers an online Master of Science in Environmental Sciences and Policy. This one of the top environmental science masters programs is available through the Krieger School of Arts & Sciences. It is described as a “springboard to leadership” for environmental professionals.

It is an environmental science gradate school that explores all kinds of environmental issues. The degree  is designed by the academic leaders of Johns Hopkins’ Department of Earth and Planetary Sciences. It also incorporates feedback from experts in applied science at federal and regional agencies and institutes. It provides graduate students with an understanding of where “the sciences overlap and inform policy while providing insight into how policy is implemented and affects environmental outcomes.”

It is available online. There is one onsite class at the University’s D.C. campus. The program includes core courses including:

• Geology
• Hydrology
• Oceanography
• Meteorology
• Ecology
• Geographic information systems (GIS)
• Policymaking

This is a flexible program. Students are able to customize their academic experience through electives. These vary from core courses focused on policy to those which  emphasize scientific inquiry.

4. University of Arkansas – Fayetteville

The University of Arkansas is a public research university. It is on a picturesque campus in Fayetteville, Arkansas. It opened in 1871 . The Carnegie Foundation classifies the University as offering “the highest possible level of research.” This places it in the top 2% of all colleges and universities in the nation. The University’s ‘student-first’ philosophy helps it to stand out from the rest. It is often ranked among the top public research institutions in the country.

U of A is home to 27,000 students. They represent all 50 states and over 120 foreign nations. The University offers over 200 academic programs through its several colleges and schools.

Environmental Science Degree Details

The University of Arkansas offers an online Master of Science in Human Environmental Sciences. It is one of the best grad schools for environmental science. It is available through U of A Online. The program offers a 33-credit hour non-thesis option. This includes a comprehensive exam taken upon completion of core coursework. There is also a 30 credit-hour thesis option. It is an interdisciplinary program that explores all kinds of environmental issues. 

The M.S. in Environmental Sciences is available 100% online. It is available with concentrations in:

• Apparel Merchandising and Product Development
• Human Development and Family Sciences
• General Human Environmental Sciences

All core courses are taught by graduate faculty in Human Environmental Sciences. The  program is accredited by both the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools and the American Association of Family and Consumer Sciences.

5. University of Idaho

The University of Idaho (UI) is Idaho’s flagship and oldest public university. It opened in 1889. UI serves as the state’s primary research university. It spends more than $110 million spent in research each year. The school is a noted national leader in student-centered learning and interdisciplinary research that promotes public service.

UI also offers a variety of online learning options. These include undergraduate and graduate degrees and certificates.

Environmental Science Degree Details

The University of Idaho offers an online and traditional Master of Science in Environmental Science. This one of the best environmental science masters programs is in the College of Natural Resources. It is available with a non-thesis or thesis option. The entire  program has 30 graduate-level credits.

Regardless of the chosen option (thesis/non-thesis), students must participate in a research project. This consists of “a substantial project in which the student demonstrates the ability to do rigorous independent work.” The M.S. in Environmental Science is structured around three option areas:

• Biology science
• Physical science
• Social sciences

Students must complete a minimum of 12 credits in the thesis option. There are 15 credits in the non-thesis option in one of the three option areas. Three credits at the Master of Science level must be completed in each of the other two option areas.

6. University of Florida

The University of Florida is a public, land-, sea-, and space-grant research university. It is in Gainesville, Florida. The school is classified as a Research University with Very High Research by the Carnegie Foundation for the Advancement of Teaching. The University of Florida is home to about 5,000 faculty members. 

Environmental Science Degree Details

The University of Florida offers three of the best environmental masters programs:

• the Master of Science in Environmental Engineering Sciences
• the Master of Engineering in EE Sciences
• the Master of Science in Soil and Water Sciences with a concentration in Environmental Science

The latter program is in the Soil and Water Sciences Department’s online branch (SWS Online). The M.S. and M.Eng. are available through UF’s Herbert Wertheim College of Engineering and the Department of Electronic Delivery of Gator Engineering (UF EDGE).

The purpose of UF EDGE is to provide convenient and accessible programs and core courses to students worldwide. This is done via online delivery of all course lectures and materials. It is an interdisciplinary program that explores all kinds of environmental issues. 

All degrees and certificates earned online are held to the same high-quality standards as their on-campus counterparts. Yet there’s the added convenience of being able to participate from anywhere in the world. The M.S. in Soil and Water Sciences Environmental Science track is designed to accommodate place-bound students. Students interested in the environmental issues surrounding the soil and water quality of various locations. These include agricultural lands, rangelands, forested lands, urban lands or wetlands.

7. University of Houston – Clear Lake

The University of Houston-Clear Lake (abbreviated UHCL) is a four-year state institution. It is one of four distinct institutions within the Houston System. It is in Houston, Texas on a 524-acre campus.

It opened in 1974. Yet it was not until 2014 that the University offered freshmen- and sophomore-level classes.  Over 80 graduate and undergraduate programs exist online and in a traditional campus setting. These are through the University’s four schools:

• the College of Business
• the College of Education
• the College of Human Sciences and Humanities 
• the College of Science and Engineering

Environmental Science Degree Details

The University of Houston-Clear Lake offers an online Master of Science in Environmental Science through UHCL Online. It was created to be a diverse and affordable solution. The online  program option merges quality with convenience. It meet the unique educational needs of working professionals. This one of the best environmental graduate programs is a 36-credit-hour program. The M.S. in Environmental Science follows a comprehensive curriculum. It provides the necessary training and skills to excel as leaders and innovators in the field. It is an interdisciplinary program that explores all kinds of environmental issues. 

Dedicated students can complete the program in as little as 16 months. This requires 3 core courses per semester across the fall, spring, and summer semesters.

It is taught by distinguished faculty members. The  program is available in a general track or in an occupational safety and health track. Both options provide access to core courses in a variety of subject areas, such as:

• Environmental biology
• Chemistry
• Geology
• Industrial hygiene
• Safety
• Conservation biology
• Health and environmental issues

8. Texas A&M University

Texas A&M University is a research-intensive university. It is in College Station, Texas. The University opened in 1876 as Texas’ first institution of higher education. Texas A&M’s main campus sits on 5,200 acres. It is about 90 miles northwest of Houston. It is home to more than 67,000 students. 

Environmental Science Degree Details

Texas A&M University offers a Master of Science in Ecosystem Science and Management. This is through its Department of Ecosystem Science and Management. It focuses on ecology and natural resource management. The  program is available with a thesis option. This option is for students interested in continued research experience. There is also a non-thesis option for students interested in a professional career outside of research.

It is an interdisciplinary program that explores all kinds of environmental issues. There are specializations in four main research areas including:

• Ecosystem science
• Ecosystem management
• Genetics
• Systematic
• Evolution
• Spatial sciences.
• Conservation biology

All students work with an advisor to develop a degree plan for the coursework and research credits they will take. This is based on their unique academic needs. It is 32-36-credit-hour  program. You can complete the degree after two years of full-time work.

9. Montana State University Bozeman

You will find another one of the best graduate schools for environmental science at Montana State University Bozeman. This one of the best colleges for environmental sciences is the state’s first institution. MSU opened in 1893.

It has regional accreditation from the Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities (NWCCU). MSU offers associate, bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral degrees through its several colleges.

Environmental Science Degree Details

Montana State University offers a Master of Science in Land Resources and Environmental Sciences through its online branch, Montana State Online. This online schools is one of the best grad schools for environmental science.

This degree is a 30-credit-hour program. It is a flexible, interdisciplinary program. It adapts to meet the needs and interests of each student. Elective course options include environmental issues such as:

• Environmental risk assessment
• Biodiversity survey and monitoring methods
• Applied watershed hydrology
• Wetland ecology & management
• Chemical ecology
• Herbicide physiology
• Toxicology
• Natural and social sciences

Montana State Online’s mission is to offer every student an active, hands-on learning environment. It also seeks to provide a flexible choice for many students. All of MSU’s online core courses utilize the Brightspace learning management system. Most programs are available 100% online.

Admissions

10. Oregon State University

Oregon State University (OSU) is an international, public, research university. It is headquartered in Corvallis, Oregon. The University operates two campuses, 15 experiment stations, 35 Extension offices and offers over 200 academic programs. These are both on-site and online through its Ecampus. It draws students from all fifty states and over 100 foreign countries. OSU comprises 11 colleges.

The University’s Ecampus offers over 50 degree and certificate programs. These are  100% online. Each online course was developed by the same world-class OSU faculty who teach on-campus and online. Students can be assured that they will receive the same quality academics, transcript, and diploma as traditional students.

Environmental Science Degree Details

Oregon State University offers a Professional Science Master’s in Environmental Sciences (PMS ENSC). It is online through its Ecampus. The school is certified by the National Professional Science Master’s Association. OSU’s ENSC is unique in that it is designed to provide students with cutting-edge training in scientific disciplines.

Students can customize their degree to meet their unique interests with seven track options. These include:

• Biogeochemistry
• Ecology
• Environmental education
• Natural resources
• Quantitative analysis
• Social sciences
• Natural and social sciences
• Water resources

It is a non-thesis program. Students participate in an internship experience. This replaces the traditional graduate research project and thesis.

Admissions

11. New York Medical College

New York Medical College is a member of the Touro College and University System. It is a private biomedical health sciences university in Valhalla, New York. This school opened in 1860. New York Medical College (NYMC) has been a long-time bastion against anti-Semitism and bigotry. It is ahead of its time. Female students were admitted early, in 1863. The College’s first African-American graduate was valedictorian of the Class of 1870. 

Environmental Science Degree Details

New York Medical College offers a Master of Public Health degree. This degree has a specialization in Environmental Health Science. It is available through the University’s School of Health Science and Practice (SHSP). The  program is in a traditional classroom format and online. There is also a hybrid program where on-campus classes are mixed with online coursework. The Environmental Health Science specialization addresses issues such as:

• Air and water quality
• Solid waste
• Natural and social sciences
• Environmental studies
• Environmental and industrial toxicology

Core courses are taught by faculty members who are active practitioners and researchers. SHSP and the Environmental Health Science program have a special relationship with the Environmental Health Officers of the U.S. Public Health Service (USPHS). Students benefit by receiving personal career advice. There is also assistance with the application process for internships and assignments available through USAJOBS.

12. North Carolina State University

North Carolina State University is a leading research-extensive institution. It is in Raleigh, North Carolina. It is dedicated to “excellent teaching, the creation and application of knowledge.”

NC State is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools. It offers a total of over 300 undergraduate and graduate programs across 60-plus departments.

Environmental Science Degree Details

North Carolina State University offers two programs in the field of Environmental Science. There is the online Master (MENE) and the online Master of Environmental Assessment (EA). The MENE degree program is for students who already hold an undergraduate degree in an engineering discipline and wish to pursue a  degree. Students who do not have a bachelor’s degree in an area of engineering may still apply to the program. They may need to complete additional coursework before being accepted. Several areas of concentration are offered including:

• Air quality and air pollution prevention and control
• Groundwater hydrology
• Contamination and remediation
• Geoengineering
• Environmental exposure and risk assessment
• Solid waste management
• Environmental studies
• Water and water treatment
• Water resources

The program is designed for working professionals who are interested in pursuing graduate-level work but are not seeking a career in research. It is a 32-credit-hour program. The Master of Environmental Assessment degree is administered through the College of Natural Resources. It is affiliated with the Professional Science Master’s program. The latter is a 2-year innovative degree.

13. Villanova University

This school is in Villanova, Pennsylvania. Villanova University is a private, Roman Catholic institution. It opened by the Order of Saint Augustine in 1842. The University traces its roots back to the old Saint Augustine’s Church of Philadelphia. This opened in 1796 by Augustinian friars. It’s also linked to its parish school, Saint Augustine’s Academy. This opened in 1811. Today, the University has comprehensive education. It is rooted in the liberal arts. Villanova University has six colleges and schools.

Environmental Science Degree Details

Villanova University offers a Master of Science in Water Resources and EE (MSWREE). This is through its College of Engineering. It is 100% online. Most core courses are available online through the University’s E-Learning program. This provides additional flexibility and convenience for working professionals. Full-time students who take 2-3 classes per semester are able to complete the degree in as little as two years. Part-time students earn their degree in three years. This is by taking one course each semester. The MSWREE program has been nationally recognized for its distinguished leadership. It also has cutting-edge research and collaborative opportunities. These are available through the Villanova Center for the Advancement of Sustainability in Engineering (VCASE), the Villanova Urban Stormwater Partnership (VUSP), and the campus’s Green Infrastructure Stormwater Research Park.

14. Prescott College

Prescott College is a private liberal arts institution. The College was founded in the 1960s by Dr. Charles Franklin Parker.

Today, Prescott College describes its mission as being to “educate students of diverse ages and backgrounds to understand, thrive in, and enhance our world community and environment.”

Environmental Science Degree Details

Prescott College offers an online Master of Arts in Environmental Studies. This is through its online division. It is flexible degree option. There are minimal visits to the campus for orientation. There is also a one on-campus colloquium each semester. These limited-residency requirements are designed for the students benefit. They provide mentored studies and in-person opportunities. These connect classmates and faculty alike. Potential paths within environmental studies and sustainability include the areas of:

• Conservation science
• Environmental education
• Social ecology and social sciences
• Environmental studies
• Film studies
• Sustainability science

Students can design and customize their degree based on their interests and career goals. They will work with experts in the field. 

15. California State University – Fullerton

California State University-Fullerton (CSUF) is a leading campus of CSU. It is accredited by the Western Association of Schools and Colleges. The University offers many of undergraduate and graduate programs.

Environmental Science Degree Details

California State University-Fullerton offers an online Master of Science. This is through its College of Engineering and Computer Science. It is designed to educate and prepare future leaders to serve in environment–related fields. The program follows the cohort model.  Students progress through the 2-year curriculum as a group.

The  program equips students with both technical knowledge and practical information on a number of relevant environmental topics and issues. Examples include:

• Potable water treatment
• Wastewater treatment and disposal
• Stormwater runoff management and treatment
• Water reclamation and reuse
• Solid and hazardous waste management
• Environmental studies
• Landfill design
• Remediation of contaminated groundwater and soil
• Global warming issues
• Air pollution control engineering
• Sustainable development

Students are prepared to sit for the professional engineering exam.

16. Auburn University

Auburn University is a public research university in Auburn, Alabama. It was the first land-grant institution in the south. The University opened as the East Alabama Male College under the Morrill Act in 1872. It became co-educational in 1892. Auburn University offers over 100 degree programs through its several colleges and schools.

It is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools. Auburn University also offers several programs which may be earned 100% online. There are also some that are a blend of on-campus and online delivery methods.

Environmental Science Degree Details

Auburn University offers a distance graduate degree program in Crop, Soil and Environmental Sciences. It is available as either a Master of Science or a Master of Agriculture. Both environmental studies programs consist of 30 total credit-hours. However, the former requires the GRE. The Master of Agriculture does not. 

The distance learning program resembles the University’s on-campus program. There are options to customize the curriculum to meet each student’s individual needs and professional goals. Course options include:

• Plant & Weed Science core courses
• Soil Science core courses
• Landscape Entomology
• Food Laws and Regulations
• Analysis of Plant, Soil, and Animal Data
  
• Environmental Policy analysis
• Environmental studies
• Developing, Implementing, and Auditing Food Safety Programs
• Introductory Mycology

Auburn University also offers both the Master of Science and the Master of Agriculture in Soil, Water and Environmental Sciences. It is a 36-hour, multi-institutional, multi-disciplinary program. This environmental scientist degree is a collaboration between the University of Georgia, North Carolina State University, and Texas Tech University.

Admissions

17. Kentucky State University

Kentucky State University is a public, comprehensive, historically black university in Frankfort, Kentucky. It is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools. Kentucky State offers many undergraduate and graduate programs. These are through its several colleges and schools.

The University also comprises an Honors College, Distance Education Department, The Institute of Life Long Learning, Reserve Officers Training Corps (ROTC), and Atwood Institute.

Environmental Science Degree Details

Kentucky State University offers a Master of Science in Environmental Studies. The program helps students become aware of the issues surrounding the restoration of balance between humanity and the changing environment. It is built on an understanding of the interactions between ecology, sociology, economics, and other disciplines.

The M.S. in Environmental Studies is available through the College of Agriculture, Food Science and Sustainable Systems. It “emphasizes the agricultural interface between humans and the environment.” Core course requirements include:

• Introduction to Environmental Studies
• Population and Community Ecology
• Biostatistics
• Environmental Studies
• Environmental Policy
• Energy and the Environment
• Student Team Project and Research

18. University of Illinois at Urbana – Champaign

The University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign (abbreviated U of I) is a public institution in the twin cities of Champaign and Urbana. These are in east-central Illinois. It opened in 1867. U of I has  a reputation as a world-class leader in teaching, public engagement, and research. It was named #1 among all universities according to the National Science Foundation, of whom the National Science Foundation awards funding. 

Environmental Science Degree Details

The University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign offers two online graduate programs in the area of environmental science. There is the Master of Science in Natural Resources and Environmental Sciences (NRES) and the Master of Science in Civil and Environmental Engineering. The program exists on Illinois Online. The NRES program is available through the College of Agricultural, Consumer and Environmental Sciences. The degree is available through the College of Engineering.

The latter program requires 36-credit-hours (no thesis requirements). It offers specialties in:

• Construction Management
• Infrastructure
• Transportation Engineering
• Structural Engineering

The NRES degree is a flexible program. It takes 32 credit-hours to complete. It covers the areas of:

• Natural Resources and Environmental Studies
• Agricultural Education
• Crop Sciences
• Environmental Policy
• Horticulture
• Environmental Studies
• Plant Patholog

19. Worcester Polytechnic Institute

Worcester Polytechnic Institute (WPI) is a private research university in Worcester, Massachusetts. It opened in 1865. It has 14 academic departments. WIP is accredited by the New England Association of Schools and Colleges. It offers over 50 undergraduate and graduate degree programs.

The environmental science degrees are taught by faculty members who are ranked top in the nation for quality and accessibility. WIP’s curriculum features a flexible, rigorous program.

Environmental Science Degree Details

Worcester Polytechnic Institute offers a Master of Science. It is available online. The program is designed with the unique needs of adult learners in mind. It offers a flexible curriculum that allows students to focus on their areas of interest. It is available with thesis or non-thesis options. The program may be pursued either full- or part-time.

Through WIP’s program, students are able to participate in cutting-edge research. They can also work on course projects. These provide a fuller understanding of both the professional and technical aspects of preserving the environment and protecting public health. Students gain many beneficial experiences in cutting-edge, interdisciplinary research.

20. Columbia University in the City of New York

Columbia University in the City of New York is a private, nonprofit institution. It is on West and Broadway in New York, New York. This graduate school is the oldest institution of higher learning in New York and the fifth oldest in the United States. Columbia University opened in 1754. Columbia University was the King’s College by the royal charter of King George II of England. 

Environmental Science Degree Details

Columbia University offers a Master of Science in Earth and Environmental Engineering through the Fu Foundation Graduate School of Engineering and Applied Science. It is a 30-credit-hour degree. The program is delivered online. It requires the GRE as well as a GPA of 3.0. It concentrates on the central theme of conscientious stewardship of natural resources.

The M.S. degree is designed for engineers and environmental scientists who are pursuing or already engaged in environmental management/development careers. The program’s focus is on sound mining and processing of primary materials. This is as well as the proper disposal of used materials.

21. University of Colorado Boulder

The University of Colorado Boulder (CU-Boulder) is a four-year, public, research university. It is in Boulder, Colorado. The graduate school is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission. CU-Boulder offers over 3,800 courses in 150 fields of study. It is several colleges and schools.

It is one of just 34 U.S. public research institutions to belong to the prestigious Association of American Universities (AAU). CU-Boulder is also the only member in the Rocky Mountain region to hold this membership. 

Environmental Science Degree Details

The University of Colorado Boulder offers two online master’s programs in the area of environmental studies. There is the Master of Science in Environmental Studies and the Master of Science in Environmental and Architectural Engineering. It serves as a “hub” for facilitating interdisciplinary collaboration in sustainability and environment. The  program is designed to provide interdisciplinary academic training.

At the same time, it provides guidance for students with career goals in environment and sustainability-related fields. CU-Boulder’s Civil Environmental and Architectural Engineering program is in the Graduate School’s Civil, Environmental, and Architectural Engineering Department. This focuses on producing environmental scientists engineers who are capable of “identifying, preventing, and solving building, construction and environmental problems.”  

Both Masters programs are offered with online delivery options. CU Boulder’s distance education courses are synchronous. Students can watch classes live and participate in classes from a distance.

22. Missouri University of Science and Technology

Missouri University of Science and Technology (Missouri S&T for short) is a four-year public research university. It is in Rolla, Missouri. It was one of the first technological institutions established west of the Mississippi. Missouri S&T was founded in 1870. It includes the prestigious association of the College of Arts, Sciences, and Business and the College of Engineering and Computing.

Environmental Science Degree Details

Missouri University of Science and Technology offers a Master of Science. It is a 30 credit-hour program. The degree focuses on “engineering analysis that incorporate the fundamental physical, biological and chemical characteristics of natural and engineered environmental systems, while putting these engineering solutions in the context of societal needs the requirements of environmental laws.”

It is available online through the University’s distance education department. The Master of Science degree program has no residency requirements and most classes do not require live participation. This allows students to view course material on their own schedules. Exams are handled by each environmental scientist professor. Some require a proctor. Others assign projects rather than exams. Graduate students have six years to complete the program. However, most students take 1 to 2 classes per semester and finish in 3 years.

23. University of Tennessee-Knoxville

The University of Tennessee – Knoxville is in Knoxville, TN on a 910-acre campus. The university (abbreviated UT) is a public research institution. It is Tennessee’s flagship  university. UT is a member of the University of Tennessee System. It opened in 1794 as Blount College. UT has seen countless changes and weathered many storms. UT is a Carnegie Engaged University. It is classified as a Doctoral University with the highest research activity by the Carnegie Foundation. It is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.

There are more than 900 programs (including over 360 undergraduate programs and 530+ graduate programs).

Environmental Science Degree Details

The University of Tennessee Knoxville offers a Master of Science in Environmental Engineering.  There are thesis and non-thesis options. The program requires a minimum of 30 credit hours for completion. This includes six credit hours of thesis (thesis option) or a three-hour special problems course (non-thesis).

You will also need to complete at least 24 credit hours of coursework. All non-thesis students must pass a final comprehensive written exam at the end of the  program. The  program is available with several concentration options. These include:

• Climate Impacts Engineering
• Environmental Engineering
• Water Resources Engineering
  

24. University of New Haven

The University of New Haven is a private, nonprofit, coeducational institution in West Haven, Connecticut. It opened on the Yale campus in 1920.

It is accredited by the New England Association of Schools and Colleges. New Haven offers over 100 academic programs through its several colleges and schools.

Environmental Science Degree Details

The University of New Haven offers an online Master of Science in Engineering. It is a 30-credit-hour degree. The online program builds on the rich tradition already established by its on-campus MS. It provides busy students the option to continue their education from anywhere in the world.

The online program is taught by the same world-class faculty members who teach on campus. It combines the same flexible curriculum with innovative instructional delivery methods. It is designed to create an ideal learning environment for adult learners.

The program can  be completed within 2 years of dedicated study. Each class lasts just 6-7.5 weeks in length. Each class integrates theory with real-world applications.  Many include a project in lieu of a final exam. This allows students to put into action what they learn in the classroom. 

25. Clarkson University

Clarkson University is an independent, nonprofit, technological university in Potsdam, New York.

It is accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education. Clarkson University offers many undergraduate and graduate programs.

Environmental Science Degree Details

Clarkson University offers a Master of Science in Civil & Environmental Engineering. 

The MS degree is available with both thesis and non-thesis options. The former typically takes 18-24 months to complete. It requires students to write and defend a thesis on their independent research. The latter option is a project-based program. It requires 30 credits in total. This includes all coursework and a project. This option is also available with a concentration in construction engineering management. Both  program options include interdisciplinary research. This is facilitated through the:

• Institute for a Sustainable Environment
• Center for Air Resources Engineering & Science
• Center for Advanced Materials Processing 
• Environmental Studies
• Environmental Policy
• Natural Sciences
• Cold Regions Engineering Research Group

26. Southern Methodist University

Southern Methodist University is a private, nonprofit research university in Dallas, Texas. It is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools. The University offers many undergraduate and graduate-level degree programs.

It has small class sizes, abundant research opportunities, leadership development, and innovative programs. The University’s mission is to “create, expand, and impart knowledge through teaching, research, and service.”

Environmental Science Degree Details

Southern Methodist University offers a Master of Science through the Lyle Graduate School of Engineering. The program is designed to address the fundamental science and regulatory aspects of the field. It also emphasizes engineering analysis and design of technological and management-oriented solutions to environmental problems. It is a flexible program. Students are able to enroll in either a master degree part- or maser degree full-time. Working individuals benefit by taking the non-thesis route.

This requires 30 credit hours of coursework. It is available with evening classes and online delivery options. The program accommodates the schedules of busy professionals.

Applicants must hold a Bachelor of Science in an engineering discipline or in a quantitative science. Applicants must also have completed a minimum of one year of college-level calculus. They should have completed at least one year of college-level chemistry, and possess a solid background in the fundamental engineering sciences (including thermodynamics and fluid mechanics).

27. Illinois Institute of Technology

The Illinois Institute of Technology (IIT) is a private, nonprofit, technology-focused research university. It is in Chicago, Illinois.

Environmental Science Degree Details

The Illinois Institute of Technology offers a Master of Science in Environmental Engineering. It is available through the Armour College of Engineering. Foundational courses include:

• Environmental chemistry
• Chemodynamics
• Biological science
• Natural Sciences
• Environmental Policy
• Physicochemical processes 
• Hazardous waste engineering

Students must maintain a GPA of 3.0/4.0 in the core areas. In addition to the core course requirements, students may also choose to concentrate in one of several areas of specialization. These include:

• Air Pollution Engineering
• Chemical Engineering
• Energy/Environment/Economics (E3)
• Environmental Chemistry
• Environmental Resource Management
• Hazardous Waste Engineering
• Water and Wastewater Engineering

28. American Public University

American Public University (APU) is a private institute. It is a member of the accredited American Public University system. This graduate school is a leader in online and distance-learning higher education. The University is headquartered in Charles Town, West Virginia.

The  graduate school is one of the largest providers in online higher education. APU offers over 200 degree and certificate programs. These are available in asynchronous, online formats. Classmates and professors stay connected via discussion boards, forums, blogs, and other forms of social media. Online students also have full access to APUs library, study resources, and academic advisors. 

Environmental Science Degree Details

American Public University offers a Master of Science in Environmental Policy and Management. It is a 36 credit-hour  program. The degree is online. It can be completed in as little as two years with full-time study.

The coursework equips students with the environmental management tools and strategies necessary for resolving complex environmental controversies and problems. The MS in Environmental Policy and Management has several concentration options. These help students gain further specialization in their field and include:

• Environmental Planning
• General
• Environmental Sustainability
• Global Environment Management
• Biological science
• Environmental Policy
• Natural Sciences and Social Sciences
• Fish and Wildlife Management
• National Environment Policy Act (NEPA)

29. University of Maryland – University College

The University of Maryland-University College (UMUC) is a four-year, public university. It is a member of the University System of Maryland. It is in Adelphi, Maryland. The University opened in 1949. It was the College of Special and Continuation Studies. It was a branch of the University of Maryland’s College.

It is dedicated to serving working adults and servicemembers. UMUC was the first university to send faculty overseas. This was to educate active-duty military personnel in Europe in 1949.

Environmental Science Degree Details

The University of Maryland University College offers the Master of Science degree in Environmental Management. It is available through the University’s Global Campus.

The program equips students with the necessary:

• business management skills
• industry-standard technology
• environmental science 

to assume high-level management responsibilities in many programs and organizations.

It is available 100% online. The s program requires 36 credits. Up to six of which may be transfer credits. Outcomes of the program include:

• the ability to assess threats, hazards and risks to the environment from an organization’s operations
• analyze and communicate health, safety, and environmental risks
• understand U.S. environmental and energy law and policy, including its development, implementation, and enforcement
• apply best practices in land use management, including where to build, how to build, and when to build

30. Webster University

Webster University is a private, nonprofit institution of higher education in St. Louis, Missouri. It opened in St. Louis in 1915, by the Sisters of Loretto, a Catholic religious organization. The University was first called Loretto College. It was progressive for its time as one of the first women’s colleges west of the Mississippi River. Today, Webster University is coeducational.

Environmental Science Degree Details

Webster University offers a Master of Science in Environmental Management. It is available online through the College of Arts & Sciences. The program equips students with the tools and techniques to navigate the business aspects of environmental management.

The program has an emphasis in environmental sustainability. This provides environmental managers with specialized coursework. Graduates will be able to conduct environmental research. They can:

• Communicate risk from an organization’s operations
• Assess environmental-related risk
• Identify environmental hazards affecting air, water, and soil quality
• Develop controls to reduce or eliminate risk
• Use geographic information systems (geographic information systems is often shortened to GIS)

31. Southern New Hampshire University

Southern New Hampshire University (abbreviated SNHU) is a private, nonprofit, nonsectarian university. It is in Manchester, New Hampshire. This school is one of the fastest-growing universities in the nation. It has 3,000 traditional campus students and 80,000 online students. SNHU offers 200 career-focused online and on-campus college degree programs.

Environmental Science Degree Details

Southern New Hampshire University offers an online Master of Business Administration in Sustainability & Environmental Compliance. It is designed for motivated, adult learners who are eager to make a difference in the world. The program educates students on how to apply practical solutions to the biggest environmental challenges. Graduates will demonstrate an understanding of how energy requirements affect society and the environment. They will also:

• have the ability to examine energy-related issues
• understand and address the ecological consequences of a given situation
• present accurate and cogent arguments to decision-makers that provide a diversity of perspectives

There are many benefits of enrolling in SNHU’s online courses. These include:

• top-quality academics
• solid student support
• convenience and flexibility
• abundant networking opportunities
• affordability

It is an efficient program. Full-time students are able to complete their degree in as little as 15 months. This can be done by taking two courses per 10-week term.

32. Slippery Rock University of Pennsylvania

Slippery Rock University of Pennsylvania is a comprehensive, four-year, public, coeducational university. It is in Slippery Rock, Pennsylvania. It opened in 1889 as the Slippery Rock State Normal School. Its original purpose was the training of teachers.  Slippery Rock University offers 150 undergraduate majors and minors. There are 40 master’s degree programs and 3 doctorate programs.

Environmental Science Degree Details

Slippery Rock University of Pennsylvania offers the Master of Education in Environmental Education. It is in the College of Health, Environment and Science and the Parks and Conservation Department. The program is accredited by the Council on Accreditation of Parks, Recreation, Tourism and Related Professions (COAPRT). It is geared toward working educators as well as working natural resource managers.

It is a 30-credit hour program. The degree may be completed in as little as two calendar years. It is taught by experienced university faculty. The program’s coursework focuses on the “theory, practice, and application of experiential, inquiry-based environmental education and communication.”

33. Sam Houston State University

Sam Houston State University (abbreviated SHSU) is a public university in Huntsville, Texas. It is a member of The Texas State University System. SHSU was founded as a Normal School in 1879 by the Texas Legislature. It had the original purpose of training public school teachers.  It offers over 80 bachelor’s degree programs, more than 50 master’s, and five doctoral degrees.

Environmental Science Degree Details

Sam Houston State University offers the Master of Agriculture degree with a major in Sustainable Agriculture and Food Environment (SAFE). It is in SHSU Online and the Department of Agricultural Sciences and Engineering Technology. The program focuses on sustainable agriculture and food systems. It is designed to prepare individuals for advanced studies in agriculture. This is while it is “integrating the framework of sustainable practices.”

The program curriculum covers the areas of applied knowledge of plants, animals, and soils. It blends eco-friendly practices with problem-solving skills. This is for the purpose of advocating the role of agriculture in the creation of healthy communities.

It is a 36-credit-hour program. All courses are taught by talented and credentialed professors in small classes. SHSU Online is committed to supporting students. It provides 24/7 support access. Online students can rest assured that they are earning an accredited degree from SHSU. There is nothing on their degree or transcript that indicates online learning. All of SHSU’s course credits – whether earned on campus or online – are considered equal.

Admissions

34. Colorado State University

Colorado State University is in Fort Collins, Colorado. Colorado State University is a public, doctoral, research institution. It is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

Colorado State University also has a strong online presence. This is thanks to the CSU-Global Campus. Many of the University’s internet-based programs are offered here. 

Environmental Science Degree Details

Colorado State University offers a Master of Science in Environmental Health. It has a specialization in Environmental Health & Safety. It is in the Graduate’s School’s Department of Environmental and Radiological Health Sciences. The department is home to one of the largest environmental health programs in the nation. It is the only one to incorporate radiological health into the core curriculum. The potential career paths for environmental health professionals include:

• Toxicologist
• Occupational health nurses and physicians
• Epidemiologists
• Industrial hygienists
• Air and water pollution specialists
• Sanitarians
• Natural Sciences
• Environmental Policy
• Biological science
• Hazardous and solid waste specialists
• Health educators

35. University of Wisconsin – Madison

The University of Wisconsin-Madison is a four-year, public, research institution. It is in Madison, Wisconsin. The school opened in 1848. It is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission. It offers many programs including over 250 master’s, doctoral, and professional programs.

There are over 200 undergraduate majors and certificates through its several colleges and schools.

Environmental Science Degree Details

The University of Wisconsin-Madison offers the Master of Science in Environmental Conservation. This is through the Nelson Institute for Environmental Studies. It intended to meet emerging global challenges and demands. The program was designed to offer environmental leadership training. It was created in close consultation with environmental practice leaders. It is a 15-month accelerated program.

The degree’s curriculum exists in a blended format with a mix of on-campus and remote experiences. These accommodate the busy lives of working professionals. There are on-campus classes during the summer and fall semesters (two of Wisconsin’s most beautiful seasons). During the spring all classes are able to be accessed  online from anywhere around the globe. In the fourth and final semester, students complete the Master of Science leadership project.

36. Duke University

Duke University is a private, nonprofit, research institution located in Durham, North Carolina. It opened in 1924. The University has top-quality academics, faculty members, and research. It includes several schools and institutes.

Environmental Science Degree Details

Duke University offers the Master of Environmental Management through the Nicholas School of the Environment. It is also known as the Duke Environmental Leadership Master of Environmental Management (DEL-MEM). The program offers “working professionals the opportunity to continue their education, advance their careers, and become leaders in their organizations.”

It is in an innovative, flexible, online format. The program is designed to allow students to balance the demands of both work and personal life. That’s all the while earning their master’s degree. The DEL-MEM provides students with:

• relevant curriculum in which real-life case studies are tackled
• a multidisciplinary approach which utilizes the University’s resources in environmental science, engineering, policy, and business
• courses that are taught by top-notch faculty
• opportunities for leadership development
• coursework that can be applied to the benefit of each student’s career at their organization or agency

37. University of Denver

The University of Denver is a private nonprofit institution. It is in Denver, Colorado. It is a student-centered school that emphasizes learning by doing. The University strives for the values of excellence, innovation, engagement, integrity and inclusiveness.

It is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission. The University of Denver offers a wide range of undergraduate and graduate degree programs. This is through its several colleges, schools and divisions.

Environmental Science Degree Details

The University of Denver offers the Master of Environmental Policy and Management through the University College. It is designed to equip students to solve environmental challenges presented in both local and global communities.

The program focuses on the complex relationships between the environment, management, and policy. It challenges students to become problem solvers. This is through innovative thinking, strategic analysis, and ethical leadership. There are evening classes or online. Each term lasts 10 weeks in length. There are GRE or GMAT admission requirements. Many students complete the environmental studies program in as little as 12 months with full-time study or 18 months. This is when enrolled part-time. There are a number of concentrations. Options include:

• Energy and Sustainability
• Environmental Analytics and Reporting
• Environmental Management
• Environmental Policy
• Natural Sciences
• Biological science
• Environmental, Health and Safety
• Natural Resource Management

38. Arizona State University

ASU is in the greater Phoenix metropolitan area. Arizona State University (ASU) is a top ranked public university. It is headquartered in downtown Tempe. Arizona, ASU operates several campuses and regional learning centers all across the state. It is one of the largest public universities in the country in terms of enrollment. ASU is classified by Carnegie as a research university with the “highest research activity”. It opened in 1885 by an act passed by the Arizona Territorial Legislature. ASU was first called the Territorial Normal School at Tempe. In 1945 the school became Arizona State College. In 1958 it was renamed Arizona State University.

ASU offers more than 100 undergraduate and graduate degree programs through its online platform. This platform is headquartered in Scottsdale, AZ. ASU’s online classes are taught by the same faculty. Students receive the same diploma as traditional students.

Environmental Science Degree Details

Arizona State University offers the Master of Science in Environmental and Resource Management (M.S. in ERM). This is through the Ira A. Fulton Schools of Engineering. Though categorized as campus-based, the environmental studies program’s are classes are able to be completed at a distance online. This makes it ideal for working professionals from across the country or the world. The M.S. in ERM is available with three options:

• a thesis
• an applied project
• coursework only with a comprehensive written exam administered at the end of the program

The ERM program is ideal for students coming from a wide range of undergraduate degree backgrounds, including:

• the sciences (chemistry, biology, geology, environmental science, etc)
• engineering
• industrial hygiene
• public policy

Two areas of concentration are also available. These are in either environmental management or international environmental management and sustainable development. Core classes for either focus area include:

• environmental law
• toxicology
• natural sciences
• chemistry of hazardous materials

39. University of Tennessee Martin

The University of Tennessee-Martin is one of five campuses within the University of Tennessee System. It is in Martin, Tennessee. The University is a public, coeducational institution of higher education. 

Environmental Science Degree Details

The University of Tennessee-Martin offers the Master of Science degree in Agriculture & Natural Resources. It exists in the Department of Agriculture, Geosciences, and Natural Resources. The environmental studies program is designed to “meet the growing needs of place-bound Agriculture and Natural Resources professionals.” It is 100% online. The 36-credit-hour environmental studies program is available with three concentration options in:

• Agribusiness & Risk Management
• System Science in Agriculture
• Natural Resources Systems Management.

The latter concentration includes courses related to natural resource management such as the areas of:

• wildlife biology
• park administration
• geosciences
• agricultural engineering technology

The Agribusiness & Risk Management concentration provides a range of agricultural economics coursework. It addresses risk management issues related to agribusiness enterprises. The Systems Science in Agriculture concentration features coursework in the areas of:

• agricultural engineering technology
• management science
• Environmental Policy
• agricultural economics

40. Texas Tech University

Texas Tech University is a comprehensive public research university. It is in Lubbock, Texas. It is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC).

It is listed by the Carnegie Classification of Institutions of Higher Education with the “Highest Research Activity” possible. Texas Tech is committed to both teaching and the advancement of knowledge.

Environmental Science Degree Details

Texas Tech University offers the Professional Science Master’s degree (PSM) in Environmental Sustainability and Natural Resource Management. This is through its Graduate School. It is an interdisciplinary online master’s degree. The environmental studies program’s purpose is to prepare graduates for science careers in the areas of business, government, and nonprofit sectors. It also focuses on “sustainability science as it applies to natural resources and the environment.”

The master’s degree combines the study of science with:

• practical training in management
• financial understanding
• teamwork
• communication skills
• marketing concepts that are essential for a student success in their professional career.

The environmental studies program is available in two program tracks. One is in Ecology and Environmental Sustainability. This is available through the College of Arts and Sciences and the Department of Biological Sciences. The other is in Natural Resources Management. This is available through the College of Agricultural Science and Natural Resources and the Department of Natural Resources Management.  

41. The University of Findlay

The University of Findlay is a private, coeducational, Christian institution. It is in Findlay, Ohio. It opened in 1882 by joint partnership between the city of Findley and the Churches of God, General Conference. Today the University offers science, health professions, animal science and equestrian studies programs. 

The University of Findlay offers a wide range of undergraduate and graduate degree programs. These include over 80 bachelor’s, about a dozen master’s and four doctoral degrees.

Environmental Science Degree Details

The University of Findlay offers the Master of Science in Environmental Safety and Health Management (MSESHM). It is available in a variety of formats. These include online, on-campus, or a blend of the two. The MSESHM equips students with the skills to “make managerial decisions and provide leadership in environmental, safety and occupational health careers.”

The program includes eight core curriculum courses. There are twelve semester hours of electives. The environmental science degree is also available with certificate options. These are  available in addition to or independent of the master’s degree. Options include:

• Emergency and Disaster Management
• Environmental Science Management
• Occupational Health and Safety Management

The environmental science master’s degree combines engineering, science, policy and business concepts. These are designed to prepare students in five key areas. These areas are:

• Business Knowledge in Environmental Science
• Analytical Skills in Environmental Science
• Managerial Skills in Environmental Science
• Environmental Policy
• Technical Knowledge in Environmental Science
• Integrative Skills in Environmental Science

42. Virginia Tech University

Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University (Virginia Tech) is a public university. It is in Blacksburg, Virginia. It is dedicated to serving the “Commonwealth of Virginia, the nation, and the world community.” The school is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools. It offers 110 bachelor’s degree programs and 170 master’s and doctoral degree programs. This is through its several colleges, schools, and Graduate School.

Environmental Science Degree Details

Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University offers a Masters in Agricultural and Life Science program. It is available with 100% online delivery. The environmental  program provides broad, scientific-based courses. These are in the areas of agriculture, life sciences, and related fields. It is geared towards place-bound working professionals in environmental science. The program’s online delivery provides maximum flexibility. This enables working students to earn their master’s degree while maintaining their other responsibilities from the convenience of their own home.

The environmental science program includes a set of core courses and five concentration options. These build upon the core curriculum. These concentration options include:

• Education
• Environmental Science
• Food Safety and Biosecurity
• Leadership Studies
• Environmental Policy
• Plant Science and Pest Management
• Applied Nutrition and Health Sciences

Virginia Tech is an approved SARA Institution. It is a participant in the National Council for State Authorization Reciprocity Agreements (NC-SARA). 

43. North Carolina A&T State University

North Carolina A&T State University is a public, coeducational institution. It is in Greensboro. It opened in 1890. NC A&T is home to an award-winning faculty. It offers intensive research programs. It has community-focused initiatives. It is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools. The University offers a wide range of undergraduate and graduate degrees and certificate programs. This is through its several colleges and schools.

Environmental Science Degree Details

North Carolina A&T State University offers a Master of Science in Agricultural and Environmental Systems. It has a concentration in Natural Resources and Environmental Systems. It is available through the College of Agriculture and Environmental Sciences and the Department of Natural Resources and Environmental Design.

The College is a leader in research within the University. The environmental science program provides ample opportunity for students. They gain valuable research experience while working and learning from the College’s top environmental scientists. The environmental science program’s concentration in Natural Resources and Environmental Systems is outstanding. It offers “wide-ranging areas of study to equip our graduates with the knowledge and resources to effectively develop solutions [for] current and future challenges in environmental sustainability and agricultural production.”

Applications for the environmental science program must be submitted through the University’s Graduate School. Admissions during the Fall and Spring semester are open to both domestic and international students. Summer semester admissions are only open to domestic students.

44. University of Wisconsin Stevens Point

The University of Wisconsin-Stevens Point is a four-year institution. It is in Stevens Point, Wisconsin. The school is accredited through the Higher Learning Commission. The University offers a wide range of undergraduate, master’s, and doctoral degree programs. There are also certificate options. These are  through its several colleges.

Environmental Science Degree Details
The University of Wisconsin-Stevens Point offers the Master of Science in Natural Resources through the College of Natural Resources. The environmental science program is available with an emphasis in a number of areas. These include:

• Forestry
• Wildlife
• Fisheries
• Water Resources
• Environmental Education and Interpretation
• Soil Science
• Waste Management

Special outreach and extension environmental science programs within the degree include options offered by the Wisconsin Center for Environmental Education. This provides “leadership and resources to advance education for sustainable human and natural communities.” The Center offers opportunities for:

• professional development
• hands-on classroom resources
• curriculum for energy, environmental, and forestry education

45. University of Wisconsin Whitewater

The University of Wisconsin-Whitewater is a four-year, public university. It is in Whitewater, Wisconsin.

It is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission. The University offers a wide range of programs through its several colleges and schools.

Environmental Science Degree Details

The University of Wisconsin-Whitewater offers the Master of Science in Environmental Safety and Health. It is designed for working professionals. The environmental science program is in an online format. This is both convenient and flexible for students who are busy maintaining career and personal responsibilities with their education.

The online M.S. in Environmental Safety & Health (ESH) focuses on issues such as:

• traditional regulatory compliance
• risk management
• environmental stewardship
• sustainability

The environmental science program’s curriculum is reviewed and approved by the Board of Certified Safety Professionals. It is a GSP® Qualified Academic Program.

Graduates will be able to:

• implement and manage effective ESH programs
• influence risk perception by applying appropriate communication strategies
• perform risk assessments using a systems perspective
• prepare for and develop the capability to respond to emergencies in the workplace

46. Pennsylvania State University

 Pennsylvania State University (often referred to as Penn State) is a public, research-intensive university. It is in University Park, Pennsylvania. There are 24 campus locations across Pennsylvania as well as a teaching hospital. Penn State is the largest public university in the state. It is Pennsylvania’s only land-grant institution. The University has over 23,000 acres and 1,784 buildings statewide. This includes 7,343 acres and 947 buildings at its main University Park campus.

Out of its 17,000 faculty members, 30 are members of National Academies of Science, Engineering and Medicine. Penn State offers more than 160 bachelor’s degree programs. There are over 160 graduate degree programs.

Environmental Science Degree Details

Pennsylvania State University offers the Master of Professional Studies in Renewable Energy and Sustainability Systems. This is through the Penn State World Campus, the University’s online branch. It is a 32-credit-hour online environmental science program. It is designed to provide students with technical depth. This is in areas related to renewable energy.
It also aims to equip them with a “comprehensive understanding of the applications of technology in society, the energy economics, and the project development process.”

Students are encouraged to customize their degree. They can choose an area of emphasis. Options are in either Solar Energy or Sustainability Management and Policy. The degree is available through Penn State World Campus. The environmental science program draws upon the strong partnership that exists between the University’s four colleges and eight academic departments. This gives students the opportunity to benefit from the array of unique perspectives and expertise of the University’s faculty.

47. University of Colorado-Denver

  The University of Colorado-Denver is a comprehensive, public research university. It is in downtown Denver, Colorado.

The University of Colorado-Denver is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission. It offers over 140 programs across its several locations. This is through its many colleges and schools.

Environmental Science Degree Details

The University of Colorado-Denver offers the Master of Public Administration. It has a concentration in Environmental Policy, Management, and Law (EPML). It is available through the School of Public Affairs. The EPML program is available as a stand-alone graduate certificate environmental science program. It is also a concentration option within the MPA degree. The curriculum provides students with an understanding of how the environment is affected. This is by the relationships between entities such as:

• legislatures
• administrative agencies
• courts
• federal, state, and local governments
• government and the nonprofit and private sectors
• government and the public

48. University of Wisconsin – Stout

The University of Wisconsin-Stout is a public, comprehensive, career-focused polytechnic university. It is in Menomonie, Wisconsin.

It is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission. The University of Wisconsin-Stout (UW-Stout) offers many undergraduate and graduate degree programs. This is through its several colleges and schools.

Environmental Science Degree Details

The University of Wisconsin-Stout offers the Master of Science in Sustainable Management. It is a 34-credit-hour environmental science program. The M.S. in Sustainable Management is available 100% online. It may be completed at the student’s own pace and on their own schedule. The environmental science program is designed to prepare students who are well-versed in the areas of both business and science. It equips them with the skills to communicate complex issues.

It also helps them understand the role and impact of the built environment. They learn to evaluate the social and political impact of sustainability. Graduates possess the ability to impact the design of products, processes, energy production and use. They even learn how to minimize waste and prevent pollution. Graduates possess the ability to analyze the relationship between human activity and various environments. 

It is a unique environmental science program. The M.S. in Sustainable Management is a collaboration between five partner institutions. These include UW-Stout as well as UW-Parkside, UW-River Falls, and UW-Superior.

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From global markets to consumer behavior, purchasing power to pricing indices, there are all kinds of strategic business decisions that require a fine-tuned understanding of economics. 

Yet many people overlook the power of earning an MBA in economics, opting instead to enroll in a more generalized program of study. Although a general MBA (or Master of Business Administration) can definitely get you where you need to go, consider this—earn one of the best affordable online MBA in economics degrees instead.

There are plenty of reasons to do this. Whether you want to pursue a career in finance, government, or banking, you will need to have relevant skills and training in the economics of today, tomorrow, and the future to become competitive—and to become a true leader.

You have several options if you’re preparing for a career in economics. Many students choose to pursue a Master’s of Arts in economics, and while these degrees are often a good fit for students seeking jobs in the public and private sectors, this kind of degree is more popular for a candidate who will eventually go on to earn a Ph.D. 

You might also consider a Master of Science in economics, which, depending on your career goals, may or may not be the right fit. Usually, a Master of Science degree will be a bit more technically-focused, often including coursework in things like statistics, computer science, or data science. 

Naturally, one of the most popular graduate degrees in economics is the MBA in economics. This kind of degree will offer you all the benefits of a general business degree, yet will also give you a solid foundation in marketing, leadership, accounting, and economics. You’ll be prepared for a broad spectrum of career opportunities as a manager and as a leader.

Fortunately, some of the world’s best business schools now offer MBA degrees with concentrations in economics. That’s great news if you don’t want to sacrifice an education at a leading institution in order to pursue your goals.

But what if you are already working—and either don’t want or simply can’t afford to leave your current job? 

You might want to consider an online MBA in economics. 

Not only does earning an online degree make it possible for you to earn a degree from virtually anywhere in the world, but it can also save you some serious money. Online degrees tend to be more affordable than their on-campus counterparts, offering a better alternative to traditional learning. You won’t have to pay for things like parking, transportation, or room and board, so your expenses will automatically be lower.

Plus, tuition for online programs is often cheaper than what you would pay if you were attending on-campus. 

You don’t have to sacrifice quality for cost and convenience, either. In fact, some of the best and most affordable MBA in economics degrees are now offered online—and they’re identical to their campus-based counterparts. 

Intrigued? Keep reading to learn more about how to find the right online MBA in economics—as well as why you should consider applying soon.

Common Application and Admission Questions

Applying for an online MBA in economics starts with finding the right schools. Sure, you can apply to every single one of the colleges on this list—but while many have free or low application fees, the costs are eventually going to add up. Plus, you’ll drive yourself crazy with all the options!

Instead, start by narrowing down your list of potential schools. A good first step is to consider which features matter most to you when it comes to earning a degree. Do you want a school that offers flexible courses that can be rearranged to fit your schedule—or would you rather take classes in a prescribed order?

How about the course delivery? Do you want classes that are offered synchronously, meaning you’ll receive instructions and complete assignments at the same time as other classmates, or would you rather pursue your studies independently in an asynchronous format?

Whatever the case may be, look for a program that is accredited, ideally one that has received an additional nod from the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business. You will want to look closely at the curriculum for your program of choice, too. In general, an MBA’s curriculum will contain core foundational courses in things like management, accounting, finance, and economics. 

You should look for a degree that, by the time you graduate, will equip you with the skills and abilities necessary to understand the core concepts of modern business management, analysis, and decision making. Usually, your class schedule will be divided between classes that are foundational or “core” courses along with those that are intensive in economics.

Because of this, many universities require applicants to possess undergraduate degrees in business or related areas prior to admission. If you don’t have a bachelor’s in business, don’t panic, many schools do not have this requirement or will allow you to make up for the deficit by taking a few required courses once you enroll. In general, you’ll be expected to have a respectable GPA (3.0 tends to be the baseline, but again, this can vary).

While many schools used to require submission of GRE or GMAT test scores, this is not always the case anymore. In fact, many universities that offer online MBAs in economics no longer have this requirement. Instead, you can demonstrate your skills and abilities by submitting other supporting documents, such as letters of recommendation, a personal essay, and perhaps an interview. 

It is important to note that some universities also require applicants to possess a certain level of work experience. This is because many programs place a high value on real-world experience and want to see that their applicants have what it takes to succeed in a fast-paced business world. While you will often be called upon to supply evidence of this experience via letters of recommendation, you might also do this by submitting a curriculum vitae or resume.

Whatever the case may be, be sure to research the requirements of your university of choice so that you can make sure you’ve checked off all of the boxes when you apply. 

What About Financial Aid & Scholarships?

Paying for an MBA is a major financial commitment—after all, these degrees can easily cost more than $50,000 over the lifespan of the program. 

When you figure that most students pay for their studies with a combination of personal funds and student loans, it might seem next to impossible for you to be able to afford the high price of higher education.

Fortunately, there are plenty of ways to finance an MBA even if you’re strapped for cash—or don’t want to take on a mountain of debt to do so. Not only are there tons of fellowships, scholarships, and other “free monies” available to students who put the effort into applying, but choosing an affordable program can help you lower your expenses right from the outset.

How do you know whether a program is affordable? Don’t be tricked into assuming that, just because a degree is offered by a public university, it’s automatically cheaper than its private school counterparts. Although the “sticker price” for most private schools’ tuition tends to be much higher than what you’d find with a public school, the reality is that many private universities offer additional subsidies and financial aid to students that can significantly offset that higher sticker price.

As a result, you may end up paying significantly less for tuition at a private school than you would at a public school, so it’s worth it to do the research.

Then, make sure you put the legwork in to find all of the financial aid opportunities that are available to you. Chat with the financial aid office at your school of choice to see what kinds of awards you might qualify for. If you are a former or active duty military member (or family member of one), for example, you might qualify for significant discounts in tuition. 

Next, fill out the FAFSA. The FAFSA, or Free Application for Federal Student Aid, is available starting January 1 of the year in which you intend to enroll. This form will take into consideration your “net worth,” as evidenced by documents such as tax returns, W2s, and other earnings statements. You’ll have to provide financial information for yourself, your spouse, if you have one, and/or for your parents, if you are still a dependent.

If you are deemed to have financial need, you may qualify for various state and federal grant and loan programs. Filling out the FAFSA can also qualify you for opportunities like teaching assistantships, fellowships, work studies, and subsidized loans on campus, too. It doesn’t take long to fill out this form, so be sure you do it long before you plan to start school. That way, you’ll have plenty of time to get all your ducks in a row.

Don’t overlook potential outside sources of aid, either. Check with your employer to see if they will help finance part of the cost of your education—many large and small companies alike have generous tuition reimbursement plans. You can look to outside organizations for scholarships, too. Lots of industries, such as the insurance industry, as well as nonprofit organizations, offer significant amounts of money for MBA candidates.

How Much Can I Make With an MBA in Economics? 

With a degree in economics, you’ll have a large variety of jobs available to you. While some employers will consider candidates who have only earned bachelor’s degrees, earning an MBA in economics is a surefire way to get your resume to the top of the pile.

All kinds of organizations depend on finances and the management of assets, so it makes sense that, with one of these degrees, you’ll be able to take your career in any direction. You could find yourself working for a bank or an insurance agency, for a nonprofit organization, or for a government institution. 

Whatever the case may be, you’re sure to find the career choice that’s smart for you. Because your studies will pair relevant case studies with sound business theory, you will be well-prepared to make challenging decisions and solve complex problems in business management. You can pursue a variety of leadership positions or hold a career as an economist, management consultant, or financial manager. 

Because this field is so varied, you’re likely to see a wide range of salaries. Generally, as the work of the economics expert plays such a significant role in the success and creation of an organization, there’s a high potential for solid earnings. You will likely earn a lucrative salary regardless of the career you pursue.

In fact, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the average annual wage reported by economists (one of the leading job titles for graduates of MBA in economics programs) in 2019 was $105,020. The best-paid workers, or those who were employed in finance and insurance, earned the highest salaries, bringing in more than $120,770 per year. 

Employees of the federal government, as well as those who worked in scientific research and development, management, technical, and scientific consulting services, also earned salaries that far exceeded $100,000 per year.

That’s not to say that your only potential role could be as an economist, however. Plenty of workers in this industry are employed as social scientists or in similar occupations.

The job outlook for this field is phenomenal, too. Although this occupation is admittedly small, the field and overall employment are expected to grow by a whopping 14% between 2019 and 2029—that’s much faster than average across all occupations. Many jobs will be those that specialize in consulting and research. 

Why such a high demand? For starters, it’s because economic analysis and quantitative methods are needed in just about every industry. Companies are increasingly turning to economists to help them study and forecast sales, market trends, and business. As the global economy becomes more complex and technologically advanced, this demand is only expected to grow.

And how do you make yourself more marketable for one of these in-demand jobs? By earning an affordable online MBA in economics, of course! Your job prospects will be the strongest if you earn a master’s degree and have strong analytical skills along with skills in a specialized area (such as the use of statistical analysis software). 

What Are the Best Affordable Online MBA in Economics Degrees?

We know that you have educational goals that you’re itching to pursue, but you may not know where to start. The editors of Master’s Programs Guide utilize a unique ranking methodology based on the following five aspects:

25% Overall Degree Affordability: Average cost of undergraduate and graduate tuition per school

25% Graduation Rate: Number of students who start at the university and actually finish there

20% Earnings Potential: Average mid-career salary of school alumni

20% Selectivity: The number of students who apply versus the number who actually get accepted

10% Online Graduate Offerings: The number of programs offered online in each department

At Master’s Programs Guide, we strive to do our best to guide you and your family toward a fruitful academic career. The pursuit of knowledge is a noble one, and we want to help you reach your goals.

#1. Southern Illinois University-Carbondale

Online MBA with an Emphasis in Agricultural Economics

The role of economics in agriculture is an important, yet highly specialized, topic. If that’s where you find that your interests lie, you may have trouble finding the right program to meet your needs—until you consider Southern Illinois University-Carbondale, that is.

This program, an online MBA with an emphasis in agricultural economics, will help you build the skills you need in areas like business and farm management, banking and finance, farm appraisal, market and policy analysis, and more. You’ll take a wide variety of hands-on courses such as Agricultural Development, Agribusiness Economics Research Methodology, and Policies of the Agricultural Sector.

This degree is just one of more than 200 offered by this public university. Established in 1869, the university is a member of the Southern Illinois University system and was originally founded as a teacher training school. It is one of the most diverse schools in the state, having a 30% minority enrollment and an average undergraduate age of nearly 24 years old.

It goes without saying that Southern Illinois University-Carbondale caters to students of all backgrounds, interests, ages, and skill levels. The affordable online MBA in agricultural economics is no exception, with students from all over the country flocking to the physical and virtual campuses alike to take classes here. 

You’ll have the opportunity to study with working professionals from all over the country as you earn a degree—all without disrupting your career. You can learn in a convenient and flexible online format, taking classes that are taught by the same talented faculty members who teach on campus. 

The program is accredited by the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of BUsiness. Additional concentrations are available in subjects like analytics for managers, making it possible for you to fine-tune your training to whatever setting suits you best. You’ll have access to plenty of hands-on opportunities for applied research in the field and be able to pursue a rewarding career in rural development, agriculture, and natural resources upon graduation. 

Ready to start your journey? You’ll need to have a bachelor’s degree from an accredited university, but a business major is not required. You will need to pay a $65 application fee and apply online. A minimum undergraduate GPA of 2.7 is required, as is a minimum 3.0 GPA on all previous graduate coursework. Although you can apply at any time, it is wise to apply as early as possible (or within at least eight months) of when you plan to start your degree.

Tuition at Southern Illinois University-Carbondale is remarkably affordable. In fact, as a public university, the school offers low tuition rates—and uniquely, the tuition rate that you pay during your first year is locked in for the duration of your studies. Nearly 80% of all students here receive some form of financial aid, with many individuals qualifying for and receiving scholarships.

#2. Ball State University

Online MBA with a Health Economics Emphasis

Originally the Indiana State Normal School, Ball State University, located in Muncie, IN, first opened its doors in 1918. At the time, the school was founded to train future teachers for careers in education. 

Today, however, the school has rapidly expanded its offerings, educating more than 22,000 students at the associate to doctoral level. Courses are available both on campus, online, and in a hybrid setting. 

The online Master of Business Administration at Ball State is accredited by the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business, a prestigious designation not shared by all other business schools. In fact, Ball State is among the world’s top 5% of all business schools to have this accreditation. 

You’ll find this degree in the prestigious Miller College of Business, where a number of high-quality programs are offered with rock bottom tuition rates.

In fact, you’ll pay just around $15,000 for all the tuition of this program—without skipping on quality. It’s also easy to begin your studies. You can take classes in whatever format suits you best and choose to begin your studies in the spring, summer, or fall. Needless to say, a Ball State education will pay for itself—but there are lots of financial aid opportunities to help you bridge the gap in the meantime. Four out of every 5 students here receive some form of financial aid, with 500 scholarships granted each year to incoming students. 

The MBA has a reputation for providing students with insightful instruction that is practical, yet academically rigorous, with a special emphasis on the roles that globalization and digitalization play when it comes to the economy. You’ll build your skills in strategy, ethics, leadership, and more. Upon graduation, you will be highly sought-after by top employers—in fact, 329 employers, on average, are engaged per year in on-campus recruiting efforts.

With 24 credits of core courses and up to 9 credits of MBA electives covering topics like marketing, leadership, finance, business analytics, and entrepreneurship, this program offers extensive flexibility as you plan your studies. 

The online MBA has a special concentration in health economics, policy, and administration, one of the best for students considering MBA degrees in economics. That’s not your only concentration option, however. There are also concentrations in sales management, logistics and supply chain management, and entrepreneurship, too. In fact, there are ten other concentrations you can choose from in addition to a general, stand-alone MBA.

Don’t you have a business degree? Not a problem. You’ll just take an additional 7 to 13 credit hours, depending on how many foundation courses you need and which concentration you choose. It will be easy for you to catch up—and get ahead. Flexible and customizable, this program is offered by a school that is ranked as one of the best online MBAs overall by the U.S. News & World Report. 

 And if you’re not sure that a full-fledged MBA is the right choice for you, don’t fret. Ball State offers a business essentials certificate that provides learners with an easy way to earn credits toward an MBA, simply by completing the foundational courses. You might also consider pursuing an additional certificate in professional sales or health economics, depending on your goals.

#3. Wright State University-Main Campus

Online MBA with an Emphasis in Business Economics

Looking for an MBA that will enable you to study abroad? If so, you might want to consider the online MBA with an emphasis in business economics at Wright State University. This program offers numerous opportunities for learners to get off-campus and to build their competencies with experiences outside of the classroom. 

Ranked in the top 2% of business colleges in the nation by the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business, the Raj Soin College of Business has been accredited by this organization since 1974. The school works with a corporate advisory panel made up of many of the Miami Valley’s top business executives. This cohort provides valuable perspectives to make sure that the curriculum of the program remains relevant and up-to-date in a fast-changing business environment. 

Impressed by the competitive edge Wright State has when it comes to offering exceptional business programs? While this school’s reputation is certainly noteworthy, it’s definitely nothing new.

Founded in 1964, Wright State University has had quite an impressive reputation throughout its entire history. The school first opened its doors as a partnership between Miami University and Ohio State University in an effort to extend higher education opportunities to a larger geographic area. Today, the school is highly regarded with the Raj Soin College of Business receiving numerous accolades for its high-quality programs.

This is where you will find the online MBA with an emphasis in business economics. For a total cost of less than $30,000, you’ll be able to complete an MBA from an entirely remote setting. You’ll have access to all the student services you need without ever having to step foot on campus.

As a result, you will be able to move quickly and efficiently through the curriculum. Most candidates complete their degrees in fewer than two years, but you can take up to five years to graduate if your life circumstances make this necessary. 

Business economics is not the only concentration for you to choose from, either. You might consider additional highly marketable options like finance; healthcare management; international business; investments; or management, innovation, and change.

While enrolled, you’ll take classes in topics like supply chain management, implementing competitive strategies, and marketing strategy. All core classes are offered online every semester, with at least three concentration courses offered online each term. You’ll learn from the same award-winning faculty members who teach classes on-campus, employing state-of-the-art software, hardware and support infrastructure to help you make the most of your online courses. 

Ready to apply? The MBA program at Wright has rolling admission, so if you qualify, you could be admitted for any semester. There are three start dates per year in the fall, spring, and summer. If your undergraduate GPA was high—above a 3.0—you will not be required to submit GMAT scores for admission. 

Applying is easy and requires only that you submit an application for the MBA program. You will also need to pay a $40 application fee and submit supporting documentation including your transcripts. That’s all there is to it!

#4. Idaho State University

Online MBA in Economics

Whether you want to take classes at your own dining room table or on a campus in Pocatello or Idaho Falls, Idaho State University has the degree for you.

This school offers some of the best and most affordable MBA programs in the state. If you’re a resident of the state of Idaho, you can earn a degree for just $12,000 (and out-of-state students won’t pay much more than that, either). There is significant financial aid available, too, including the graduate assistantship program that provides free tuition and a $12,800 stipend—all for just 20 hours of work per week.

The courses in this program are so flexible and convenient that you can keep working, either in an assistantship or in your full-time job, without feeling overwhelmed by the demands of earning an MBA. In fact, a full-time course load can be completed in just one year, with most courses taking place either asynchronously or in the evenings. 

The curriculum of the online MBA in economics is accredited by the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business. This is a designation that not every school of business holds—in fact, the Idaho State University College of Business was the first business school to receive this accreditation in 1978. It remains one of only 189 schools holding accreditation in both business and accounting today.

The faculty who teach in this program are qualified, both professionally and academically, with many years of experience in the many areas of business. You will take 18 credits of core courses to help you build your foundational understanding of key business concepts. For example, you’ll develop proficiency in accounting, marketing, finance, management, and economics. 

In your emphasis area of economics, you’ll take nine additional credits of electives that will enable you to align your coursework with your interests and experiences in a particular field. In addition to economics, the university offers MBA concentrations such as healthcare administration, informatics, marketing, operations management, finance, accounting, and more.

You can build your expertise outside of the classroom by engaging in a multitude of experiential learning opportunities, such as international competitions and hands-on internships. Upon graduation, you will be prepared for a number of high-level professional positions. 

In addition to the concentration in economics, students in the MBA program also have the option to complete dual degrees in other graduate programs, from health informatics to healthcare administration or even accounting. There is even a dual degree program with the Idaho State University Pharmacy program that will enable you to earn an MBA PharmD joint degree with just one additional year of study.

To apply, you will need to have completed a baccalaureate degree from a regionally accredited college or university. An overall undergraduate GPA of 3.0 or higher is required, as are official transcripts and GRE or GMAT test scores. You may also need to submit letters of recommendation and a written statement.

#5. Murray State University

Online MBA with a Concentration in Economic Development. 

If legacy is something that matters to you, you may want to consider enrolling at Murray State University. This school, located in Murray, KY, is all about tradition.

The school was established in 1922, originally designed as a normal school to educate teachers for public service. Today, this four-year public university offers dozens of other programs as well. The business school is one of the longest-standing and most prestigious, having offered high-quality and affordable degrees since 1981. 

If you’re looking for quality and prestige, you won’t find a better option than with Murray State. The MBA has been backed by the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business since 1981 and is one of the oldest accredited programs in the nation.

It is offered by Arthur J. Bauernfeind College of Business. Here, the program has enjoyed a long and rigorous tradition of excellence in management and business education for many years. The program has one of the most efficient cost-to-quality MBA ratios in the country, with affordable and reasonable tuition. In fact, the online tuition is some of the lowest in the nation. You’ll pay the same tuition rates as in-state students from Kentucky. 

You’ll complete 30 credit hours of study as you prepare for a leadership role across any and all aspects of business. This broad-based program includes electives from a variety of in-demand areas, making it possible for you to tailor your degree to your unique career interests. You’ll build skills in things like managerial economics, marketing, business analytics, and corporate finance. Before you graduate, you will also be required to complete a final capstone course that is designed to strengthen your background in strategic management. 

When you enroll in this program, you will have access to free, self-paced modules in economics and accounting. These can be completed concurrently with your core coursework so that you get “more bang for your buck,” or so to speak, for the price of your tuition.

As an online student, you’ll be able to enjoy access to the same resources you would be able to utilize on-campus. For example, you’ll have access to extensive career resources. Earning an MBA from Murray State University will pay off for your career, with graduates earning a starting salary that is more than $21,000 higher than those of individuals who earn only bachelor’s degrees. 

Courses are taught 100% online as well as at night and during the day to make earning a degree more convenient than ever. This program is ranked as one of the best MBA programs by Intelligent.com as well as one of the best for active-duty military members. 

The faculty who teach in this program are dedicated to student success, both in the program and in the workforce, and provide extensive opportunities for advancement and personal support. You’ll have access to a variety of resources in the Center for Economic and Entrepreneurial Development, too, a campus organization that offers training, workshops, and consulting services for small business owners in Kentucky.

#6. Texas A & M University-Commerce

Online MBA with a Focus in Economics

Already have a background in business? Don’t waste time taking classes you have already participated in. Instead, consider the online MBA with a focus in economics at Texas A&M University-Commerce.

This 30-credit hour online program is offered by the College of Business. Accredited by the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business, the degree offers learners the option to waive up to 18 credit hours of foundational business prerequisites if they already have a background in business.

Because of this, you can save both time and money (and your sanity!) as you progress toward a degree. You’ll still benefit from Texas A&M University-Commerce’s dynamic location and exceptional reputation. The school, located just outside of the Dallas/Fort Worth metroplex, was originally founded as a teacher’s college. 

As a result, the school knows what it takes to deliver exceptional instruction. Faculty here are some of the best and most experienced in the country, with nearly all of them in the business department holding terminal degrees. Study online, and you’ll have access to the same fabulous instructors who teach on campus. There is no thesis required and most students can complete their studies in just two years or less. 

As an online student, you’ll enjoy some of the best student services. For example, the College of Business offers an in-house Career Services Center that focuses on guiding business students who are looking for full-time employment and internships. You’ll enjoy countless connections to industry members via guest speakers, internships, company tours, professional networking, and other opportunities, too, as faculty and alumni alike are well-connected with the business community.

You will take a variety of core classes in topics like management and organizational behavior, managerial economics, applied business research, and financial management statistical methods. You’ll be prepared for a wide variety of advanced management positions upon graduation, most of which will allow you to display your strong strategic and analytical leadership solutions to an interrelated set of ethical, environmental, and economic issues. 

As a student in this program, you’ll learn from the same exceptional faculty who teach on campus. These professionals are industry leaders and renowned scholars in their own right, producing cutting-edge research in the field.

If you don’t want to stop with just the MBA, you don’t have to. You can also choose to complete a minor. You can complete any minor with your MBA to further enhance your career prospects. Some of the most popular include marketing analytics, cybersecurity, agribusiness, and international administration. 

The business school has plenty of other MBA concentrations to choose from, too. For example, the British Studies for MBAs is a partnership with eleven other universities that makes it possible for learners to enhance their degrees at the international level. Students also have access to a variety of student organizations and activities both on-campus and online, including the Management Club and the Lions Innovation Business Competition.

This affordable program features low tuition—in fact, if you’re a Texas resident, you’ll pay less than $4,000 for nine credit hours of study. 

#7. Southern New Hampshire University

Online MBA with a Concentration in Economics

There’s a lot to love about Southern New Hampshire University. 

This school first opened its doors in 1932, starting out as a small college under the eye of A.B. and Gertrude Crockett Shapiro. Today, more than 90,000 students are enrolled at this school, which has a main campus in Manchester, NH but provides most of its instruction in an online form. 

The 36-credit hour online MBA with a concentration in economics consists of twelve courses and is easily one of the most affordable. You can take each course within just ten weeks apiece, meaning you’ll be able to move quickly through the program requirements and graduate in as little as fifteen months.

Not only that, but this degree has a flexible rolling admissions process so that you can apply for admission and register for courses at just about any time throughout the year. Applying is easy, too, as everything can be done online and there is no requirement for the GRE or GMAT. 

You’ll take a variety of hands-on courses to build your attitudes and confidence in economics. Some of the most common core courses include Macroeconomics Theory and Analysis, Mathematics and Statics for Economics, and Micronics Theory and Analysis. 

You’ll learn a wide variety of skills and methodologies in this program. Not only will you learn how to formulate your own business plans, but you’ll also gain general skills in analyzing data and problem solving that can be applied to other industries. You’ll gain other transferable aptitudes, too, such as cultural sensitivity and both written and verbal communication skills. 

Economics is not the only specialization offered by this degree. You might also pursue specializations in fields like healthcare informatics, human resources, social media, six sigma, project management, music business, leadership, and more—there are more than a dozen options to choose from (20, in fact!). 

In this program, tuition starts at just $627 per credit hour, regardless of your residency. You can complete your studies here even if you started your program somewhere else. In fact, you could be eligible to transfer in up to 12 graduate credits. 

Ready to apply? Don’t worry if you don’t have a background in economics or in business. The faculty at Southern New Hampshire are skilled experts with a wealth of real-world experience, and they’ll help fill in the gaps. 

In fact, if you lack prerequisite courses, you can take a few foundational classes to help you get caught up. You might take classes like Economics for Business, Mathematics and Statistics for Business, or Financial Reporting and Analysis to get yourself on the right track. 

To apply, you must have an undergraduate degree, ideally with a GPA higher than 2.75. If your undergraduate GPA was lower than that, don’t worry—you may just have to submit a few additional documents like letters of recommendation. You’ll have to submit a personal statement regardless, but the good news is that you can apply for admission at any time of the year.

#8. Western Illinois University

Online MBA in Economics

Home to fewer than 1,800 graduate students, Western Illinois University, located in Macomb, IL, is a public institution that, like many other schools on this list, has its origins as a teacher training school. Founded in 1899, this school serves a diverse body of students both on campus (in two separate locations) as well as online.

This university offers some of the best and most affordable degrees, all of which are offered at the bachelor’s through the doctoral level. The university also has multiple certificate programs. In fact, there are more than 120 majors for you to choose from!

If you’re considering an MBA, however, you might want to pursue the online MBA in economics. Western Illinois has one of the least expensive online and hybrid programs in economics. In this program, you’ll take classes through the departments of management and marketing, economics and decision sciences, accounting and finance, and the school for computer science. 

You don’t have to have a business degree in order to apply, either. In fact, the program is open to business graduates along with individuals with backgrounds in engineering, science, mathematics, liberal arts, and other fields. Depending on your background and career goals, you’ll complete anywhere between 33 and 54 semester hours of credit.

Classes are offered in a diverse format, enabling learners to take class on-campus, online, or in a  hybrid livestream setting. You’ll have access to both daytime and evening course schedules, either of which can fit easily into a hectic schedule. Classes are small, too, with an average size of just 20 students.

The faculty members who teach in this program pride themselves on their accessibility and mentoring capabilities. They’re quite experienced in their own regard, too, with many possessing doctoral and law degrees (and hailing from more than 40 internationally recognized universities).

As a student in this program, you’ll take a variety of classes that cover core business and economics topics such as Principles of Management, Decision Making for Global Markets, Economics for Managers, and Corporate Information Systems. Your learning will extend beyond the classroom as you participate in internships and assistantships that let you combine your work with your education.

Let’s not forget how affordable this program is, either. Nonresident students pay the same tuition rates as those that are in-state, with tuition and fees coming in at less than $12,000 per semester. 

To apply, you will need to submit an online application along with undergraduate transcripts from any universities you have attended. You’ll be expected to have a  cumulative GPA of at least 3.0 and a GMAT score of 500. However, if you majored in business and had a GPA of 3.6 or higher, the GMAT is not required. You will need to submit a resume and a personal essay with your application as well.

#9. University of Houston-Victoria

Online Global Master’s of Business Administration with an Economic Development Concentration

Already have some credits and not sure how to make the most of them? If so, you might want to consider the online global Master of Business Administration with an economic development concentration at the University of Houston-Victoria.

This program is one of the most transfer-friendly, enabling students to bring in a large number of their required credits. In fact, the school has transfer partnerships with more than half a dozen community colleges. 

You’ll be able to progress quickly toward a master’s degree when you choose to study at this public university, a member of the University of Houston System. The school has campuses all over the city as well as online. Founded in 1973, this school is designated as an HSI (Hispanic-Serving Institution) and has a commitment to providing affordable, high-quality education to students from all backgrounds and lifestyles. 

With more than 70 degree programs offered online and on-campus, this school offers numerous opportunities for students to earn their degrees entirely online. The 30-credit MBA can be completed online or in a hybrid fashion. It is accredited by the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business and combines specialties in areas like finance and marketing. 

You’ll gain the skills you need to launch and sustain your own business, to consult for other business owners, or to work for a government agency or another setting. You’ll take a variety of classes to build and hone your skills, including Theory and Practice of Regional Economic Development and Introduction to Economic Development and Entrepreneurship. You’ll also complete a capstone project before you graduate.

This capstone, titled Theory and Practice of Regional Economic Development, is a required component of all MBA candidates. It will help you bring together everything you have learned so far in your program in a relevant, applicable way. 

While you are enrolled, you will take classes under the guidance and mentorship of faculty who will train you for real-world business scenarios. You’ll learn via international business simulations, case studies, and hands-on projects. Even when studying online, you’ll benefit from the strategic location of this campus—the Houston area is home to more than 5,000 firms engaged in global commerce. 

The online MBA in economics at the University of Houston-Victoria is highly regarded by top-ranking publications. It’s received awards from the U.S. News & World Report, Princeton Review, and more, receiving high praise as a top performer on social mobility and one of the Best Regional Universities in the West. 

As you might expect, it is also highly affordable, having been ranked as the seventh most affordable public university in Texas by the Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board in 2019. Tuition starts at just $14,999 for this program, and you’ll be able to complete your studies in as few as 16 months.

#10. Liberty University

Online MBA in Economics

It might seem overwhelming, but Liberty University has more than 20 specializations in the MBA program for you to choose from—with that kind of variety, you’re sure to find the degree that will help you meet your business and professional goals.

The MBA is just one of multiple rewarding master’s degrees offered by Liberty University. Some others worth mentioning include the Master of Science in accounting, the Master of Arts in executive leadership, and the Master of Science in finance.

However difficult you might find it to choose, it’s essential that you consider the online MBA concentration in economics. This program is one of the best for aspiring economists and will allow you to concentrate on this pivotal aspect of the business world—all while studying from whichever location is most convenient for you. 

Accredited by the Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs, the degree includes flexible eight-week courses with no set log-in times. You will be required to complete 45 credit hours or fewer so that you can earn your master’s in just two years. 

For the economics track, you will take classes such as Global Economic Environment, Microeconomic Theory, Econometrics, and Money and Capital Markets. You will gain the skills you need to grow as a professional, all without compromising your current family or professional commitments. 

Other specializations include finance, human resources, leadership, marketing, American legal studies, and more. There’s even a fast-track program that will enable you to earn your degree in 36 credit hours (or just one year of study). 

Upon graduation, you will have access to a wider variety of job advancements and opportunities. Your studies at Liberty will enable you to work with business leaders from around the country. Plus, this program is ranked within the top 1% of online schools for its quality, accessibility, and affordability by Niche.com, meaning you’re sure to meet your personal and professional goals.

Ready to apply? You’ll need to have a regionally or nationally accredited bachelor’s degree with a minimum GPA of 3.0. You will also need to submit an application fee and copies of your official college transcripts. Some undergraduate business prerequisite courses may be required. 

Liberty University offers some of the most affordable programs for online learners in general, but especially for military students. Whether you’re a current service member, a veteran, or the spouse of a military member or veteran, you’ll find the support you need to succeed at Liberty. 

There are significant tuition discounts—up to $275 per credit hour for graduate courses—and additional discounts for veterans who serve in civilian capabilities as First Responders. Plus, with short eight-week courses and eight different start dates per year, you’ll find it easier than ever to work your courses around your demanding lifestyle.

OTHER NOTABLE PROGRAMS 

#11. Bellevue University

Location: Bellevue, NE

Degree: Online MBA with a Specialization in Global Economic Threat Environment.

Net Price: $9,635

Website

#12. Mercer University

Location: Macon, GA

Degree: Online MBA with an Emphasis in Economics

Net Price: $21,202

Website

#13. Carnegie Mellon University

Location: Pittsburgh, PA

Degree: Online Master’s of Business Administration with a Focus in Economics

Net Price: $30,847

Website

#14. Regent University

Location: Virginia Beach, VA

Degree: Online Master’s of Business Administration with a Concentration in Economics

Net Price: $16,779

Website

#15. Utica College

Location: Utica, NY 

Degree: Online MBA and Economic Crime and Fraud Management MBA

Net Price: $22,991

Website

IF YOU ENJOYED THAT THEN CHECK OUT OUR ARTICLES ON THE TOP 10 REASONS TO EARN YOUR MASTER’S DEGREE & 40 BEST NO-GMAT ONLINE MBA PROGRAMS!