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Are you looking for the best schools for masters in public administration degrees? You’ve come to the right place. We can help with your school search for online MPA programs.

As a public administration graduate, you’ll be well-versed in both the holistic and humanistic approaches to administration—as well as those that are more technical and practical in nature. You’ll take classes in liberal arts disciplines like sociology and anthropology as well as those in more hands-on fields like urban planning and public policy.

This unique blend of theoretical and hands-on training will provide you with the skills you need for a successful career in the public sector. A professional degree is best suited for individuals who want to develop their leadership and management skills while still having a wide variety of careers available for them to choose from. 

If you’re not sure what the benefit of earning a public administration graduate degree is, just look around you! The evidence of this degree’s value is everywhere.

From the traffic signals at your town’s busiest intersection to the fire hydrants that dot the sidewalks, the work of a public administration graduate can be seen just about anywhere. From residential to commercial construction, utility work to road projects, there is a lot that happens behind the scenes to maintain necessary facilities and services. 

That’s where you come in. 

If you’re interested in contributing to these inner workings, whether it’s at the local, state, or federal level, or even if you’re just passionate about helping a cause in the community, a career in public administration is a good fit for your passions. You could work in a variety of roles, including as a city manager, recreation manager, urban and regional planner, in public and nonprofit sectors, human resource management or even a policy analyst. 

Your background in public administration—combined with a few years of leadership experience—could even land you a role in public office or a job teaching at the college level!

There’s truly no disadvantage to earning a master of public administration, and with the now-widespread availability of online degree programs, there’s no reason to continue procrastinating on earning a degree. 

You can earn a degree from anywhere in the world, including from your very own couch (or hey—you can work on classes while you’re lying in bed. We won’t judge you!). Online degrees are often more affordable than their on-campus counterparts and they add a great deal of value to your already-impressive resume. There are many online MPA programs, so let us help with your school search.

Plus, you’ll be able to schedule your classes around your personal and professional obligations. We get that you’re busy and have other commitments—with an online master, you no longer have to choose between advancing your education and living the rest of your life. You truly can have your cake and eat it too! Students complete these MPA online programs and go onto leadership positions in a variety of careers. You may be interested in community development, government agencies, nonprofit management- consider an online education that will move your career forward.

By now, you likely realize the benefit of earning a degree in public administration. But do you know what to look for? Finding the right master’s degree can be tough, but fortunately, we’re here to help you on your journey toward finding the perfect fit. 

So without further ado, here are some masters in public administration best schools to consider in your search! You can find an online MPA program that will work best for you.

See Also: Most Popular Online Master’s Degrees 50 Most Popular Online Master’s Degrees 2020

What Are the Best Online Master of Public Administration Degrees?

We know that you have educational goals that you’re itching to pursue, but you may not know where to start when looking for a master’s in public administration. 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.

Public Administration Online

#1. Texas A & M University, College Station

Executive Master of Public Service & Administration

As the only school in Texas to hold simultaneous designations as a space, land, and sea grant institution, it’s easy to see why Texas A&M University, College Station tops our list of the best online master’s in public administration. 

The online degree in public administration from Texas A&M University, College Station is offered by the Bush School of Government & Public Service. It has only one week of residency per year, meaning just two weeks of seat-time on campus total during the entirety of this two-year program. 

It comes with multiple options for tracks, making it possible for you to tailor the degree toward your unique career goals. You can choose from concentrations in nonprofit management, public management, or even homeland security. All courses for all of these selections are available entirely online. You’ll complete 18 hours in your selected track area to give you a more customized approach to public service and administration. 

In total, you’ll complete around 39 graduate credit hours of study. You can graduate in just two to three years depending on your schedule and how quickly you’d like to move through your coursework. Courses start in the fall, spring, and summer semesters for maximum convenience.

Before you graduate, you’ll be able to apply what you’ve learned to your final project in a culminating applied capstone experience. In this experience, you’ll work 1:1 with a nonprofit or government profit, putting your new skills to work in a real-world setting. 

Graduate from this program and you’ll automatically become a part of the Aggie Network. This network connects more than 527,000 proud former students around the world. There’s a strong sense of community in this degree, 

This kind of practical experience is just one reason why this program is ranked as one of the best programs in public affairs by the U.S. News & World Report. It’s also named a “Best Value” in Online Executive MPA Programs by Value Colleges and is accredited by the Network of Schools of Public Policy, Affairs, and Administration. If you want to work in nonprofit organizations or public service you should consider this public administration program.

#2. Liberty University

Master of Public Administration

Another top MPA university is Liberty University. Here, you’ll be able to truly maximize your potential as a future leader by earning a master’s degree in public administration. The master’s in public administration is delivered 100% online and broken down into 8-week courses. You can transfer up to 50% of the total degree requirements, too—a beneficial feature if you’ve already started earning credits at another institution.

In this online master’s, you’ll gain the skills and knowledge you need to work as a civic leader at the county, state, national, or global level. Whether you’re interested in working in government, the private sector, or for a nonprofit organization, this online master’s is the right choice for you. Public and nonprofit organizations will both be good career options for you.

The curriculum for this online master’s is incredibly diverse and varied, taking you on a journey of self-exploration and a broader understanding of public administration as you earn credits. You’ll complete 36 credit hours of study as you delve deep into topics like community economic development and the art of public policy analysis. This will help you learn how to develop a sense of community while also helping an existing organization adapt to new policies. 

You can complete all of your requirements for this program in less than two years. It comes with optional specializations in things like:

• urban planning
• public and nonprofit management
• law and public policy
• fire administration
• healthcare
• disaster management
• business and government

There is also a general track if you don’t have any interest in a specialization. 

This online master’s, offered by the Helms School of Government, takes a highly practical approach to public administration. The school is ranked by Niche.com as one of the top 5 online schools in America—and it’s also one of the most affordable. While most schools have increased their tuition dramatically in recent years (even if just to keep up with the pace of inflation) Liberty has not. Tuition has not increased in six years! When looking at online MPA programs, consider this one from Liberty University.

#3. California State University-Northridge

Master of Public Administration

A public university in Los Angeles, CA, California State University-Northridge has had a major influence on the local and state economy. If you decide to pursue the Master of Public Administration degree here, you, too, can learn how to best impact and improve local communities.

The Master MPA at California State University-Northridge is another one of the best in the country. In fact, it is California’s leading provider of MPA degrees and the third-largest in the country (ranked just behind Harvard and Columbia). You can choose to complete this degree either fully online or in-person, depending on your needs and preferences.

With more off-campus locations than any other provider, California State makes it easy for any student to earn a degree in public administration. The school partners closely with 10 Los Angeles County Agencies as well as two counties and eight cities outside of LA. This close connection with the public sector ensures that all graduates can become effective agents of change in their local communities as well. 

The online master’s is perfect for administrations and staff who are currently employed in the private, public, or nonprofit sectors and wish to enhance their skills in those areas. You’ll build a strong working relationship with countless public sector administrators as you go about your courses, something that will help you both personally and professionally.

Not only that, but you can choose between multiple concentrations in high-growth areas of the public sector. These include:

• Public Sector Management and Leadership
• Nonprofit Sector Management
• Health Administration 

As a result, this online master’s is one of the highest-ranked degrees in public administration in the entire country. In addition to the many attributes and accolades listed above, California State is also ranked second in Wall Street Journal’s listing of the schools with the most diverse learning environments. Not too shabby!

#4. Texas Tech University

Master of Public Administration

Originally known as Texas Technological College, Texas Tech University has degrees in more than 150 courses of study. 

The Master of Public Administration at Texas Tech University is fully accredited by the Network of Schools of Public Policy, Affairs, and Administration. Through your courses, you’ll gain a professional skills-based education that will support you as you work as a manager, policy analyst, or public leader. 

It is offered entirely online as well as on campus in Lubbock, Waco, Sherman, and Dallas/Fort Worth. There are multiple specializations available including:

• health care administration
• public management
• environmental policy and administration
• nonprofit management

Regardless of the concentration you choose, you’ll enter the workforce equipped with the skills in general public management that you need to be a successful leader. Class sizes are small for this public administration degree, with all capped at 15 students and some having as few as just five students. 

Before you graduate from this online master’s, you will also complete an internship in the surrounding community. Texas Tech has partnerships with dozens of nearby organizations but you can also self-select a partnering organization in your community to suit your needs. This will help give you valuable hands-on experience with a public service organization before you even graduate. 

An affordable program, it costs less than $30,187 for most students. There are numerous scholarships and assistantships to help lower these costs even more, with about 70% of all full-time students here receiving financial support of some form. 

Most courses for this online MPA program are offered in an asynchronous fashion to offer you the flexibility you need to complete your degree. The program has a 90% job placement rate within six months of graduation, a figure that shows a promising and solid return on investment. 

#5. University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill

Executive Master of Public Administration Online

Another one of the best masters of public administration programs can be found at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. Offered by the School of Government, this program is top-ranked for public affairs by the U.S. News & World Report. It has an impressive 96% job placement rate within six months, an impressive figure that is due in part to the program’s broad alumni network of more than 1500 proud graduates all around the country.

When you decide to enroll in this online master’s, you’ll be making a smart choice. The UNC School of Government has provided quality education in programs like public administration for more than eight decades. You’ll benefit from the same top-ranked MPA program that is offered on-campus and still be able to work closely with classmates and faculty all around the world. 

The degree is accredited by the Network of School of Public Policy, Affairs, and Administration. A 45-credit hour program, it is designed to fit your unique career interests. To that end, a number of concentrations are available for this online MPA program including:

• public health
• public management
• local government
• international relations
• nonprofit management

There are multiple immersion experiences you can participate in, such as on-campus meet and greets and presentations. You can even take cross-university electives to allow you to diversify your degree even more. 

Throughout every step of the way, you’ll benefit from close interactions with expert faculty. You will receive one-on-one mentoring and enjoy class sizes that are small and close-knit. You’ll take classes in things like:

• Public Administration Analysis and Evaluation
• Public Financial Management
• Law for Public Administration

A highly affordable program, this degree has multiple options for available scholarships. Online students can apply for funding via merit-based scholarships, local and state government employee tuition matching, and other more specific awards, like the Young Professionals in Foreign Policy Scholarship. 

#6. Villanova University

Master of Public Administration

A private Catholic research university, Villanova University is located, as you might guess, in Villanova, PA. Founded by the Augustinians in 1842, it has a commitment to public service and to the improvement of local communities. 

It is here where you will find another one of the best master’s programs. The public administration degree program offers the same curriculum, faculty, and degree options as the on-campus program of the same name. In fact, the two are totally identical—with the exception, of course, being that online students get the added convenience of a 100% flexible course format.

You can complete your courses in as little as two years, if you choose, or take up to six to complete your course requirements. You’ll benefit from a vibrant alumni network, a proud student body, and plenty of community partnerships to boot. 

You can choose to complete the degree by itself or in combination with one of three different public administration graduate certificates such as:

• City Management
• Nonprofit Management
• Public Administration

Classes start every eight weeks, making it easy to jump in when you feel ready to begin your studies.

This school is ranked as one of the top 50 National Universities for 2020 by U.S. News & World Report. The MPA program itself is accredited by the Network of Schools of Public Policy, Public Affairs, and Administration—a hallmark of its excellence and affordability. 

#7. University of Central Florida

Master of Public Administration

The University of Central Florida is home to another one of the best schools for public administration degrees. It takes just two years to complete and is designed for future leaders who want to make a serious impact.

Recognized as one of the top public affairs programs in the country by U.S. News & World Report, the degree will provide you with training in a variety of fields, including strategic planning, organizational management, public policy, and financial management. 

Core courses include topics such as:

• Strategic Planning and Management
• Advanced Concepts and Applications in Public Administration
• Public Administrators in the Governance Process

One more feature to note? This program has affordable tuition that starts at just $369.65 per credit hour. You can’t beat that kind of affordability! This master’s in public administration can help you continue a career in public sector organizations, community development or government and nonprofit agencies.

#8. San Diego State University

Master of Public Administration

Another one of the best masters of public administration schools is San Diego State University. 

It requires no GRE for admission and takes just 16 months to complete.

You’ll pay a total of less than $20,000 for your entire program, making this one of the most affordable degrees around. A total of 36 credit hours are required, with all courses taught in six two-month modules for maximum convenience. 

You will take courses such as:

• Public Financial Management
• Public Personnel Administration
• Research Methods in Public Administration

You’ll be able to complete a capstone course addressing a challenge in a local community organization (or in your own place of employment, if you choose). If financial management, public affairs, or public management is interesting to you, this could be the public administration online program for you.

The degree is ranked as one of the top five public administration programs in California, according to the U.S. News & World Report. 

#9. University of Colorado Denver, Anschutz Medical Campus

Master of Public Administration

At the University of Colorado Denver, Anschutz Medical Campus, you’ll find another one of the best public administration programs. This degree is ranked within the top 15% of MPA programs around the country. In Colorado, this is the only accredited program of its kind. 

You will take a total of 36 credit hours of study in this program, taking a unique blend of public policy and public administration courses. You’ll study topics such as organizational management, human resources, leadership, budgeting, and more. 

You’ll also take a deep dive into the ways policy affects public administration, how to write effective policies, and how to critically analyze policies of all kinds. It is an immersive program that will improve your ability to make evidence-based management decisions to improve policy.

It comes with multiple options for concentration, including those in:

• Disasters
• Hazards and Emergency Management
• Education Policy
• Emergency Management and Homeland Security
• Nonprofit Management
• Environmental Policy and Management

If you’re looking for a public administration program that offers a quality education paired with affordability, this is the one you need to consider. Tuition starts at just $526 per credit hour. 

#10. Florida International University

Master of Public Administration

Florida International also has one of the best masters in public administration. The degree is ranked as the ninth best in the country by U.S. News & World Report and makes it easy for you to earn your credentials on your own time. 

Classes are offered exclusively online on an annual rotation, allowing you to take one to four graduate courses at once. The program has rolling admissions for maximum flexibility and is taught by an MPA faculty body that is the largest in all of South Florida.

You will complete a total of 42 credit hours of study. There’s an option to complete a public service internship, but if you already have extensive hands-on experience, you may be able to waive this requirement. 

You’ll also take courses in things like Human Resources Management and Policy, Smart Governance, and Policy Analysis and Program Planning, just to name a few. You can choose to specialize in other areas like:

• Homeland Security and Emergency Management
• Comparative and International Public Administration
• Urban Policy Innovations

The program is accredited by the Network of Schools of Public Policy, Affairs, and Administration. You’ll gain access to one of the largest alumni networks in the region, with over 3,500 MPA graduates represented all over the country.

In addition to that extensive alumni network that is in place and ready to start helping you network immediately, you’ll also be able to tap into the resources offered by the extensive Career Services Department at FIU. 

OTHER NOTABLE PROGRAMS 

#11. Rutgers University

Location: New Brunswick, NJ

Degree: Master of Public Administration

Net Price: $19,401

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#12. DePaul University

Location: Chicago, IL

Degree: Master of Public Administration

Net Price: $19,422

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#13. Marist College

Location: Poughkeepsie, NY

Degree: Master of Public Administration

Net Price: $14,500

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#14. University of Southern California

Location: Los Angeles, CA

Degree: Master of Public Administration

Net Price: $45,561

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#15. Texas A & M International University

Location: Laredo, TX

Degree: Master of Public Administration

Net Price: $6,045

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#16. Georgia College & State University

Location: Milledgeville, GA

Degree: Master of Public Administration

Net Price: $7,206

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#17. Arkansas State University

Location: Jonesboro, AR

Degree: Masters of Public Administration in Public Management

Net Price: $6,210

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#18. University of West Georgia

Location: Carrollton, GA

Degree: Master of Public Administration

Net Price: $6,110

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#19. University of Missouri, Columbia

Location: Columbia, MO

Degree: Master of Public Administration

Net Price: $10,017

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#20. Kent State University

Location: Kent, OH

Degree: Master of Public Administration

Net Price: $11,536

Website

FAQ

What is a public administration master’s degree?

You can easily take a look at the master of public administration rankings we gave you in this post to get an idea of which schools are the best fit, but without understanding what a public administration master’s degree actually is, that’s not a lot of help.

A master of public administration is a master’s degree specializing in public affairs. It prepares graduates to serve in state, municipal, federal, and nongovernmental roles. As a graduate of one of these programs, you’ll understand the specific challenges faced by those in public administration, working toward developing and managing policies, managing and implementing public programs and setting up infrastructure and development plans. 

Essentially, an MPA is the equivalent of an MBA, but in the public sector rather than the business world. It’s the perfect fit for candidates who want to work at the global scale and prepares graduates for upper level management positions. 

What is the best online MPA, no GRE required?

The GRE, or the Graduate Records Examination, is a core requirement for many master’s programs around the country. Most MPAs require this test for admission, too.

However, there are plenty of schools that do not. Some online programs that waive this requirement include:

• Temple University
• Johns Hopkins University
• Purdue University
• Northcentral University

There are other programs, like the University of Nebraska MAP, that require the GRE but offer multiple opportunities through which you can receive a GRE waiver. Do your research if you’re concerned about taking this exam! You have options, to say the least. 

Besides the GRE, other admissions requirements for MPA programs vary between different schools. In general, you’ll be expected to have a baccalaureate degree from an accredited university or college usually with an undergraduate GPA of at least 3.0 on a 4.0 scale. 

Most colleges do not require a bachelor’s degree in public administration in order to fulfill this undergraduate education requirement—any major will do. However, it’s important to touch base with your school of choice before you complete your application so you know exactly what will be expected of you. 

In addition to the GRE (sometimes) and your undergraduate transcripts, there are a few other documents you should plan on submitting. Again, these requirements vary between schools. Most of the time, you’ll need to submit things like letters of recommendation, a personal statement, and a resume. In some cases, work experience is another core requirement. 

What jobs can you get with a public administration (MPA)?

When you graduate with an MPA, your job opportunities will be incredibly varied. You’ll be primed for just about any leadership role in the public, private, or nonprofit sector. You could work in:

• business
• policy
• finance
• law
• management

You can work as an analyst, grant writer, research, or program manager. You can work in local government, in strategic planning, public affairs, nonprofit organizations, public management, or human resource management.

Just about every industry requires MPAs, from charitable organizations to schools, human rights groups to public media. These jobs can be highly competitive, however, which is why it is so important to get a quality education from one of the best schools around. 

Three of the most common job titles for people who have earned MPAs are budget analysts, fundraising managers, and an urban and regional planner.

As a budget analyst, your job will be to help public and private organizations plan out their finances. Although a bachelor’s degree and a few courses in things like accounting and statistics are usually the basic requirements for admission to this program, keep in mind that earning a graduate degree will make you that much more competitive. 

You could also work as a public relations and fundraising manager. You’ll be in charge of creating materials that will improve the public image of your client or employer and coordinate campaigns to help bring in donations for your organization. 

Finally, you could also work as an urban or regional planner. A master’s degree is a basic requirement for this job, particularly one that’s offered by an accredited planning program. You’ll work with communities and municipalities to develop programs and plans that revolutionize facilities, accommodate population growth, and create and support 

What kinds of public administration course requirements are there?

When you enroll in a public administration degree, you’ll take interdisciplinary courses that cover topics like:

• sociology
• economics
• economic analysis
• anthropology
• law
• political science

Most students will take around two years to complete their degrees, although there are some executive MPA programs that can be completed in just one year, provided that you have some experience in your industry. 

Aside from the broad liberal arts requirements, you’ll likely take more specialized courses in things like:

• international affairs
• law
• urban planning
• political theory
• public service leadership

Many MPA programs provide students with the opportunity to intern or complete other hands-on work in the discipline. 

Not only that, but another benefit of earning a master’s in public administration is that you will be able to expand your professional network. You’ll be working in a public sector role that will afford you access to a large network of professionals with varying levels of experience. That’s great news when it comes to building a network for finding a job later on.

Last but not least, a master’s of public administration may enable you to find additional job opportunities around the world. Many of these programs have an international focus, examining the ways in which other global governments and economies respond to public issues. 

Is a public administration master’s worth it?

If you’re curious about whether it’s worth the effort to earn a public administration master’s degree, the short and sweet answer to that question is this—absolutely. 

As a budget analyst, you could earn up to $78,970 per year. The top earners in 2020, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, were those who worked for the federal government and in professional, scientific, and technical services, though wages were comparatively high across all sectors. 

If you choose to work as a fundraising manager, your job prospects will be even better. This job is expected to grow at a rate of more than 13% which is much faster than average. Again, all you need is a bachelor’s degree to qualify for one of these jobs, but if you choose to pursue a master’s, you could earn an annual salary in excess of $118,430 per year. The highest 10% earned more than $208,000!

Last but not least, consider the potential salary you might receive if you work as an urban and regional planner. These jobs are also in high demand, expected to grow at a rate of about 7% by 2030, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. Demand for these positions can be found all over the country, with many employers even allowing remote work in some cases.

Although the salary isn’t quite as lofty as what you might expect from a job as a fundraising manager, it’s still impressive. You could bring in an average salary of around $75,950 per year, with the top 10% of workers earning $102,390!

IF YOU ENJOYED THAT THEN CHECK OUT OUR ARTICLE ON THE BEST ONLINE MASTER OF PROFESSIONAL STUDIES IN HUMAN RESOURCES!

It’s not all about rocks and volcanoes. Geology is an immersive field that is important for many other disciplines.

This field of science involves many methods and training. From mathematics, chemistry, physics, and biology, it covers it all.

As a geology graduate student, you’ll learn about a variety of topics. These include the ways in which landscapes are formed and developed. You’ll learn about how humans interact with the planet. You’ll learn how groundwater flows. You’ll even learn about geological sustainability. Geology graduates can work just about anywhere.

If you like to be outdoors, a geology major is a smart choice for you. You will gain technical expertise in this advanced degree that will prepare you for any role in geological and geophysical engineering. This is one of the few scientific disciplines that will enable you to work outside, in the field, a vast majority of the time. You might even be able to travel around the world. Geology graduates are found just about everywhere! A degree in geology is a smart choice.

You’ll gain skills in all the sciences when you pursue a degree in geology. Plus you’ll gain many that are transferable to other fields. You will become adept at collecting data, solving problems, communicating, and even working with a team.

With a degree in geology, you could go on to work in:

• pollution control
• geological surveying
• environmental geology
• geoscience
• field seismology

… and a vast array of other careers.

Fortunately, there are all kinds of affordable online master’s in geology out there. These online geology masters can help you save money. That’s all while pursuing the career of your dreams. It’s all about knowing where to look for the right degree in geology!

Online degrees are smart for a myriad of reasons. They tend to be more affordable, since you can study from your own home without having to pay for things like parking, transportation, room, and board. You will also be able to pursue your studies without leaving your current place of employment. 

Are you already working in geology or a related field? If so, earning an online degree makes a lot of sense. You’ll be able to apply what you learn in your online classes to your fieldwork on a daily basis. 

The skills that you learn in your geology degree will be useful and transferable to many other careers. You’ll gain proficiency in things like:

• project management
• communication
• quantitative reason
• research.

If you choose to pursue a career outside of geology, you’ll have plenty of success after earning an online master geology degree. That’s true regardless of whether you are looking for a job in a laboratory, in journalism, in research, or in civil engineering. The Bureau of Labor Statistics reports high salaries for careers in physical science and historical geology work. That’s true whether you work for a private company, the federal government, or even another graduate school. 

Are you ready for better career options and a more in-depth knowledge of the exciting field of geology and other physical science areas? Then it’s time for you to consider pursuing one of the best affordable online master’s in geology.

What Are the Best Online Master’s in Geology Degrees?

We know that you have educational goals that you’re itching to pursue. 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 graduate school

25% Graduation Rate: Number of graduate 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 graduate 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 toward a fruitful academic career. The pursuit of knowledge is a noble one. We want to help you reach your goals.

#1. University of Houston

M.S. – Geology

Majoring in geology is a wise choice if you want a lucrative career in the sciences. But in order to truly be successful, you’re going to need to spend a lot of time in the research laboratory and out in the field. You will find an online masters in geology at the University of Houston that allows you to do just that. The online master in environmental geology is one of the best. 

The University of Houston was founded In 1927. This school is the third-largest university in the state of Texas. It is home to more than 46,000 students, many of whom are graduate students in the geological sciences degree. It is a public research university. It is classified as an R1: Doctoral University – Very High Research Activity.

That’s quite the designation to hold. Plus, consider that the school offers some of the best interdisciplinary research facilities in the world. The university conducts more than $150 million a year in research. It has 40 research centers and institutes. As a graduate geology student, you’ll have opportunities to participate in this kind of research yourself. 

You can choose from several different graduate programs. Many are in an online master’s degree format. These include master’s degrees in:

• geology
• geophysics
• atmospheric science

Plus, there are doctoral degrees in geophysics, geology, and atmospheric sciences.

You’ll take most of your classes in conjunction with the department of geosciences. You will need to take core classes such as:

• Mineralogy
• Paleobiology
• Stratigraphy
• Structural Geology
• Sedimentary Petrogenesis.

You’ll also be required to participate in a field camp as part of this online master’s degree. 

You can choose between a specialization in petroleum geology and one in petroleum geophysics. The latter is designed for students who major in geophysics. You can also choose to add supplemental online certificate options and short courses to your degree. Examples of online certificate options include geographical information systems (GIS), hydrogeology, and petroleum.

30 credit hours are required for the master’s degree. Six of these credits in the geological sciences degree are thesis hours. You can opt not to take the thesis. Keep in mind that you will need to complete 39 credit hours instead. 

You will be supported in your studies by your faculty mentor. That’s along with a broad alumni base. The school has an alumni base that is more than 260,000 students strong. At the University of Houston, you will truly become part of a community. You are not just another face in the crowd. This school is ranked as one of the Best National Universities by U.S. News & World Report. 

To apply, you must have earned a bachelor’s degree or its equivalent. You should have a GPA of 3.0 or higher. You will also need GRE scores. You can start in the spring or fall semester for these online master’s degrees. If you plan to attend the geological sciences degree in the fall semester, you have to submit all of your materials no later than January 1. 

#2. University of Florida

Master of Science in Geological Sciences

Another university that is well-respected for its high level of research activity is the University of Florida. Here you will find a top masters in geology online. This public university is a public land-grant, sea-grant, and space-grant research institution. It is in Gainesville, FL. 

This school was established in 1853. lt is classified as an R1: Doctoral University – Very High Research Activity. It is ranked as the seventh-best public university in the United States. It’s accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools. It is home to numerous Nobel and Pulitzer Prize winners. 

Choose to major in geology. You’ll have your hands full with all of the hands-on research opportunities you can explore. The Department of Geological Sciences is home to numerous world-class analytical facilities. 

The Department of Geological Sciences at the University of Florida offers a variety of hands-on programs in geology. These are at both the master’s and Ph.D. level. You can focus your studies in a variety of in-demand fields. Examples of environmental geology classes in this online master of science include:

• environmental science and hydrology
• marine and coastal geology
• geochemistry
• geological sciences
• seismology and planetary science
• paleoceanography and paleolimnology

…and more. 

You’ll enjoy an up-close-and-personal degree. You can interact with major employers and research organizations. Examples include the Florida Museum of Natural History and the Land Use and Environmental Change Institute. 

Curious about the classes you might take? Some of the core courses required for graduate students include:

• Hydrogeochemistry
• Geologic Evolution of North America
• Surface and Groundwater Interactions. 

In these online master’s degrees, your learning will extend well beyond the classroom walls. You can participate in an active student body and various student organizations. Some of the most common include:

• the Florida Geophysical Society
• GeoClub
• Geoscience Ambassadors
• the Gator AAPG Student Chapter.

Consider getting in touch with some faculty mentors at the university. You can ask any questions you have. You can explore funding opportunities that will make your University of Florida education even more affordable. There are also a range of fellowships and teaching assistantships offered. There’s even funding for students from under-represented groups.

You can submit all application materials online. You will need to supply three letters of recommendation. These should be from individuals who can speak to your potential to succeed as a graduate student. You should also supply a two-page personal essay and official transcripts. GRE scores are not required for admission. 

#3. Missouri University of Science and Technology

MS in Geology

Missouri University of Science and Technology is best known for its engineering school. But that’s not all that this public land and space grant university in Rolla, MO has to offer. As a member of the University of Missouri System, the university is home to more than 8,000 students. They are studying business, mathematics science, and, of course, engineering. The geology masters degree online here is one of the best. 

It was founded in 1870 as the Missouri School of Mines and Metallurgy. So it makes sense that geology would be at the top of the list of programs, too. It is located close to the Southeast Missouri Lead District. This district is known for producing about 70% of the United States’ supply of lead and much of its zinc. The school no longer specializes in that area. But you’ll love what the geology program can do for your career.

To earn the online geology masters degree at the Missouri University of Science and Technology, you will need to complete at least 30 hours of study. That’s beyond your bachelor’s degree. 15 of these credit hours should be at the 8000 or 9000 level. Both thesis and non-thesis options are available. 

You’ll be partnered with a faculty mentor. He or she will monitor your progress and help as you take your courses and prepare your thesis. You will develop a personalized plan of study. It will be customized to your personal and professional goals. You will work closely with an advisor even for a non thesis program too.

Sample classes for this online master in environmental geology (both thesis and non thesis program options) include:

• Plate Tectonics
• Solar System Science
• Geological Sciences
• Research in Geological Sciences
• Hydrological Processes
• Continental Tectonics. 

Your courses will prepare you for in-depth research. That’s along with high-profile careers in geology, environmental risk assessment, STEM teaching, public policy, and more. 

Your degree will take you to new places both inside and outside the classroom. You’ll be able to participate in a variety of hands-on activities. 

You will need to apply by January 31 if you intend to apply for financial aid. You should have a Bachelor of Science degree either in geology or a similar related scientific field. 

You should plan on supplying official transcripts, GRE scores, and three letters of recommendation. You will also need to submit a personal statement. This should underscore your interest in graduate study at Missouri  University of Science and Technology.

Plan on applying for financial aid? Smart. At Missouri University of Science and Technology, you will be considered for financial aid like grants and loans. You’ll also be considered for geological sciences departmental aid like sponsorships and fellowships. You can pursue graduate teaching or research assistantships as well.

#4. South Dakota School of Mines and Technology

Geology and Geological Engineering MS

If you’re going to study geology, you might as well do it where your studies will matter the most. You’ll find one of the best geology masters programs online at South Dakota School of Mines and Technology. 

Here, you’ll benefit from a campus that’s set right in the heart of the Black Hills. It is adjacent to the magnificent Great Plains. Learners have access to a phenomenal and unique outdoor classroom. It’s a living laboratory, in fact. 

Scientists from all over the world travel to this area to study its unique geology. If you choose to study geology on-campus, you can expect to spend a lot of time outdoors or conducting research. This might be in affiliated facilities like:

• the Engineering Mining Experiment Station
• the James E. Martin Paleontology Laboratory
• the Sanford Underground Research Facility.

The campus even has its own on-campus Museum of Geology! 

South Dakota School of Mines and Technology also operates the Black Hills Natural Sciences Field Station. This is one of the largest summer field camp stations in the United States. It offers learners opportunities to study in:

• the Black Hills
• Hawaii
• Turkey
• Nepal
• Spain
• France
• the Bahamas
• Andes-Ecuador
• Morocco
• New Zealand
• Death Valley
• Arizona
• Montana
• Utah
• California

…and more.

You will benefit from exemplary faculty attention as part of the geological sciences and earth science programs. There’s also the complex, diverse geology of the Black Hills region. You can choose from several majors as part of the online master of science. These include:

• a Master of Science in paleontology
• a Master of Science in geology and geological engineering
• a Ph.D. in geology, geological engineering, and mining engineering. 

This program is offered by the Department of Geology and Geological Engineering at the South Dakota School of Mines and Technology. You can pursue a specialization in either geology or geological engineering. Both are similar in their quality and structure. They have a few different course requirements. 

You’ll be able to explore a variety of research areas. That includes those in:

• energy and mineral resources
• paleontology
• groundwater and environment
• petroleum data management
• scientific communication
• structure and tectonics.

There is even a separate master’s degree here. It’s for students who are interested in specializing in paleontology. 

There is an accelerated Master of Science, too. This is ideal if you want to streamline your coursework. You can hasten your progress toward a degree. 

You’ll take about 30 credit hours of study. Six of these are dedicated to thesis research. If you choose the geological engineering specialization, you’ll be able to focus on one of three areas:

• energy and mineral resources
• geomechanics
• groundwater/environmental geology. 

#5. University of South Florida

MS in Geology

You will find another top geoscience online degree at the University of South Florida. It is the fourth-largest public university in the state of Florida. The University of South Florida opened only in 1956. This school has three campus locations. There is one in St. Petersburg, one in Tampa, and one in Sarasota-Manatee. You can always choose to study online here, too. 

You will appreciate the high level of research activity that any program in the sciences will allow. The school offers more than 180 different bachelor’s degree and graduate-level degree programs. But those that involve extensive amounts of research are some of the most impressive. According to figures released by the National Science Foundation, the University of South Florida spent more than $581 million on research and development in 2018 alone. 

The University of South Florida offers a superior education in geology online that prepares students to work in a variety of environmental and natural resources-related fields. Faculty here are some of the best. They lead the academic community as they explore a range of global earth science questions and concerns. 

Students participate in firsthand research as they pursue topics in the online master of science like:

• atmospheric sciences
• geochemistry
• geophysics
• hydrogeology
• earth sciences
• karst studies

…and more. The department offers bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral programs. 

The Master of Science in geology includes advanced study of the fundamentals of:

• chemistry
• biology
• physics
• mathematics
• earth sciences
• geosciences.

You will complete 30 credit hours. Six of these consist of core requirements. Six of them are for a thesis. The remainder of them are dedicated to electives. 

You can choose from a variety of interesting and hands-on courses here. Common options include:

• General Geochemistry
• Analytical Techniques in Geology
• Topics in Igneous and Metamorphic Petrology. 

For a thesis, you can choose between a standard thesis pathway or a professional science master’s. The professional science master’s will allow you to take one of two tracks. You can engage in a professional geologist-led internship or a faculty-led internship. All of these experiences will bring together the knowledge you acquired throughout the duration of your internship. 

You’ll have access to a long list of resources and activities. You will benefit from resources specifically for online learners. You can also join student organizations like:

• the Geoscience Graduate Student Organization
• Gamma Theta Upsilon
• the Student Environmental Association. 

You can apply by submitting an application form, three letters of recommendation, and a resume or CV. You will also need to supply a writing sample, a personal statement, and current GRE scores. Of course, you will also need to submit official transcripts. 

#6. University of Wyoming

MS in Geology

You’ll find another great online geophysics degree at the University of Wyoming. The University of Wyoming offers some of the best and most hands-on classes to distance learners. This school is headquartered in Laramie, WY. It has more than 41 different degree, online certificate, and endorsement programs. The online master of science degrees are available for distance learners in Wyoming and beyond. 

This school opened in 1887. The University of Wyoming is one of the best places for studies in more than 120 undergraduate, graduate, and certificate programs. These are delivered through online and video conferencing classes. The outreach school also has nine additional regional centers. Many of these are on community college campuses. 

This program helps students plan and perform research at the cutting edge of geological sciences. You will hone your skills in scientific communication. You will also gain key technical skills. These are necessary for Ph.D. programs all around the country. 

You can choose between majors in geology or in geophysics.You will complete around 26 semester hours of credit at the 4000 level or above. You will also complete an oral examination and a final thesis project. 

Sample classes include:

• Groundwater Flow/Transport
• Metamorphic Petrology
• Petroleum Geology
• Integrated Science and Geological Data
• Space Sciences
• Geographic Information Systems
• Vertebrate Morphology and Evolution.

Faculty who teach in this program pride themselves on working closely with students to provide one-on-one interaction. They help students develop the skills necessary to be research scientists. 

You will learn the laboratory and field methodologies for data collection. There are research locations available all over the world, including Africa, Antarctica, and Greenland. You’ll also learn how to analyze the data you collect. 

All students must participate in a distinguished lecture series, a fundamentals of research course, and a Rocky Mountain field trip. The latter is a six-day trip taken during the first week of the first semester. The skills you acquire will enhance your job prospects upon graduation.

You will be able to expand your learning outside of the classroom. You can work with faculty who are working hard to address some of the most significant problems in geology today. 

Submit your application before January for admission the following fall. Contact a professor in your intended area of interest to discover student research opportunities. Many of these are funded to make the degree more affordable. 

You will need to submit an online application along with three letters of recommendation. You will also be asked to submit a curriculum vitae that details your academic accomplishments, qualifications, and other relevant information. You will also need a two-page statement of interest in graduate research. 

#7. Texas A&M University

Master of Geoscience

Become an Aggie when you enroll at Texas A&M University in the engineering geology masters! You will join a community of more than 500,000 current students and proud alumni.

This school is located in College Station, TX. It opened in 1876 as the flagship university of the Texas A&M University System. It has the largest student body in the United States. It is the only university in the state of Texas to hold all three designations of land, sea, and space grant intuition. 

You’ll have lots of opportunities to get involved in research here. The school has a number of ongoing research projects. These are funded by top organizations like:

• the National Institutes of Health
• the National Aeronautics and Space Administration
• the Office of Naval Research
• the National Science Foundation.

You can explore a variety of new, evolving areas in geoscience as part of this online master of science. Examples include:

• petroleum data management
• ocean data science
• geographic information science and technology.
• integrated science
• geological data
• land and space sciences
• Geographic Information Systems

The program’s curriculum is structured to teach value-added skills. These are for petroleum professionals. However, they could be useful for anybody at any stage of his or her career. 

This geology online degree is a non-thesis program. You’ll take 36 credit hours of study covering all aspects of geoscience. It’s offered online in a unique carousel model. You can complete your studies in as little as 18 months. 

You can choose from multiple emphases. Examples of courses include:

• Geographic Information Science and Technology
• Remote Sensing for Geographical Analysis
• GIS in Land Management
• Data Management for Geosciences
• Petroleum Geology. 

You’ll start your courses at one of five times throughout the year in this online learning option. You can also be admitted at three different times for the master’s degree in geological sciences.

Set your own pace with this program for maximum flexibility. You will complete a total of ten courses. Each lasts eight weeks in a fast-paced format. The only exception to this is the capstone course. The capstone course in geological and geophysical engineering is a natural part of this advanced degree. You will work with your academic advisor to plan out how to best display your technical expertise. The capstone course is offered as a 16-week class during the fall and spring semesters. 

You will need to demonstrate that you have the motivation and dedication necessary to complete a degree in an online format. You should also be able to balance this challenging degree with your personal commitments and career responsibilities.

Provide evidence of two years of professional work experience. This should be in energy or geosciences. You should also submit an official transcript. It should show that you have completed an undergraduate degree. 

This degree features tuition starting at just $800 per credit hour for Texas residents. Financial aid is available for most students as well.

#8. New Mexico Institute of Mining and Technology

Master of Science in Geology

Do you have what it takes to succeed in the Master of Science in geology at New Mexico Institute of Mining and Technology? More than likely! This online geoscience degree program is competitive and challenging. But it also features dedicated instruction from attentive instructors. They want nothing more than to see their students succeed. 

New Mexico Institute of Mining and Technology is also known as New Mexico Tech. It was once known as the New Mexico School of Mines. It is a public university located in Socorro, NM. This school has more than 30 different bachelor’s degrees. Plus there are graduate degrees (both master’s and doctoral levels). 

It is ranked as one of the best public institutions by a National Science Foundation study of Baccalaureate Origins of S&E Doctorate Recipients. This school is small and close-knit. It is home to just 1,412 students. You will gain technical expertise in this online master’s degree. The online master of science focuses on research and teaching in the areas of:

• hydrology
• atmospheric physics
• information technology
• earth science
• petroleum recovery
• geophysics. 

This one of the best geology masters programs online is offered by the Department of Earth and Environmental Science. The Master of Science has with two options. There is an option with or without a thesis. You will complete 30 credit hours of study. You’ll enjoy a small student-to-faculty ratio of just 12:1.

You can also specialize in a variety of concentrations in the online master degree. There are:

• geochemistry
• geophysics
• hydrology

In addition to your major, you may also want to pursue a minor in a field like:

• geobiology
• hydrology
• petroleum geology
• mineral resources
• geophysics
• earth science.

The department is home to 14 faculty members and more than 40 affiliated adjunct and research faculty. The Department of Earth and Environmental Science at New Mexico Institute of Mining and Technology is quite prestigious. Many of the faculty here are also staff scientists at the New Mexico Bureau of Geology and Mineral Resources. The department also has close connections with the EarthScope USArray Operations Facility and the IRIS PASSCAL Instrument Center. Both of these are major NSF-funded seismological facilities. 

You’ll benefit from strong interdisciplinary research opportunities. You will have access to all kinds of research computing laboratories and facilities.

To apply, you will need to submit a standardized online application. Submit unofficial transcripts from any universities attended. Also supply three letters of recommendation, GRE test scores, and a statement of purpose. You will also need to submit a resume that provides evidence of your work experience. 

This affordable program is offered online. This can reduce your cost of attendance. You can complete a FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid) after applying. You may qualify for financial aid, like fellowships, assistantships, work-study, and scholarships through the university. 

#9. University of Minnesota – Duluth

Geological Sciences M.S. (Earth Sciences MS)

One of the best online geoscience degrees can be found at the University of Minnesota. There are 16 bachelor’s degrees in 87 different majors. The University of Minnesota-Duluth is a good first stopping point on your way to a rewarding career. You don’t have to quit after you finish your bachelor’s. This school is located in Duluth, MN. It is also a great place to earn a graduate degree. 

It first opened as a school for teachers. The school soon became known for its attention to student success. Now it is best known for its medical programs and other science-focused degrees. 

This university is home to a number of centers, institutes, and research labs. They provide students with some of the best hands-on experiences. You’ll enjoy access to facilities like the Center for Water and Environment and the Center for Community and Regional Research. 

The Earth Sciences Master of Science was once known as the Geological Sciences Master of Science, at the University of Minnesota – Duluth. It is one of the most outstanding of its kind. You will have the opportunity to partner with faculty members in a variety of hands-on research programs. You can pursue studies in things like:

• petrology
• sedimentology
• tectonics
• basin analysis
• geographic information systems
• ecohydrology

…and more. 

Duluth has one of the best environments for students who wish to explore the region’s geology. The master’s degree in geological sciences collaborates with the Natural Resources Research Institute, the Precambrian Research Center, and the Large Lakes Observatory. You will be prepared for all manner of work. That might be in education, industry, government, or further training. Graduate students in geological sciences could work as one of the best earth science educators, in project management, or in resource management. Earth science educators are in demand everywhere, as are many of these other roles. Even government administration or work in energy systems is a smart choice with an online master’s. These master’s degrees are versatile!

The master’s degree is designed to be completed in two years or less. That’s even if you hold a graduate assistantship. You can select a research area of focus when you enroll in this geology degree.

You will need to take 31 credit hours in the master’s degree in geological sciences. Sample classes include:

• Professional Issues in Earth and Environmental Science
• Well Hydraulics
• Advances in Paleoclimatology
• Environmental Protection
• Glacial and Quaternary Geology.

A final thesis project is also required as part of this master’s degree in geology.

To apply, you must have a minimum of a bachelor’s degree in geology. It could also be in a related field in science, mathematics, or engineering. You should have earned a GPA of 3.0 or higher. All materials can be completed and submitted online. This includes the application itself. No GRE scores are required for admission to this master’s degree in geology, even if you are interested in geological science education. 

After submitting your application, be sure to take the time to explore the many financial aid opportunities offered here. You can pursue a range of programs to help you close the financial gap. These include assistantships, scholarships, and more. Both teaching and research assistantships are available. There is some support for travel to meetings and thesis research. 

#10. University of Minnesota – Twin Cities

Earth Science M.S. with a track in Geology 

The University of Minnesota-Twin Cities is a public research university in the Twin Cities of Saint Paul and Minneapolis, MN. It has the sixth largest student body of any college in the United States.

You’ll enjoy hands-on classes and dedicated attention from your faculty. It is considered a “Public Ivy” university for its attention to individual students’ success. It also has a high academic quality. The school is designated as an R1 Doctoral University-Very High Research Activity. It spends more than $954 million in research and development each year, on average. 

As an aspiring geology major, you’ll find everything you’re looking for here.

The school has roots tracing all the way back to 1872. The study of geology at the University of Minnesota – Twin Cities has always been a priority. It has graduated thousands of students. It is home to numerous departments and sub-institutes. The courses as part of the master’s degree in geology include:

• the Limnological Research Center
• the Minnesota Geological Survey
• the Institute for Rock Magnetism. 

The master’s degree in geology department is home to more than 350 faculty, 30 research labs, 20 teaching labs, and many other valuable resources for on-campus and online learners alike. In the master’s degree in geological sciences, you’ll enjoy a close-knit, attentive learning environment. Here, each faculty advisor is assigned no more than three to five students. 

You can choose between multiple different master’s degrees in earth science as part of this online program. Your science education will include:

• geophysics
• geology
• responsible land management
• biogeology
• hydrogeology.

You can also choose three different degree completion plans as part of this master’s degree in geology. One online program requires you to complete a thesis and final oral exam. Another allows you to complete a project and final exam. The third online program option requires coursework only. It is only available for the hydrogeology online program. 

Each of these three master’s degree in geological sciences options requires 30 course credit hours. There are 14 credit hours in the online program major and others taken outside, either in a minor or some other supporting field. Each track is a great pathway for candidates interested in pursuing an eventual Ph.D.

These degrees are offered by a diverse department. It is made up of students from throughout the United States as well as many other countries. There is a strong connection between the department and program alumni. Many of them are well-established in their careers. They continue to support faculty and current students in their research endeavors. 

This program is easy to apply to. It’s also affordable. The department offers generous financial aid. It can support 10 to 12 new students each year via assistantships and fellowships. Financial aid guarantees 50% support for two years of a master’s program. You can apply for assistantships and research stipends. 

For students who wish to pursue summer research opportunities, there is even summer support available. You can receive financial assistance to travel to professional meetings or engage in other valuable professional development opportunities. 

OTHER NOTABLE PROGRAMS 

#11. Brigham Young University

Location: Provo, UT

Degree: Geology MS

Net Price: $7,555

Website

#12. University of Oklahoma Norman Campus

Location: Norman, OK

Degree: Master of Science in Geology

Net Price: $21,158

Website

#13. Western Michigan University

Location: Kalamazoo, MI

Degree: Master of Science in Geosciences

Net Price: $15,219

Website

IF YOU ENJOYED THAT THEN CHECK OUT OUR ARTICLES ON THE 50 HIGHEST-PAYING MASTER’S DEGREES & TOP 10 REASONS TO EARN YOUR MASTER’S DEGREE!

The national economy plays a role in everyone’s life, and it is a part of our world that is constantly monitored by institutions like stock exchanges, the Federal Reserve, and the World Bank. Being able to understand trends in the economy can give a person insight into how businesses and individuals will be affected by certain decisions. It can also offer commentary on how “strong” or “weak” one currency is against another. There are also many specific elements of economics. More well-known topics among these are macroeconomics and microeconomics, but there are also people who study environmental economics, the economics of information, and political economics. On the world stage, economic development, especially in countries that are traditionally more poverty-stricken, is subject to much debate. An economist is a person who studies these topics; they may be employed in either the business or government sector and typically focus on analyzing trends in the market, conducting research, using statistical and mathematical models, and offering solutions and strategies on how best to position an organization based on the current economic situation. 

A master’s degree in economics prepares students to work as economists, financial advisors, and managers. When looking into these programs, it can be helpful to have a background in economics, statistics, and mathematics, though this is not necessarily required, as prerequisites vary from program to program. As students consider online programs, it is important to know that several degrees in economics are offered. First is the Master of Arts in Economics. An MA has much of a liberal arts focus, meaning that students take classes on the historical context of economics, in addition to classes that focus on economic theory. This prepares them to analyze economic policies and provide specialized feedback on them. It is also good preparation for a doctoral degree. A Master of Business Administration degree is much more business-specific, taking marketing, management, finance, and accounting into consideration. An MBA is widely applicable across business fields, but it lacks the theoretical offerings found with an MA. Lastly, one might choose to pursue a Master of Science in Economics. An MS is typically more statistically and mathematically focused and centered on economic models, trends, and theory. 

Regardless of the degree type, many universities require a thesis or project option as part of the graduate curriculum. Others allow students to complete an internship for credit. Many programs either offer an implicit or explicit focus on economic policy, while some have more specific areas of interest, like Applied Economics, Business and Data Analytics, and Financial Economics. Depending on a student’s education goals, this can provide important professional development. Also important to note are job placement rates. Universities on this list have graduates who work with the U.S. Department of Justice, Deloitte, the Federal Reserve, and the Bureau of Labor Statistics, to name just a few. Others have gone on to earn a doctoral degree upon finishing their master’s work. 

COMMON APPLICATION AND ADMISSION QUESTIONS

All programs require students to submit an application, undergraduate transcripts, and a resume to apply. Most are looking for a GPA between 2.75 and 3.0. Some also look specifically at an applicant’s last 60 credit hours of undergraduate coursework, while others consider the transcript as a whole. As mentioned above, some institutions prefer students to have some experience with macroeconomics, microeconomics, statistics, and mathematics, though many programs allow students to take these courses during their first semester of graduate study, if needed. Additionally, a majority of universities require students to submit scores from either the GRE or GMAT. Some schools do allow waivers, if a student already holds a graduate degree, or based on an outstanding undergraduate GPA. 

Other potential admissions requirements include a statement of purpose and letters of recommendation. Most schools will accept relevant transfer credits if students have started or earned another master’s degree. Once admitted, students are usually able to begin studying at the next available start date. Programs on this list offer between two and six start dates per year.  

Typical admissions questions revolve around the difference between an on-campus and an online degree. There is often no difference, apart from the courses’ delivery format. Universities use the same faculty members to teach online and in person, meaning that students receive an identical education online to what they would have if they were earning a degree on campus. Online education comes in many forms, but the two most common are asynchronous and synchronous delivery. Asynchronous delivery means that students do not have to log in at a certain time for class meetings, and they can complete their coursework on their own schedule. Synchronous learning means that students usually meet with their classmates virtually via a platform like Zoom, and the professor delivers lectures this way, too. Regardless of the format, both are usually supported by readily available technical support, online tutoring services, and academic advisors who help students make sure that they are on track to graduate. Students have access to the university’s library and its online resources as well, to help them with research. Additionally, some programs offer a hybrid option in which students take a combination of online and on-campus classes to earn their degrees. Regardless of whether students take advantage of this opportunity, if they are on campus for any reason, they are welcome to use the institution’s facilities. In terms of graduation, many of these degrees can be earned in two years or less. Some of the classes are as short as 8 weeks, while others are as long as 16. 

WHAT ABOUT FINANCIAL AID & SCHOLARSHIPS?

All programs on this list have financial aid available in one form or another. Every institution suggests its students fill out the Free Application for Federal Student Aid to see what federal grants and loans they may be eligible for based on their yearly income. The FAFSA has also become easier to navigate in recent years, because it now automatically imports a student’s (or their parents’) tax returns as part of the form, saving applicants from having to scramble to find their financial paperwork. Additionally, many institutions offer specialized scholarships specifically for students in certain programs. These usually come in the form of endowed scholarships, which have been created by a department, organization, or individual. Typically, endowed scholarships have limiting criteria, like a program or level of study, such as “a graduate student in the School of Business.” Students should be sure to read through their school’s financial aid website very closely to see which scholarships they are eligible to apply for. Merit scholarships are sometimes also available, depending on a student’s GPA. Additionally, if a student is looking at a public institution, it is important to pay attention to whether or not the school allows its online students to pay in-state tuition or not. In-state tuition is always less expensive than out-of-state tuition. Private institutions charge the same tuition rates to all students. Lastly, active-duty service members, their spouses, dependents, and veterans can often receive some form of military discount. This may be in addition to Post-9/11 GI Bill benefits. Depending on one’s situation, this can sometimes be applied to graduate tuition. Military discounts often make it possible for active-duty service members to complete their degree online from anywhere. 

Another way to finance education is by reaching out to one’s employer to see if the company offers some incentive or reimbursement for earning a master’s degree. Employees should talk to their supervisors or human resources departments to see what partnerships, if any, exist between the organization and an institution of higher education. Students can also look into independently offered scholarships. Many students do take out loans to pay for graduate degrees, though trying to minimize this as much as possible is clearly the preferred choice. 

If a student is unsure of a degree’s affordability, they should talk with a financial aid counselor. These counselors are familiar with many options both inside and outside of the institution and can offer feedback that may help to make school more financially manageable. They can also give guidance if a student needs help filling out the FAFSA or applying for other scholarships that require proof of financial hardship or admission to the institution. 

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

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median salary for an economist in 2018 was $104,340; the typical entry-level credential for this profession was a master’s degree. The number of jobs for economists is expected to grow 8% by 2028, with approximately 1,700 jobs created over the next 10 years. Another potential job for someone with this degree is that of an actuary. Actuaries consider the financial costs of risks using statistics and mathematics. They are certified professionals who often work for insurance companies. The median salary for an actuary in 2018 was $102,880, and the number of positions is expected to grow 20% by 2028, which is much faster than the national average. The demand for market research analysts is also expected to grow by 20%; for this job, in particular, it would mean an increase of 139,200 positions by 2028. People employed as market research analysts make a median salary of $63,120 per year. They focus on looking critically at the sales of products or services. Another growing profession is that of operations research analyst; people in this role make an average of $83,390 per year, and the job outlook predicts a 26% growth in the number of jobs by 2028. Other jobs for those with a master’s in economics include management analyst, budget analyst, and personal financial advisor. 

Graduates of economics programs are qualified to work in both the public and private sectors for companies, governments, nonprofits, and other nongovernmental organizations. They are also well-positioned for doctoral studies in economics, business, or political science and joining academia. Professors made a median salary of $78,470 per year in 2018, according to BLS data. It is anticipated that there will be 155,000 more jobs for post-secondary instructors by 2028. The profession allows individuals to teach and conduct research at the same time. 

Earning a master’s degree in economics gives students an opportunity to apply their understanding of business and economic theory to everyday life and work. Many students in these programs work full-time and are aiming to advance in their profession and/or their company. Leveraging the skills and experience gained through a graduate education can help secure a raise or promotion after graduation, particularly in the business sectors. 

As the economy informs all aspects of business, understanding it provides a crucial perspective to any organization. Outside of their professional lives, students can use their economic knowledge to analyze the stock market and invest wisely, creatively and critically managing a strong stock portfolio, which can be lucrative if done correctly. Overall, students can expect a prolific career with a firm like Deloitte, or with a government agency such as the Federal Reserve, the BLS, or the Department of Justice. 

OUR RANKING CRITERIA 

We have a time-tested four-part formula designed for ranking the best colleges in the nation that we’d love to share with you. We prioritize four major factors: 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 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 our ranking of the 10 Best Online Master’s Programs in Economics! 

#1. PURDUE UNIVERSITY

MASTER OF SCIENCE IN ECONOMICS 

Without Abraham Lincoln, Purdue University would never have come into existence. This is because Lincoln signed the Morrill Land Grant Act in 1862, turning many public lands into colleges. As a result, in 1869, Purdue University was founded following a gift from John Purdue. Today, the university has gone worldwide with its offerings, allowing students to pick from more than 200 online and hybrid programs, including a Master of Science in Economics. 

Purdue’s economics department centers its curriculum on the fact that there is an increasing demand for individuals who can analyze and interpret economic data and relay that in a cohesive and understandable manner to make business and policy decisions. Students learn about forecasting economic trends and these trends’ effects on pricing, stocks, production, employment, wealth, and inflation. Students learn from experts who have studied in the field and who use hands-on teaching methods to help them succeed. This includes drawing from statistical software like Stata and Matlab and mastering programming languages like Python. 

The online degree can be completed in as few as 20 months, though it may also be spread out over 36. Students can also opt for a hybrid option, in which they take classes both online and on campus. Graduation requires 30 credit hours, divided among 15 courses. Four specializations are available: Theoretical and Applied Concepts; Business and Data Analytics; Financial Economics, Public Economics and Policy; and Advanced Theory. These focus areas include classes such as Financial Valuation and Decision Making, Law and Economics, Advanced Game Theory, and Econometrics. All courses last between 8 and 15 weeks. 

While in this program, students may also complete a STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) Optional Practical Training extension. This has been helpful for international students, as the U.S.government extends an extra year of resident status to students with STEM degrees. Additionally, if an undergraduate at Purdue is studying in a STEM field, they can apply up to nine credit hours of their coursework toward an MS. 

To apply for the program, students must choose between two start dates, August or January. Each of these has its own application deadline. Next, students should submit copies of all official transcripts, a statement of purpose, a resume, and at least two letters of recommendation. They also have the option to submit a diversity essay. GRE scores are not required. 

After graduation, students are prepared to pursue further study, and some have gone on to doctoral studies at Purdue. These students are encouraged to complete the Advanced Theory specialization. They should also take advantage of faculty members’ research interests, which include environmental economics, game theory, price theory, industrial organization, and the economics of information, among others. 

Purdue has been ranked No. 6 in Most Innovative Schools and No. 18 in Top Public Schools by U.S News & World Report, which speaks to the quality of the program and the creativity of its instructors. 

#2. UNIVERSITY OF NORTH DAKOTA

MASTER OF SCIENCE IN APPLIED ECONOMICS

The University of North Dakota offers 13% lower tuition and fees than comparable institutions in the region. It is also home to 13,847 students and boasts an average class size of 24. UND has 17 NCAA Division I athletics teams and offers more than 200 fields of study. Eighty-five percent of graduates are employed in a job that is related to what they studied at UND. The university contributes 1,500 jobs to the state’s economy and has had a $300 million impact from its research, proving that students come to Grand Forks, ND to study and contribute to their chosen field. 

The university itself was founded in 1883, six years before North Dakota actually became a state; its first class included six men and two women. The university’s mascot is the Fighting Hawk, which is now part of UND’s century-old athletic tradition. Six U.S. presidents have visited the campus: Franklin D. Roosevelt, John F. Kennedy, Richard Nixon, Ronald Reagan, Bill Clinton, and Barack Obama. The university is accredited by both the Higher Learning Commission and the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business, among many other discipline-level approvals. 

In terms of online education, there are more than 120 programs available online with roughly 3,500 students enrolled in entirely online classes. For these students, many of whom are not in North Dakota, resources are still available, including online tutoring services, tech support, and student services. Online tutoring is available 24/7, so students are always able to get the help they need with their classwork, Further UND’s One-Stop Student Services has brought together financial aid, student accounts, and registration all in one easily accessible by email department to help students stay on track financially and academically. 

UND’s MS in applied economics is geared toward students who are looking to capitalize on the university’s strong culture of research. Many go into fields like economic research and forecasting.  As part of the curriculum, students start with the basics of economic theory, mathematical economics, and data and statistical analysis. This base allows them to produce quality research right away. They are several areas to specialize in, such as Economic Development or Business Economics. Students also have a chance to conduct research through the Bureau of Business and Economic Research. 

UND’s program may be completed in a hybrid format, in which students take courses online and on-campus, interacting with their peers across all course delivery formats. To graduate, students need 30 credits, which may include an Economic Research Internship. They may also take classes like Demographic Methods for Economics, Advanced International Economics, and Time Series Methods & Application. This is a STEM-designated program, meaning that students in the program may be eligible to apply for the North Dakota University System STEM Loan Forgiveness Program. 

#3. UNIVERSITY OF MISSOURI

MASTER OF ARTS IN ECONOMICS

Forty-five percent of University of Missouri students graduate without debt, and $138 million was used toward financial aid at Mizzou during the 2017-2018 academic year. Students at Mizzou come from every state in the nation and from more than 100 countries abroad, bringing total enrollment to 29,677. Truman the Tiger is the university’s mascot, and he appears more than 35 times each month at different gatherings. He is named for President Harry Truman, who was born in Missouri. Some of Truman’s appearances are at athletic events; Mizzou is an NCAA Division I school with 20 sports represented in the Southeastern Conference. 

Inside the classroom, there are more than 300 degree programs to choose from; one of these is the Master of Arts in Economics, offered through the College of Arts and Sciences and accredited by the Higher Learning Commission. This degree requires 30 credit hours and focuses on helping students to understand globalization and the increasingly complex topic of big data. The program also encourages students to adopt a global perspective, especially as they learn about international trade and the world economy. Classes often include research components, encouraging students to take themselves seriously as scholars and preparing them to advance further in their studies of economics beyond the master’s degree. 

Each course is typically 15 to 16 weeks in length, and students usually take two courses each semester. Most students complete their degree within two years. Some of the courses included in this program are The Banking System and the Money Market, Problems in Economics, and Public Budgeting and Taxation. Many online courses feature help available through NetTutor, an online tutorial service. This allows students to receive support from the university while completing their degree online. Students can also, of course, seek technical help if they are having difficulty accessing coursework. Mizzou’s Learning Center provides many strategies to help students succeed in their assignments. Students also have access to the university’s library. 

Graduates of the program have gone on to hold titles such as Data Scientist, Director of Institutional Research, Energy Markets Manager, and Economic Development Incentive Specialist. No matter where online students choose to complete their coursework, they will pay in-state tuition to attend Mizzou. To begin the program, students must have earned at least a 3.0 GPA in the last 60 hours of their undergraduate career. Students should also submit transcripts, two letters of recommendation, a resume or curriculum vitae, and a personal statement. GRE scores are not necessary for admission. Students can start at the beginning of the spring, summer, or fall terms, and each term has its own application deadline. In terms of rankings, Mizzou is at No. 64 in Top Public Schools and No. 63 in Economics by U.S. News & World Report. 

#4. YOUNGSTOWN STATE UNIVERSITY

MASTER OF ARTS IN FINANCIAL ECONOMICS 

Youngstown State University is located in Youngstown, OH. Its enrollment is just under 12,800 students, and the school has a student-to-faculty ratio of 14:1 with an average class size of 21. This means students get individualized attention from the faculty. The school is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission. YSU’s mascot is the penguin, and it is an NCAA Division I school home to eight men’s and 11 women’s sports teams. YSU men have won four national football championships. The school was founded in 1908 by the YMCA and joined the Ohio system of higher education in 1967. Today, the university offers 14 online graduate programs ranging from Special Education and Nursing to Financial Economics. 

The Master of Arts in Financial Economics is offered entirely online and requires 33 credit hours. The program is especially focused on helping students to become informed about making financial decisions for their employers. It also engenders in students the ability to understand and predict current economic and financial trends. The program approaches finance from both the macroeconomic and microeconomic perspectives, using models to study how each can affect financial capital and stock. Students learn about financial management, building their skills not only in economics but also in finance and accounting, so that they can go on to work in banking, insurance, or another finance-driven profession. Some examples of YSU alumni employers include Farmers National Bank, Sapling Learning, and First National Bank. 

Students can earn a degree from YSU in as few as six semesters. Some of the courses included in this program are The Econometrics of Financial Markets and Institutions, Financial Accounting and Finance for Decision Making, and Securities Analysis. Students may also opt to write a thesis by building on research done in the Research Seminar. They must earn a “B” or better to pursue a thesis project, but this can be a valuable experience for students who are considering further study. All students learn from esteemed faculty members who have areas of research specialization that include labor markets, school finance, comparative economic systems, international trade, and futures markets. Thesis students must also pass an oral examination. 

To be admitted to the program, applicants should have taken classes in microeconomics, macroeconomics, statistics, and calculus. If a prospective student is currently enrolled in a bachelor’s program at YSU, it is possible to complete an accelerated bachelor’s to MS curriculum, in which they receive both degrees after five years of study. Interested students should have any official college transcripts sent to YSU. They should also submit an application, scores from the GRE or the Millers Analogies Test, and an application fee. It is recommended that students have at least a 2.7 GPA. If a student has previously completed graduate coursework, up to nine credit hours may be transferred to YSU, and the GRE/MAT requirement can be waived. Students can also earn military credit for classes approved by the American Council of Education.

#5. GEORGIA SOUTHERN UNIVERSITY

MASTER OF SCIENCE IN APPLIED ECONOMICS

Georgia Southern University is home to almost 26,500 students and 141 programs. Students have come from all 50 states and 102 countries to study there. The university has not one, but two mascots: Gus the Eagle and Freedom, a live bald eagle who lives on campus. Georgia Southern is an NCAA Division I university whose 17 varsity sports teams play in the Sun Belt Conference. The school was founded in 1906 and boats a 21:1 student-to-faculty ratio. 

In terms of online learning, students can earn a degree without ever coming to campus. They may also take advantage of a blended option in which they take classes both online and on campus. Online students can complete their coursework from anywhere through the Georgia Online View Instruction Enterprise Wide (GoVIEW). This is a community learning platform that unifies course access across the platform. Students can use this system to earn a Master of Science in Applied Economics. 

The master’s program focuses on the application of economics in the business world. GS ensures that students are able to see the relationship between business and policy and how each affects the other. The structure of these policy and business decisions forms the foundation for the program. Then, students take more empirical economics courses that allow them to make models illustrating economic concepts. Finally, students learn specifically how to apply what they have learned to real-world issues. Overall, students should be able to rely on the program’s foundational work to identify problems and offer solutions within in context in which they find themselves. 

The MS is delivered asynchronously, so students do not have to log in at a certain time. Students can opt to start in either the fall or spring semester and typically take two courses per semester, earning a degree within two years. They also learn from faculty members who are specifically certified to teach online through simulations, class conversations, and presentations. This program is accredited by the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business. 

In total, 10 courses must be completed to graduate. Elective options include the History of Economic Thought, Health Economics, Regional Economic Development, and Behavioral Economics. 

To apply to this program, applicants should have a 3.0 undergraduate GPA, submit scores from the GRE, and have foundational coursework in economics. The GRE may be waived if a student already has a graduate degree in a quantitative discipline. 

Upon graduating, students are prepared to work in both the public and private sectors, and they are ready to analyze data across software applications, making them adaptable and practical economists. Students should be able to design economic and managerial policies and be able to understand and respond to government regulations. They should also be able to devise new strategies after consulting data and the greater economic context in which they are working to overcome obstacles. Students are also prepared to pursue further graduate study in a terminal degree program like a juris doctor or doctor of philosophy. 

#6. SOUTHERN NEW HAMPSHIRE UNIVERSITY

MASTER OF SCIENCE IN APPLIED ECONOMICS

Southern New Hampshire University is accredited by the New England Commission of Higher Education and the Accreditation Council for Business Schools. It is a private, nonprofit institution that strives to offer individualized attention and support for its students through advisement, career services, and community building. The university typically accepts up to 12 transfer credits toward a graduate degree and does not require standardized test scores. This is because the university does not think that these scores accurately reflect a student’s ability to succeed. 

SNHU was founded in 1932 and has its roots in business education. It was home to the first program for active-duty military service members, educating many servicemen from the Manchester Airbase. Today, Southern New Hampshire is one of the largest nonprofits providing online education in the United States. With over 200 online degree programs, students have the flexibility to study whatever they are most interested in, from wherever they are, and they have access to a technology help desk, which is available to students 24/7. Students can also access the library and online tutoring services for help with classwork and research. Students are encouraged to join SNHUConnect, a platform exclusively for online students. There, individuals can connect with clubs and peers who are also engaged in online learning. 

SNHU’s calendar features five 10-week terms per year, giving students many opportunities to start their coursework. To apply, students should submit an online application, transcripts, and a resume. SNHU also offers several merit scholarships for graduate students, including the Finlay Family Scholarship, the Hassa Jadvani Memorial School, and the School of Business Scholarship Fund. Specific scholarships are available to veterans, and active military service members and their spouses enjoy a 25% tuition discount. Students can also work with the Student Financial Services team to come up with a custom plan based on their unique financial needs. 

With the Master of Science in Economics, in particular, students are able to analyze and apply economic and mathematical knowledge to today’s world. The program is mindful of the global market and uses real-world examples in the classroom to help students see the applicability of what they are studying. SNHU also works to consider perspectives from science, sociology, history, and philosophy to frame and add context to today’s economics. In particular, students gain skills in analysis, communication, data processing, and presentation, as well as the ability to build and analyze economic models. 

Students can typically finish a degree in as few as 15 months. The degree requires 36 credit hours and includes classes such as Game Theory and Industrial Organization, Mathematics and Statistics for Economics, and Applied Econometrics. 

U.S. News & World Report has ranked SNHU No. 1 among the Most Innovative Schools, an apt ranking for a university with so many online offerings. This also indicates that students can look forward to a program with creative approaches to learning. 

#7. WEST TEXAS A&M UNIVERSITY

MASTER OF SCIENCE IN FINANCE AND ECONOMICS

At West Texas A&M, in Canyon, TX, students can earn a Master of Science in Finance and Economics. The university is home to 60 undergraduate programs and 40 graduate programs. It was founded in 1910. The school’s nickname is “the Buffs,” and its colors are maroon and white. There are approximately 2,557 students enrolled. West Texas A&M is an NCAA Division II member of the Lone Star Conference, with 15 athletic teams participating. The buffalo was named the school’s mascot in 1921, though other potential mascots discussed included the coyote, badger, rattlesnake, and prairie dog. The university has maintained a herd a buffalo on campus since 1922, and the current mascot buffalo is named Thunder IX. 

In recent years, West Texas A&M has made a particular effort to become more sustainable, making it a priority to recycle paper, plastic bottles, cardboard, aluminum cans, motor oil, tires, antifreeze, and toner cartridges. This is also borne out in the efforts the school has made to encourage students to consider distance learning. All students are offered an online learning assessment to determine how they might do in an online class at the university. 

Once admitted to an online program, students complete an orientation through Blackboard, West Texas’ learning management system. Students also get connected to BuffAdvisor, which helps them to schedule their classes, view financial aid, and examine their campus-related bills. As a benefit to attending West Texas, students also get free access to Microsoft Office 365 and a desktop version of Microsoft Office 2016, making it easier for them to turn in assignments. Students can get these perks by enrolling in the Master of Science in Finance and Economics program. 

The Master of Science in Finance and Economics degree is offered through the Paul and Virginia Engler College of Business and is designed for students who want to pursue further studies in economics and finance, particularly with the goal of working at a financial institution or for the government. The MSFE requires 36 credit hours and can be finished in two years, though some students are able to complete the coursework more quickly. 

To start the program, students must submit scores from the GMAT, official transcripts, three letters of recommendation, a resume, and a statement of purpose. The university also prefers students to have at least a 3.0 undergraduate GPA and proficiency in foundational business coursework. 

While in the program, students choose from courses such as Security Analysis, Financial Management of Health Care, and Corporate Governance and Ethics. At the end of the program, students must take and pass a comprehensive examination. 

West Texas has been ranked at No. 35 in Public Schools, No. 26 in Best Online Graduate Business Programs (Excluding MBA), and No. 14 in Best Online Graduate Business Programs for Veterans (Excluding MBA). The university is accredited by the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business. Students can opt to earn their degree in an online format or in a blended format where they attend some courses on campus and some online, depending on their preference. 

#8. AMERICAN UNIVERSITY

MASTER OF ARTS IN ECONOMICS

Based in the heart of Washington, DC, American University was chartered by Congress in 1893. The institution has a long tradition of advocacy, excellence, and public service, and many U.S. presidents have visited the campus, including Theodore Roosevelt, Woodrow Wilson, Abraham Lincoln, and John F. Kennedy. The School of Public Affairs developed out of FDR’s New Deal. Recently, American hired its first female president, Sylvia Matthews Burwell, a former Secretary of Health and Human Services. 

Students come from all 50 states and 124 countries to study at American, and there are 14,000 enrolled today. U.S. News & World Report has ranked the university at No. 21 among the Best Online Graduate Programs for Veterans (Excluding MBA). It is accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education. 

Students can earn a Master of Arts in Economics online. The program offers a specialization in Applied Economics. The program makes the most of being near the nation’s capital, allowing students to learn more about the individuals and institutions that affect the global economy. It also teaches students to analyze data, apply it to policy, and communicate this vision. Students learn about the mathematics behind economics and are able to explain economic models and understand how to predict changes based on economic indicators. American also gives students access to Stata, statistical software that can be used to analyze data. American also hosts several online MA webinars discussing real-world economic problems and examples.

This degree can be finished in 20 months and requires 10 courses. These include Labor Economics, Public Economics, and Financial Stability and Growth. As a culminating experience, students take a capstone seminar in which they complete a project on a real-world economic issue. They are taught by faculty members who are experts in the field who have been widely quoted in outlets like The Los Angeles Times, CNN, and The Boston Globe, and they have been published in journals such as the Review of International Organizations, the Journal of Economic Behavior and Organization, and the International Journal of Islamic and Middle Eastern Finance and Management. The education students receive from these professors translates into employment. In fact, American University has a 96% job placement rate for graduates of its MA in Economics program. Employers of AU alumni include the U.S. Department of Justice, Deloitte, the Federal Reserve, and the Bureau of Labor Statistics. 

To apply to the program, students should hold a bachelor’s degree and preferably have taken calculus during their undergraduate career. They do not need to have studied economics. American does not require the GRE, but students should submit a statement of purpose, resume, two letters of recommendation, and all transcripts. An interview with an admissions advisor is also required. For those with prior graduate coursework, students may transfer up to six credit hours. American also offers online merit scholarships to incoming students. 

#9. UNIVERSITY OF DETROIT MERCY

MASTER OF ARTS IN ECONOMICS

The University of Detroit Mercy formed when the University of Detroit and Mercy College of Detroit came together in 1990. The two institutions shared the common goal of helping their students to succeed through education, particularly in Detroit. As a whole, the university is a ministry of both the Society of Jesus and the Religious Sisters of Mercy, making it one of 27 Jesuit universities in the United States. The fact that this mission is shared between two orders of religious is special because it draws from two intellectual and spiritual traditions, both of which emphasize the importance of education. They both also aim to create students who want to use their skills and knowledge to improve the world. 

UD Mercy offers more than 100 programs and has a student population of just over 5,000. Ninety percent of faculty members at the university hold a terminal degree in their field, and the university boasts a 15:1 student-to-faculty ratio in its online courses. It is also important to note that UD Mercy has a job placement rate of 89% within six months of graduation. The school is accredited by both the Higher Learning Commission and the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business. 

For its online courses, UD Mercy uses the Blackboard learning management system. Through this platform, students can choose from 13 distance education programs, including a Master of Arts in Economics. The program aims to help students learn more about economic principles and apply them to financial systems both domestically and internationally. Students also gain an understanding of the past, present, and future of the economy. 

The program requires 30 credit hours, includes classes such as Comparative Economics Systems, Business Forecasting, and Resource Economics. Students also have the option of writing a thesis. This experience can provide a valuable foundation, especially if students wish to earn a Ph.D. in economics or another business-related field. 

To apply to the program, applicants must hold a bachelor’s degree with a cumulative GPA of 3.0 or better. Financially, it is important to consider the fact that the College of Liberal Arts & Education recently discounted its tuition by almost 50%, dropping from $41,158 to $28,000. Furthermore, for students already enrolled at UD Mercy, there is an accelerated 5-year BA to MS program. Finally, U.S. News & World Report has ranked UD Mercy at No. 45 among its Best Value Schools. 

#10. MERCER UNIVERSITY

MASTER OF BUSINESS ADMINISTRATION WITH AN ECONOMICS SPECIALIZATION

Mercer University’s Stetson School of Business and Economics was founded in 1984 and was named for an alumnus of the college. It is accredited by the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business. The university has awarded more than 12,000 business degrees, and several of its programs include a distance education program. This means that students are completing their coursework in a mostly – if not completely – online format. 

Online courses at Mercer are taught by the same faculty as those who teach on campus, and class sizes are kept small so that students can still get to know their classmates and instructors. These courses follow the same schedule as campus-based classes. It is suggested that students log in at least three times per week, as the classes are not self-paced. They also include a heavy reading and writing requirement. Each student is assigned a faculty advisor who helps students to stay on track with their degree. Students may also access the university’s library and its other resources, including specialized support for distance learning students. The Academic Resource Center at Mercer is home to the Online Writing Lab, which is open 24/7. Students can submit writing assignments to the OWL and typically receive a response from a tutor with feedback within 24 to 48 hours. Students may also use the Center for Career and Professional Development, through which they can gain access to career consultations, career fairs, and job opportunities. If a student is near the campus, they can use the same facilities and benefits offered to campus-based students. 

Students wishing to complete a Master of Business Administration with an Economics specialization online through Mercer University use a learning management system through which assignments, discussions, and readings are posted. This program, in particular, is geared toward full-time professionals who are working to build their leadership and management skills for advancement in the field. The average age of students in the program is 28, and most have five years’ work experience. 

Once enrolled, students can earn a degree in 18 months. Between 36 and 45 credit hours are required for graduation. For those who have already taken courses in micro and macroeconomics, accounting and finance, and business statistics, it may be possible to have some of the foundation courses waived. The core of the program is centered on management, with courses such as Managerial Economics, Operations Management and Science, and Ethical Leadership. All students in the program take an MBA capstone, which allows them to bring together everything that they have learned in one place. 

To apply for the program, students must submit an application, scores from either the GRE or the GMAT, official transcripts of prior study, and a resume. For those who already hold a master’s degree, the GRE/GMAT requirement may be waived. Students can also apply to a variety of dual degree programs, including a dual MBA/Master of Accountancy program. 

OTHER NOTABLE PROGRAMS

#11. Ball State University

Location: Muncie, IN

Degree: Master of Business Administration with a Health Economics Graduate Certificate

Net Price: $13,642

Website

#12. University of Oklahoma

Location: Norman, OK

Degree: Master of Arts in Economics with an Applied Track

Net Price: $21,158 

Website

#13. University of Georgia

Location: Athens, GA

Degree: Master of Arts in Economics

Net Price: $15,539

#14. University of Houston, Victoria

Location: Victoria, TX

Degree: Master of Science in Economic Development and Entrepreneurship

Net Price: $10,458

#15. Western Illinois University

Location: Macomb, IL

Degree: Master of Arts  in Community and Economic Development

Net Price: $15,808

Website

IF YOU ENJOYED THAT THEN CHECK OUT OUR ARTICLES ON THE BEST ONLINE ECONOMICS MBA PROGRAMS & BEST ONLINE MASTER’S PROGRAMS IN TAXATION!

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!

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!

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!

Short for a Master of Business Administration, an MBA is a graduate program that is often seen as a terminal degree for people who wish to work in some aspect of business management, marketing, leadership, or entrepreneurship. 

Whether your aspirations lie in big business or you really just want to own your own enterprise, earning an MBA is a smart choice. If you’re on the fence about whether or not it is worth the time and money, trust us—it’s a smart investment.

In fact, there are a myriad of reasons why you might consider doing so. Not only will you benefit from completing coursework and forging professional connections that will give you self-confidence in yourself as a business person, but you’ll also get the credentials you need to prove your worth on paper.

Many of the skills you’ll gain in an MBA can be considered both hard and soft skills. These are skills that are invaluable across industries, so even if you aren’t sure where you’d like your business education to take you, you’re sure to find some benefit in earning an MBA. You’ll build skills and develop applicable personal qualities like critical and analytical thinking, communication, creativity, and leadership.

While many of the skills you’ll build in one of these programs are career-specific, many are incredibly versatile. You’ll be poised to work in a variety of industries and to pursue numerous types of careers upon graduation.

What are some typical pathways for a professional with an MBA? The list is long, and it’s incredibly varied. Earn an affordable online MBA, and you’ll be prepared for a range of options with industries and companies of all sizes and types, from start-up to Fortune 500. 

You might work in an industry such as energy, consulting, finance, technology, or healthcare. You could also work for a nonprofit or government entity, too, depending on your interests and qualifications. In fact, one of the best ways to customize your MBA to help make you eligible for work in a more specific field is to pursue an MBA that can be paired with a concentration, like marketing or healthcare administration. 

Because an MBA is so multifaceted, you’ll be qualified to conduct all sorts of business within a company or organization. You might work in human resources, accounting, or auditing, or you could even participate in research and product development. With an MBA, you could carry out the bulk of your organization’s marketing activities. 

Needless to say, your potential job titles will vary, but what all of these jobs have in common is that they are incredibly rewarding and financially lucrative. 

Not sure you have what it takes to earn an MBA? Fortunately, with the rise of online education, it’s never been easier to gain the credentials you need to succeed. Online degrees aren’t only more accessible and convenient, but they also tend to be more affordable. If you’re a working professional looking for a simpler, more flexible pathway toward career advancement, you won’t find a better option than an affordable online MBA. 

Common Application and Admission Questions

If you’re thinking about earning an online MBA, you’ve made a smart decision. Doing so is one of the best ways to skyrocket your career to success. However, you won’t get there without putting in your fair share of work first!

Your first step in the process is to complete an application to every school you may wish to attend. Don’t send out a million applications willy nilly. Instead, take the time to thoroughly research each program that you think might check off all the boxes for you.

What’s the best school at which to pursue an affordable online MBA degree program? There’s no single best school for everyone. Finding the right school for your needs will require you to think carefully about the preferred course structure (Online? On-campus? Hybrid? Part-time? Full-time?) as well as how much you would like to pay (and can afford to pay) for your tuition. 

You will also want to think about other qualifications a program might have, too. Look for a degree that includes courses taught by credentialed faculty members, as well as one that will offer you plenty of hands-on learning opportunities in the form of research, extracurriculars, capstone projects, and other experiences. 

While it might be tempting to apply to dozens of schools as you complete the admissions process, don’t fall victim to this common trap. Doing so will not only make decision day harder, but it will also get costly in a hurry. After all, most schools charge application fees when you apply, and you’ll also have to factor in expenses for sending along transcripts, GRE scores, and other documents, too.

When it comes time to apply, narrow your list down to three or four potential schools. Be sure to get in touch with the admissions office at your schools to make sure you meet all of the required qualifications and to find out exactly what will be required of you.

Each school will vary when it comes to what kinds of documentation you will need to submit in order to qualify for admission. Sometimes, you may just have to submit an online application and copies of your undergraduate transcripts. In other situations, you might need to submit supporting documents like GRE or GMAT test scores, letters of recommendation, an essay or personal statement, and even a resume.

Again, every school will have different requirements in terms of how accomplished you must be, too. Some universities accept only candidates who earned a bachelor’s degree with a GPA of 3.0 or higher, while others like to see that all candidates have completed certain prerequisite courses. You might need to meet a particular cut-off in regards to the GRE or you might have to have a few years of work experience.

When it comes to applying to an online MBA, it’s far from a cookie-cutter experience. Each school has vastly different requirements and timelines, so it pays to find out the specifics well ahead of time. 

What About Financial Aid & Scholarships?

Earning a graduate degree is going to cost you some money—there’s no way around it. However, the cost of earning an MBA does not have to be prohibitive. 

In fact, there are several ways that you can pursue higher education without putting yourself into thousands of dollars of debt. 

For starters, you’ll want to consider the tuition and fees charged by your university. Don’t restrict yourself just to state (or public) schools, either. Although these institutions charge fees that are usually less than that of what is charged by private universities, the “sticker price” can be deceiving. 

At face value, a private school usually costs more than a public university.  However, once you begin researching financial aid opportunities, private universities frequently come in at a lower price than public schools. 

That’s because private schools are often able to provide additional scholarships and other funding that is simply not available at public institutions. You’ll pay less for a degree of the same caliber, in many cases, even if you’re an out of state student.

It’s also worth your time to investigate whether your school charges reduced tuition for online learners. If it does, you may benefit simply from the fact that you are studying from a distance (even though you’ll still have access to the same campus resources and support and earn an identical degree as what you would earn if you are studying on campus). 

Once you’ve narrowed down a list of schools based on cost, it’s time to research additional opportunities for financial aid and scholarships. Your first step in this process is to complete the FAFSA, or the Free Application for Federal Student Aid. This form is available as early as January 1 of the year in which you plan to attend school. To qualify for the best opportunities, it’s recommended that you fill it out as early in the year as possible.

Once you do, you will get an idea of what kinds of need-based financial aid you might qualify for. The FAFSA uses information about your financial standing, aggregating data from your tax returns, W2s, and other financial documents to determine your estimated financial need. If you are still a dependent on someone else’s tax returns, you’ll need to provide information from their finances as well as your own.

In addition to state and federal grants, loans, and work-study, the results from the FAFSA are often used to determine your eligibility for financial aid at the university level. The school will take the data from the FAFSA to estimate whether you might qualify for things like work-study, graduate assistantships, scholarships, and more.

Of course, not everything is about your financial need. If you’re worried that you won’t qualify for any financial aid because your income is not low, don’t worry. There are still plenty of other options available. Many universities award merit-based scholarships, as do outside organizations. Your own employer might be willing to subsidize some of the cost of your college expenses, often in exchange for several years’ work. 

Leave no stone unturned—the more financial aid you receive, the fewer student loans you’ll be responsible for paying back after you graduate. 

How Much Can I Make With an MBA? 

Job titles vary when you have an MBA, so it goes without saying that your potential salary will vary, too. Some of the most popular job titles that MBA graduates pursue are those as sales managers, human resources managers, supply chain managers, and chief executive officers. However, you could also work as a chief marketing officer, a chief information officer, a general manager, or in one of hundreds of other potential roles.

There are many career paths you can pursue as an MBA graduate and also plenty of room for personal, professional, and financial growth. 

When you are pursuing a career in business, there are several ways you can gain a leg up on the competition. One of them is to earn a graduate degree. Individuals who receive master’s degrees or higher tend to earn much higher salaries throughout a lifetime of earnings than do professionals who only receive bachelor’s degrees. 

If you’re reading this article, you’ve already made a smart choice by pursuing a master’s degree. Another way to improve your potential earnings is to pursue a specialization. An MBA can automatically give you an edge and lead to a higher-paying position. However, when you add a specialization in areas like finance, accounting, supply chain management, or organizational leadership, you’ll take classes that will help you bring your resume to the top of the pile as you apply for more specialized roles. 

Another factor that will impact your potential earnings, aside from the industry in which you work, is where you live. In general, living in a major metropolitan area like San Diego or New York will qualify you automatically for a higher starting salary. Keep in mind, though, that these areas also have a higher cost of living.

Some of the best-paying jobs you can pursue with an MBA include those in management. For example, as a top executive, you’ll earn an average salary of $104,690. As a compensation and benefit manager, you can expect to earn $122,270, while as a training and development manager, you’ll earn a salary of $113,350 or more. These figures are all according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics and only reflect the average wages of individuals with undergraduate degrees. As you might expect, earning a master’s will qualify you for an even higher salary. 

You won’t have to worry too much about the feasibility and likelihood of finding a job, either. Looking specifically at just one potential role you can pursue—that of a human resource manager—you can expect to see job growth of 6% by 2029. This is much faster than the national average for other occupations. 

Why such explosive growth? Managers of all kinds are needed to ensure that companies can adhere to regulations and to administer and create new programs to help them grow. These jobs in management and leadership, unlike many of those in the 21st century, are those that are not easily replaced by machines or technology. 

What Are the Best MBA 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. University of Florida

Master of Business Administration

The University of Florida, located in Gainesville, FL, is one of the nation’s top research institutions. Here, you’ll find a variety of diverse graduate and undergraduate programs, many of which are available entirely online. From biology to teaching, mathematics to business, it might seem like the diverse offerings of programs have very little in common. 

However, what they all share is that they are taught by instructors with a passion for and commitment to research and hands-on learning. Choose to study at the University of Florida, and you’ll be privy to some of the most extensive research opportunities in the country. This school has millions of dollars in research expenditures each year and provides all students, from freshman to doctoral candidates, with opportunities to get involved. 

Established in 1905, the University of Florida is home to more than 56,000 students. It has a reputation as being one of the largest schools in the country. Nevertheless, you won’t have to sacrifice a hands-on approach to education when you choose to study at the Warrington College of Business. 

The Warrington College of Business is home to one of the most exemplary online MBAs. Here, you’ll find three separate schools, including the MBA’s Hough Graduate School of Business. This degree is designed for working professionals and offers an accelerated pathway (which will enable you to complete a degree in just one year) as well as a traditional two-year track.

Pursue the two-year track, and you’ll complete 48 credit hours of study, including core business courses that will enable you to become a skilled practitioner in just about any area of business. Pursue the one-year track, and you’ll take just 32 credits, skipping over the foundational courses and instead moving first to more advanced classes. You will take classes in topics such as Operations Management, Global Strategic Management, and Organizational Behavior. 

Concentration options include real estate, finance, and human capital. For all of these concentrations, you’ll be able to pursue extensive professional development opportunities like career assessments and interview practice. 

Both programs are available entirely online, although there are options available for you to complete certain segments of the degree on-campus. For example, you can choose to travel to Gainesville to participate in career transformation weekends or intensive residencies. The degree also has global immersion experiences that you can pursue, too. 

To apply, you will need to have earned a bachelor’s degree in business sometime within the last seven years. If you are going to be pursuing the accelerated pathway, you’ll be expected to have taken prerequisite courses like Principles of Management, Statistics for Business Decisions, and Business Finance, too. Plan on submitting your official transcripts, a resume, a personal essay, letters of recommendation, and scores from recent GMAT examinations. You’ll also need to prove that you have at least two years of full-time work experience in a business setting. 

#2. University of Nebraska

Master of Business Administration

There are plenty of reasons to consider the Master of Business Administration at the University of Nebraska. Not only does this program allow you to complete your courses from anywhere in the world, but tuition is incredibly low here, too. You’ll pay less than $8,000 or so each year as you take 30 core credits and 18 elective credits. 

In addition to the wide range of electives you can choose from, you’ll also be able to choose from one of five different specializations. Available MBA concentrations include finance, business analytics, international business, supply chain management, and marketing.

These classes are structured, designed, and taught by Big Ten faculty who are leaders in scholarly research, helping to drive conversations and developments on what is next in the world of business. You’ll build and expand your network as you work alongside your colleagues. Each class cohort is small and diverse, with students possessing an average of nine years of work experience. You’ll challenge yourself as you build connections with other students around the world.

Not only that, but you’ll gain access to extensive career advancement opportunities. You’ll be able to work with an individual career coach and access resources like online resume reviews and alumni networks to help you build your career before you even graduate. 

In most cases, you’ll be able to complete your degree in just a year and a half. However, if you want to study on a part-time basis, you can take as long as three to ten years to complete your studies at your own pace. You’ll take ten core courses (each of which is three credit hours) along with six three-hour electives. Each individual course is only eight weeks in length, allowing you to move quickly through this fully-online curriculum. 

Another benefit of the online MBA at the University of Nebraska? You can take multiple classes per semester or just concentrate on a single course at once. If you’re going through a particularly hectic period of your life, you can even choose to take a semester off and then jump right back into your coursework. 

You don’t have to sacrifice quality for versatility or affordability, either. This university is ranked as one of the Best National Universities by U.S. News & World Report, with the MBA degrees here consistently receiving high marks, too. The MBA at the University of Nebraska offers learners a greater return on their investment, both in terms of their time and money, as compared to other schools. 

The program is ranked third best for the money not just in the country, but in the entire world, by Financial Times, too. With a flat tuition rate of just $650 per credit hour, it’s easy to see why that’s the case. 

To apply, you will need to submit all materials by July 1 for fall admission. Requirements include a bachelor’s degree with a minimum of a 3.0 GPA, GMAT or GRE scores from the last five years, three professional references, a personal statement, and a resume showing past relevant work experience. At least one year of accumulated professional work experience is required, although exceptions are often considered. 

#3. Texas A & M University-Kingsville

Master of Business Administration

Originally a normal school designed to educate aspiring teachers, Texas A&M University-Kingsville was chartered in 1917. This school is the continuously operating public institution of higher learning in South Texas, having changed its name multiple times. First referred to as the Texas College of Arts and Industries and then simply as Texas A&I University, the school earned its modern-day moniker only in 1993.

This university offers more academic degrees and programs and conducts more research than any other university in the region. It’s also one of the most affordable, offering more scholarships and producing more successful graduates than any other school in this area, too.

It’s located in historic Kingsville, just 40 miles from Corpus Christi. Today, most of the school’s population comes from South Texas, but there is representation from more than 35 states and 43 countries, particularly in regard to the online setting.

Designed for working professionals, the online MBA at Texas A&M University is tailored toward students from diverse backgrounds. You’ll learn just as much from your fellow classmates as you will from your instructors, enabling you to build a strong professional network as you complete your courses. 

You won’t spend much time doing so, however. This program is structured so that it can be completed in just 12 months, making it one of the most accelerated on the list. You’ll be enrolled in small classes, which typically have no more than 30 students at a time. You’ll get to know your instructors and fellow classmates on a first-name, personal basis. The average student-to-faculty ratio is just 16:1, in fact. 

Classes are incredibly broad yet still offering enough specificity for you to become an expert manager and business practitioner. Some of the classes you will be required to take include Information Systems and Business Analytics, Accounting and Value Creation, and Marketing Management and Value Creation. The degree is accredited by the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business. 

Faculty members here are actively involved in both teaching and research. You’ll gain more hands-on experience here than at practically any other university. Not only will you be able to pursue more traditional opportunities with your instructors, but you will also be given the opportunity to engage in campus events like the Economic Forum and Community Breakfast, too.

If you already have a bachelor’s degree with an undergraduate GPA of 3.5 or higher, you won’t be required to take the GMAT or GRE. Applying is quick and easy, another reason why this degree is perfect for busy working professionals. 

Ranked as one of the best online MBA programs by the U.S. News & World Report, it’s clear that this program is a smart choice regardless of where you live.

#4. University of North Texas

Master of Business Administration

It’s ranked as one of the Best National Universities in the country by the U.S. News & World Report, and it’s incredibly versatile, customizable, and affordable, too. The online MBA degree at the University of North Texas is, for these reasons as well as hundreds of others, clearly one of the best.

One unique feature of the University of North Texas is that the school is a member of the National Council of Reciprocity Agreements. What does this mean? As a member, the University of North Texas can offer post-secondary courses for distance learners that are not only recognized by also accredited based on numerous national standards—in short, it will be easier for you to study here if you are an out-of-state learner. 

You can earn this degree entirely online and pay less than $8,000 per year for your tuition. On average, you’ll pay less than $24,000 as a Texas resident, should it take you four years to complete your degree (and only slightly more if you are from out of state). 

You’ll be able to earn a degree in just 14 months, choosing from a number of specializations so that you can expand your training in areas outside of business administration. Some of the most popular specializations include organizational behavior, human resource management, supply chain management, supply chain analytics, strategic management, marketing, and marketing analytics, just to name a few. 

Because this degree is offered in an accelerated format, you’ll be able to graduate quickly and get right out into the workforce. Not sure that online learning is right for you? Not to worry. This degree can also be completed on-campus in Denton or Frisco as well as online. When you choose to study on-campus, you’ll be able to pursue all of the previously mentioned concentrations as well as additional specializations in fields like sort entertainment management and business management, too.

Whichever you choose, you’ll benefit from studies at a school that is one of the nation’s largest public research universities. It’s recognized as a Tier One research university and will give you the flexibility you need to learn—and to succeed. You’ll gain marketable skills in things like teamwork, the strategic integration of business subjects, and the application of ethical conduct principles. 

The online Master of Business Administration at the University of North Texas requires 36 credit hours of study. All courses are administered in a flexible format in which each class lasts only eight weeks. This schedule is not only easy to manage, but it’s designed to cater specifically toward adult learners. Even better, during the summer semester, you can take courses that last only five weeks. 

Neither the GMAT nor the GRE are required for admission. Instead, you’ll just need to have a cumulative GPA of 3.0 or higher from a regionally accredited university. 

#5. University of the Cumberlands

Master of Business Administration

With a main campus in Williamsburg, KY, University of the Cumberlands may not be the first school that comes to mind when you’re searching for one of the country’s best and most affordable online MBA degrees. However, there are plenty of good reasons to give this school a chance.

Founded in 1888, the University of the Cumberlands was the brainchild of baptist ministers who wanted to offer quality education to local learners. Today, students in Kentucky still benefit from this school’s exceptional program on campus, but you can also choose to study online, too. 

The online master’s degree in business is one of several that is offered fully online and facilitated by the 120-year old school of business. It’s designed for working professionals and taught by instructors who are expert practitioners. You’ll enjoy extensive opportunities for career development and networking, along with classroom activities that are meant to foster collaboration and peer learning, such as group projects.

The degree is perfect for learners who want to switch careers or advance their careers to a managerial level. You’ll be able to complete a variety of core courses in business such as Strategic Decision-Making, Organizational Behavior, and Managerial Accounting before you move on to business electives and concentration courses. You’ll also complete an applied learning practicum. 

Whether you want to apply what you’ve learned to your current career or pursue a new one, you’ll find exactly what you’re looking for at the University of the Cumberlands. You can earn an MBA entirely online as you benefit from an academically rich curriculum with challenging assignments, case studies, and group projects. You’ll not only learn from instructors who are experts in their field but you’ll be guided along the way by advisors who are accessible, knowledgeable, and strive to build personal relationships. 

Your opportunities to succeed will extend far beyond the walls of the classroom, too (including the virtual walls of the online learning environment!). You will be able to engage in extensive career preparation and networking opportunities as you pursue one of thousands of potential management occupations both before and after graduation. 

With this degree, you can choose from six separate concentrations: healthcare administration, accounting, strategic management, marketing, entrepreneurship, and project management. Regardless of the concentration you choose, you’ll complete 46 credit hours of study and take about two years to complete your degree. Before you graduate, you will need to take a comprehensive examination. All other course and degree requirements can be accessed asynchronously through Blackboard learning software. 

To apply, you will need to have a bachelor’s degree from an accredited college, ideally with a GPA of at least 2.5. This program is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges as well as the International Accreditation Council for Business Education. 

Best yet, tuition is incredibly affordable. You’ll pay an average of $315 per credit hour and in many cases, may qualify for free or reduced-cost textbooks, too. Scholarships and other financial aid opportunities are available. 

#6. William Woods University

Master of Business Administration

Want to earn an online MBA—but don’t want to spend decades doing so? If so, you may want to consider the online MBA from William Woods University. 

Located in Fulton, MO, William Woods offers a fully online degree that is tailored specifically to working professionals and can be completed in two years or less. Upon completing this degree, you’ll be able to pursue a career as a financial manager, marketing manager, CEO, entrepreneur, or hundreds of other options.

You don’t have to pay an arm and a leg to get that kind of career, either. William Woods has a unique policy that guarantees that tuition will not go up as long as you remain continuously enrolled in the program. You’ll take a wide variety of courses in this program, studying major topics like organizational theory, financial competency, and leadership. 

A highly affordable program, it features tuition that costs just $13,500—and that’s for the entire program! You’ll enjoy quite the return on investment, too, with graduates earning an average annual salary of $65,00 or more. The top 18% of graduates? They earned well over $100,000. If you’ve ever wondered whether earning an MBA would be worth it, these numbers should speak for themselves. 

Through your courses, you’ll gain the skills in management and leadership that you need to be successful as the manager of a small or large company. You’ll complete 36 credit hours of courses, including 12 core courses in areas like Management and Leadership, Statistics and Research Methods, and Human Resources and Organizational Behavior. You will also complete a business administration capstone project. 

Your classes will be rigorous and equipped with real-world skills and relevance. They are taught and designed by professionals who have proven their expertise in the corporate and working world. Faculty members have a unique blend of professional and academic experience that makes them invaluable inside the classroom. You’ll gain an education that is both theoretically and practically-based. 

In fact, the faculty here have a range of professional experiences in roles like United Nations peacekeeping forces commanders, chief executive officers, heads of marketing, and more. 

William Woods offers an online MBA that is more than just a traditional MBA. It offers a traditional pathway to students interested in careers in business leadership, as it is fully accredited, yet is designed to fit the schedule of a working professional. 

Although this degree doesn’t have as many concentrations as what you would find at other universities, you’ll still have a great deal of choice and flexibility as you complete your studies. You can choose from emphasis areas in small business or global business, depending on your career goals, and choose from a number of elective courses as well. It is also important to note that this program is accredited by the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business. 

To apply, you will need to have a GPA of at least 2.5 along with at least three credits in economics and accounting at the undergraduate level. 

#7. West Texas A & M University

Master of Business Administration

The MBA at West Texas A&M is perfect for students who want to pursue a professional business degree that is fully accredited. It has frequently been ranked as a program of distinction by TFE Times (it is, in fact, the only regional program in the Southwest to earn a top 100 ranking). 

All required courses are offered asynchronously and can be completed on-campus as well as online. It is meant for fully employed professionals and allows up to six years for completion, making for one of the best work-life balances. However, if you’d rather move more quickly through the curriculum, you can complete your studies in two years or less. 

You can enroll in classes throughout five semesters each year, or choose to take just a class or two here or there. Courses are offered in the fall, winter intersession, spring, and summer 1 and summer 2 sessions. 

You’ll take hands-on courses in a variety of relevant topics. Before beginning your core MBA courses, you’ll take leveling courses to help you establish proficiency in statistics, accounting, and finance (these can often be waived by relevant undergraduate experience). 

Then, you’ll move on to core courses in niches like accounting, quantitative analysis, computer application and technology, corporate finance, economic theory, marketing, business integration, and international business. You’ll complete a capstone course of either an MBA portfolio or a Research Methods in Business and Economics course. You’ll also be able to take up to nine hours of MBA courses for various specializations.

With tuition costs that come in at less than $7,000 per year, West Texas A & M University offers some of the most affordable courses as part of its online MBA program. Accredited by the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business, this degree provides learners with solid training in all fields of business, including corporate finance, management, economics, and accounting.

However, it’s far from a cookie-cutter degree. The program also comes with numerous concentration areas so that you can tailor your studies to your unique career interests. Some of the most frequently sought-after specializations include general business, computer information systems, marketing, management, healthcare management, and more.

When you enroll, you’ll be matched with an advisor to help create a personalized plan of study. Your advisor will work closely with you to make sure you are taking the courses that are necessary for your intended career path and for degree conferral.

Ranked as one of the Best Regional Universities in the West and Top Public Schools by U.S. News & World Report, West Texas A&M University also offers an MBA that is top-ranked by this publication, too. Ready to apply? After creating an unofficial personalized plan of study, you’ll need to submit your materials to the Graduate Business Programs Office. Required materials include transcripts, a statement of goals, three letters of recommendation, and GMAT test scores. In many cases, you can qualify for a GMAT waiver (such as if you had a cumulative undergraduate GPA of 3.0 or higher). 

#8. SUNY College at Oswego

Master of Business Administration

Having been around for more than 150 years, SUNY Oswego in Oswego, NY has been challenging the limitations of higher education and offering motivated learners unique ways to earn their degrees. With a commitment to providing transformative education, this school offers one of the best—and most unique—online MBA degree programs. 

Founded in 1861, SUNY Oswego offers more than 40 different master’s programs and 70 different minors. With an average class size of just 24 students and a student-to-faculty ratio of just 17:1, this school offers aspiring MBA candidates with one of the most hands-on training programs of its kind. In fact, more than 800 students participate in internships, cooperative learning experiences, and other career-building opportunities each year. 

They’re guided by faculty with extensive expertise. In fact, 88% of full-time faculty hold the highest degrees in their field. The program is accredited through the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business. In fact, it’s one of less than 5% of business schools worldwide to earn such an accreditation. 

The curriculum of this degree is flexible and adaptable. You’ll be able to pursue your passions after completing your foundational coursework and to pursue unique specialization in public accounting, business administration, and health services administration. SUNY College at Oswego also offers an advanced certificate in nursing home administration that is available entirely online. 

You can start your courses at any time during the fall, spring, or summer semesters. Admission is rolling, meaning you can apply whenever it’s most convenient for you. You can take courses at the main campus, at the Syracuse campus, or exclusively online, depending on your needs and goals. Most students will take just two years to complete their degrees.

You will take 36 total graduate credit hours of core courses along with directed electives. Twenty-one credit hours will help to build your foundational training in the foundational skills, concepts, and principles of management. 

Not only that, but this degree is affordable, too. New York State residents pay an average of $625 per credit hour. More than $84 million is granted in financial aid and other scholarships each year, with 89% of all students receiving some form of financial aid.

There’s a great return on investment here, too. Ninety-four percent of graduates are employed or continuing their education after graduation, with 89% working in their field of choice. If you’re wondering how students can be so successful, the answer is simple. Not only do they have access to extensive academic and career-building opportunities while enrolled in their studies, but students are also invited to tap into an alumni network that’s over 87,000 past students strong.

You don’t have to take our word for it, either. SUNY College at Oswego is consistently ranked as one of the best universities in the country. Not only is it regarded as a Top 10 Public “Best Regional Universities-North” as well as a Top 10 “Best Value School-North” by the U.S. News & World Report, but the online MBA is specifically cited as the best of its kind in New York State. 

#9. Fayetteville State University

Master of Business Administration

As the second-oldest state-assisted institution in North Carolina, Fayetteville State University is a member of the University of North Carolina system and has quite a storied history.

It was founded in 1867 and remains one of the top economic drivers of the region’s growth. A major resource for cultural and community enrichment, the school encourages faculty and students to work, study, and partner with local businesses, institutions, and military organizations. In fact, since 2009, the school community has completed over 100,000 hours of service in the local area.

With rock-bottom tuition, Fayetteville State University offers one of the most affordable online MBA degree programs in the entire country. Here, the online degree is designed for business professionals who are already committed to their line of work. The program is designed with ten potential concentrations so that you can tailor your studies toward your unique interests. 

For example, you might choose to pursue a concentration in finance—or one in healthcare management. Other options include marketing, business intelligence and data analytics, international business, supply chain management, and more. The school is top-ranked by the U.S. News & World Report, regarded as one of the Best Regional Universities in the South and a Top Public School, too. 

Can’t decide on a concentration? You don’t have to settle for just one pathway. The school also makes it possible for learners to complete an additional certificate. Certificates are available in project management, healthcare management, cybersecurity management, and business. 

Regardless of the concentration you choose, you’ll benefit from a flexible and affordable way for you to pursue your goals. You’ll be able to access live and fully recorded lectures as well as some of the industry’s best software tools. With these tools and learning techniques, you’ll remain constantly connected to an outstanding business community. 

You will be able to graduate in as little as 24 months or spend as long as 72 months completing your degree. Most students will take about two classes each semester as they complete a minimum of 36 credit hours of study. Classes are divided into five- and eight-week terms. 

As one of the most affordable MBA programs in the country as well as one of the most affordable in the University of North Carolina system, this degree offers learners the ability to take courses from any other UNC campuses through UNC online. You’ll enjoy substantial discounts and financial aid opportunities, particularly if you are an active-duty military member or veteran.

To apply, you will need to submit all materials ten days prior to the first day of classes in a given semester. Because of this short timeline, applying is easy and convenient. You will need to submit transcripts showing that you earned a bachelor’s degree from an accredited intuition with a minimum undergraduate GPA of 2.75 or higher. You will also need to submit GRE or GMAT scores, though these can often be waived if your undergraduate GPA was high. 

Other required materials include letters of recommendation and the TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language) if you are a speaker of a native language other than English.

#10. Southeastern Oklahoma State University

Master of Business Administration

Multiple start dates. One hundred percent online coursework. Dozens of degrees across many areas of study. Oh, and super low tuition, too. What more could you possibly want from a university?

At Southeastern Oklahoma State University, you can truly have your cake and eat it, too. This school offers one of the best online Master of Business Administration degrees. It’s just one of many exemplary degrees offered here, with other popular Southeastern Oklahoma State programs including those in sports administration, Native American leadership, education, and more.

Located in Durant, OK, Southeastern Oklahoma State University is a small university with fewer than 5,000 students, many of whom study exclusively online. This school caters specifically to nontraditional learners, with a population of 51% first-generation college students (and a median student age of 28.2). Ninety percent of students receive some form of financial aid, too, making this one of the most diverse and most accessible schools for students of all kinds.

Here, you’ll have access to a quality education that will help you serve the needs of the region, the country, and the world. You will build your social, personal, and academic well-being as you progress through your coursework and gain expertise in core business areas. 

Offered by the John Massey School of Business, this program is one of the best. It features core courses such as Behavioral Management, Research Methods, Marketing Management, and Data Analysis for Managers. Although all students, regardless of their concentration, will take the same MBA core courses, there is also plenty of room for you to customize your studies by taking electives in a specialization area.

The online MBA has multiple specializations. You can choose from a variety of concentrations, including those in general business, accounting, aerospace logistics, data analytics, entrepreneurship, finance, healthcare information systems, human resources, management, marketing, Native American leadership, project management, safety, strategic communication, and leadership.

Most of these concentrations consist of 36 credit hours of study with tuition that’s incredibly affordable at just $330 per credit hour. In most cases, you can earn a degree in just 12 months. These accelerated programs require no GMAT for admission. You don’t even have to have a bachelor’s degree in business—in fact, as long as you complete four one-week online leveling courses, no background knowledge or expertise is required. 

You’ll benefit from real-world experiences that will make it easy for you to apply what you have learned to your career almost immediately. You’ll learn from faculty who are industry experts and will work closely with you to help you develop your skills in business and management. You’ll build your foundational knowledge in a number of areas, including finance, analytics, accounting, strategy, marketing, and ethics. 

In doing so, you will not only expand your professional competencies, but you’ll also increase your marketability for a wide variety of careers, including those in business, leadership, and executive-level positions.

To apply, you will simply need to complete an online application and submit evidence of a completed bachelor’s degree. A minimum GPA of 2.5 is required. 

OTHER NOTABLE PROGRAMS 

#11. Fitchburg State University

Location: Fitchburg, MA

Degree: Master of Business Administration

Net Price: $3,828

Website

#12. Tarleton State University

Location: Stephenville, TX

Degree: Master of Business Administration

Net Price: $7,024

Website

#13. University of South Dakota

Location: Vermillion, SD

Degree: Master of Business Administration

Net Price: $6,835

Website

#14. Western Illinois University

Location: Macomb, IL

Degree: Master of Business Administration

Net Price: $11,604

Website

#15. University of Hartford

Location: West Hartford, CT

Degree: Master of Business Administration

Net Price: $13,055

Website

#16. University of Texas of the Permian Basin

Location: Odessa, TX

Degree: Master of Business Administration

Net Price: $5,085

Website

#17. Fort Hays State University

Location: Hays, KS

Degree: Master of Business Administration

Net Price: $4,266

Website

#18. Louisiana Tech University

Location: Ruston, LA

Degree: Master of Business Administration

Net Price: $9,603

Website

#19. Texas A & M University-Commerce

Location: Commerce, TX

Degree: Master of Business Administration

Net Price: $6,424

Website

#20. Midwestern State University

Location: Wichita Falls, TX

Degree: Master of Business Administration

Net Price: $5,634

Website

#21. West Liberty University

Location: West Liberty, WV

Degree: Master of Business Administration

Net Price: $5,920

Website

#22. Prairie View A & M University

Location: Prairie View, TX

Degree: Master of Business Administration

Net Price: $6,968

Website

#23. University of Maine

Location: Orono, ME

Degree: Master of Business Administration

Net Price: $9,106

Website

#24. Southern Arkansas University

Location: Magnolia, AR

Degree: Master of Business Administration

Net Price: $6,234

Website

#25. Arkansas State University

Location: Jonesboro, AR

Degree: Master of Business Administration

Net Price: $6,210

Website

#26. Frostburg State University

Location: Frostburg, MD

Degree: Master of Business Administration

Net Price: $10,324

Website

#27. Mississippi State University

Location: Mississippi State, MS

Degree: Master of Business Administration

Net Price: $8,650

Website

#28. Missouri State University

Location: Springfield, MO

Degree: Master of Business Administration

Net Price: $6,038

Website

#29. Henderson State University

Location: Arkadelphia, AR

Degree: Master of Business Administration

Net Price: $6,126

Website

#30. Texas A & M University-Corpus Christi

Location: Corpus Christi, TX

Degree: Master of Business Administration

Net Price: $7,328

Website

IF YOU ENJOYED THAT THEN CHECK OUT OUR ARTICLES ON THE 50 HIGHEST PAYING MASTER’S DEGREES & 40 BEST NO-GMAT ONLINE MBA PROGRAMS!

Going back to school and earning a graduate degree is a big decision. Not only is it a significant time sink, but graduate schools are frequently more expensive per credit hour than the tuition for a counterpart bachelor’s program. The decision to earn a master’s or doctoral degree isn’t just about time management or even personal interest for many people. Instead, it’s often a question of financial security and economic viability.

Rest assured, there are many affordable graduate schools that you can attend, no matter what your general interest or career ambitions. These affordable graduate schools can also be completed online, in many cases. Online graduate programs have most of the same advantages as traditional brick-and-mortar graduate programs and can give you an equivalent degree or certificate upon completion. There are no differences between affordable online graduate schools and in-person ones, beyond some extra networking or assistantship opportunities.

In today’s job market, those with higher degrees of education and more expertise or specialized skills are often sought after for a variety of positions. The economy is rapidly shifting to one needing more specialized workers and team leaders who can do more than man a factory station. With the rise of affordable online graduate programs, there’s never been a better time to further your education and earn a degree in a field that can eventually earn you much more than you could ever imagine.

In fact, because graduate programs often lead to higher-paying jobs, any financial debt you do incur over the course of your schooling can be paid back much more quickly than if you only held a bachelor’s degree level position. If you can afford it or find a school within your budget, it’s ultimately very worthwhile to earn a graduate degree.

COMMON APPLICATION AND ADMISSION QUESTIONS

The most immediate concern for any student wishing to proceed into a graduate program of any kind should be their prior schooling. Graduate programs are not a monolith, but virtually all of them require one of two things: that any applicant either has prior experience in the field or a bachelor’s degree in a field directly related to the graduate program. For instance, a computer engineering graduate program will want applicants from the field of computer science above all others. Some graduate programs only allow prospective students to apply for admission after they have graduated from a bachelor’s program, while others will allow applications to be made during the last year of bachelor’s studies, provided the applicant can prove they are on track for graduation. Graduate programs are inherently competitive and only accept students with enough academic experience to handle their inherent rigor.

Related to prior schooling is the GPA. Graduate programs’ GPA requirements vary from school to school, but in general, students will need a 3.0 or higher GPA in their most recent classwork. Sometimes exceptions may be made if an applicant has extraordinary work experience related to the program. Other times, it may be possible for an applicant to take additional courses at the same university before applying to a graduate program. Extra classes and high grades can boost anyone’s GPA, even if they have already completed a bachelor’s degree.

You’ll also likely need to take the Graduate Record Examination. The GRE is a multiple-choice test taken over a computer that measures your aptitude across most core subjects, including English, mathematics, and science. Most graduate programs have minimum scores in order to qualify; simply passing the GRE is rarely enough. However, a few graduate programs forgo GRE score requirements in favor of other metrics. Students can take the GRE once every 21 days and up to five times per year, starting from the first test’s attempt date. This provides plenty of opportunities to study for the GRE before applying to the graduate program of your choice.

If you want to apply for a graduate program at the university where you are already enrolled, transitioning straight from a bachelor’s program to a graduate one, make sure that you have completed all of the required core classes for that graduate program. Not all bachelor’s programs translate perfectly to an associated graduate program, so you might miss out on a few classes if you don’t plan ahead.

Finally, make sure to pay attention to the admissions and application dates relevant to each graduate program. Unlike most bachelor’s programs, not all graduate programs begin in the fall or spring. Some programs only have one start date per year. There are even a few programs that start during the summer. Because there are always a limited number of spots for each program, it’s imperative that you stay on top of application deadlines, to give yourself the best chance for acceptance.

WHAT ABOUT FINANCIAL AID AND SCHOLARSHIPS?

Financial aid for a graduate program requires similar resources as you would use for a bachelor’s program. The FAFSA is the natural starting point for any academic financial aid search. You should fill out the FAFSA each academic year so that your information is kept up to date. Many graduate programs require all students to complete a FAFSA before moving on to more specific financial aid opportunities. In addition, filling out the FAFSA each year allows you to reapply for certain limited grants or government-subsidized loans.

After the FAFSA, your next stop should be your graduate program’s financial aid page. These webpages frequently have links to program-specific scholarships and loans. Many of the best schools have networks of donors or supportive businesses that provide grant money each year for a fresh batch of students. These specific scholarships may have more stringent or niche requirements for application, so it’s a good idea to look through them all to see which ones you qualify for. Because of the smaller pool of candidates for each scholarship, your odds of winning any particular grant are likely greater than the wider audience scholarships you can find open to the general public.

All scholarships can be valuable. There are many websites and academic institutions that offer loans or grant money to students in need, or to graduate students who can prove the merit of their continuing education. This is especially true in relation to graduate programs for “public good” careers, such as teachers, nurses, or doctors. Your university may also have more general-purpose scholarships that can be applied for by anyone currently enrolled at the school. While your odds of being selected may not be very good, taking every opportunity possible to lighten your financial load is the best way forward if you’re on a budget.

You’ll also want to look into possible internships or assistantships. While these are more difficult to complete if enrolled in an online program, they are not impossible, and certain assistantships or teaching assistant positions only require remote work, so they may still be completed by distance-learning candidates. Teaching assistantships and internships are valuable because many of them provide a stipend to pay for living expenses while students work part-time to assist a professor or business related to the home university. At the same time, these assistantships typically pay for some or all tuition expenses, in exchange for your service. Not only is this economically desirable, it’s also a great way to network and find connections that can lead to employment after graduation.

HOW MUCH IS A GRADUATE DEGREE REALLY WORTH?

Even with excellent financial aid opportunities, continuing or returning to school can be expensive, but overall, earning a graduate degree of almost any type leads to higher lifetime earnings compared to those who stop their education at the bachelor’s degree level. The Bureau of Labor Statistics, which compiles data on practically every major profession at every level of education, clearly shows that those with master’s or doctoral degrees significantly out-earn bachelor’s degree holders or lower on a consistent basis. For instance, 2018 data show that the average weekly earnings for a doctoral degree holder were $1825. Master’s degree holders earned an average of $1434 per week. Compared to the bachelor’s degree holder’s weekly earnings of $1198, it’s clear that further education literally pays. While a few hundred dollars per week doesn’t seem like much in the short term, aggregate earnings eventually add up to the thousands and hundreds of thousands.