Posts

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.

What about median annual wages? Doctoral or professional degree holders averaged a median annual salary of $103,820 in 2017, according to the BLS. Master’s degree holders averaged around $68,090. Compare either of these to the median annual earnings of associate degree holders, measuring in at $52,830, or high school graduates, who earned a median of $36,100. These numbers don’t touch the upper ends of the possible earnings that a skilled doctoral or master’s degree holder can earn from certain positions. Anesthesiologists, for example, earned a median annual salary of $265,990 in 2017. That’s money that you simply can’t hope to earn from traditional careers for those without graduate degrees, in the vast majority of cases. While it is possible to earn a median salary of $72,000 per year with a bachelor’s degree, these earnings are highly career-dependent and require specializing in certain high-need fields.

Overall lifetime earnings are influenced by graduate positions generally paying more than jobs requiring a lesser level of degree or no degree at all. Those lifetime earnings are also higher thanks to lower unemployment rates for positions held by graduate degree holders. The BLS once again provides plenty of data to back up this assertion. While the national unemployment rate is only around 4%, those who hold doctoral degrees only face an unemployment rate of 1.6%. Similarly, those with master’s degrees only have a general unemployment rate of about 2.4%. This is a little less than the bachelor’s degree unemployment rate of 2.7%, but it’s still worthwhile when you consider that one 10th of one percentage point represents hundreds of thousands, or millions, of Americans. Regardless of whether you earn a doctorate or master’s degree, you’ll be in a much better position compared to the average unemployment rate of 3.6% for associate degree holders and 5.2% for those who only have a high school diploma.

This lower likelihood of unemployment is largely affected by projected job growth rates for positions requiring higher educational levels. For instance, take educational, guidance, or school counselors. These positions typically require a master’s degree to qualify for the position, and around 35,000 new jobs are projected to open up between now and 2026. Or consider lawyers, who must hold a doctoral or professional degree in most circumstances. There are a projected 40,700 new job openings predicted to appear for them between now and 2026. Similarly, nurse practitioners will see job growth rates of around 14,400 new positions before 2026, while physical therapists are just a little higher, at a projected 17,700 new positions before 2026. It’s expected that automation will replace many jobs suitable for lower education levels, leaving many higher education professions open for new employees. Jumping on this trend as it accelerates is a good idea.

Overall, it’s clear that getting a graduate degree is worthwhile if you can afford it. Thankfully, there are many excellent online graduate programs that can be pursued for an affordable price.

WHAT ARE SOME NOTABLE FACTS OR STATISTICS ABOUT GRADUATE DEGREES?

If you’re still wondering whether you should pursue a graduate degree of some kind, consider whether other professionals in your field tend to earn graduate degrees of their own. Many of the best professions are highly competitive, and there are limited spots for top jobs. The National Center for Education Statistics tells us that the fields of business, education, and health professions or related programs all had the highest growth, in terms of master’s degrees conferred. That means that these fields will have plenty of other professionals with master’s degrees compared to others. By the same token, doctoral degrees are primarily earned in the fields of health, legal professions and studies, engineering, biological and biomedical sciences, education, psychology, and physical sciences and science technologies.

If your preferred career path is in any of those fields, it’s clear that you’ll need some kind of graduate degree to compete with others vying for the same positions. In fact, graduate degrees of all kinds are growing as a whole. The same educational center shows us that the number of master’s degrees conferred increased by 70% between 2001 and 2017. The total number of degrees went from 474,000 to 805,000. This growth rate was even more noticeable in certain fields, such as biological and biomedical sciences. The number of degrees conferred for these types of professions more than doubled between 2001 and 2017.

Automation is another important factor when considering whether to return to school to earn a graduate degree. Consider the fact that manufacturing once employed more than 25% of the workforce, but now employ less than 10%. Much of the decline in manufacturing employment has been due to automation. In fact, a study from Ball State University found that 87% of the job losses in manufacturing came because of advances in automation between 2000 and 2010. This isn’t to say that every job is vulnerable to automation, but that a general trend of unskilled labor being replaced by automation is clear. If you want job security for several decades, you’ll need a profession that isn’t in danger of being replaced by a robot. In most cases, these advanced careers require a higher level of education than a high school or a bachelor’s degree.

Overall, earning a graduate degree offers you the opportunity to earn more money over your lifetime and the chance to secure a more valuable job in the field of your choice. Most of the interesting and important jobs will require higher education as time moves on, and more and more jobs are falling to automation, making them unsuitable for human labor. It’s best to get ahead of this trend and earn a graduate degree if you want to earn more money and have a secure career in the future. Because there are so many affordable graduate programs, even those who are strapped for cash or who must go to school part-time and on a budget can still earn a master’s or doctoral degree, provided they find the right program. Many of the best, most affordable graduate programs can also be completed online, making them an excellent choice for students who have to juggle multiple responsibilities or who have to continue working while in school.

Check out our list of the top 10 most affordable online graduate schools! 

#1. CALIFORNIA STATE UNIVERSITY, DOMINGUEZ HILLS

California State University, Dominguez Hills doesn’t offer fully online programs; instead, it allows fully matriculated CSU students to take one online course per term, so long as the course is taken through another CSU campus. The purpose of this program is to allow students to expedite their own graduation schedule and help them fill out any graduation requirements they may need for a particular master’s program. Because the CSU system includes 23 universities scattered throughout the state, not every university employs all the faculty required to fulfill all graduate program requirements.

Essentially, students can use this program to attend a CSU campus anywhere in the state to complete any master’s requirements for any degree offered in the system via e-learning interfaces. You can enroll in this program by visiting the online student portal. To be eligible, students must have completed at least one term at any CSU location and earned 12 units at their home campus. In this instance, the home campus would be CSU Dominguez Hills. Students must also be fully matriculated: this means that they must have been accepted by the university and be actively working toward a particular graduate degree. These requirements ensure that only students who absolutely need to take the online programs will be accepted.

Online students must also be in good standing with CSU Dominguez Hills and have at least a 2.0 GPA. Considering that most graduate programs require a higher GPA for admission, most applicants should have no problem with this requirement. In addition, all tuition and fees must be paid prior to enrolling in any fully online course. 

Students find this program to be extremely beneficial; there are 258 subjects eligible for master’s degrees alone. In fact, one-third of all the master’s degrees awarded in California come from CSU schools. The system has a diverse student body and an exceptional faculty, the latter of which are trained to deliver both in-person and online learning curricula. Because the CSU system serves such a diverse student body, which comes from a variety of financial backgrounds, CSU Dominguez Hills and related schools offer many types of financial aid. Fully 80% of the students in the CSU system receive some kind of aid, so barriers for eligibility are relatively low. Students can also find plenty of program-specific financial aid grants and loans, depending on which programs they apply for. Overall, using the CSU Fully Online program is a great way to make sure that students fulfill all of their graduate program’s requirements or to speed up a graduation schedule. Some students are able to graduate in less than two years with relative ease by taking required classes online while also attending in-person courses. 

#2. MARSHALL UNIVERSITY

Named for John Marshall, the fourth Chief Justice of the United States, Marshall University offers more than 60 graduate degree programs, plus an additional 35 graduate certificate programs. The vast majority of these are offered online, so students don’t need to attend the school in person, except for rare programs. The school’s emphasis on graduate study can be seen by the percentage of graduate students served annually. More than 25% of the student body is made up of graduate students. In addition, every graduate student is assigned an advisor to help them outline their study schedule and ensure that they complete all of the program requirements on time and to the best of their ability.

Of the graduate programs, 56 are master’s degree programs that range from technology management to accountancy. There are nine doctoral program options, ranging from health professions and medical and biomedical research to business and psychology. The graduate certificate programs are usually significantly shorter than a traditional graduate program. They usually require between 12 and 21 credits and can help students to refine their skills further, gain licensure to take a new position with a company or government agency, or show off their expertise as they enter the job market. Marshall allows students to work toward a graduate certificate while enrolled in a regular graduate program, and in many cases, students are allowed to apply certain credits earned during a graduate certificate program to a degree. Be aware that most of Marshall’s graduate programs require a thesis or dissertation, regardless of specialty. However, Marshall also provides a committee to help each graduate student form a good thesis plan to ensure that the work will benefit the student’s field of study.

Marshall offers lots of graduate assistantships. While the nature of the assistantships and whether or not they can be completed online varies from program to program, students should definitely investigate these options if they want the best bang for their buck. These programs can offer participants plenty of networking opportunities, in addition to covering education expenses and paying a stipend. Marshall has a low student-to-faculty ratio of about 19:1. This ratio carries through to the online classes, so distance learners can rest assured that they’ll have the attention of their instructors and a more personalized education compared to universities with inundated class sizes.

In terms of extra services, Marshall offers counseling services for all students free of charge, to help them make it through their programs with their mental health intact. These services can also help students learn to manage fees and bills, or help them cope with testing anxiety, if they struggle during exams. Furthermore, Marshall has a skilled team of career services experts to support students in a variety of ways. They’re connected to the Marshall Mentor Network, as well, which pairs current graduate students with alumni or graduate students further along in the same program. 

#3. UNIVERSITY OF LOUISIANA MONROE

The University of Louisiana Monroe has been serving students for over 80 years. Recently, it has transitioned to offering graduate programs online, and the school currently offers 35 degree programs. All of these use 8-week courses in an accelerated format to help students earn their degrees in an expedited fashion. Graduate programs follow the university’s traditional semester schedule, with the primary ones landing in the fall and spring. The schedule also normally incorporates shorter summer sessions and optional short, intensive sessions in December and late spring. The shorter sessions can be used for students trying to catch up to graduate by a certain deadline, or to ensure they have all the credits necessary for graduation.

The university always requires master’s program applicants to have completed a bachelor’s degree before applying. ULM’s master’s degrees include between 30 and 39 credit hours of coursework and range from criminal justice to nursing to public administration. Doctoral programs require applicants to have completed a master’s degree and usually involve around 60 credit hours of coursework. ULM offers two doctoral programs: Curriculum and Instruction and Marriage and Family Therapy. Whether or not a particular graduate program requires a thesis or capstone project depends on the major. Some programs require practical projects, while others will only call for extra classes that add up to about 39 credit hours.

The online interface ULM uses is intuitive and helpful for self-scheduling. A homework application can assist students in organizing their homework assignments and setting alarms or reminders to ensure that everything is completed on time. This app can even be extended to a mobile device or PC, for added convenience. As a rule, ULM graduate programs require extensive online cooperation and interaction with both faculty and classmates. While most of the classwork is asynchronous and can be completed at a student’s own pace, the majority of graduate classes also require that students attend digital chat rooms or participate in online forums relatively frequently.

ULM’s other benefits extend beyond the quality of its online program. Several of the university’s online graduate programs have been ranked among the best in the country, and the school is recognized as a Governor’s Military and Veteran Friendly Campus. This means that veterans will be afforded some extra financial aid opportunities or given priority when spots in graduate programs become tight. ULM can extend the benefits of the G.I. Bill or ease the transition between military life and civilian learning. ULM also has an extensive alumni network for networking, and many of those alumni provide funding for the ULM Foundation scholarships. These scholarships are only open to current ULM students, making them a great way to fund further education. 

#4. BELLEVUE UNIVERSITY

Bellevue University offers more than 75 online programs, many of which are master’s or doctoral degrees. No matter which program a student chooses, class sizes are always small and never include more than 24 students per instructor. This avoids the overcrowding issue common in many in-person universities and undergraduate programs in particular. Each teacher has real-world expertise in whatever subject they teach, either from professional experience or teaching the subject for many years beforehand. The online interface also includes plenty of interactive resources that can help make the learning experience easier and more enjoyable. These interactive resources include online tutoring opportunities and help with writing essays or even thesis proposals. You can find academic assistance for your specific graduate program or more general electives. Bellevue also offers digital support tools and library services 24/7, as well as tech support. The online library has a catalog more vast than many in-person libraries.

Online classes are taught through the Cyber-Active Online Classroom system. This lets students attend or watch lectures and complete assignments on their own schedule and discuss those lessons with their instructors or fellow students. Bellevue also offers several starting points throughout the year. While many graduate programs only have one start date, due to their small applicant pools or limited faculty, Bellevue’s graduate program has start dates at different points throughout the year, to accommodate busy schedules and hectic lifestyles.

In terms of scheduling, Bellevue offers several options. Traditional scheduling is better for students who have a little more time on their hands. Classes are taken during four terms throughout the year. There are some faster ways to complete a degree, too. The first accelerated pathway to graduation follows the cohort scheduling system. Cohort programs are accelerated ones that are excellent for adults returning to school who want to complete their degrees as quickly as possible. Cohorts bring together a group of classmates who are pursuing the same degree. Communication with peers and instructors is frequent, to help students complete a more rigorous classwork schedule. Be aware that only some of Bellevue’s master’s or doctoral degree programs are offered in the accelerated cohort format. This format is also exceptional because of the forced networking that occurs as students spend more time with their peers.

Bellevue students may also opt to take “course clusters.” These allow students to focus on two or three similar courses at the same time. A cluster ties three interrelated classes together into a single 12-week term. This is speedier than taking each class individually. Instructors use the core concepts that are shared among the three classes and add in detail and specificity when required. This is a particularly good approach for students working on degrees in an interdisciplinary field, such as business or information systems. Tackling clusters of classes at the same time can also help satisfy general requirements more quickly and earn a degree in less time overall.

#5. UNIVERSITY OF TEXAS – PERMIAN BASIN

The University of Texas Permian Basin offers online education through its own faculty and e-learning interface and by collaborating with the University of Texas Online Consortium (UTOC). Programs that collaborate with the University of Texas use similar e-learning interfaces or share faculty who teach students of both universities. UTPB offers nine graduate programs, all of which lead to master’s degrees. Seven of these programs are delivered in an accelerated format, with only English and kinesiology online following a more standard scheduling system. Because of this, UTPB is a great choice for students looking to complete their graduate work as quickly as possible.

These accelerated programs can often be completed in under 12 months, depending on schedule availability and the exact number of credit hours required by the program. For instance, the Master of Business Administration can be completed in one year and requires 30 to 36 credit hours. The courses for this program, or any other accelerated program at UTPB, are completed in eight weeks, and then immediately followed by the next class. To further the accelerated possibilities, students can even take two courses, in certain programs, before submitting certain test scores, like those received from the GRE. This is a great way to hit the ground running and get a jump start on completing a graduate degree. Courses and classwork can be completed asynchronously for the most part, although some classes or programs may require students to be available for face-to-face or digital chat room discussions with their instructors or peers. Students can also take several undergraduate or graduate courses online for fun or for their own personal development, as they are offered independent of any degree program.

UTPB has a REACH (Regional Electronic Academic Communication Highway) center, as well. This is a centralized agent for online learning that can help students make the most of their time at school and offer support for a variety of needs. The REACH Center is also the primary means of logging on to the majority of UTPB courses’ content. The REACH Center offers online tutoring for both English and other subjects, plus student training so learners can understand how to use online interfaces effectively, even if they aren’t initially very handy with a computer. To ensure that UTPB’s online students always receive the best education possible, instructor evaluations are always available. Students can rate their professors and contact the university if they feel the online program isn’t up to snuff.

UTPB’s online accolades reflect its exceptional quality and user-friendliness. U.S. News & World Report ranked its programs among the best for master’s degrees in 2016. OnlineU awarded UTPB for its affordability for online degrees in general in 2016, as well. All in all, UTPB’s affordable online programs are among the best in the nation and emphasize student accessibility and comfort.

#6. MIDWESTERN STATE UNIVERSITY

Midwestern State University in Wichita Falls, Texas, offers nine graduate programs that lead to master’s degrees. These degrees range from criminal justice to human resource development to special education. The university also offers a post-graduate certificate program for students who want to become a family nurse practitioner or a nurse educator. This certificate program is a great additional option for those interested in the online Master of Science in Nursing (MSN). 

MSU offers three start dates for the vast majority of its programs, beginning in spring, summer, or fall. The summer term is slightly truncated, to fit in the required number of classes for a complete course, but it can still be combined with most graduate programs to allow for faster graduation rates. In addition, MSU offers “mini-courses” each May that are essentially super-accelerated programs to help students fill out requirements on their graduation list or meet a graduation deadline that is narrowly approaching. 

Getting started with MSU distance education is easy. Students can register online from the school’s primary website and perform a self-evaluation. The self-evaluation helps prospective students to evaluate whether or not online learning will be a good fit for them. Even if someone has some experience with computers, being able to pace oneself and complete goals or classwork without the pressure of attending an in-person class can be difficult. The self-evaluation can help confirm whether or not an online school is a good idea. MSU also offers a distance-learning orientation class for those without a lot of prior experience with online learning.

MSU offers plenty of other resources to ease students’ time with the school, such as a digital bookstore containing all of the required textbooks for the majority of the classes offered. Digital textbooks are often less expensive than their hardcover counterparts, so they are a great way to save money. Students should also take advantage of MSU’s extensive technical support staff. They can help make sure a student’s computer equipment is good enough to facilitate effective online learning and can direct those whose equipment is not up to date to other resources or programs to make their online experience easier.

Though it was established in 1922, MSU has transformed capably into a university that can service both in-person and online students. It also offers U.S.-based non-Texas residents special tuition rates, so it is a particularly good choice for students who don’t live in Texas but are interested in distance learning. 

U.S. News & World Report has recognized MSU as having one of the country’s least expensive out-of-state tuition rates. Its online excellence can be seen further with its accolades from other organizations. Affordable Colleges Online, for example, ranked MSU at No. 11 among affordable schools in Texas with online degree programs. Many of MSU’s master’s degrees are also known for their rigor and academic excellence. Best Master’s in Psychology ranked MSU at No. 2 on its list of the most affordable small colleges for the affirmation program.

#7. UNIVERSITY OF NORTH CAROLINA AT GREENSBORO

To help students afford the high cost of graduate school, the University of North Carolina at Greensboro prices its online courses lower than comparative in-person classes. It is literally more cost-effective to take the same course online from UNC Greensboro than it is to attend class in person. As such, UNCG is a clear winner when it comes to affordable graduate education. This hasn’t been ignored by college review organizations and accolade awarders. College Factual ranked UNCG as one of the best colleges for the money nationwide, and it was recognized as a top-three “Best Online College” by BestColleges.com. Furthermore, UNCG has been recognized four years in a row as a military-friendly school. This means that it’s particularly enticing for veterans or their spouses, since the G.I. Bill, which helps to cover education costs, will go further and be more valuable at this school compared to other universities.

In terms of actual online education details, UNCG offers 15 master’s degree programs and 15 graduate certificates to add on to those degrees to improve licensure for a position or demonstrate further expertise. It also offers two doctoral degrees, one in kinesiology and another in business administration. No matter which major a student chooses, the program will take advantage of the most modern online learning techniques and use lots of multimedia content to ensure classes are vibrant, engaging, and interesting, despite the distance between student and instructor.

There are two types of online courses offered at UNCG: asynchronous and synchronous. In asynchronous classes, coursework is simply due on a predetermined deadline and no video or digital chat sessions with an instructor or peers are required. This is an ideal choice for those who are good at time management or who have hectic schedules that don’t allow for many preset meeting times. By contrast, synchronous courses require a student to attend digital chat sessions or meet with their peers via online forums and other interfaces. In these classes, some coursework is completed with a student’s peers or instructors. This is a great choice for those who need a little more structure to their daily educational routine. Synchronous courses often require video conferencing or the use of other virtual meeting technologies, so purchasing a webcam or a computer with a built-in camera may be needed to participate effectively. Be sure to check the class requirements for any given course and make sure to have all the devices needed to attend class.

Most courses are worth three credit hours and take an entire semester to complete. UNCG offers multiple start dates throughout the semester and accepts students on a rolling basis. Applicants should apply as early as possible, however, if they want the best chance to be accepted into a program.

#8. UNIVERSITY OF ILLINOIS AT SPRINGFIELD

Founded in 1970, the University of Illinois at Springfield offers 13 graduate programs, ranging from computer science and environmental studies to political science and public health. All of these award master’s degrees. In addition, UIS offers 16 online graduate certificates that can be taken in conjunction with regular coursework or at a time that is convenient for the student. Graduate programs typically require 36 to 40 credit hours and usually include eight to ten courses. Courses are worth either three or four credit hours depending on the exact class. Certificates range from 9 to 34 credit hours. Those interested in earning a master’s degree in education or furthering their teaching expertise would do well to attend this university, as it is possible to earn a teaching certificate and an Illinois state teaching license simultaneously through the online learning options.

All of UIS’ online programs are taught by the same faculty who teach on-campus courses, so students are guaranteed to get the same education using the online interface as they would if they were attending the in-person course on the UIS campus. In addition, the tuition rates for these courses are generally far below the traditional rates for in-person courses for out-of-state students. While it may be slightly more financially viable to attend the university in person if already an Illinois resident, any out-of-state students would do well to look into the online program, due to its better cost alone. With more than 40% of UIS students enrolled in graduate programs, the school is used to handling students from a variety of educational backgrounds. The school also offers plenty of graduate assistantships and internships, in large part due to this high number of graduate students among the student body. Several program-specific scholarships are available; prospective students should investigate their program’s specific website to learn more about them.

Each UIS student is assigned an online program coordinator. These coordinators are trained to understand the unique struggles and benefits of distance learning and help students to accomplish their educational goals, regardless of prior experience with online schooling. To further assist with online learning, student orientation programs are available at all times, as is online access to the UIS Brookens Library. Students can access the entire library catalog from the comfort of their own computer and even rent a majority of the textbooks used by classes at UIS from the library. There’s also a career development center that both in-person and online students can investigate. The Career Development Center, or CDC, is also a great resource for finding networking opportunities for furthering financial aid efforts. The staff there can also help students purchase a computer that will be optimal for distance-learning needs.

#9. EASTERN NEW MEXICO UNIVERSITY

With over 12,000 courses and online programs, Eastern New Mexico University is a workhorse for learning and furthering one’s opportunities. It’s been around for more than 85 years and transitioned to the online sphere smoothly. ENMU is among the top 10% of the most affordable universities in the southwest, and its low-cost trend extends to its graduate offerings. With an extensive alumni network and scholarship foundation, the school is perfectly positioned to provide students with financial aid opportunities and help them find employment after graduation.

ENMU offers 30 degree options through its Office of Distance Learning. Of those 30, 15 lead to a master’s degree, and all of them can be completed entirely online with the exception of the Master of Education degree in Special Education Pedagogy. That degree, alone, requires an internship in a New Mexico public school setting, but it is also usually pursued by current teachers who are already employed by a New Mexico public school. There are also three graduate certificates available which may be earned in conjunction with a master’s degree, or at a later date: elementary education, financial planning, and special education. The first and last of these can be added to an existing master’s program to fully explain a student’s preferred specialty and help with finding a position in a specific field.

Regardless of which program a student chooses, all material is available 24/7. Courses are completed in either 4- or 8-week sessions. The 8-week sessions allow most master’s programs to be completed in less than two years, while programs with 4-week sessions are even speedier and are ideal for students looking to get the most learning done in as short a time as possible. Asynchronous learning schedules are the norm, so ENMU is a good choice for students who already have experience managing their time effectively or who have a hectic schedule that prevents them from meeting in digital chat rooms or other environments to collaborate with others. 

ENMU’s online classes all use Mediasite and Blackboard, both of which are common e-learning interfaces. ENMU also allows for certain test proctoring allowances, as many classes require students to complete exams under the watch of a webcam or authorized exam administrator. If a student’s home environment is not a suitable place for taking a test, ENMU allows students to use places like libraries to complete exams. 

ENMU offers full online library resources to help students research and acquire textbooks for their distance-learning classes. The library takes most of its catalog from its physical counterpart, but also has resources that are not found at the brick-and-mortar location. Furthermore, the ENMU campus bookstore has an online listing of all textbooks needed for any class taught at the university, so students never need to look elsewhere for a textbook. Further resources include online tutoring services and writing resources from the online writing center. This service is exclusively for online students, so students never need to fight for attention from a limited number of tutors who are also working with in-person students. A counseling program is also available to students you manage the stresses of graduate school.

#10. UNIVERSITY OF FLORIDA

Few schools offer as many online master’s degrees as the University of Florida. With dozens of degrees to choose from, ranging from aerospace and civil engineering to international business and reading education, this university is equipped to take on students interested in practically any subject. It also offers several doctoral degrees and specialist certificates to add to an existing master’s degree. In total, there are more than 170 online degree and certificate programs available. 

UF’s “Gator Nation” of alumni numbers more than 330,000. With residents in all 50 states and 135 countries, completing a degree here allows students to join a network of successful professionals with leaders at companies like Boeing and the New York Yankees. Don’t underestimate the value of an excellent alumni network when considering where to go for graduate education. UF’s cost-effectiveness is well-known, too. It’s No. 3 in Forbes’ “Top 50 Best Value Colleges”, and No. 15 on Money’s “Best Colleges” list, which specifically examines universities from a financial and long-term investment return standpoint. All of the distance learning programs offered by UF can be attended for market-rate tuition, which is tuition determined by comparing costs for a program to other programs nationwide. As a result, out-of-state distance learners won’t pay extra compared to their in-state peers. The value of these classes is high, as well; U.S. News & World Report ranks UF No. 9 among public universities overall.

UF has both an e-learning help desk and an e-learning library system. A counseling and wellness center, as well as a Career Resource Center (CRC), are included for any students accepted by the university, including online attendees. The CRC, in particular, should be taken advantage of, given UF’s wide-ranging alumni network.

Programs typically require anywhere from 30 to 39 credit hours, and many of them offer both thesis and non-thesis options. The non-thesis options are great for those who have more hectic schedules, while thesis options can sometimes allow students to take fewer classes, as writing a thesis almost always counts as class credit. The fall and spring terms at UF follow a standard 16-week semester format. Summer is also a period of learning at UF, featuring sessions in 6-week groupings called Summer A and Summer B. Alternatively, students can take a single longer term during the summer, spanning 12 weeks, called Summer C. These variable term lengths make UF a great match for online learning in general, as most of the courses are offered with asynchronous classwork requirements. These features make it easy to create a personal learning schedule and mold a program around work or family requirements. 

OTHER NOTABLE PROGRAMS

#11. Columbus State University

Location: Columbus, Georgia

Net Price: $11,316

Website

#12. Lamar University

Location: Beaumont, Texas

Net Price: $11,510

Website

#13. Purdue University – Main Campus

Location: West Lafayette, Indiana

Net Price: $11,898

Website

#14. University of Texas – Arlington

Location: Arlington, Texas

Net Price: $12,277

Website

#15. Fort Hays State University

Location: Hays, Kansas

Net Price: $12,420

Website

#16. University of Texas – Tyler

Location: Tyler, Texas

Net Price: $12,437

Website

#17. Southeast Missouri State University

Location: Cape Girardeau, Missouri

Net Price: $12,468

Website

#18. Sam Houston State University

Location: Huntsville, Texas

Net Price: $12,516

Website

#19. University of Central Missouri

Location: Warrensburg, Missouri

Net Price: $12,616

Website

#20. Wayne State College

Location: Wayne, Nebraska

Net Price: $13,193

Website

IF YOU ENJOYED THAT THEN CHECK OUT OUR ARTICLES ON THE HOW TO WRITE THE BEST PERSONAL STATEMENT FOR GRADUATE SCHOOL: 7 FOOLPROOF TIPS & THE WAR ON GRAD SCHOOL!

Are you thinking of getting a PA degree online?

Smart move.

A master of physician assistant program will open the door to countless career opportunities.

And like many online programs, this kind of degree will give you hands on experience in all kinds of health care settings.

You’ll get real world experience with other healthcare workers. You’ll complete clinical rotations. And you’ll take core courses that prepare you for PA certification.

You’ll learn how to perform examinations. You’ll develop treatment plans. You’ll learn everything there is to know about clinical and hospital medicine in a degree program like this.

Physician assistant graduates are well-prepared to work in all kinds of health care delivery systems. When you get your physician assistant license, you can work in a variety of settings. For example:

• Rural communities
• Women’s health
• Orthopedic surgery/surgical assistants
• Laboratory medicine
• Healthcare management
• Patient assessment
• Geriatric medicine
• Health technology
• Health care policy
• Direct patient care
• Community health/public health
• Clinical service managers
• Clinical research

All in all, this is a growing field with a high earning potential. A physician assistant post professional degree will help you meet the increasing need for PAs everywhere.

And why an online degree? An online program is a great option for someone who is working in the medical field. You’ll have maximum career flexibility.

While it will often take at least two years to complete a degree and obtain certification, an online physician assistant master’s degree is the right fit for a busy professional. In some cases, you can finish your classes in just one year but only taking online classes.

So what are you waiting for? Ready to complete an online physician assistant master’s program? Let’s dive on in!

Check out our ranking of the 10 Best Online Master’s Programs for Physician Assistants.

See Also: 50 Best Online Master of Science in Nursing Degree Programs

Best Online Physician Assistant Master’s Degrees

#1. STONY BROOK UNIVERSITY

PHYSICIAN ASSISTANT POST-PROFESSIONAL MASTER’S PROGRAM

Stony Brook University is known for being an excellent academic institution. Faculty here are leaders in their fields of research and teaching.

SBU offers one of the top Physician Assistant programs in the country. The PA degree offered at SBU is a post-professional master’s program. This means it has been designed for certified PAs. 

Students study the latest developments in:

• health care delivery
• changing demographics
• insurance regulations and reimbursements
• new practices and the use of new technologies

The master’s degree’s curriculum builds on students’ existing clinical and administrative knowledge.

The master’s degree program consists of 30 credit hours, or 10 courses. Working students can complete classes within five years. Students take a mixture of core courses and electives.

Some of the courses offered in the program include:

• Clinical and Psychosocial Aspects of Palliative Medicine
• Nutrition in the Media: Making Sense of the Science
• Strategic Planning for Health Programs, Facilities and Networks

All coursework can be completed online. Students do need to own their own computer and have a WiFi connection.

Admission Requirements:

Admission requires an undergraduate degree from an accredited institution. You should have a minimum 3.0 cumulative GPA. 

Applicants must also provide a photocopy of a current National Commission on Certification of Physician Assistants certification or recertification. You will also need three letters of recommendation. Finally, you will need an essay with a clear statement of purpose. 

See Also: Best Master’s Graduate Schools

#2. UNIVERSITY OF WISCONSIN-MADISON

MASTER OF PHYSICIAN ASSISTANT STUDIES

The University of Wisconsin-Madison is a land-grant research institution of higher education. It enrolls more than 42,000 students each year. The school’s research output is well-regarded. UW is considered a “Public Ivy.” This is a designation it shares with a handful of other prestigious public universities around the country. The campus in Madison is the flagship site for the University of Wisconsin system. It was the first higher education institution in the state. 

UW offers a Master of Physicians Assistant Studies degree program. It is delivered online through video lectures. These are offered in an asynchronous format. That makes it quite flexible. The program is designed to be pursued on a full-time basis. Applicants who reside or work in areas with an underserved population are given application priority.

Any applicant who shows a commitment to serving an underserved population will receive a similar preference for admission. Most of the classes are offered online. There are some on-campus requirements. 

The program takes three years to complete. The first two years are focused on didactic or instructional courses. The last year is devoted to clinical experiences.

Classes in the program include:

• Fundamentals of Clinical Medicine
• Infectious Diseases of Human Beings
• History & Physical Examination

Clinical experiences for the master’s degree include a 1-year, full-time, community-based clinical experience in the community where students live. There are also five 8-week rotations in different areas of medical specialty. The overall aim of the program is to help students synthesize and deploy their knowledge. That’s in key concepts in:

• evidence-based medicine
• advanced technology
• research activity
• competency-based training

See Also: 20 Best PA Master Programs in the USA

What the Program Requires for Admission:

Admission to the program is competitive. Applicants should hold a bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution with a 3.2 GPA. They must also have completed several prerequisites. These should be in in biology, chemistry, physiology, and statistics. 

#3. UNIVERSITY OF NORTH DAKOTA

MASTER OF PHYSICIAN ASSISTANT STUDIES 

You know you’ve got clout when you were around before there was even a state to oversee you. The University of North Dakota opened six years before North Dakota became a state. The Dakota Territorial Assembly authorized the institution in 1883. At first, UND focused on the liberal arts. This was to bolster the training of teachers and other professionals as the territory moved toward statehood.

Later, the school began to emphasize the sciences, like aeronautics. The flagship campus is in Grand Forks, ND. 

The Department of Physician Assistant Studies offers a Master of Physician Assistant Studies degree. UND’s PA program started in 1970. It was to address shortages in the state’s health care industry. It has focused on training PAs for rural communities. These are oftentimes underserved.

Supervised clinical experiences can be completed in a student’s home community. The final semester is comprised of clinical rotations, a capstone scholarly project, and a final didactic class. The program is competency-based. This means that future physician assistants must demonstrate the ability to:

• assess patients
• show proper knowledge of the scientific content needed for the field
• have completed a major research project

Admission Requirements:

UND continues to stress serving underserved communities where shortages persist. Admissions preference is given to aspiring physician assistants from around the country who live in or serve in such areas.

Applicants should hold a bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution. They should have at least a 3.0 cumulative GPA. Those who hold a health- or science-related degree will be given admission preference. Prerequisites for the program include courses in statistics, biology, physiology, and anatomy. 

#4. UNIVERSITY OF TEXAS, RIO GRANDE VALLEY

MASTER OF PHYSICIAN ASSISTANT STUDIES

The University of Texas Rio Grande Valley is the biggest university you have never heard of. It has multiple locations scattered across south Texas. One reason why you may never have heard of UTRGV? It opened just six years ago, in 2013.

UTRGV offers a Master of Physician Assistant Studies through its Graduate College. The program is available 100% online. It is described as a Bridge Program. 

Three of the courses are focused on clinical experience. They emphasize:

• gaining additional knowledge of the field
• interpersonal communication skills
• patient care
• the application of evidence-based science
• practice in a clinical setting

The final class is a research course. In it, future physician assistants learn additional research skills. They are equipped to be life-long learners. This is an absolute must in an industry that changes often.

What the Program Requires for Admission:

Admission requires a bachelor’s degree in Physician Assistant Studies from an institution with regional accreditation. You must have a cumulative GPA of at least a 3.0. Applicants must also submit their National Committee on Certification of Physicians Assistants certification and licensure. You should be employed as a PA.

#5. UNIVERSITY OF WASHINGTON

MASTER OF CLINICAL HEALTH SERVICES

UW opened in Seattle about 10 years after the city first came into being. It had the express purpose aiding in its economic and cultural development. UW later moved out of downtown, to its current location. It grew to become the large public research university that we all know and love. 

MEDEX Northwest belongs to the UW School of Medicine. It offers a Master of Clinical Health Services degree.

The program is distance-based. Aspiring physician assistants must attend classes at sites located throughout the region.

UW has campuses in:

• Seattle, WA
• Tacoma, WA
• Spokane, WA
• Anchorage, AK
• Kona, HI

Clinical experiences happen in a variety of local settings across the six-state region that MEDEX serves. This includes:

• Washington
• Wyoming
• Alaska
• Montana
• Idaho
• Hawaii

The first-year phase is didactic. It focuses on reviewing basic scientific concepts and content. For example, you’ll learn about integrating coursework in pathophysiology and anatomy. The approach is described as a “body system” approach. Content in one course is meant to reinforce what is learned in other courses.

The first year also includes professional competency courses. These are in topics like management and professional development. The second-year phase is dedicated to clinical experiences at six sites. Each rotation lasts one month.

Clerkships happen in a variety of settings. These include:

• Emergency Medicine
• Behavioral Medicine
• Family Medicine

Students also work on their capstone research project during the second phase. 

Admission Requirements:

You must have clinical experience in a setting with an underserved population. Prerequisites for the program include both academic and clinical requirements. Aspiring physician assistants must have completed courses in:

• anatomy
• physiology
• biology
• chemistry
• statistics

The clinical requirements include at least one year, or 2,000 hours, of paid clinical experience. Competitive applicants will also have lived in the region that the program serves. 

#6. NOVA SOUTHEASTERN UNIVERSITY

MASTER OF HEALTH SCIENCE

NSU is a mid-sized private university offering more than 150 areas of study. 

The Dr. Pallavi Patel College of Health Care Sciences at NSU offers a Master of Health Science degree online. The program is designed for individuals with bachelor’s level training in the health care field. The program does not require a Physician Assistant undergraduate degree. It also does not require applicants to be working as licensed PAs.

A great benefit of the program at NSU is its wide list of available concentrations. Future physician assistants can choose one of six concentrations. They can also choose to follow the generalist path.

One concentration is in Higher Education. This concentration is well suited for individuals interested in moving into an academic setting.

Students take classes such as:

• Educational Theories and Psychology
• Curriculum and Instruction in Health Care Education
• other traditional classes in the health sciences

Another concentration is in Health Law. This concentration is for students who are interested in learning about the legal aspects of the industry.

Students take classes like:

• Law of Accreditation and Licensing
• Pharmaceutical Law

Other concentrations include:

• Leadership in Health Care
• Health Care Risk Management
• Health Care Administration

All of the tracks offered consist of 37 credits. They include a mixture of core classes, a practicum, and classes that are all devoted to the concentration. 

What the Program Requires for Admission:

Applicants must have some prior health care experience. They should also have a bachelor’s degree from an accredited school. You’ll need at least a 2.75 cumulative GPA. Aspiring physician assistants may also transfer up to six credits from other graduate-level programs.

Interested students should check out NSU’s accelerated MHS and DHS dual degree program. This program allows students to pursue both master’s and doctoral-level degrees. This can be done in a single program over 3-7 years. 

#7. PACE UNIVERSITY

MASTER OF SCIENCE IN PHYSICIAN ASSISTANT

Pace University first opened in the New York Tribune Building. This is where the Pace brothers offered classes in accounting and business. It has since grown quite a bit!

Today, PU is a mid-sized private university. It has a main campus in New York City. There is another campus in Westchester County, NY. The College of Health Professions at PU offers an online Master of Science in Physician Assistant degree.

The program takes 12 months to complete on a part-time basis.

Aspiring physician assistants take four classes online:

• Leadership and Theory in Health Care
• Epidemiology and Evidence-Based Medicine
• Health Promotion and Disease Prevention

There is also a class in Research Methods. Future physician assistants are expected to write and publish an article in a peer-reviewed journal. This is their capstone experience. Students receive advanced standing for 3600 hours of post-baccalaureate clinical experience. The coursework addresses subjects not covered in a bachelor’s level program. 

Admission Requirements:

Classes in the program begin every January. Applicants must submit documentation for 3,600 hours of clinical experience. They must be certified by the National Commission on Certification of Physician Assistants.

They must also hold a bachelor’s degree from an accredited school with a PA program. This must include at least 40 weeks of supervised clinical experience. Applicants are not required to submit GRE scores.

#8. UNIVERSITY OF SOUTH FLORIDA

MASTER OF SCIENCE IN MEDICAL SCIENCES, HEALTH SCIENCES 

The University of South Florida is in Tampa. It has an annual enrollment of over 50,000 students. It’s the fourth-largest university in the state. USF is part of the State University System of Florida. It has sister campuses in St. Petersburg and Sarasota-Manatee. 

USF offers a Master of Science in Medical Sciences. It has a concentration in Health Sciences degree. The master’s degree is available 100% online.

The program stresses an interdisciplinary approach. USF believes that graduates need to be able to cross traditional health care boundaries.

The Health Sciences concentration, in particular, is interested in preparing aspiring physician assistants for further doctoral studies in the health sciences. It stresses intellectual rigor. Graduates can show their ability for additional graduate work. 

The program takes four semesters to complete. It is comprised of 11 courses.

Classes in the program include:

• Basic Medical Microbiology & Immunology
• Human Structure and Function
• Health Sciences Ethics

What the Program Requires for Admission:

Admission to the program is competitive. Applicants should hold a bachelor’s degree from an institution with regional accreditation. They must have a 3.0 GPA. They are also required to submit GRE, MCAT, or DAT test scores.

#9. RUTGERS UNIVERSITY

MASTER OF SCIENCE IN HEALTH SCIENCES, AGING TRACK

Rutgers University is the eighth-oldest institution of higher learning in the United States. It was chartered in 1766. This was before the country even came into being. It was first known as “Queens College.”

Rutgers’ School of Health Professions is a top- ranked institution in health care education. It offers a Master of Science in Health Sciences, with a track in Aging.

The MSHS program shares an emphasis with many PA programs. It is aimed at serving the aging population.

Students can rest assured that they will be exposed to cutting edge thinking and practice in the field. Students are grounded in evidence-based research. They are allowed to take electives in areas of interest like mental health, nutrition, and leadership.

Future physician assistants are encouraged to think not only about gerontological health care practices but also to consider policy advocacy. It’s an essential part of representing the interests of older adults.

The master’s degree consists of 11 classes. These can be completed all online.

Required classes in the program include:

• Social Health Care Policy for Older Adults
• Principles of Transcultural Health Care
• Health Services, Issues and Trends

Aspiring physician assistants also complete an academic, clinical project for a capstone experience. The program’s electives are grouped into several clusters. These include:

• Complementary and Alternative Medicine and Pharmacology
• Management and Leadership
• Health Promotion

Admission Requirements:

Admission to the program requires a bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution. This should be with a cumulative GPA of 3.0 or higher.

You’ll also need:

• two letters of recommendation
• an essay and purpose statement
• resume
• current licensures

#10. SAINT FRANCIS UNIVERSITY

MASTER OF MEDICAL SCIENCE

SFU is a small, private Catholic liberal arts university near Loretto, in central Pennsylvania. The location makes for a bucolic setting. It is ideal for studying.

SFU was founded by Franciscan friars from Ireland back in the 19th century. It was the first Catholic institution founded west of the Allegheny Mountains. It was also the first Franciscan institution of higher learning in the U.S. 

The School of Health Sciences and Education at SFU offers a Master of Medical Science degree online. The program is designed for aspiring physician assistants who are completing their clinical rotations as Physician Assistants who wish to obtain a master’s degree. 

To this end, SFU has developed an affiliate network that includes several community colleges. That’s along with the Stanford University Primary Care Associates Program. 

Aspiring physician assistants enter the program and complete its 33 required credits during their clinical year. The courses are delivered in an asynchronous format. This makes for a very flexible format, a must during clinical rotations.

The program enhances students’ skills in evidence-based research and diagnosis. It emphasizes the need for graduates to be aware of current pharmacotherapeutics used in clinical practice.

Students take a total of four classes over four semesters. Classes in the program include:

• Clinical Applications in Primary Care
• Clinical Residency Project
• Advanced Pharmacology
• Research Methodologies

What the Program Requires for Admission:

Applicants should submit an official undergraduate transcript verifying their bachelor’s degree program with one of SFU’s affiliates or that they hold a bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution with a minimum 2.5 cumulative GPA.

OTHER NOTABLE PROGRAMS

#11. A.T. Still University of Health Sciences 

Location: Kirksville, MO

Degree: Master of Science in Advanced Physician Assistant

Net Price: $28,016

Website          

#12. Yale University

Location: New Haven, CT

Degree: Master of Medical Science

Net Price: $42,100

Website

FAQ About Physician Assistant Master’s Programs

What Master’s degree should I get for PA?

There are all kinds of physician assistant master’s degree programs you can consider. Look for an accredited degree program that will give you the clinical knowledge you need and also prepare you to sit for the physician assistant national certifying examination. 

An accredited PA program (like by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools or the MIddle States Association) will not only prepare you for the national certification exam but also enable you to prescribe medications and gain the other sort of professional experience you need to be successful. 

What is the highest paying physician assistant specialty?

The PA profession is lucrative. The median salary is around $110,000 per annum according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. However, there are some specializations that offer the highest monetary rewards. These include:

• Cardiothoracic Surgery
• Dermatology
• Emergency Medicine
• Neurosurgery
• Orthopedics

Can you get a masters in PA?

A master’s degree in physician assistant will take two to three years for full-time students. Classes and clinical rotations in these physician assistant master’s programs may be completed online or on-campus. Sometimes it is a combination of both.

Aspiring physician assistants are required to pass the Physician Assistant National Certifying Exam (PANCE) after graduation. This allows prospective students to become a certified PA.

How long does it take to get a Master’s degree in PA?

If you complete a physician assistant master’s program online, it will often take two to three years of full time study. 

It depends on which online PA program you choose, but online students tend to take less time to complete the program. You can take online courses based on your own schedule. 

What are the physician assistant master’s degree requirements?

A master’s degree in physician assistant will include didactic coursework covering topics such as:

• Organ systems
• Organizational behavior
• Considerations for surgical PAs
• Family medicine
• Strategies to treat patients
• Considerations for private practices
• Surgical procedures
• Healthcare policy
• Medical ethics
• Diagnostic methods and diagnostic tests
• Ethical issues for real patients
• Research methods
• Evidence-based medicine
• Clinical medicine
• Emergency medicine
• Human physiology/human anatomy
• Clinical pharmacology
• Reading x rays
• Internal medicine

You will learn how to conduct physical examinations and examine patients based on their needs, complaints, and medical histories. You can work in a variety of health-related professions and in some cases, prescribe medications. You will build your critical thinking skills and investigative skills. 

You’ll gain professional experience so you can complete many of the same duties as doctors. Many physician assistant studies MPAs contain two or three clinical tracks that you can explore as well to gain more practical experience.

What are the best online physician assistant programs?

There are great online PA programs out there for all online physician assistant students! No matter where you want your physician assistant studies to take you, you’re sure to find master’s programs that fit the bill. 

In addition to the programs for health care professionals cited above, you’ll find excellent student support and quality coursework at accredited college programs offered by:

• University of Nebraska Medical Center
• Stony Brook University
• University of Texas Rio Grande Valley
• Yale University
• Pace University 

Are there accredited online physician assistant programs?

An accredited college is not hard to find, even online. Some online MPAS programs are accredited by ARC-PA. Others are accredited by the accreditation review commission. Many online physician assistant master’s programs have hybrid models that combine online coursework with on-campus clinical practicums.

What are the cheapest online physician assistant programs?

Look for PA master’s degree programs that are offered in an online format. Hybrid programs can also help you save money on your PA education. Most programs charge the same tuition for out of state students as they do for their on campus counterparts. 

State residency won’t make a difference in your tuition cost, plus a physician assistant degree online will give you more flexibility as you complete coursework. Online learning is ideal for working professionals who want to save money on a physician assistant degree!

Are you thinking about about a career in engineering?

If so, you have lots of options to choose from. 

From mechanical to chemical engineering, it’s no secret that engineering grads earn a high median salary. According to U.S. News & World Report, engineers make upwards of $90,000 per year, depending on the specialty.

If you’re not sure which specialty to pursue, you may want to consider a petroleum engineering program.

This is a specialty offered by countless universities, including Colorado School of the Mines, University of Alaska Fairbanks, Louisiana State University Baton Rouge, and even the University of Southern California. 

A degree in petroleum and drilling engineering will prepare you to work in the oil and gas industry. You’ll complete tasks like well testing and examine other factors to find new oil and gas for the country’s energy needs. 

Plus, petroleum engineers earn a high median salary. It’s to the tune of more than $130,000 per year, says U.S. News & World Report.

So what are you waiting for? Ready to learn more about the best petroleum engineering program to help you meet your goals? Let’s dive in. 

See Also: Most Affordable Online Schools in Chemical Engineering

OUR RANKING CRITERIA 

We have a time-tested four-part formula. It is 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
• Selectivity

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

Check out our ranking of the Best Master’s Programs in Petroleum Engineering! 

See Also: 10 Affordable Online Master’s in Mechanical Engineering

Best Petroleum Engineering Schools

#1. TEXAS TECH UNIVERSITY

MASTER OF SCIENCE IN PETROLEUM ENGINEERING DEGREES

The Department of Petroleum Engineering at Texas Tech University offers students unique insights into the field of energy extraction. It does this via the Master of Science in Petroleum Engineering. As you might expect, this is one of the best petroleum engineering masters you will find.

These petroleum engineering masters programs exist as both thesis or non-thesis program. The thesis option includes 30 graduate credits beyond their bachelor’s degree. It is ideal for students who hope to pursue a Ph.D. in petroleum engineering or a related field.

For other students, the option to complete the degree without a thesis may be ideal. Non-thesis students will earn 33 graduate credit hours. This allows for additional coursework to help meet specific career and academic goals. Students in both programs will complete a comprehensive examination before earning their degrees.

The department also offers a combined Bachelor of Science and Master of Science degree. This allows students to take some graduate-level coursework in their fourth year of studies.

Some required night courses include:

• Advanced Reservoir Engineering
• Water Flooding Techniques
• Advanced Drilling Techniques

These occur at the university’s Lubbock, Texas, campus. You can also join via live stream or watch a recording.

See Also:25 Best Affordable Master’s in Geology

#2. TEXAS A&M UNIVERSITY 

MASTER OF SCIENCE IN PETROLEUM ENGINEERING DEGREES

Students who enroll at Texas A&M University have endless opportunities when they join the largest university in the state.

The university’s Master of Science in Petroleum Engineering is just one of many graduate-level degrees and certificate programs to consider. In fact, this is one of the top petroleum engineering schools in the country. Texas A&M University College Station has all the resources you need for a successful petroleum engineering career. 

The MS in Petroleum Engineering here in College Station can be completed as a thesis or non-thesis program.

This master petroleum engineering program concludes with either a final examination or thesis defense.

Texas A&M University College Station also offers petroleum engineering programs. These lead to a Master of Engineering or Ph.D.

Students can take part in research projects in a range of areas. This includes:

• advanced drilling technologies
• advanced well completion technologies
• gas hydrates
• prediction models for unconventional reservoirs
• reservoir modeling
• well simulation

#3. THE UNIVERSITY OF TEXAS AT AUSTIN

MASTER OF SCIENCE IN ENGINEERING IN PETROLEUM AND GEOSYSTEMS ENGINEERING

This next entry on our list of the best schools for petroleum engineering has a long history of delivering professional preparation. The Master of Science in Engineering in Petroleum and Geosystems Engineering from the University of Texas at Austin provides critical training for tomorrow’s engineers.

Basic skills courses for the University of Texas Austin include:

• Engineering Analysis
• Advanced Petrophysics
• Transport Phenomena
• Advanced Thermodynamics and Phase Behavior

The UT Austin program’s second module covers:

• drilling
• advanced reservoir engineering
• multi-well formation evaluation
• advanced production engineering

Facilities at the University of Texas at Austin include more than 40,000 square feet of laboratory space. There is also the J.J. Pickle Research Campus.

Current research projects at the University of Texas at Austin include:

• production logging
• subsurface environmental remediation
• vertical and inclined flow in wells
• rock mechanics
• well log digitizing and interpretation
• reservoir simulation

#4. MISSOURI UNIVERSITY OF SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY ROLLA

MASTER OF SCIENCE IN PETROLEUM ENGINEERING DEGREES

You can develop your expertise as a qualified engineer with the Master of Science in Petroleum Engineering from the Missouri University of Science and Technology, Rolla. It’s one of the top petroleum engineering graduate programs in the country.

The MS in Petroleum Engineering program at Missouri University is built around core concepts within engineering. These are bolstered by numerous hands-on learning and research opportunities.

Applied and fundamental research projects include:

• enhanced oil recovery
• petroleum geology
• unconventional resources
• hydraulic fracturing
• geo-analysis and big data
• wellbore integrity
• mining and mineral exploration

Graduate students in these programs have access to cutting-edge research facilities. They include:

• a Drilling Fluids Lab
• a Geological Engineering Computer Lab
• a Core Flooding Research Lab

#5. UNIVERSITY OF WYOMING

MASTER’S OF SCIENCE IN PETROLEUM ENGINEERING DEGREES

The University of Wyoming offers the Master’s of Science in Petroleum Engineering. It’s one of the best petroleum engineering schools for students seeking rewarding careers in academia or industry.

The university also offers a special concentration in Unconventional Resources. There’s even a combined degree program. This pairs the MS with a Master of Business Administration.

Students can choose either a research thesis or coursework option. Students in the research thesis option will complete 30 graduate credits. Four of these will be earned by conducting research.

The coursework option requires students to complete a research report. It’s worth two credits. 

#6. NEW MEXICO INSTITUTE OF MINING AND TECHNOLOGY

MASTER OF SCIENCE IN PETROLEUM ENGINEERING DEGREES

The Master of Science in Petroleum Engineering from the New Mexico Institute of Mining and Technology is the next in our petroleum engineering ranking. The program meets the technical needs of the growing and dynamic gas and oil industry.

This program is offered by the Petroleum and Natural Gas Engineering Department. It  has experienced explosive growth in the last decade.

The university offers students access to groundbreaking research, hands-on training, and many opportunities for faculty and industry collaboration.

The MS in Petroleum Engineering is available in both thesis and independent study options. Students in both options will take required courses in:

• formation evaluation
• drilling engineering
• reservoir engineering
• production engineering

There is also a graduate seminar. Students completing a thesis will earn at least 30 credit hours. They’ll earn six credit hours through their research activities. Along with Colorado School of Mines, it’s one of the primary places in the west to earn a petroleum engineering degree.

#7. UNIVERSITY OF OKLAHOMA

MASTER OF SCIENCE IN PETROLEUM ENGINEERING DEGREES

The Master of Science in Petroleum Engineering from the University of Oklahoma is offered by another one of the best petroleum engineering universities. 

The degree provides a flexible pathway to a career in the energy industry. It is offered in both thesis and non-thesis formats. Students interested in research or doctoral studies are encouraged to seek the program’s thesis track. 

The degree consists of 36 credit hours for non-thesis students. Students preparing a thesis will earn 30 hours in addition to hours earned during graduate research. All students will complete a sequence of required courses. These introduce fundamental concepts of petroleum engineering and other factors related to the discipline.

Petroleum engineering graduates will be prepared for rewarding lifelong work. Classes include:

• Advanced Drilling
• Advanced Oil Reservoir Engineering
• Advanced Production Engineering

The remaining credits will be earned through an applied mathematics core. There’s also a selection of electives approved by a graduate advisor.

Students have numerous research opportunities in oil and gas through the program. Students can access cutting-edge facilities like:

• the Integrated Core Characterization Center
• the Integrated PoroMechanics Institute
• the school’s Well Construction Technology Center

#8. UNIVERSITY OF TULSA

MASTER OF ENGINEERING IN PETROLEUM ENGINEERING DEGREES

The University of Tula’s McDougall School of Petroleum Engineering offers the Master of Engineering in Petroleum Engineering. It’s ideal for students seeking careers managing oil and natural gas resources.

Students earn a total of 33 credit hours. Students have opportunities for independent study and to take electives outside of their major department.

Students have access to extensive research equipment and laboratories in the oil and gas industry to round out their petroleum engineering degree. This includes:

• state-of-the-art computer facilities
• a well testing and drilling laboratory on the university’s North Campus
• a cutting transport facility
• a 2,000-foot well available for artificial lift experiments

Qualified applicants will need a bachelor’s degree with at least a 3.0 GPA. They’ll also need a good score from the Graduate Record Examination. Applicants may apply for admission throughout the year.  

#9. STANFORD UNIVERSITY

MASTER OF SCIENCE IN PETROLEUM ENGINEERING

The Master of Science in Petroleum Engineering from Stanford University is offered by one of the best colleges in the world. This is one of the best places to earn petroleum engineering degrees.

The MS in Petroleum Engineering curriculum delivers cutting-edge coursework.You’ll learn everything you need to know, from well testing to oil and gas extraction. 

In this petroleum engineering degree, students will conduct graduate-level research worth six units toward their degree. Research areas include:

• energy industry management
• the flow of non-Newtonian fluids
• reservoir engineering
• well-test analysis

#10. UNIVERSITY OF HOUSTON

MASTERS OF SCIENCE IN PETROLEUM ENGINEERING DEGREES

Develop your skills as a petroleum extraction expert with the Master of Science in Petroleum Engineering from the University of Houston.

The university is in Houston. It has a great location to provide access to career networking opportunities. It also hosts a range of cutting edge facilities and laboratories. 

Students who enter the program with a degree in civil, environmental, chemical, or mechanical engineering will complete a series of leveling courses. These are designed to introduce the concepts of petroleum engineering.

All students will take courses in:

• reservoir engineering
• well logging
• well drilling and completion
• production operations

The university’s Petroleum Engineering Department offers more than 50 classes. This gives students an opportunity to design a plan of study that meets their individual career goals.

Advanced electives include:

• Evaluation of Petroleum Formations
• Petroleum Production Economics
• Enhanced Oil Recovery
• Natural Gas Engineering

Petroleum Engineering Degrees FAQ

IF YOU ENJOYED THAT THEN CHECK OUT OUR ARTICLES ON THE BEST MASTER’S PROGRAMS IN CHEMICAL ENGINEERING & BEST MASTER’S PROGRAMS IN MECHANICAL ENGINEERING!

Did you know that, for start-up companies in the United States, there is a more than 50% failure rate? 

That’s dismal news. If you’re an entrepreneur looking to start a new business—or grow an existing one, it’s tough. 

However, there’s a demand for new businesses in every niche. That’s true for those both small and large. An increasing number of entrepreneurs are considering launching new businesses and new initiatives.

And after all, without motivated, intelligent, and hardworking people like yourself, innovation and economic growth can’t occur.

You want to start a new business. But you’re overwhelmed with all the roadblocks that seem to be in place that prevent you from doing so.

What’s the best way to get around this?

It’s simple. You’ve got to go into the challenge armed with the right knowledge, skills, and connections to be successful.

Earning a a Master of Business Administration (MBA) in any concentration will provide you with the education necessary to overcome the hurdles in starting a business. But if you really want to drive innovation and have a strong entrepreneurial spirit? An MBA in entrepreneurship will give you the unique skills to come out on top. 

But how do you find the perfect program for your needs? There are hundreds—if not thousands—of options out there. The search can be downright overwhelming.

When you’re looking for graduate business education opportunities, business school prestige, hands-on experience, and networking opportunities will outweigh most other factors when you’re trying to find the right degree. 

Look for a degree that will provide you with opportunities to take your education out into the real world. That might be through internships, capstone projects, research, or even fellowship experiences. Many business schools offer access to pitch a thons or hands-on experiences that require students to come up with a launch plan for their business ideas (like the Blank Center, as an example).

Find an online MBA program that is affordable. This should be one that offers things like scholarships and teaching assistantships. The best business schools offer financial aid for MBA entrepreneurship students who are studying both out of state and in state.

Find a Master of Business Administration (MBA) in entrepreneurship that matches your unique learning style and career goals. Take a close look at the classes offered by the program. Look at the credentials of the faculty who will be teaching there. 

Do you crave a more intimate learning experience? Choose a program with a smaller student-to-faculty ratio. Are diverse learning opportunities important to you? You may want to opt for a degree to study abroad.

Do you want to learn how to create a launch plan for your business ideas? Interested in working in the gig economy? Need access to a co working space? Ask questions to help you find the best MBA entrepreneurship degree for your needs.

That’s a lot to consider in your decision-making process! We’re here to help break things down for you in our guide to the best MBA in entrepreneurship degrees. 

You’re busy. You have other commitments to attend to.

Whether you’re working full-time at a start-up or major company, have children or other family members to take care of, or are just simply, plainly, downright busy, there’s no time to waste. So let’s get started with our program rankings of the best entrepreneurship MBA programs out there!

See Also: Top 50 Highest Paying Masters Degrees

What Are the Best MBA in Entrepreneurship 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. It’s 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. We want to help you reach your goals.

Ready to learn more about the best entrepreneurship MBA programs? Let’s get started with our comprehensive program rankings!

See Also: What do Employers Really Think of Your Online Master’s Degree?

10 Best MBA for Entrepreneurship Degrees

#1. University of Houston

MBA in Entrepreneurship/Entrepreneurship & Entrepreneurial Finance

Looking for an MBA in entrepreneurship that will enable you to find research and internship opportunities with ease? Look no further than the University of Houston. Houston is one of the largest and fastest-growing cities in the United States. The location of this school makes it easy for you to find opportunities to enhance your education.

Here, there are more than 40 centers. This university is dedicated to research and community initiatives. It’s ranked as one of the best national universities. It’s also one of the best value schools. That’s according to U.S. News & World Report. 

This school is the top provider of higher education in the city of Houston. The University of Houston has low tuition rates. The MBA class options are affordable even for out-of-state students. In state and out of state students will pay the same rates.

This best MBA in entrepreneurship comes in many forms. There’s an evening executive program, a weekend executive MBA program, an EMBA program, and more. It will be easy for you to find the degree that matches your unique learning needs and career goals. 

There are specialized tracks you can pursue within the a Master of Business Administration (MBA). This is one of the best ways to start finding where your passions lie. These include:

• finance
• business analytics
• global energy management
• entrepreneurship

The 30-credit hour MBA in entrepreneurship will allow you to conduct extensive academic research into startup creation and innovation management. 

In these best MBA programs, future entrepreneurs will be able to participate in a myriad of hands-on experiences. These include internships and tech simulations. You’ll learn firsthand how your actions as a business owner can influence your own firm as well as the rest of the economy. There are business plan competitions and so much more to help future entrepreneurs get their feet wet.

You can complete this program in as little as 12 months. You can choose from more than 35 elective courses to further enhance your degree. 

The program is unique. It focuses on the tech industry. It teaches students via case studies and other types of hands-on experience. They can have all the knowledge they need to start, market, grow, and diversify a firm. As you learn, you’ll work with an assigned mentor. They will help you apply your coursework to your business idea or business. 

#2.  University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill

Full-Time MBA Entrepreneurship Concentration

The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill is a public university. It opened in 1789. It is a large university with a wide array of the best MBA programs and student activities. It is divided into a number of schools and colleges. The university is home to one of the top business schools in the nation—the Kenan-Flagler Business School. 

The a Master of Business Administration (MBA) program at Kenan-Flagler is a competitive degree. It is one of the best at helping students land long-term careers. The entrepreneurship concentration is a nine-credit-hour specialization. These best MBA programs will teach you everything you need to know about launching new businesses and new initiatives. Graduate students will take classes like:

• how to start a new venture and working with venture capitalists
• how to add employees or grow a venture
• how to address the ethical concerns faced by all entrepreneurs in modern society

You can complete this degree in just two years. That’s while studying on a part-time basis. You shouldn’t have any trouble finding a job after you graduate, either. The program pairs each student with personalized and robust career services. That’s true even if you decide to take your studies online!

The Entrepreneurship Center (referred to as the Eship Center) is a hub of innovation and entrepreneurship at the university. You’ll take a variety of electives and pursue numerous activities. These will help you build an entrepreneurial mindset as you complete your degree. You can participate in the Adams Apprenticeship or do research in the Small Business Technology Development Center. You can even participate in business plan competitions as part of this MBA program.

There are all kinds of opportunities to choose from here. These opportunities offer aspiring entrepreneurs one of the best ways to start finding their passions.

#3.  Temple University

MBA Concentration in Entrepreneurship 

Temple University is a large college in Philadelphia, PA. It opened in 1884. This school has a solid reputation for quality entrepreneurship MBA programs. It also has a thriving campus life. It’s home to the Temple Owls. This is a group of teams who compete in the NCAA Division I conference. There are dozens of research centers and institutes. 

Temple University has an MBA program that is ranked as one of the best degrees in the country. It’s known for being one of the top business schools for MBA students in the nation.

There are many concentrations available within this degree for aspiring entrepreneurs. The entrepreneurship specialization is one of the most innovative. The university operates a special Innovation and Entrepreneurship Institute at the Philadelphia campus. You can conduct research on entrepreneurship and engage in hands-on entrepreneurial activities. They are sure to lead you toward career success.

This best MBA in entrepreneurship is a state-funded program, this top MBA degree is affordable with low tuition rates. You’ll take just over two years to complete your degree. That’s when studying on a part-time basis and completing 48 credit hours. Willing to put your nose to the grindstone and study full-time? You could complete it in just 18 months. 

Part and full time students will take classes that teach students topics like:

• statistics
• leadership
• accounting
• venture capital and working with venture capitalists
• launching new initiatives and new businesses
• launching a new business venture
• taking advantage of private equity
• other general business classes

Then, future entrepreneurs be able to take courses in topics related to your entrepreneurial pursuits. You will complete a final capstone course in enterprise consulting. This will allow you to gain hands-on experience in an executive role. The program has a heavy emphasis on research as well. You’ll be able to access plenty of networking opportunities, too.

In these entrepreneurship MBA programs, you’ll work in the more than 21 different institutes and centers at Temple’s Fox Business School. Each of these promotes cutting-edge research in the many areas of management and business. From the Sport Industry Research Center to the Consumer Sensory Innovation Lab, there is something here for everyone!

#4.  Indiana University

Entrepreneurship and Corporate Innovation (M.B.A.)

Indiana University is a quirky school with a profound reputation for creating some of the best business graduates in the nation. Here, you’ll become a “Hoosier.” What a “Hoosier” is, nobody knows for sure. What is known is that this school offers one of the best MBA degrees in the nation. 

The entrepreneurship MBA programs are offered by the Kelley School of Business. The entrepreneurship and corporate innovation a Master of Business Administration (MBA) is an AACSB-accredited online MBA. You’ll learn from qualified, attentive instructors and enjoy affordable tuition rates. The degree is ranked within the top five in the nation by U.S. News & World Report.

It has seven different majors (including entrepreneurship, of course). The curriculum consists of more than 50% electives. You can customize your learning experience. You’ll get the deep specialization you’re looking for in a master’s degree. 

Most MBA students will complete their studies in as little as two years. A part-time student may take three or four. You’ll complete a broad MBA core curriculum. That’s along with entrepreneurship courses totaling no more than 12 credit hours of study. You will focus on topics like how to grow and start a business. You’ll learn how to manage human resources, and much more.

This degree has excellent career outcomes. More than 64% of all MBA students in the a Master of Business Administration (MBA) program receive promotions while still enrolled in the degree. The rest enjoy a mean base salary of $122,000 after graduation. You can’t beat those kinds of results!

#5.  Massachusetts Institute of Technology

MBA in Entrepreneurship & Innovation (E&I) Track

This school is home to another one of the best MBAs for entrepreneurship. It is just outside of Boston in Cambridge, MA. The Massachusetts Institute of Technology is a school that focuses primarily on scientific and technological research. It is divided into five schools. The university is known for its extensive research expenditures in these areas. They total more than $700 million a year!

However, it’s not just math and science that help make MIT the school it is today. The school also has a heavy emphasis on its business programs. The Sloan School of Management is one of the country’s premier business schools. It is home to a quality MBA that has an entrepreneurship and innovation track. 

The entrepreneurship MBA programs are two-year, full-time programs. The a Master of Business Administration (MBA) promotes intellectual discovery. It is taught by expert faculty. You’ll be able to have the flexibility you need to customize your coursework to meet your goals. You can choose electives and real-world learning opportunities that will prepare you with the skills you need to act upon your dreams. 

In the very first semester, you’ll begin learning with a cohort of MBA students that is then divided into smaller teams. You’ll move through your courses with your team. This enables you to benefit from a strong, supportive bond throughout the entirety of your MBA program. 

You’ll take core classes like:

• Communication for Leaders
• Financial Accounting
• Economic Analysis for Business Decisions

Then, you can choose a specialization or track that helps you hone in on your more specific goals. You can also choose from tracks in enterprise management and finance. 

#6.  University of South Florida

MBA in Entrepreneurship Specialization

Also known as USF, the University of South Florida in Tampa, FL has multiple campuses throughout the state. You can study in Sarasota, St. Petersburg, and more. No matter where you study, you’ll find that the entrepreneurship MBA programs here are the perfect fit to help you meet your career goals. 

This school is a leader in regional higher education. The University of South Florida is also a top school to consider if you want to pursue online programs. The MBA is available both on-campus as well as in a remote setting. Both offer affordable tuition rates and AACSB-accredited prestige.

In this AACSB accredited online MBA, Florida MBA students receive an in-state tuition discount. All MBA students will find that they are able to graduate from this top a Master of Business Administration (MBA)program with lower student debt than average.

The nine-credit concentration in entrepreneurship is an excellent choice if you want to start out on your own in the world of business. You’ll learn everything from how to secure funding to how to develop a strong, recession-proof marketing strategy. You’ll also learn how to grow your company through both sales and employment.

Core classes in the entrepreneurship MBA programs include:

• Exit Strategies
• New Product Development
• Strategic Market Assessment
• Fundamentals of Venture Capital and Private Equity

Aren’t sure that the specialization in entrepreneurship is the right fit for you? Don’t worry. This school also has an exceptional Graduate Certificate in Entrepreneurship that may work well for you.

#7.  Oklahoma State University

MBA Concentration in Entrepreneurship

This school is located in Stillwater, OK. Oklahoma State University is a public institution with a larger-than-life personality. The school is home to dozens of majors. That’s along with more than 400 different student organizations you can join. Of course, it’s here that you’ll find another one of the best MBA for entrepreneurship programs, too.

This is a flagship public university. Oklahoma State University offers a competitive MBA. It’s ranked in the top 40 MBA programs worldwide by U.S. News & World Report. In addition to the specialization in entrepreneurship that can be found within the MBA degree, this school also has a separate School of Entrepreneurship. It focuses on research and instruction in this diverse field. 

This school has helped the school earn a reputation as a school that is instrumental in the creation of new firms. Its research has been integral in the expansion of tech startups around the country over the last few years. Full time students will have access to all kinds of hands-on experiences. This will give you the skills you need to start your own business and to explore countless networking opportunities.

The a Master of Business Administration (MBA) in entrepreneurship here can be completed on campus. There are also online programs for aspiring MBA students to consider.

MBA class completion take as little as two years, even if you’re studying on a part-time basis. You’ll take approximately 33 to 36 credit hours. That depends on whether you choose to study in Stillwater, in Tulsa, or pursue the online programs.

You’ll take 12 credit hours of core entrepreneurship concentration courses. You’ll learn from successful entrepreneurs about subjects like:

• Venture Capital
• Launching a Business: The First 100 Days
• Ideation, Creativity, and Innovation

Of course, you’ll also take the core business fundamentals and professional development courses that help give these MBA programs their strong reputation. You will be able to access all of the resources of the Riata Center for Entrepreneurship, too. It has incubation spaces, pitch-and-poster competitions (also known as pitch a thons), and experienced mentors on staff.

#8.  Texas A&M University-Commerce

MBA in Entrepreneurship

Texas A&M University is a top public university. It’s ranked as one of the best in the country by U.S. News & World Report. It opened in 1889. This rural school is ranked as a top national university, a top public school, and one of the top performers on social mobility. Those accolades speak for themselves! 

If you want to combine value and prestige in your graduate degree, you won’t find a better option than Texas A&M University-Commerce. This school has a campus just north of Dallas. It offers one of the country’s most affordable MBA in entrepreneurship degrees. 

Tuition rates are priced at about half the rate of regular a Master of Business Administration (MBA) programs. That’s regardless of whether you are in-state or out-of-state. You can even take classes online for maximum flexibility!

You will take around 36 credit hours of courses in these MBA programs. This depends on the specific classes you take in the school of business.

When you choose the entrepreneurship track, you’ll benefit from a core education in business management. That’s along with training in the economics of starting and running a company. You’ll also learn how to competitively position your product or service in an economy dominated by larger, more established corporations. 

Students interested in building their entrepreneurial skills will get a lot out of this program. You can compete in business plan competitions and work on research in the entrepreneurship center. Aspiring entrepreneurs will even be able to participate in events like pitch a thons. Many MBA graduates go on to start their own businesses. And these opportunities aren’t limited to older students, either. Even first year MBA students can participate in these unique business challenges and experiences.

#9.  University of Massachusetts at Amherst

MBA with Entrepreneurship Focus 

The University of Massachusetts at Amherst is the central location for the state school system. It has a large enrollment of more than 31,000 students. Many of them are graduate students pursuing a business education. You can also take campuses at nearby liberal arts colleges like Smith College, Hampshire College, Amherst College, and Mount Holyoke College. That’s great if you’re looking for a more intimate learning experience.

There are more than 100 majors to choose from and the school of business offers the best MBA programs. It won’t be hard for you to find what you’re looking for. You can take classes from this school both on-campus as well as online. This is through the UMass Amherst University Without Walls. The a Master of Business Administration (MBA)degree is meant to be completed on-campus to provide the most benefit in hands-on learning.

This is one of the largest a Master of Business Administration degrees (MBA) in the country. The MBA with an entrepreneurship focus at the University of Massachusetts at Amherst is a profound MBA program that will expose you to the core fundamentals of entrepreneurship as well as leadership. You’ll take about nine credit hours of study. They will explore how to best navigate a complex marketplace, how to grow a firm, and more.

Core program requirements for the MBA programs include:

• Corporate Real Estate
• Project Management, Negotiations Theory and Practice
• Sustainable Product Innovation

The school is top-ranked by the U.S. News & World Report. The a Master of Business Administration (MBA) received top marks from this publication both for its quality and overall value. These online MBA programs are some of the best for MBA students interested in taking their careers to the next level.

#10.  Florida International University

Professional MBA (PMBA) Flex in Entrepreneurship and  Innovation Specialization

You’ll find one of the best business schools for entrepreneurship at FIU.

Florida International University is a public university. It opened in 1972. It is a young university. However, it’s done a lot in its few short years. It has a student enrollment of more than 58,000 learners. They are spread out among two main campuses in North Miami and in West Miami-Dade County. 

Another one of the top a Master of Business Administration (MBA) in entrepreneurship degrees is the one offered by Florida International University. It is known as the Professional MBA Flex program, or PMBA. The degree is fast-paced and vigorous. It allows you to earn your degree in just 20 months. You can advance in your profession as soon as possible. It combines on-campus learning with online flexibility. You’ll attend classes one evening a week in Miami’s financial district along with online courses. 

There is a specialization in entrepreneurship for these MBA programs. This MBA program also has available concentrations in:

• finance
• leadership
• real estate
• international business
• marketing channel strategy

All Fortune 500 companies are recruiting graduate students from these concentrations. That makes it one of the most effective degrees of its kind. 

This MBA program features a generous $10,000 scholarship. This is available to online and on-campus graduate students alike. The MBA program is easy to apply to. There is a full GMAT waiver and lots of concentration options. The entrepreneurship program includes up to 12 credit hours of concentration courses. That’s in addition to baseline business classes. 

It is unique from other a Master of Business Administration (MBA) in entrepreneurship degrees. It focuses on the management of a startup firm and on tech innovation. It’s ranked as one of the best online MBAs in the south. It’s also one of the most affordable, according to U.S. News & World Report. MBA graduates will find success in this program. That’s regardless of whether you choose to study online or on-campus. 

OTHER NOTABLE MBA PROGRAMS

#11. University of California-Berkeley Haas School of Business

Location: Berkeley, CA

Degree: a Master of Business Administration (MBA) in Entrepreneurship

Net Price: $14,476

Website   

#12. Ohio State University

Location: Columbus, OH

Degree: a Master of Business Administration (MBA) in Entrepreneurship 

Net Price: $12,997

Website

#13. Ball State University

Location: Muncie, IN

Degree: Master of Business Administration (MBA) in Entrepreneurial Leadership

Net Price: $11,642

Website

#14. Harvard Business School

Location: Cambridge, MA

Degree: a Master of Business Administration (MBA) in Entrepreneurship 

Net Price: $54,032

Website

#15. Fayetteville State University 

Location: Fayetteville, NC

Degree: a Master of Business Administration (MBA) in Entrepreneurship

Net Price: $6,136

Website

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the admissions requirements for the top entrepreneurship programs?

Admissions requirements for all a Master of Business Administration (MBA) programs vary depending on the business school to which you are applying. Because of this, it’s a good idea to get in touch with the admissions department at your school of choice ahead of time. That way, you can get filled in on all of the university’s specific requirements in the school of business as well as any deadlines you need to be aware of. If you can, pay the campus a visit! That’s the best way to see if a school is right for you.

MBA students interested in higher education should take the time to note deadlines and requirements. All the business schools on this list are different. You don’t want to make a mistake by not reading things through!

In general, most universities and school of business programs require graduate students to submit undergraduate transcripts evidencing a GPA of a minimum 3.0 on a 4.0 scale. You may be asked to have a background in business or a related field, though this isn’t always necessary as some schools will allow you to make up for this simply by taking a few extra classes in your MBA. 

You’ll also need to submit supplemental documents to the school of business, like GMAT scores (in most cases), a resume, letters of recommendation, and a written personal statement. The resume is often a key requirement since some schools like to see that you have several years’ worth of work experience in a business-related industry before attending graduate school. 

What is the best MBA entrepreneurship – no GMAT required? 

The GMAT is a common requirement for most MBA programs, such as the ones at Stanford University. A school of business will use this test to help them to gauge candidates against each other.

However, more and more school of business admissions’ are minimizing (or foregoing entirely) the need for applicants to report GMAT schools. Some of the top schools that do not require a GMAT or a similar test, like the GRE, include:

• University of Southern California
• Boston University
• University of Tennessee
• Southern Methodist University
• Carnegie Mellon University
• University of California (select campuses)

Other business schools offer a waiver, like the University of Michigan Ross School of Management.

What are the subjects in an MBA in entrepreneurship?

The exact courses that you will take as part of a Master of Business Administration (MBA) in entrepreneurship will vary. However, you’ll often complete a core MBA course in things like economics, project management, accounting, finance, and leadership.

If you choose an entrepreneurship concentration, you will take classes that cover subjects like:

• venture feasibility
• legal structures in a new business
• entrepreneurial strategies
• venture capital
• designing the best co working space
• launching your own business and how to create a launch plan
• key entrepreneurial skills and business challenges
• product design and marketing
• leveraging private equity
• social innovation 
• writing a business plan
• business challenges
• entrepreneurship in the gig economy

The best way for MBA students to figure out what to study is to talk to their advisor.

What are the best business schools for entrepreneurship?

Going to business school (aka a “B-School” by those in the know!) and pursuing a Master of Business Administration (MBA) in entrepreneurship is a great way for you to channel your creativity and translate your hard-working nature into the career of a lifetime.  If you want to launch your business or even just gain the skills you need to work in any management or leadership position, you will want to study at one of the best business schools.

In addition to the schools we’ve ranked highly in this post, such as the University of Houston and the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill (UNC Chapel Hill), you may want to consider top schools like:

• Stanford University
• Syracuse University’s Whitman School of Business
• Babson College (which is home to the famous Blank Center for Entrepreneurship in Babson Park)
• University of California-Berkeley Haas School of Business
• London Business School
• University of San Francisco School of Business
• University of Michigan Ross School of Business
• Harvard University
• University of Pennsylvania’s Wharton School of Business (check out the Penn Wharton Innovation Fund if you want to learn more!)

All of these universities are home to business schools that will help you knock your goals right out of the park!

IF YOU ENJOYED THAT THEN CHECK OUT OUR ARTICLES ON THE BEST AFFORDABLE ONLINE MASTER’S IN INTERNATIONAL BUSINESS & BEST AFFORDABLE ONLINE MASTER’S IN ACCOUNTING!

Today, a master’s degree is the new normal for employment in any specialized field. A bachelor’s degree was what it took to get an edge in the marketplace a generation ago. But now, to progress or find that exceptional job, seekers need to have a master’s degree.

Online learning has become the solution for many looking to advance their career. If that’s the path you choose, you are in good company.

The number of students enrolled in online degree programs continue to grow each year.

So is a popular online master’s program right for you? In this post, we’ll walk you through the top 50 online master’s programs for you to consider. That way, you can decide for yourself!

Why Choose an Online Masters Degree?

Going back to school to pursue a master’s degree is a big decision. You’ll need time, money, and commitment. It can be challenging to balance personal and professional commitments. But now, with the advent of technology and the internet, pursuing further education is more accessible and convenient than ever before.

Thanks to online learning platforms, students can now access courses from any location or time zone.

One of the most prominent benefits of an online master’s degree is the flexibility. Traditional in-person programs ask students to set aside a considerable amount of time to attend classes. This is not the case with online master’s degree programs.

Students can design their own study schedule around their existing commitments. This allows them to attend class at their own pace and on their terms. Students may continue to work full-time or part-time while pursuing their degree at the same time.

Another reason to consider an online master’s degree is cost-effectiveness. Traditional in-person degrees can be expensive. Tuition rates, housing costs, transportation fees, and so on add up.

An online master’s degree can help offset these tuition rates. Online master’s degree programs are often offered by for-profit institutions. This means that some programs’ tuition rates may be subsidized by private companies or industry partners.

An online master’s degree is accessible for students. Regardless of where you live, you can take courses. You can earn a master’s degree from any institution you want. You are not limited to physical location. You can enroll in a program that best suits your needs.

Many online schools offer programs that allow students to transfer credits from other institutions. This can help to save time and money. You’ll be bringing in credits and courses that you have taken. Most online schools feature a system designed to assess education experience outside of the classroom. For example, prior work experience, licenses, and certifications. They’ll determine if they qualify as credit towards the degree.

Online programs are delivered through a dynamic and robust online learning platform. These platforms offer excellent resources. For example, there are course syllabus, forums, multimedia, and discussion forums. These allow students to deepen their understanding of concepts.Students may create a network of peers and course instructors. They learn from professionals who are top in their fields.

How to Find the Best Master’s Degree Online

The first step to finding the best master’s degree online is to review the school’s institutional accreditation status. Institutional accreditation means that the school has met specific quality standards. Its degree programs meet rigorous academic standards. Many master’s degree options may also have programmatic accreditation.

Institutional accreditation information is provided on the school’s website. Make sure to avoid schools that are not accredited or have questionable accreditation status.

Some popular organizations that accredit schools are:

• the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
• the Higher Learning Commission

Aside from institutional accreditation, also look at rankings from reputable organizations that have reviewed schools:There are many organizations that review online master’s programs and evaluate their quality. For example, U.S. News and World Report. These organizations provide valuable information about the quality of online master’s programs.

It is always a good idea to see what other students and graduates are saying about the master’s program. Check online forums, student review sites, and the school’s website. Pay close attention to the positive and negative reviews. Remember that not all reviews are genuine, so take them with a grain of salt.

Tuition rates can vary. Some online master’s degrees are affordable while others can cost a fortune. Compare tuition rates and any additional fees charged by different schools. Don’t forget to consider the cost of textbooks, online resources, and other course materials that you’ll need.

Consider your goals and needs when choosing a master’s degree online. What field are you interested in? What kind of career options will it provide? Are you looking for a program that is flexible and self-paced? Do you prefer a more structured program with deadlines and due dates?

Answering these questions will help you find the best master’s degree online that aligns with your goals and needs.

What to Know About Applying for a Master Degree Online

Next up – admission requirements.

Admission requirements vary among each master’s program you look at, but there are some shared pieces.

One of the first things an online master’s program will evaluate is your educational background. You’ll need to have completed a bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution. This is often with a minimum GPA requirement (around 3.0). Some programs may need specific prerequisite courses. You will need to submit official transcripts.

You may have to have a certain number of years of professional experience in the field. Read the educational background admissions requirements. Reach out to the program if you have any questions. Remember that these admission requirements often vary for distance learners.

Many online master’s programs list standardized tests such as the GRE, GMAT, or LSAT as part of their admissions requirements. In addition to official transcripts, these tests show your academic readiness.

These tests assess skills such as verbal reasoning, quantitative reasoning, analytical writing, and critical thinking.

Test scores can be an important factor in the admission decision. But they are often just one part of a holistic application review. Some programs may waive the standardized test requirement. That’s if you meet certain criteria, such as holding a certain degree or having a minimum GPA.

Most online master’s programs require applicants to submit 2-3 letters of recommendation. These are from professional or academic references who can speak to your qualifications and potential. These letters of recommendation can provide valuable insight into your skills, work ethic, and character. Choose recommenders who can write strong, detailed letters.

Many online master’s programs will ask for additional application materials. This might include a resume or CV, or a personal statement.

These materials give you the opportunity to showcase your accomplishments, experiences, and goals. The personal statement or essay, in particular, is often a chance to stand out by demonstrating your passion for the field and your unique perspective.

Our Methodology for the Best Online Masters Degree Programs

Preparing to get your master’s degree through an online program can be daunting. We’ve taken the legwork out of it to compile a list of this year’s 50 most popular online master’s programs.

We looked at the prevalence of each program based on search engine leads. We also considered student demand and accessibility. Each ranking lays out what the degree is and why it lands on our list. It also covers what the job outlook might be for the next five years.

Ready to learn about the best online master’s programs? Let’s dive in!

See Also: Best Industrial Engineering Master’s Programs

50 Most Popular Online Master’s Programs

Business & Management

Online Master of Accounting

Do you enjoy developing and keeping a budget? Do you like to help others do the same? If so, you may be destined for a career in accounting.

An online MS in Accounting or Master of Professional Accounting is one of the top online masters programs out there. It’s not just for bachelor’s of accounting graduates. Most programs ask that you have some accounting job experience or that you took some foundational courses as an undergrad.

This is a flexible program that just 15 months to three years to complete. This program is for working professionals who wish to become Certified Public Accountants (CPA). To be a CPA, one must pass an exam from the American Institute of CPAs (AICPA). You must also meet continuing education requirements.

See Also: Best Affordable Online Master’s in Accounting

Online MBA

During their schooling, MBA’s are imbued with financial savvy, challenged to develop strategic and critical thinking skills, and motivated to design collaborative and teamwork building tools in order to become the best business professionals possible. This rigorous program often begins with a week-long residency on campus to provide a concentrated core of coursework and an opportunity to network with fellow MBA students.

Once a graduate, the employment opportunities are plentiful:

• marketing manager
• international organizational specialist
• high-end management consultant

The MBA is one of the highest paying master’s degrees.

Online Master of Economics

Some economists find entry-level positions with a bachelor’s degree. The majority will need to have an MA or an MS in Economics or Applied Economics to find substantive work. Whether the desire is to move towards academia or go into government work or the business sector, you will need a master’s to do that.

Some of the best online master’s programs have multiple curricular offerings to allow students to tailor their coursework to prepare them for their specific career paths.

The MA in particular allows a little more flexibility, but both an MS and an MA will broaden and strengthen the student’s analytical and quantitative skills. So if you enjoying analyzing financial data and trends in order to make economic predictions and decisions, this is the degree for you.

See Also: Best Affordable Online MBA in Economics

Online MS in Finance

The world of finance continues to grow and become more complex. Companies need financial managers and analysts to be on the cutting edge of financial practices and theory. An online MS in Finance is offered in (on average) 30 semester credits.

Courses include:

• financial econometrics
• business analytics
• portfolio theory and policy

Graduates are prepared to guide the organizations for which they work in making sound, ethical and globally-aware financial decisions. Students have thesis and non-thesis options. Some of the best online master’s programs have an on-campus residency in addition to the distance learning classes offered online.

See Also: 50 Best Online Masters Programs in Finance

Online MS in Hospitality or Tourism Management

Students wanting to move up the employment chain to become leaders in areas such as the restaurant industry, hotels and resorts, or convention services will find this fast-paced, business-focused degree a great option. Offered at various institutions in as short a time as an accelerated one-year program to a 24 month investment, a Master of Science in Hospitality Management (MSHM) or Hospitality and Tourism Management (HTM) can be a fast way to advance in the hospitality field. Offering courses in accounting, human resources, marketing, and risk management (in addition to the expected courses in topics like tourism and food service) this degree can be useful in many other careers as well as day-to-day life.

Online MPS in Human Resources

The next on our list of the best online masters programs? Human Resources.

Human Resource professionals are experiencing a changing and complex business world. They oversee hiring details, intricate benefit plans, and legal requirements in workplace ethics and diversity relations. Companies need trained managers to guide them and their employees.

Earning a MPS in Human Resources is a great investment if you are interested in this field. You can move up the employment chain from a job as an HR specialist to an HR manager. This move can double the salary earning potential.

Look for programs aligned with the Society for Human Resources Management (SHRM) or the HR Certificate Institute. That’s ideal if you’re seeking certification. This can open up even more advanced job opportunities.

Online Master’s of International Relations

It’s not hard to imagine that being savvy in negotiating international relations would be a huge boon for today’s professional. Studying in areas such as diplomacy, conflict resolution, or global health is smart. This program may prepare graduates to work in almost any sector—government, non-profits, major corporations, just to name a few. And it is crucial to have that master’s if you want to work in the field of international relations. Just as crucial is picking your specific concentration and the school that will best prepare you for your goals. Salaries and job outlook range since the job possibilities with this degree are pretty vast.

See Also: 10 Best Online MBA in International Business

Online MS in Nonprofit Management

If bettering the world is your mission in life, then a master’s degree in Nonprofit Management would be a good fit. An MS will prepare you to orchestrate positive and sustainable social change in a wide-range of fields. Taking courses in fundraising and marketing, volunteer and human resources, and financial management lead to savvy business sense, but these courses are taught through a nonprofit lens. This nonprofit worldview translates into leadership in organizations that focus on issues across the board—from human rights to the arts to faith-based charities. It’s true that the average median salary for a skilled nonprofit manager is not as high as someone in the corporate world, but many in this field are drawn to it for the higher purpose rather than the money.

Online Master’s of Organizational Leadership

Another one of the best online masters degree options is in organizational leadership. This is a rigorous program that gives prominence to a skills-based approach of creating the world’s future leaders. The Master of Arts or Master of Science in Organizational Leadership is a broad degree.

Through research and practice, students hone their personal talents. They become leaders well-versed in ethics, technology, teamwork, and organizational motivation.

There are countless programs offering rolling admission. They take between 15 to 20 months to complete. This is a fast degree to earn. It can get graduates out into the field to become any of the following:

• corporate recruiters
• education administrators
• health services managers
• CEOs

See Also: Organizational Leadership Online Master’s

Online MS in Project Management

Just as one would expect, an MS in Project Management means a graduate is prepared to manage project timelines, deadlines, and budgets for companies and corporations large or small.

As more and more companies are moving to a model of viewing employee production as projects, the demand for managers to provide oversight is increasing.

Students learn valuable tools in problem-solving, critical thought, ethics, and innovative processes. 

Look for accreditation by one of two accreditation agencies:

• the Project Management Institute (PMI) (PMI also provides recognition of schools as a “Registered Education Provider”)
• AACSB (Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business) if your program is more business/economics leaning

See Also: 50 Best Online Master’s in Project Management Degree Programs

Online MS in Public Relations

 With public image for companies both big and small just a click away, the field of Public Relations is growing popular. The Master of Public Relations enables graduates to move into more managerial positions than a bachelor’s degree alone would allow.

This is important, because even though social media and organizational image management are growing and driving the employment factor, PR managers will have a more competitive edge in the job search.

As a plus, the MS in Public Relations can serve just as valuable for someone seeking to change their career to public relations as for someone already working in the field and desiring to advance.

See Also: 45 Best Online Public Relations Master’s

Computers & Technology

Online Master’s of Computer Science

The Master of Computer Science (MCS) degree is for the tech professional who wants to advance his or her career solving today’s technology problems. Thinking through the complex systems that make everyday computer usage work and devising solutions to make things run even more smoothly–that’s what these professionals do.

Most programs desire their applicants to have at least a strong computing background. Many require a bachelor’s degree in computer science. 

This is an ever-changing, expanding field, and students find themselves in high demand upon graduation with a wide array of employers. Employers such as software companies, aerospace corporations, and governmental agencies.

See Also: 10 Best Online Master’s in Computer Science

Online Master’s of Information Technology

This online masters degree is a fast-growing profession.

Information Technology (IT) managers are in high demand. The degree is not just for mathematicians, engineers or those who studied computers as undergrads.

Instead, the field of IT is marketed by many schools. It’s an area in which students can come from many educational and professional backgrounds.

An MS in Information Technology or a Master of Information Technology (MIT) offers different modules (areas of studies) or specializations. This makes it accessible and tailor-made for each student’s particular career path.

Modules include:

• security
• networking
• software development
• analytics & business intelligence

These prepare students to lead and manage the computer needs of a variety of businesses and corporations.

See Also: 30 Best Online MBA in Information Systems

Online Master’s of Software Engineering

A Master of Software Engineering (MSwE) degree is often a quick program. It takes an average of two years. This online program teaches the complex basics of software design and implementation.

Even with the coursework 100% online, students will complete a final software design project. This utilizes what they have learned.

Software engineers can work in a multitude of fields. The computer industry is growing quickly. These professionals can often command salaries in the six figures.

See Also: 10 Best Online Master’s Programs in Software Engineering

Criminal Justice & Legal

Online Master’s of Criminal Justice

Wanting to understand why crime occurs, helping to put safeguards in place to protect the population, and following up to see that justice is served–these are all reasons to pursue a degree in criminal justice.

A Master of Criminal Justice (MCJ) is available online both for professionals who want to advance and for those who wish to switch careers and enter the field. Taking on average a year and a half for full time students to three years for part time, the program can be tailored to each students’ needs.

Concentrations are also available to enhance the particular career paths of students. Many will go on to leadership positions in the government or law enforcement, some use this degree as a bridge to law school, and others opt to go on to teach.

See Also: 30 Best Online Masters in Criminal Justice

 Online MS in Cyber Security

Many online graduate programs require a background in engineering or computer science in order to be admitted into their online Master of Science in Cyber Security.

A fast growing field, cyber security professionals protect online information from cyber attacks and prevent hackers from harming millions of people.

Able to work for private companies or the government, demand for trained cybersecurity techs continues to increase. Programs offer specializations in focus areas such as intelligence, computer forensics, network security, and malware analytics. Capstone projects are often the culmination of the program.

See Also: 50 Best Online Masters in Cybersecurity Degree Programs

Online MS in Forensic Science

This online master’s degree is ideal for individuals working in law enforcement, crime laboratories or medical examination.

An MS in Forensic Science enables graduates to focus on very specialized areas in their field. These include:

• toxicology
• death scene investigation
• arson and explosives examination

This program provides a flexible schedule to students who are working. The programs can take as few as two to as many as seven years to complete. It depends on the needs of the student.

Rolling admission makes it easy to start when the time is right for each individual. The job outlook is growing at a much higher rate than average. This is a competitive field. Earning a Master’s may give you the edge you need to land that specialized job.

Online Master’s of Homeland Security

Safeguarding the U.S. against terror attacks is a grim, necessary reality in today’s world. To earn an MA in Homeland Security or a Master of Professional Studies in Homeland Security means graduates become equipped to deal with the worst that could happen on U.S. soil.

Not just for those already employed in intelligence or law enforcement, courses cover such topics as social psychology, public health preparedness, geospatial intelligence, threats, hazards and security, and agricultural biosecurity.

Jobs can be found in both the private and public sector, and having an MA opens up more managerial and leadership opportunities.

See Also: Top 50 Online Master’s in Homeland Security

Online Master’s of Law

The Master of Laws (LLM) is for U.S. law school graduates who have their JD but want to become more specialized in a specific area of law (such as taxation, child and family, or estate planning) or for international attorneys who want to become more familiar with American law and seek a shorter path to taking the bar exam and practicing in the States.

A short program, often completed in under a year when pursued full-time, this is a great option to hone one’s skills in a particular area and can broaden and enhance job prospects.

Education & Teaching

Online Master’s of Education

Another one of the best online masters degrees to consider is a general online Master of Education (MEd). It is versatile and can be tailored to each student’s focus area. 

It’s great for current educators who want to perfect their teaching approach or move into more specialized areas of education. The MEd takes as little as a year part time.

Students can maintain their current teaching positions while advancing themselves.  Classes are often 100% online. But if you are not licensed as a teacher you will have to complete an internship or student teaching assignment. That’s to seek licensure.

Look for programs with the seal of approval. This will be from the National Council for Accreditation of Teacher Education (NCATE) through the CAEP Accreditation System.

See Also: Best & Cheapest Online Master’s in Education

Online Master of Education in Curriculum and Instruction

This online MEd allows students to focus on the instructional coordination side of education, often with a further choice of emphasis available in such specializations as:

• early childhood
• mathematics
• health science
• children’s literature
• STEM education
• technology

It is often offered 100% online in the cohort format. The online MEd in Curriculum and Instruction also provides an opportunity for peer networking and a slower, part-time pace.

Online Master’s of Education K-12

An online MEd degree in K-12 education is ideal for teachers who love working with the youngest students up to the point of higher education. A pivotal person in many young school-aged student’s life, the elementary, middle, or high school teacher gains a deepening of the skills they learned in their undergraduate program in the online MEd program.

An online graduate degree can mean pay increases in addition to better preparation for the classroom, and many teachers are pursuing the degree online in order not to disrupt their current school job commitments. These soon-to-be leaders become poised through their online education for more advancement than their peers who have not obtained an advanced degree.

Online Master of Education in Educational Administration

Designed for teachers or educators who are interested in moving into administration or post-secondary school leadership, the online MEd in Educational Administration is a must to achieve those career goals.

This program is geared towards students who are working. The MEd in Educational Administration degree is often all online. Most programs offer a level of customization with specialization options.

Online Master of Education in Educational Leadership

Next up in our list of masters degree online options? Educational leadership.

Leading the institutions that guide young people is a worthy calling. But you must earn a Master of Education (MEd) in Educational Leadership first. This is a quick and affordable degree. Programs can be as short as 15 months. Tuition is often as low as under $15,000. This master’s degree has a high return.

Average salaries are just under six figures.  A high salary is not the only reason people choose this field, however. The positive social return is also high. Many educational leaders desire to affect change on a larger scale than just through one classroom at a time.

To initiate this kind of change, make sure that the school you pick prepares you to get your licensure or certification. This is a requirement to become a principal or administrator.

Online Master of Education in Special Education

The Master of Education (MEd) in Special Education is another top online master program. It is for established educators who are passionate about bringing different methods of learning to students. These are students who, for various reasons, need approaches other than conventional models of teaching.

More is now understood about the way the brains work in youth and children. Schools now offer programs to help train the trainer to best be able to reach these young people.

These programs offer emphases in areas such as:

• autism spectrum disorder
• applied behavior analysis (ABA)
• intense intervention licensure

Students can focus on the particular area in which they want to make a difference. Some schools offer tracks that help students work towards their license or teaching certification. Others do not. Pick the school that will help you achieve what you need to best serve these special children.

See Also: 30 Best Master’s Degree Special Education

Online Master’s of Health Education

Do you want to help the public achieve health and wellness through education and demonstration? Then this is the masters online for you.

Many health jobs require a masters or even a doctorate degree. Many students are going online to earn their MS or Master of Arts in Education (MAEd).

Programs range from one to several years. There are both thesis and non-thesis options. Most graduates will go through the exam process to gain the Certified Health Education Specialist (CHES) credential. This credential is a requirement to advance in many career paths. It requires 75 hours of continuing education every five years.

Online Master’s of School Counseling

Helping students of all ages is what draws many people to this field.  And as there will always be students, there will always be the need for an advocate to guide students to meet their potential.

Depending on your background and strengths, you have your choice of pursuing an MS, an MA, or a Master of Education (MEd) in School Counseling. This is one of the shortest degree programs in the counseling field, often taking no more than two years to complete, but many will lengthen the program by combining it with another program to get a dual degree.

It’s important to know the licensing and certification requirements for your state to make sure your program will prepare you to practice. The Council for Accreditation of Counseling & Related Educational Programs (CACREP) is the source of accreditation for school counseling programs, so look for their acronym when searching for schools.

Engineering, Math & Science

Online Master’s of Biomedical Engineering

Next up on our list of masters degree online programs is a Master of Engineering (ME) with a Biomedical Engineering Specialization. It’s similar to a Master of Science in Biomedical Engineering.

Either option will give students with a science background the depth of engineering they need. They will learn to solve biological and medical issues.

And as the population continues to age and develop more complex health problems, a degree in this field has a promising job outlook. There are options for special focus areas within the degree. Since it’s a practice-based approach to problem-solving, often a thesis is not needed. Degree program opportunities include some online-only coursework programs.

Some of the best online master’s programs have lab work, design intensives and clinical work at a teaching hospital. That’s all in addition to online coursework. An online degree in Biomedical Engineering is a great pushing-off point.

See Also: Best Biomedical Engineering Degree Online

Online Master’s of Civil Engineering

For those who already hold a bachelor’s degree in engineering, the Master of Civil Engineering (MCE) is a top online master degree.

It’s great for students who wish to move up to managerial positions in designing and building infrastructure. Most degree programs have areas of concentration. These might include:

• construction management
• geotechnical engineering
• water and environmental resources
• structures
• transportation systems

Programs often don’t require a thesis. The expectation is that graduates with this accredited online master’s program will get licensure. Make sure your program is accredited by ABET. Your program will not get you a professional engineering (PE) license. Senior positions will not be an option.

See Also: 50 Best Civil Engineering Masters Online

Online Master’s of Science in Electrical Engineering

Being key players in the development and implementation of industrial infrastructures as diverse as major and complex systems down to small and sophisticated devices that fit in the palm of your hand, electrical engineers keep the world running smoothly.

Earning an MS in Electrical Engineering welcomes graduates into a very popular and high-paying field. Job growth, however, is not expected to increase much over the next few years.

Still, with technology changing every day, highly-skilled electrical engineers are very sought after. Getting that MS might make you that much more attractive to employers.

See Also: Top 50 Online Master’s in Electrical Engineering Programs

Online Master’s of Science in Engineering Management

The Master’s of Science in Engineering Management (MSEM) degree is another one of the best online master’s degrees. It’s comparable to an MBA for engineers.

You’ll learn business basics and managerial techniques through the lens of the engineering industry. Graduates are prepared to work as managers in both technical and business settings.

The program requires about 30 credits to graduate. It’s not too long. This is a competitive field. The job growth is slower than average. Earning a master’s gives you an edge. It’s also your best chance of landing a job as an engineering manager.

See Also: 50 Best Online Masters of Engineering Management

Online Master’s of Science in Environmental Science

The Master of Science in Environmental Science is one of the best masters online. It gives graduates the scientific skills to study the impact of human harm on the environment. They learn to design ways of lessening the gravity of environmental damage. It’s all with the intent of promoting healthy humankind.

Most programs are 100% online. They have around 30 credits to graduate. You’ll need a background in environmental science or a science-related bachelor’s degree. There are many jobs in state and local government.

Online Master’s of Industrial Engineering

An Industrial Engineer utilizes the methods of engineering, along with mathematics and science-based approaches, in order to streamline complex systems and promote efficiency. There is a degree of creativity required. Some of the best online master’s programs have capstone projects.

See Also: Best Online Industrial Engineering Programs

Online Master’s of Science in Mathematics

The MS in Mathematics is a highly-adaptable program. It’s one of the best online master’s degrees for a reason! You can use the degree to teach. But choosing a focus such as statistics, applied mathematics, or analysis means the student is geared more towards business than academia.

A master’s degree is a must to become a mathematician for the government or in the field of research. Finding a solid program is a good investment in future employment.

See Also: Best Online Master’s of Mathematics Programs

Online Master’s of Science in Mechanical Engineering

Here’s another one of the top online master programs to consider. This is a flexible online program. It has the option of thesis or non-thesis tracks. The Master of Science in Mechanical Engineering is attractive to working professionals. It’s great for those who seek to broaden their career options while continuing to work full-time.

It is the most diverse of all engineering professions. Mechanical engineers build anything with moving parts. It covers everything from robotic arms to motorcycles to air conditioning units. This makes them an asset able to work in many different fields.

See Also: Online Master’s Programs in Mechanical Engineering

Online Master’s of Engineering in Systems Engineering

Combining elements of specialized engineering and management, a systems engineer is the liaison between all the moving parts of engineers, management, production and client.

Complex  systems demand key players who are trained and skilled to oversee and implement the intricate details. This leads to an increased interest in the Master of Engineering (M.Eng.) in Systems Engineering.  This program is often all online and able to complete within three years. The degree program is ideal for current engineers who want to advance to bigger picture positions.

Healthcare & Nursing

Online Master’s of Emergency Management

Do you find yourself questioning the hero’s choices in the latest Hollywood disaster-action film? If so, this might be one of the best online master degree programs for you.

Consider a Master of Professional Studies in Emergency & Disaster Management or a Master of Science in Emergency Management. Graduates become leaders. They plan, prepare and respond when disasters, both natural and man-made, occur.

Coursework covers such topics as:

• human behavior
• disaster response and recovery
• risk perception
• humanitarian disasters

Natural disasters and the human psyche cannot be controlled. There will always be the risk of emergency situations. Getting an online graduate degree in emergency management is smart. It means you will have the skills to prevent or contain possible damage.

Online Master’s of Healthcare Administration

Earning a Master of Healthcare Administration (MHA) or Master of Science in Health Care Management is a smart choice. These master degree programs online enable students to address the needs of both patients and healthcare providers. You’ll learn how to manage medical organizations.

Many schools offer full or part-time programs. This degree is an attractive option to many students wishing to advance in the field of healthcare management.

See Also: Best Masters of Health Administration Programs

Online Master’s of Science in Nursing

Another one of the best masters programs online is in nursing.

Choosing to pursue a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) can be a tough decision. Nursing is a high-paid profession. The pay-scale doesn’t show a huge difference between RN’s with bachelor’s degrees and those with master’s.

But those who decide to be advanced practice registered nurses (APRNs), such as nurse practitioners or midwives, must go on to earn a master’s degree.  The benefits of earning that degree are evident!

See Also: 50 Best Online Master’s of Science in Nursing Degree Programs

Online Master’s of Public Health

Here’s another one of the best online masters program options to consider.

It has amore policy and data-based approach to healthcare than the direct service and educational component in a program for health educators. The Master of Public Health (MPH) degree shapes professionals who create and implement solutions to local and global health issues.

It is offered in around two years. You’ll study topics such as:

• epidemiology
• biostatisics
• social and behavioral sciences
• principles of environmental health

The MPH prepares students to analyze data and advocate for policies to fix problems. You’ll look at current healthcare issues and projected health needs of the growing population.  Graduates find work in healthcare organizations. They also work for NGO’s, national research agencies and public health agencies.

Liberal Arts & Humanities

Online Master’s of Communications

An MS or an MA in Communications is all about strategy. This masters program online is a smart choice.

Some of the best online master’s degrees are fast-paced. As is the climate in the communications world!

You’ll earn a degree in about 20 months. That means you get in and get out fast/ And get to work! You can choose your concentration to further enhance the particular skills you wish to use.

Concentrations range from public relations to global audiences to analysis of social media. You will have your pick of job titles with this degree. For example, there’s Marketing Manager, Communications Director or Event Planner.

This is a competitive field. Be prepared to use your degree to market yourself first and foremost.

Online Master’s of Arts in English

There a several primary reasons one would want to get an MA in English. For some it is a stepping stone to continue their schooling—most often either going on for a PhD in literature or a law degree. For others the degree is their way to become a teacher in secondary schools or community colleges.

And lastly, there are those who want to work as professional writers. And because of classes that place an emphasis on developing critical thinking and writing skills, one with this degree can also find work in other areas such as public relations, marketing, publishing, or editing and research.

For whatever reason you choose to get an MA in English, as one should expect, be prepared to submit a writing sample for admission and a thesis for graduation.

See Also: 50 Best Online English Masters Programs

Online Master’s of Arts in History

Do you enjoy gaining insight into the modern world by examining and analyzing historical events? Then this might be the best masters program online for you.

The MA in History is a necessity to gain employment in any kind of history-based career. Historians work as educators in high schools and community colleges. A PhD is required to teach at the university level.

You can also find work as a curator or archivist in a museum. You could even work as a researcher. This is a competitive and slow-growing field.

Nevertheless, this is a popular degree. It lends itself in particular to online learning. Programs range in focus areas. Some of the best online master’s programs offer two primary tracks: World History and American History. Most programs include a capstone project to complete the degree.

See Also: Best Online History Master’s Degree Programs

Online Master’s of Library Science

If you love books and helping readers find their next great adventure, a Master of Library Science (MLS) or Master of Library and Information Science (MLIS) degree might be for you. Starting salaries for librarians are not high compared to other professions in which a masters degree is required, so this is a job for those who have a passion for literature.

Graduates can of course work in public libraries, but also universities, K-12 schools, and private, specialized libraries–such as law or archive libraries. Look for programs with accreditation awarded by the American Library Association (ALA).

See Also: 50 Best Master of Library Science Online Degree Programs

Online Master’s of Liberal Studies

Do you relish broadening your mind? Do you want to sharpen your critical thinking skills without picking a specialization? Then do we have an online masters program for you!

The Master of Liberal Studies (MLS) degree is the perfect fit. This is a degree that offers higher learning without limiting the classes. The MLS lets students pick what interests them the most.

Some programs have basic core class requirements to serve as a foundation. This still allows for a wealth of flexibility within the degree.

If you are open to continued learning but don’t know how it fits into you career paths. Or if you are curious about many topics and just can’t limit yourself to one area. This is your degree. The MLS doesn’t prepare graduates for a specific career. Yet it does serve to enhance the skills that make you marketable to employers. The employment options are almost limitless with this degree. The salary possibilities also vary.

See Also: 50 Best Online Master of Liberal Studies Degree Programs

Online Master’s of Religious Studies

Here’s another one of the best masters programs online to consider.

It doesn’t matter whether your goals are faith and ministry based, spiritual, or more comparative and cultural. A degree in this area can be an interesting and fulfilling pursuit.

There are many different faith traditions. So there are many options within this online master’s degree. If ministry and direct service is your desire, you could obtain a Master of Divinity (MDiv) or an MA in Theology.

These degrees lead to work as pastor, chaplain, youth minister, or faith-based counselor.

See Also: 40 Best Online Master of Religious Studies Degree Programs

Public Service, Psychology & Counseling

Online Master’s of Arts in Counseling

Another of the best online master’s degree programs is in counseling.

This is a broad degree area. It has lots of specialization options. The MA in Counseling is for those who wish to make a positive change in the world by helping individuals.

Focus areas include:

• clinical mental health
• human services
• school counseling
• marriage and family therapy
• substance abuse
• Christian counseling

Accreditation comes from the Council for Accreditation of Counseling & Related Educational Programs (CACREP). Understand the licensing requirements for your state to get the most out of your online program.

See Also: Top 50 Online Master’s in Counseling Programs

Online Master’s of Public Administration

A Master in Public Administration (MPA) is likened to the MBA for the public sector. Courses teach core leadership values, management skills, and finance principles through a public perspective (as opposed to through the lens of a business-only, privatized focus).

Aiming to work for non-profits, at any level of the government, or in the private sector, public administration students benefit from an interdisciplinary approach with class offerings ranging from policy analysis to human resource management to criminal justice to fiscal decision making.

With an emphasis on implementing programs, managing projects, and solving problems, the public administration career path is active and involved. Accreditation is granted by the National Association of Schools of Public Affairs and Administration (NASPAA).

Online Master’s of Science in Psychology

Ideal for students who want to work with the public as an organizational or industrial psychologist rather than as a psychologist who provides counseling services to individuals.

An online MS in Psychology focuses more on research methods and theoretical principles and will not provide the clinical training which is necessary to gain a license to practice as a counselor. Industrial psychologists work with companies to ensure healthy, functioning workplaces, applying psychological methods to help deal with conflicts when they arise and promote efficiency.

See Also: 50 Best Online Master of Psychology Degree Programs

Online Master’s of Social Work

Another one of the top online master’s degree programs is in social work.

Is justice and empowerment for the marginalized and impoverished is your soapbox? The Master of Social Work (MSW) degree will help you make a positive difference in society.

There are two options when pursuing an MSW. That’s the clinical track or the macro track. The clinical path is for the traditional social worker. These are those who wish to work with individuals. You might focus on children or those with drug addiction or mental health issues.

Graduates must work for at least two more years in an internship or supervised clinical setting. That’s before passing a clinical exam to gain licensure. Job outlook is positive for licensed social worker with MSW degrees.

See Also:10 Best Online Masters in Social Work

Related Rankings

50 Best Online Masters Programs

40 Online Masters That Don’t Ask for the GMAT

40 Fastest Online Masters Degree Programs

“Everything in food is science. The only subjective part is when you eat it,” said Alton Brown. He’s an American celebrity chef, author, and actor.

In our food science masters programs rankings, we’ll tell you exactly why that is the case.

Do you ever look at the nutrition facts or ingredients on the potato chips or crackers you are eating? Perhaps you wonder, how is all that information determined? How long did it take to find out how many calories are in this food? How do they find out how much fat is in this food? What about carbs? Sugar? Then, there’s the long list of ingredients. Some of them unpronounceable. You may wonder, what am I even eating?

It’s all about food science. We’ve got your go-to list of the best master’s programs in food science and technology.

Food science is the largest industry in the United States. This ever-expanding field of food science encompasses a wide range of career paths. The food science field brings together multiple scientific disciplines, like chemistry, biology, physics, and biochemistry. It creates into one large area of study.

It may seem overwhelming to think about. But when a student studies food science and technology, they focus on one or two specific areas of research. For example, food production, food engineering, or quality control.

The latest research in Food Science is published every day. It might be published on ScienceDirect, for example. ScienceDaily also publishes the latest findings in food science. Here is an article based on scientific evidence about the Ketogenic Diet and its potential to tame the flu virus. Or this one about how caffeine may offset some health risks from high fat and sugar-filled diets. Interesting stuff!

Food research is conducted by food scientists. These professionals research new ways to ensure food safety. They also work to improve the taste and nutrition of food. They ensure that food products meet safety standards, quality, and nutritional values. They stay current with the latest regulations and research. Food scientists should be able to analyze data and monitor processors, materials, and surroundings. Their work helps to detect any potential problems. Most food scientists work in the federal government, research universities, or private industry. Others may work in offices or food production facilities.

So, how does one become a food scientist, you ask? Are you detail-oriented? Do you excel at gathering and interpreting data? Do you have a strong background in science and math? A career in Food Science and Technology may be for you. You should start with an undergraduate food science program or a related field. Then you will want to pursue one of the best food science masters programs.

A Master’s in Food Science and Technology spans through a variety of applied science fields. These include:

• Chemical engineering
• Microbiology
• Biochemistry

In other words, Food Science students study the science and technology related to food. They also study engineering and mathematics. Some advanced sub-disciplines that you can explore with a Master in Food Sciences are:

• Food chemistry and analysis
• Food preservation and packaging
• Food technology

You’ll learn about food safety and ways to produce food that meets the needs of our modern society. The main role of food scientists is to produce quality, nutritious, and affordable food. That’s all while satisfying the complex needs of our society.

Food science is not just about cooking. It is also about conducting intense scientific research, and overcoming genuine challenges. Of course, it also involves unraveling multifaceted riddles.

Ready to learn more about food science – and what a career as a food scientist might offer you? Read more in our food science graduate program ranking.

See Also: 10 Best Master’s in Industrial Engineering

WHAT ARE THE BEST MASTER’S DEGREES IN FOOD SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY?

We know that you have educational goals in food science 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 three aspects:

40% Potential Salary After Graduation: Average mid-career salary of school alumni

30% Institutional Accreditation: Regional and national accreditation for the 2019-2020 school year

30% Overall Degree Affordability: Average cost of undergraduate and graduate tuition per school

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. We want to help you reach your goals. For questions, comments, badge downloads, or data corrections, please feel free to reach out to us at editor@collegerank.net.

Check out our ranking of the 10 Best Master’s Programs in Food Science and Technology!

See Also: Top 50 Highest Paying Masters Degrees

#1. Texas Tech University

Master’s in Food Science Programs

The first food tech master in our food science graduate program rankings is Texas Tech. Texas Tech University is in beautiful Lubbock, Texas. It bustles with excitement all year long. The school opened in 1923. TTU offers more than 150 undergraduate degrees, 100 graduate programs, and 50 doctoral degrees.

In fall 2019, 38,803 students were enrolled in the university. 32,158 were undergraduate and 6,645 were graduate and law students. Twelve colleges and schools make up the academic areas at Texas Tech University. According to U.S. News and World Reports, TTU  is ranked #218 in National Universities.

It is no surprise then that Texas Tech University offers food science degree programs. This food science major is offered as either a thesis or a non-thesis plan of study. It emphasizes the scientific and technological aspects of pre- to post-harvest food processing and distribution. Research programs involve:

• Food safety
• Food security
• Food processing
• Food microbiology
• Food quality and composition
• Processing

The Master’s in Food Science thesis track requires a thesis. That is in addition to at least 24 semester credit hours of coursework and six thesis hours. The Master’s in Food Science without the thesis also required 24 credit hours of coursework. There is an internship in lieu of a thesis. Some courses are offered online. Others are offered in a traditional classroom setting on campus.

Each plan of study is research-intensive. Each one includes three major objectives:

• To be of practical value to the animal and food industries
• To contribute to the advancement of science
• To learn technical and reasoning skills conducive to accomplishing research

Research is conducted in a variety of topics. These include:

• Ruminant nutrition
• Feed processing and preservation
• Growth physiology
• Animal breeding
• Animal behavior
• Welfare science
• Reproductive physiology
• Endocrinology
• Neuroscience
• Genetics of carcass merit and muscle hypertrophy
• Meats and muscle biology
• Food processing
• Human nutrition
• Preservation and food safety

The Department of Animal and Food Sciences has modern facilities. These support graduate student teaching and research. There are field laboratories for beef cattle, sheep, goats, and swine. These are located on a 980-acre irrigated farm near TTU. The Burnett Center for Beef Cattle Research and Instruction is a world-class research feed mill and feedlot complex. It supports the research needs of the cattle feeding and the feed milling industries.

Many faculty members of this program are leading researchers in their respective fields. These include:

• Food science
• Food safety
• Muscle biology
• Nutrition
• Animal wellbeing
• Breeding and genetics
• Physiology specializing in cattle, horses, sheep, goats, and swine.

TTU has a holistic admissions policy. It evaluates students on factors other than GRE scores and GPAs.

TTU offers many forms of financial aid. This includes fellowships and scholarships.

 #2.  Iowa State University

Masters Degree in Food Science and Technology

You will find another one of the best food science programs at Iowa State University. Iowa State University opened in 1858. It is a flagship public land-grant and space-grant research national University. It is in Ames, Iowa. ISU includes ten different schools. It represents 100 different majors. In Fall 2019, there were 33,391 students enrolled at ISU. That number doesn’t even include post-doctoral students. ISU Cyclone sports teams play in the Big 12 Conference.

 Over 120 programs offer graduate study at ISU. This includes a food science programs. The Master’s in Food Science and Technology offers a thesis or non-thesis option for the degree. To pursue a graduate degree at ISU, a student must be accepted by both a program and the national University.

Each graduate student must obtain a Program of Study Committee prior to starting their coursework. The Program of Study Committee is chosen by the graduate student and the major professor. It is approved by the director of graduate education (DOGE). This committee directs the course of the student’s degree program.

Each student is required to consult with his or her major professor every term. This is prior to registration for course work guidance. Coursework for the degree program requires the approval of the POS committee. It also requires approval from the Food Science and Technology director of graduate education (DOGE), and the ISU Graduate College, as filed with the program of study (POS) plan.

The thesis option requires a minimum of 30 coursework credits. This includes five to six credits at a 600-level course in food science. The non-thesis option requires 36 total credits. This includes six credits at a 600-level food science course. Research areas for this degree include:

• Functional foods and packaging
• Food safety and quality
• Green and sustainable food
• Biomaterials processing technologies

Students must maintain or exceed a GPA of 3.0 while in this program.

Those who follow the thesis track must present a summary of their research project to their Program of Study Committee during their last semester. Students who follow the non-thesis course of study must complete a creative component project. This must be presented to their committee during their last semester. Both thesis and non-thesis graduate students must write a manuscript. This is for submission to a peer-reviewed journal. They must also pass an oral examination of their competency in food science subjects in order to graduate.

Read to apply for the Master’s of Science in Food and Technology? Students need an undergraduate degree with a minimum of a 3.0. Their undergraduate degree should emphasize:

• Chemistry and biology
• Food science
• Nutritional science
• Dietetics.

ISU offers help to students for paying for their graduate degree. This includes financial aid, graduate assistantships, and more.

#3.  Texas Woman’s University

Food Science Master’s Programs

Another top master food technology program is at Texas Women’s University. This school has an enrollment of about 15,000 students. Texas Woman’s University is an independent public national university. It is known for its contributions in leadership in the health care professions and nutrition field. It is in Denton, Texas and opened in 1901. TWU offers women (and men, they have been admitted to the University since 1972), quality education. This ranges from certificate programs to doctoral degrees.

TWU is the largest state-supported national university or women in the United States. 90% of the student body identifying as women. The University is divided into six colleges. These include Arts and Sciences, Business, Health Sciences, Nursing, Professional Education, and Graduate School. TWU prides itself on offering small classes. These classes have accessible, knowledgeable, and supportive faculty. There are over 500 full-time faculty. 75% of all classes have 30 students or fewer.

TWU offers food science programs. Courses take place on TWU’s Denton campus. Students will prepare for a degree as a flavor chemist, developing new flavors and reformulating old ones. This food science programs entail that students will study:

• Food and flavor chemistry
• Sensory evaluation
• Food analysis

This degree is offered in a face-to-face traditional classroom setting.

Flavor chemists study food and break down food compounds. This is so their taste and aromas can be replicated in the lab. They develop new flavors and reformulate old ones.

Over the past two years, TWU has been awarded more than $700,000 in research studies. This is by national food and beverage companies, including Dr. Pepper Snapple. Food Science and Flavor Chemistry students perform research in the following areas:

• Evaluate the flavor-associated compounds in strawberries in an attempt to identify attributes associated with U.S. taste preferences
• Study watermelon to identify the specific agents contributing to flavor
• Examine mushroom for their flavor notes and role they may play in satiety and their potential role in weight control

This degree requires a total of 30 semester credit hours. That is as well as a thesis project. Students will receive hands-on experience. They will use unique equipment used in industry labs, including gas chromatography/mass spectrometry-olfactometry equipment. There is even a microfluidizer that is one of the few available in the United States. Students may also choose to declare a minor in this program.

#4.  Virginia Tech

Master’s Degree Programs in Food Science and Technology

The next top masters in food technology in our food science graduate programs ranking is Virginia Tech. Virginia Tech is the home of the “Hokies.” It lies on a plateau between the Blue Ridge mountains and Allegheny mountains in Blacksburg, Virginia. This campus opened in 1872. It is beautiful, scenic, and rich in history. It is also the state’s second-largest national university by enrollment.

VT includes nine colleges and a graduate school. Over 36,000 students attend VT. That’s both on and off the main campus. The main campus includes 213 buildings (including an airport). It spans across 2,600 acres. The VT Hokies sports teams compete in the NCAA Division I Atlantic Coast Conference. Notable Hokie alumni include football player Michael Vick and talk show host Hoda Kotb.

VT offers 110 bachelor’s degree programs . There are 170 master’s and doctoral degree programs. It holds a 14:1 student to professor ratio. It offers experiential learning, future-focused research, and an inclusive, spirited culture. Virginia Tech strives to accomplish the charge of its motto Ut Prosim (That I May Serve).

Among the 170 graduate-level degrees that VT offers is a Food Science degree. VT’s Food and Science degree has national recognition for its ability to prepare and place students in jobs after graduation. Almost 100% of Virginia Tech’s Food Science and Technology graduates have jobs in:

• Product development
• Research
• Sales and marketing
• Quality assurance
• Production management
• Analytical and technical services
• Regulatory affairs

The objective of these graduate food science programs is to develop within the student a basic scientific understanding of foods and food processing. This is as determined through:

• Biochemistry
• Chemistry
• Food microbiology
• Physics
• Engineering

The program aims to expand a student’s professional and technical knowledge in food science. This is while providing enriching experiences in the classroom and laboratory. Students also create connections with professionals in the career field.

The M.S. Degree in Food Science requires completion of at least 30 graduate credits. This  includes 12 credits of 5000 level courses and five credits of Special Study or Independent Study work. The final semester of this degree is spent conducting research and writing a thesis. Students may choose one of the following topics as their research thesis topic:

• Food and flavor chemistry
• Food safety and food microbiology
• Food processing and packaging
• Food engineering
• Aquaculture
• Education and extension
• Enology and brewing science
• Functional foods for health
• Sensory evaluation

#5.  University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign

Master’s Degree in Food Science

Another one of the best food tech master programs is at the University of Illinois. The University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign was founded in 1867. It has been thriving ever since! UIUC is located in the twin cities of Urbana and Champaign in east-central Illinois. This is only a few hours from Chicago, Indianapolis and St. Louis. The school’s Fighting Illini participates in more than 20 NCAA Division I varsity sports. It is part of the Big Ten Conference.

UIUC has won 29 Pulitzer prizes. It is ranked #14 as a Public University. This public school is one of the best colleges in the country based on the following criteria. It is #28 as a National University, according to U.S. News and Report Ratings. UIUC also invented the very first graphical web browser! More than 47,000 students attend UIUC. They are from all 50 states and over 100 countries. This includes over 16,000 graduate students. The student-faculty ratio at University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign is 20:1. The school has 38.1% of its classes with fewer than 20 students.

UIUC offers a food science major in Food Science and Nutrition. For this major, students will either focus on Food Science or Nutrition. We will be covering the Food Science degree route.Students may choose from a thesis or non-thesis path. For both options, students must complete 32 hours. This includes a minimum of 12 500-level course hours. Students must also maintain a 3.0 GPA or higher to earn this food science major.

The non-thesis Master of Science in Food Science program is offered via live, synchronous online sessions. These use distance education technology. The program ensures the same degree of excellence. Courses are instructed by the same faculty as the on-campus non-thesis program.

UIUC faculty are some of the best in the country. The food industry researchers address a wide variety of research areas related to food science, including:

• Food chemistry
• Food microbiology
• Foodborne pathogens
• Food industry concerns
• Food processing/engineering
• Human nutrition

Within the area of food chemistry, faculty members are studying:

• Sensory science
• Flavor chemistry
• Manipulation of storage components
• Food safety and toxicology
• Food industry trends
• Structure-function behavior
• Foodborne pathogens.
• Chemical stability of foods

Graduate students have varied options for financial support. This includes Research Assistantship Teaching Assistantships and Fellowship. These provide a stipend, along with a tuition and partial fee waiver. Stipends often range from $7,500 to $23,000/year.

#6.  University of Idaho

Master’s Degree in Food Science

The University of Idaho is a public school. It is one of the best colleges in the country. It has another excellent food science program. This school occupies the northwestern part of the state. It is in the city of Moscow. It lies in a rural setting. The campus spreads across 810 acres. Since 1889, U of I has provided students with a transformative education. This is to prepare them to solve real-world problems and achieve success in their career paths. It is one of the nation’s land-grant research universities. U of I is a prominent national leader in student-centered learning and interdisciplinary research. It promotes public service. The student-faculty ratio is 16:1. That provides each student with the individual instruction they need in order to succeed.

This school has almost 12,000 enrolled students. U of I offers 94 undergraduate degrees and 62 graduate degrees. This includes the food science programs. In this program, students will gain advanced technical knowledge and independent research skills to create their own food innovations.

Students will spend much time in food science labs:

• Investigating foodborne pathogens
• Collecting taste-sensory data
• Examining the processing and packaging of fruit, vegetable, meat, dairy, and cereal products.
• Exploring food processing, food microbiology, and food chemistry courses

Much of this food safety and food processing degree is spent conducting hands-on research. There are also international research projects that students can get involved in. There is even a Food Science club.

The Master’s in Food Science requires that students complete a minimum of 31 credit hours. This includes the research thesis element. Students will complete 10 hours of research for their thesis.

There are over 400 scholarships given to the College of Agricultural and Life Science students. These  are based on GPA and other qualifications.

#7.  Kansas State University

Master’s Degree in Food Science

Kansas State University has another top food science, food safety, and food production program. Since opening in 1863, Kansas State University has been thriving. That’s all while providing students with a quality education that prepares them for their chosen careers. The Princeton Review’s 2020 edition of “Best 385 Colleges” features K-State in different impressive ratings. This national student survey showcases 13% of the nation’s best four-year colleges. It does this by reviewing more than 140,000 students’ responses and ranking colleges in 62 categories. The Princeton Review ranked K-State:

• Number two in the nation for the best quality of life and great relationship with the surrounding town and best health services
• Number three for happiest students and students love these colleges
• Number seven for best run colleges and best athletic facilities.

It also has some of the best research facilities. This is a top public school for food industry majors, according to U.S. News & World Report. According to the survey comments, Kansas State University students said the atmosphere is “very personable and really focused on the student.” Instructors “go above and beyond” for students.

The school serves more than 22,000 students. K-State offers over 250 undergraduate academic programs and over 165 graduate degrees and certificates. There are 1,437 full-time faculty. This national University accommodates classroom learning with an 18-to-1 teacher-student ratio.

Among the graduate degrees offered is the nutrition and food science major. This degree can be completed on-campus or online. It features both a thesis and a non-thesis option. The Master of Science in Food Science program at K-State provides cutting-edge training in:

• Developing
• Processing
• Manufacturing
• And marketing safe, wholesome, and attractive food products.

The curriculum focuses on the:

• Microbiology of food
• Principles of HACCP
• Quality assurance of food products
• Food analysis
• Advanced food chemistry

Moreover, The Institute of Food Technologists recognizes Kansas State University as having “the most comprehensive” food science program in the United States.

Students conduct research in the Food Chemistry labs are located in Call Hall. One is designated as an instrument laboratory. The other is a wet laboratory used for sample preparation and analytical studies. These facilities are used to determine the chemical and physical properties of food.

The Food Science degree requires that graduate students complete a minimum of 30 credit hours. This includes six hours of credits for the thesis option or two credit hours for the report option. This degree is offered in a traditional classroom or online.

To qualify for this program, prospective students need a Bachelor of Science Degree with a minimum cumulative GPA of 3.0 or higher. In addition, students must have completed the following pre-requisite courses:

• Biology, Botany, or Zoology
• Physics
• Microbiology
• Organic Chemistry
• Biochemistry
• Calculus
• Statistics

#8.  Purdue University

 Graduate Food Science Majors

Purdue University has another great nutrition and food science program. This school is located in West Lafayette, Indiana. It first opened its doors in 1874 with six instructors and 39 students. Today, PU serves 33,646 undergraduate students and 9,963 graduate students. This is based on the enrollment data from Fall 2019. Purdue is made up of 13 schools and college. These serve both undergraduate and graduate students. The U.S. News & World Report ranked Purdue University the 6^th most innovative national university in 2018. It was the 57^th of National Universities in the 2020 edition. Neil Armstrong, the first man to walk on the moon, was a Purdue graduate!

PU offers a Food Science degree. The food industry degree is highly ranked by U.S. News & World Report. This program requires that graduate students choose one area of focus:

• Food Chemistry, Structure and Function
• Foods for Health
• Food Safety and Microbiology
• Food Processing or Technology Development

This degree path is an interdepartmental program. It includes all 20 of the faculty in the Department of Food Science and 11 select faculty in the following departments:

• Agricultural & Biological Engineering
• Animal Sciences
• Nutrition Science

On average, there are 75 graduate students in the program. They are divided between M.S. and Ph.D. students. There’s an equal division between U.S. and international students. All graduate students are supported on assistantships (or fellowships).

After students graduate, valuable networking opportunities with industry executives. That is along with the department’s placement services often lead to employment with companies such as:

• Cargill
• ConAgra
• General Mills
• Hershey
• Kellogg’s
• Kraft
• Nestlé

So far, PU reports a 100% job replacement rate among the Food Science degree graduates.

PU’s Master’s in Food Science program requires a minimum of 30 credit hours. This includes coursework and research credit hours combined. Beyond the basic Food Science courses, students will select additional courses based on their specialization. In addition, students will take a Case Study Course. They will complete a research project pending graduation.

Funding for the Food Science graduate program is also offered. This includes endowments and resources provided by The Fellowship Office.

#9.  Clemson University

Master’s in Food, Nutrition, and Culinary Science

Clemson University has a fantastic food science and food safety program. The school is ranked as the 27th Best National Public University by U.S. News & World Report . It is among the “Best Value Colleges” by Princeton Review for 2020. Clemson is dedicated to teaching, research and service. It opened in 1893 with 556 students and 15 faculty. CU has evolved into what it is today: a prestigious university committed to world-class research. It also serves the second largest student population in South Carolina.

The beautiful college campus sits on 20,000 acres in the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains. It is along the shores of Lake Hartwell, South Carolina. There are seven colleges that comprise CU. There are also research facilities and economic development hubs throughout the state of South Carolina. The student to faculty ratio is 16:1. This provides personal, customized learning to each Clemson student. 87% of faculty hold a Ph.D. degree or equivalent. CU alumni are pleased with their choice to attend this national university. 92% of Clemson graduates say they would pick Clemson again if they had to do it over.

Among these programs is a Food Science degree. There is either a thesis or non-thesis option. The Food Science degree thesis option requires a minimum of 24 credit hours of coursework and six credit hours of thesis research.

The non-thesis option requires a minimum of 30 credit hours. 15 hours must be from 8000-level or above courses. The final written exam is required for the non-thesis path. It is a two-day exam that covers four major categories:

• Food Engineering/Processing
• Food Microbiology/Safety
• Food Chemistry/Analysis
• Human Nutrition

#10.  North Carolina State University

Master’s Degree in Food Science

Last but not least on our list of food science programs for aspiring agricultural and food scientists is NC State. NC State University began in 1887. It was a land-grant institution grounded in agriculture and engineering. Today, NC State University is a leading public research national university. It is still a land grant institution that is highly ranked by U.S. News and World Report. It excels across disciplines, including food products and the food industry. It is one of the best colleges in the country. North Carolina State University is located in Raleigh, North Carolina. It is and is a good match for those seeking a vibrant city atmosphere. At the same time, it is good for those who don’t want to be too far away from the rural country, the mountains, or the beach. The state of North Carolina provides everyone with their favorite scenery.

NC State’s motto, “Think and Do,” is evident in all of their academic programs. More than 36,000 undergraduate and graduate students at NC State University learn by doing. Ten colleges represent all major academic fields. State educates more North Carolinians than any other national University in the state. On the sports fields, NC State University is known as The Wolfpack. It competes in the NCAA Division I Atlantic Coast Conference. NC State University  is also ranked #1 in the state for the cost. It is ranked  for best value, according to U.S. News and Report.

NC State University offers a Food Science degree. This degree trains the next generation of leaders in food, bioprocessing, and nutrition science. NC State graduate students gain the necessary knowledge and skills for improving food quality, safety, and food-related public policy. They also gain a comprehensive understanding of nutrition and nutrition-related behaviors. The faculty in the Food Science Department are a team of scientists, researchers, and teachers. They are committed to guiding students through this graduate degree. At the same time, they prepare them for job placement when they graduate.

Students can choose from a thesis or non-thesis Graduate Degree in Food Science. Both the thesis and non-thesis degree prepare students to gain employment in food or allied industries. They are capable of conducting, analyzing, and communicating research findings. This is in either academic or industrial settings. The thesis route qualifies students for acceptance into a Ph.D. program. The non-thesis program prepares students for immediate job opportunities.

Both the thesis and non-thesis graduate program require 36 credit hours of course work. This includes:

• Chemistry
• Biochemistry
• Engineering
• Microbiology
• Nutrition
• Processing Technology
• General Food Science

International students in this program are from diverse geographical and cultural backgrounds. Three-quarters of the graduate students come from the US. One-quarter are from elsewhere in the world.

FAQ

What do agricultural and food scientists do?

Food Scientists and Technologists are common career choices of those with a master’s degree in Food Science Technology. These professionals have extensive knowledge in chemistry and biology. They study the basic elements and nutritional value of food sources. They also conduct research on how to make food production safer.

What are the best food science programs?

You will find some of the best food science programs at the national universities listed above, including at schools like California State Polytechnic University (California State Polytechnic University just barely missed our list!). Other top graduate programs and food science degrees can be found at leading national universities. The best colleges for food science degrees and working in the food industry include:

• California State University Los Angeles (California State University is another one that just barely missed the list)
• Virginia Polytechnic Institute
• California State University Long Beach

Other top national universities for food science degrees, according to U.S. News & World Report, include:

• American University
• National University
• Michigan State University
• University of Minnesota Twin Cities

Whether you choose to study these graduate programs in food science online or on the main campus, there are a few things you should look for when exploring a food system degree. Whether it’s California State University or other national universities, look for graduate programs that will provide you with research experience. Look for a program in food science that will let you get hands-on internship experience with a real food scientist or at real government agencies.

Pursue food science degrees that will let students choose concentrations of their choosing, such as:

• Research methods
• Food law
• Foodborne pathogens
• Food microbiology
• Applied nutrition
• Food industry
• Food products
• Quality control
• Food system quality assurance

Many of the best food science degrees and national universities overall are nationally ranked by U.S. News & World Report as well. The best food science degrees, as far as graduate programs go, offer more hands-on experience beyond the bachelor’s degree level. If you want to be a food scientist, choosing a state university that lets you get an in-depth look at food law and the overall food system is essential.

How do I get admitted to a food science program?

Most Master’s food science degrees look for students who have earned a bachelor’s degree in a related field. Common bachelor’s degrees requirements for Food Science and Technology Master’s Programs are science-related degrees. Some common prerequisite courses are:

• Organic Chemistry
• Statistics
• Microbiology
• Biochemistry

The GRE is often the standard graduate study entrance exam.Students need to provide an average of three letters of recommendation. These letters should be from professional and/or academic recommenders. Past college professors, school counselors, or supervisors are good choices.

Prospective students will need to either submit a resume or a curriculum vitae (CV).

A statement of purpose is also referred to as a letter of intent or research statement. It introduces your academic and professional experience. 

Most universities have a non-refundable application fee. These fees can range from $50 to $100.

The following are common grad school application questions that you should consider:

• Why do you want to pursue these graduate programs, as opposed to other programs?
• What are your research interests?
• What are your short-term and long-term career goals?
• What are some of your strengths and weaknesses?
• What will you contribute to the program?

What can I do with a food science degree?

A Master’s Degree in Food Science  can prove to be a lucrative career path. This degree prepares students with the necessary lab skills and knowledge of food and nutrition. It equips them to work in several different professions. The projected growth of this field is 9% from 2020 to 2030. This is faster than average. 

Food product developers work behind the scenes to test and develop new food products. They often create and test recipes. They might work for companies to develop the packaging of these foods.

How much money can I make with a food science degree?

According to PayScale and the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Food scientists and technologists make a median salary of around $67,178 to $71,460 per year. Product developers make around $58,204 per year, depending on where they work.

Safety inspectors often work in manufacturing plants. They make sure that the products made for human consumption are safe. These professionals follow all safety regulations. They ensure that the employees do as well. Safety inspectors can earn around $59,019 or more. This depends on where they work.

OTHER NOTABLE PROGRAMS

#11. Cornell University

Location: Itaca, New York

Degree: Master’s in Food Science Technology

Net Price: $28,890

Website

#12. Arizona State University

Location: Tempe, Arizona

Degree: Master’s in Nutrition

Net Price: $13,731

Website

#13. Oregon State University

Location: Corvallis, Oregon

Degree: Master’s in Food Science Technology

Net Price: $18,625

Website

#14. Washington State University

Location: Pullman, Washington

Degree: Master’s in Food Science Technology

Net Price: $17,297

Website

#15. University of Nebraska-Lincoln

Location: Lincoln, Nebraska

Degree: Master’s in Food Science Technology

Net Price: $17,315

Website

#16. University of Akron

Location: Akron, Ohio

Degree: Master’s in Food and Environmental Nutrition

Net Price: $16,269

Website

#17. Mississippi State University

Location: Starkville, Mississippi

Degree: Master’s in Food Science Technology

Net Price: $16,640

Website

#18. Michigan State University

Location: East Lansing, Michigan

Degree: Master’s in Food Science Technology

Net Price: $16,227

Website

#19. University of Maine

Location: Orono, Maine

Degree: Master’s in Food Science Technology

Net Price: $16,984

Website

#20. University of Wisconsin-Madison

Location: Madison, Wisconsin

Degree: Master’s in Food Science Technology

Net Price:$14,169

Website

New technology and innovation are sweeping across the landscape. Many industries are caused to change the way they operate. The food industry is no different. Scientists in the field are looking at and using new tools to make sure that our nation stays healthy.  They must be aware of the positive and negative effects of different foods and health risks. 

With a master’s in Food Science and Technology online, you will learn from experienced faculty about new technologies. You will have opportunities to engage in hands-on projects that will help you become a leader in the food science industry. Teachers provide you with essential:

• tools
• concepts
• frameworks
• critical thinking skills

The online learning environment allows you to study at your convenience. You can manage a life outside of school. This degree has become more popular over the years. It has attracted students from all over the globe to learn about the different health impacts of foods that we eat.

The coursework for the food science and technology degree is rigorous and demanding. You will learn how to keep up with the competition that is out there. You will learn new technologies and innovation that help with food processing and analysis. A degree in this field will prepare you to work in any aspect you desire in food production and development. It will teach you a variety of disciplines in:

• chemistry
• biology
• nutrition
• chemical engineering

With a food science online masters degree, you open yourself up to a large array of job opportunities. According to Glassdoor, some of the jobs that you can pursue with this degree include the following:

• food technologist
• nutritional therapist
• quality manager
• microbiologist
• scientific laboratory technician
• safety inspector
• public health educator

Getting a master’s degree can be a monumental step in your life. In 1970, a mere 200,000 Americans held a degree higher than a bachelor’s. Today, more than 20 million individuals hold a master’s degree, according to the latest U.S. Census data. That is up 22% from what it was in 2000 for adults over the age of 25. Students are more competitive than ever before and know that getting a graduate degree can separate them from the competition. A master’s in Food Science Online program also puts you in line for a doctorate degree. More and more students are pursuing every year. 

Many of the programs below include a research thesis as a mandatory requirement to graduate. Some master’s degrees require a project and comprehensive examination in its place. Courses will also focus on biological sciences and chemical sciences, and their impacts in nutritional science. Specializations are offered with many of the degrees. This allows you to study the areas you are most interested in.

Below, we go over some of the things you can expect when applying for a master’s degree, such as:

• tuition
• scholarship information
• financial aid

We also wanted to give you an idea of what to expect as far as a professional career including:

• salary expectations overall benefits of earning a degree from one of the Top 10 Online Master’s Programs in Food Science and Technology

See Also: 15 Best Affordable Master’s in Food Science and Technology

WHAT ABOUT FINANCIAL AID AND SCHOLARSHIPS?

Paying for a master’s degree is never easy. They cost a lot more than undergraduate degrees at most high-level institutions. Before you apply, make sure you can afford it. The good news is if you can’t, there are options that can help you pay for your education. 

If you’ve been getting good grades over your last 60-semester hours, pursue a scholarship. There are hundreds of scholarships, especially for the Food Science and Technology programs. Many of these scholarships will help pay for some, if not all, of your college tuition. Some of the top scholarships you can pursue for a Master’s Degree in Food Science and Technology include the following, according to Scholarships.com:

• Cameron Impact Scholarship
• CGCS-Bernard Harris Scholarship
• Dean Foods Company Scholarship
• Frans Hagen Scholarship
• Hungry To Lead Scholarship
• National Resources-Excellence in Education Scholarship
• Samsung@First Scholars
• The Vegetarian Resource Group College Scholarship
• Two Ten Higher Education Scholarship
• UNCF STEM Scholars Program Scholarship

Another option you may want to pursue is financial aid. Many students take advantage of this opportunity to help them pay for their master’s program. Fill out the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA), provide your:

• social security number
• federal tax records
• income information
• bank statements

Another good way to receive financial help for working professionals is through your place of employment. Many have tuition reimbursement programs at the master’s degree level. Check with the human resources department at your workplace to see if they can help assist with funding for graduate school. Additionally, many employers will help fund your higher education if they see leadership potential in you. With online learning, you don’t have to miss work. You can go home every night and work on your studies. If you’re already in the food science industry, you will be able to use what you learn in school in the workplace on a daily basis.

Student loans are another great way to fund your education. We recommend this as a last resort—because they can take a long time to pay off. It’s worth it if you are driven to move up 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. Be sure that the interest rates on the loan aren’t too high to find the best loan for you.

The bottom line is don’t let money automatically hold you back. There are many ways to get help. If you want it enough, go out there and find a way to make it happen. Pursue all of the options above so you can be on your way to getting that master’s degree. 

See Also: 10 Best Food Science Masters Programs

HOW MUCH CAN I MAKE WITH A MASTER’S IN FOOD SCIENCE AND FOOD TECHNOLOGY? 

Food, nutrition, and agricultural scientists research ways to improve the efficiency and safety of different food products and establishments. Most of these scientists work in:

• laboratories
• offices
• in the field

Without these workers in place, we wouldn’t have a good grasp on which foods are the healthiest and where the dangers are concerning nutrition. People with this background play a major role in the health and well-being of millions of Americans.

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, food and agricultural scientists make an annual salary of just under $61,000 a year. With management positions in the field, those salaries can exceed $100,000 a year in some areas. However, there are a large variety of other careers you can pursue with a master’s degree in Food Science and Technology that also have very strong annual salaries. Some of the most common and popular careers out there, according to Payscale, are the following:

• Quality Assurance Manager: $77,000/year
• Research & Development Director: $126,000/year
• Senior Production Development Scientist: $82,000/year
• Food Safety Manager: $64,000/year
• Microbiologist: $55,000/year
• Nutrition Specialist: $59,000/year

According to Salary.com, the average income for a graduate with a master’s in Food Science and Technology is between $58,000 and $62,000 per year. With a bachelor’s degree, that number is closer to $50,000 a year. In other words, getting that master’s degree is not only worth it for the salary potential but also for the potential to move up into management. 

Additionally, jobs in the food science industry are growing at a faster-than-average rate. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the job outlook for food scientists is expected to grow by more than 7%. With technology impacting more and more jobs, especially in food science, that number will only increase in the coming years.

WHAT ARE THE BEST MASTER’S DEGREES IN FOOD SCIENCE AND FOOD TECHNOLOGY?

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

40% potential salary after graduation: average mid-career salary of school alumni 

30% institutional accreditation: regional and national accreditation for the 2019–2020 school year 

30% overall degree affordability: average cost of undergraduate and graduate tuition per school

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 best food science degree online programs!

#1. Michigan State University

Master’s in Food Safety

When it comes to size and popularity, not many can match that of Michigan State University. Located in the state capital, Lansing, it is the eighth-largest university in terms of enrollment. It totals more than 50,000 students. Home of the Spartans, the school bleeds green and is the alma mater of one of the most famous basketball players to ever live, Magic Johnson. It has the best food science masters online.

There are a lot of great reasons to love “State,” and if you end up studying for your MS in food safety here, you will love the school even more. Michigan State’s faculty will provide you with many hands-on opportunities and practices so you can be a leader in the food industry and have the most knowledge possible when it comes to food laws and regulations.

The 30-credit curriculum touches on a wide variety of disciplines, including:

• leadership
• microbiology
• toxicology
• epidemiology
• food law

The program lets you choose nine-elective credits of your choice toward your degree, and you will complete a six-credit applied project where you will get a chance to show you have a grasp of everything you have learned. Sample core courses you will be taking include:

• Evolution and Ecology of Foodborne Pathogens
• Intro to Food Safety and Professional Development
• Food Safety Research Methods
• Food Safety Toxicology
• International food Laws & Regulations

Between the required core courses and elective courses, there are more than 60 classes to choose from.

Additionally, the program offers a dual degree option and also offers an alternative certificate in food safety. More than 80 instructors and experts are part of your master’s degree education who will guide you as you move along in your coursework. The program itself comprises students from 30 countries and 46 different states.

According to the program’s website, MSU ranks No. 1 on the list of Best Online Food Safety Graduate Programs in the Nation. It also ranks No. 34 on the list of Top Public Schools in the Nation, according to U.S. News & World Report. If you are motivated and driven to apply to MSU, make sure you contact an admissions counselor and meet all the requirements the university is looking for. Applicants are required to submit GRE scores, three letters of recommendation, official transcripts, a resume, and a personal statement to the office of admissions.

While the program can be taken fully online, many students still enjoy the environment of studying on or near campus. MSU has lots of student life opportunities for you in and around campus. If you like to bike, the MSU campus has 12 miles of biking trails and 20,000 bicycle parking spaces. The university has more than 900 student organizations, so no matter what you’re interested in, there’s bound to be a club for you. Athletics is also extremely popular at MSU, including men’s college basketball, which has won two national championships over the last 41 years, including during Magic’s years as a student.

#2.  University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign

Food Science Graduate Program

The University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign is the biggest of three state campuses and is home to 18 colleges and more than 150 programs of study. The university is known for many things. None may be bigger than being the birth of YouTube. Steve Chen and Jawed Karim, both UI alumni, created the online video platform that has become a phenomenon bigger than they ever could have imagined. A master’s degree in food science will teach you about a variety of different skills and safety procedures within the field, including:

• food microbiology
• sensory science
• food processing
• chemical food safety

The food science graduate degree can be taken fully online so you can work your education around your schedule.

The 32-credit curriculum requires at least 17 required core credits followed by 15 elective credits. You can choose electives from a number of different specializations, including:

• Food Processing and Engineering
• Food Chemistry
• Food Microbiology

You can also choose electives from other areas of interest. Sample core courses you will enroll in include:

• Advanced Food Chemistry
• Food Processing I
• Nutrition for Food Scientists
• Seminar in Foods and Nutrition

The program provides you with the option of working with a faculty adviser who will guide you through the coursework and help you stay on top of your studies. The faculty is made up of experts in the field who bring their experience to lessons on:

• rheology
• the use of acoustic ultrasound in food processing
• bioprocessing
• state-of-the-art processing technologies
• biodegradable resins

Some of the major areas that you will study during your coursework include:

• food safety and toxicology
• the manipulation of storage components
• flavor chemistry
• the chemical stability of foods
• structure-function behavior

UI has graduated some of the nation’s most famous names, including film critic Roger Ebert, Ferris Bueller actor Alan Ruck, and Knots Landing actress Donna Mills. If you live on campus, you are surrounded by a number of big cities within easy access. The university is only a couple hours from Chicago and is also within driving distance of:

• St. Louis, MO
• Indianapolis, IN
• Louisville, KY

Other relevant master’s degrees include:

• Human Nutrition MS
• Online Food Science MS (no thesis)

#3.  Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University

Master’s in Agriculture and Life Sciences (Food Safety and Biosecurity Concentration)

Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University, more commonly called Virginia Tech, is known for its powerful school spirit. The school’s Master’s in Agriculture and Life Sciences with a concentration in Food Safety and Biosecurity will educate students in the laws and regulations concerning food production and processing and teach them how to implement food safety management programs.

The 30-credit curriculum does not require a thesis and can be completed fully online. Students will enroll in eight courses. It will culminate with a final hands-on project in which they will apply all the skills they’ve learned and show full mastery of the content. Twelve of the credits will be specifically tied into the Food Safety and Biosecurity concentration. 

Some of the sample courses you will enroll in include:

• Global Food Laws and Regulations
• Animal and Plant Biosafety and Biosecurity
• Applied Food Microbiology and Sanitation
• Food Safety and Security
• Good Agricultural and Manufacturing Practices

Additionally, all students are expected to take one core course in Research Methodology along with one core course in International Agriculture or Agricultural Business. You can also take more courses and add other concentrations, including concentrations in:

• Education
• Applied Nutrition and Physical Activity
• Plant Science and Pest Management

VT ranks No. 32 on the list of Top Public Schools in the Nation, according to U.S. News & World Report. The College of Agriculture and Life Sciences also ranks among the top 100 programs, according to QS rankings. If you are interested in submitting an application online to VT, you will need to also scan and submit a number of documents. The office of admissions requires three letters of recommendation and official transcripts to be sent in. To see if you need to take the GRE and submit those scores, contact an admissions counselor to see whether you are eligible for a waiver.

#4.  Colorado State University

MS in Food Science and Nutrition with Specialization in Nutrition

When it comes to traditions, Colorado State University is all about it. Located in Fort Collins, students at CSU showcase their Ram pride daily and take school spirit seriously. With a Master of Science in Food Science and Nutrition, with a specialization in Nutrition, you will learn fundamental and advanced principles about the relationship between nutrition and health. You’ll apply what you’ve learned in the coursework to real-world settings.

The 35-credit program offers courses online or face-to-face at the main campus. The program has two options: one that includes a thesis and one that includes extra coursework and a culminating project. You will be required to take a group of required courses along with a long list of electives you can choose from. Some of the electives include:

• Cancer Genetics
• Early Childhood Safety, Health, and Nutrition
• Advanced Medical Nutrition Therapy
• Medical Microbiology
• Biological Physics

A practicum is also encouraged in an effort to give students more hands-on experience in the field.  

The final research project in the non-thesis path includes three options:

• Dietetics Research Project
• Nutrition Research Project
• Food Service Management Research Project

You will also be required to take Statistics and Research Methods from the required course bank. The program is not only designed to help you with advanced concepts you can use after you earn your master’s, but it’s also designed to prepare you for further studies should you decide to continue on toward earning a PhD. The specialization in the curriculum focuses on the relationship between nutrition and health.

CSU esteemed alumni include:

• former Nevada senator John Ensign
• Olympic gold medalist Amy Van Dyken
• comedian Leslie Jones

#5.  Kansas State University

Food Science Master of Science — Online

Located in Manhattan — Manhattan, Kan., that is — Kansas State University welcomes students from all walks of life into its university. Twenty-seven percent of students at KSU are from other states and 18 different countries. KSU embraces diversity and encourages engagement and the sharing of deep knowledge. An online food science master’s program is for degree-holding food industry professionals who wish to advance their careers and learn more about the safety of food development and production. 

Students who do not wish to pursue a thesis are required to complete 34-semester credit hours, and 20 to 22 of the semester credits are core courses followed by the remaining credits, which are electives. Those who complete the six-credit thesis must:

• compose a project
• give an oral presentation
• take a comprehensive examination prior to graduation

Sample core courses in the program are:

• Food Microbiology
• Advanced Food Chemistry
• Sensory Analysis; Research and Development of Food Products
• Quality Assurance of Food Products

At least 18 of the semester credits in the core and elective course bank must be 700-level courses or higher in order to count toward the degree. 

In 2019, The Princeton Review ranked KSU No. 2 on the list of Best Health Services Programs and Best Quality of Life. It also ranked No. 7 on the list of Best-Run Colleges in the Nation. If you wish to apply to KSU, you must have a Bachelor of Science degree with a minimum of a 3.0 GPA in your last 60 hours of coursework. You must also have prerequisite courses completed in:

• Physics
• Microbiology
• Organic Chemistry
• Biochemistry
• Calculus
• Statistics
• Biology (or Botany or Zoology)

Kansas State University has handed out degrees to thousands of past alumni, including:

• actress Kirstie Alley
• four-star general and KSU president Richard Myers
• Earl Woods, father of golfing great Tiger Woods

KSU students sport the Powercat logo, which stands as the official logo for all its very popular athletic teams. The school is part of the Big 12 Conference and regularly plays other esteemed universities like:

• Oklahoma State University
• the University of Oklahoma
• the University of Texas
• the University of Kansas

KSU has three other campuses throughout the state, one of those being a polytechnic university. Any of KSU campuses can be attended in an effort to complete your online studies. 

#6.  University of Arkansas

Master of Science in Food Safety

Known for being a top research school, the University of Arkansas ranks among the top 3% nationwide for having the “highest possible level of research,” according to The Carnegie Foundation. By studying toward an online Master of Science in Food Safety, you will be taught by experienced faculty in the field. You will learn essential skills in the preventative process, microbiology, toxicology, and epidemiology. The program is based solely on U.S. standards, including Hazard Analysis and Critical Control Points as well as food safety laws and regulations.

The 30-credit curriculum is fully online with nine credits being earned a year. However, the three-year program can be accelerated if you wish to earn your degree in a shorter amount of time. You will be required to complete a final three-hour special problems research project along with an oral presentation and examination administered by a graduate faculty committee. The university also encourages internships to give you more hands-on practice in the field. 

Sample core courses that you will take include:

• Principles of Food Microbiology
• Food Biosecurity
• Safety and Sanitation for the Food Industry
• Food Toxicology and Containments
• Food Safety Law

There is also a three-hour statistics requirement that you must take along with your other courses as well as six hours of electives. Unlike other schools, UA’s Food Safety Graduate Program does not require a thesis in order to successfully complete the degree. The same faculty members who teach students face-to-face also teach online courses in the Food Safety program. 

UA is located in Fayetteville, which recently ranked No. 4 on the list of Best Places to Live, according to U.S. News & World Report. That same survey ranked UA as No. 72 on the list of Best Public Universities. If you are interested in applying to UA, you will want to inquire whether you are eligible to bypass the GRE and be placed on the exempt list. Contact an admissions counselor to see if you meet the requirements. 

Famous graduates from UA include:

• former President Bill Clinton
• former Senator and Secretary of State Hillary Clinton
• Dallas Cowboys owner Jerry Jones
• gold medalist Veronica Campbell-Brown
• Hall of Fame football coach Jimmy Johnson

#7.  Texas A&M University

Master of Science in Food Science

Many confuse Texas A&M University with being a military academy. It’s not, but it does have the largest ROTC program of any other university and is well known for its Corps of Cadets, which are visible at every home football game at Kyle Field during the season. In fact, the Corps of Cadets is TAMU’s oldest student organization and is led by Reveille, a real-life collie who holds the Cadets’ highest rank.

The Master of Science in Food Science is targeted toward students who want professional training with real-world experience along with a management orientation in the food industry. The program is designed to give you advanced skills in problem-solving while improving your experience in a variety of different food industry–related areas.

The 32-credit curriculum requires a list of core courses as well as research and development of a thesis that must be presented prior to earning a degree. You will also have the choice of taking nine electives, three of which must come from outside your area of interest. Sample courses you will see on your schedule include:

• Chemistry of Foods
• Microbiology of Foods
• Directed Studies
• Food Science Seminar

You will receive some course credit for the research you conduct for your thesis. An acceptable thesis must demonstrate comprehensive understanding and mastery of the literature in the program as well as all content given to you by your professors.

Faculty members in this program have extensive experience and will provide you opportunities to work hands-on within the field. Courses are offered both online through virtual coursework and face to face. Dual degree options are also available in nutrition and kinesiology. Internships are encouraged by the Department of Nutrition and Food Science.

Among the many alumni who have earned a degree from TAMU include:

• former Texas governor Rick Perry
• American Idol star Jason Castro
• singer Lyle Lovett
• NFL pro bowl wide receiver Mike Evans

Football is extremely popular at the university, and the crowd there has a 12th man tradition where they cheer loudly to give the team an extra boost during home games. TAMU is also big on community service. It holds what is called “The Big Event” every year, where more than 20,000 students pitch in and help out in the community. 

#8.  University of Florida

Master of Science in Food Science and Human Nutrition

It’s hard to find a better place to study than the University of Florida. Located in Gainesville, you are within driving distance of the beautiful East Coast beaches, Walt Disney World, Universal Studios, Sea World, Orlando, and Tampa. You also get to enjoy “Gator-Mania” on Saturdays during college football season, where the football team is a regular national championship contender. UF is on a small list of schools that win multiple national championships in both men’s college basketball and college football. In all of its athletics, it’s totaled 36 national championships!

The Master of Science in Food Science and Human Nutrition is designed to prepare graduates for ultimate success in the food industry. It will also prepare graduates for positions in both the academic industry and government. The program admits around 90 to 100 graduate students each year and there are approximately 30 faculty members on staff. 

The 30-credit curriculum consists of 24-course credits and six-research credits. Three of the courses are required while the other five courses offer a list of classes to be taken from three different categories. Those three categories are:

• Food Processing and Engineering
• Food Microbiology and Safety
• Food Chemistry

And all students are required to take:

• Research Planning
• Statistical Methods in Research I
• Food Science and Technology Seminar

For students wishing to take the Nutritional Science track, the program offers a variety of research areas of emphasis, among them Human Nutrition and Molecular and Cellular Nutrition and Metabolomics. Just like the Food Science track, 24-semester hours are required with six credits going toward research. Sample courses include:

• Minerals in Nutrition
• Nutritional Aspects of Carbohydrates
• Proteins and Amino Acids in Nutrition
• Clinical Nutrition

Courses are offered both online and face-to-face for graduate students.

Among the graduates to earn a degree from UF include:

• sportscaster and TV personality Erin Andrews
• Senator Marco Rubio
• actress Faye Dunaway
• Mets All-Star Pete Alonso

Students who attend UF for their first year love it, with 96% of them returning for another year, according to the school website. UF is also known as well for its successful diversity efforts. It ranks No. 1 in the nation among all Amateur Athletics Union institutions for Most Master’s Degrees Awarded to Hispanic Students. The university also has two Pulitzer Prize-winning faculty members and 43 faculty elections to the National Academy of Sciences Engineering. 

#9.  Penn State University

MS in Food Science

Penn State University is world-renowned for being the home of not only the Nittany Lions but Berkey Creamy Ice Cream (the largest university creamery in the world). It is known for giving courses to Ben and Jerry, who opened their own ice cream parlor soon after they earned their degrees. Established in 1855, PSU also has the fourth-largest football stadium in the world and is the third most populated city in Pennsylvania during Saturday home games.

A Master of Science in Food Science at PSU will develop your food processing and decision-making skills. You can leave the university with the talent to make a positive impact on the food industry. Award-winning faculty members who have professional experience in the field are the ones who train you to be leaders upon graduation. All students in the program are expected to present a thesis and successfully pass an oral examination prior to earning a degree. Courses are offered both on-campus and in an online setting where you can earn many of your credits from home. 

The 30-credit curriculum requires 18 required core credits and six elective credits. The final six credits will come from the culminating research for the thesis project. Required courses include:

• Research Methods in Food Science
• Fundamentals of Food Science-Chemistry
• Fundamentals of Food Science-Microbiology
• Fundamentals of Food Science-Engineering

You can continue your education and earn a doctorate degree in Food Science with a postgraduate degree in either Clinical and Translational Sciences or International Agriculture and Development.

Also among the most Recognized alumni at PSU include:

• NFL star running back Saquon Barkley
• journalist Lisa Salters
• former Senator Rick Santorum
• Biochemist Paul Berg who earned a Nobel Prize in Chemistry in 1980

In your free time, you can take a car ride or short train ride to Pittsburgh, Philadelphia, Washington, D.C., or New York City and explore much of the history of the East Coast. There are hundreds of clubs to join at a university that is big on involvement as well as diversity. Athletics and school spirit are a big part of the university as its teams compete against other Big 10 Conference schools for national championships in every major male and female sport.

#10.  University of Idaho

Master of Science in Food Science

The mission of the University of Idaho is to shape the future through innovative thought, community collaboration, and transformative education. UI values the connection teachers are able to make with their students, which is why they aim to keep class sizes at a reasonably low number. A 16-to-1 student-to-teacher ratio allows for improved feedback and one-on-one communication in the classroom.

The Master of Science in Food Science allows you to conduct innovative and high-quality research to solve the challenges facing today’s food science industry. As part of the program, you will work hands-on getting real-world experience using the resources UI offers. You will also have the opportunity to apply for assistantships and compete in competitions while publishing your research.  

The curriculum includes a thesis and a non-thesis option. With the non-thesis option, you will need to complete 33-semester credits and take an oral examination and research project that shows mastery of the course content. With the thesis option, you will work with an adviser and present a thesis proposal to the graduate committee. The program emphasizes research and also includes an oral examination. Along with food science courses, students are required to complete three-credits of statistics and nine-credits in specific core food science courses.

The curriculum emphasizes courses in:

• food processing
• food chemistry
• food microbiology
• sensory evaluation

East student’s program of study is individualized based on their interests, prior academic experience, and collaboration with their faculty mentor. UI collaborates with Washington State University and has faculty that teaches at both schools.

Among those who have studied at UI include:

• financial analyst Lou Dobbs
• former Alaska governor Sarah Palin
• cyclist Kristin Armstrong

UI provides access to resources in facilities in two states and seven cities with its main campus in Moscow, Idaho. There are nine research and extension centers on-campus and the school is a noted national leader in student-centered learning and interdisciplinary research that promotes public service, according to its website.

IF YOU ENJOYED THIS ARTICLE, THEN CHECK OUT OUR ARTICLES ON THE 50 HIGHEST PAYING MASTER’S DEGREES!

Getting a master’s in education can create new and interesting opportunities. In fact, an affordable masters in education can make it possible for anyone to work within a variety of elementary and secondary school settings.

But, like so many degree programs in the modern era, cost can be a huge problem. We’re here to help with the cheapest online master’s in education.

Americans across the board are more educated than ever before. And it’s not just online master education programs they’re completing, either! There are about 21 million master’s degree holders across the nation. That’s 13.1% of adults over age 25 in 2011 versus just 8.6 percent in the year 2000. That’s according to the US Census Bureau.

These degree recipients are spread across a variety of fields. But over 20% hold a master’s in education. This type of graduate degree allows educators to move into administrative positions. You can take on different types of responsibilities. Of course, you can also earn more competitive salaries.

See Also: Top 50 Highest Paying Masters Degrees

Cheapest Online Masters in Education

Why pursue the cheapest online education masters? There are lots of reasons.

First, it’s important that educators continue to learn and grow. That way, you can better serve your communities and student populations. You also deserve to get the biggest bang for your educational buck.

Finishing that online master’s in education will give you a great sense of accomplishment. It can also make you a better teacher. You can fill in gaps that you may have struggled with during years of field work. You may find new and better ways to apply the techniques you were already using in your classroom within your master’s degree.

A master’s degree is still a big investment, though. This is why it helps to save all you can while still learning a lot.

If you’re thinking of pursuing any of the online master’s degree programs on this list, be sure to think about what kind of financial aid is available. We’ll help you find the best online master’s degree programs in our guide.

See Also: Best Affordable Master’s Degree Programs

Cheapest Online Master’s in Education

Teachers aren’t the only ones who can benefit from an online master’s in education. If you’ve ever considered a move into administration, having additional education can only help your case. 

A master’s degree in education may not always be necessary. But having the unique training that goes with an educational administration track will prepare you for anything.

You can achieve your dreams of working for an entire school or district’s population of  students. That is, rather than just a classroom-full. Educational administrators can help shape the future of education on a larger scale. They can help graduate at many different levels. A master’s degree will help you meet any career goals you might have.

Online education provides flexibility for people who are already working in their field, but are seeking to expand their knowledge base. These programs are administered through accredited colleges and universities. You may be relieved to know that there’s nothing different about the quality of learning between an online degree and a seated master’s degree.

See Also: 50 Best Master of Library Science Online Degree Programs

Common Admission Requirements

Ready to look into the cheapest education masters online? You probably have a lot of questions before you jump in. Don’t worry, you’re not the only one! 

Here are some common questions about the cheapest education masters and all their answers. Admission requirements vary so be sure to check with your specific school.

See Also: 50 Best Online Master of Liberal Studies Degree Programs

How Long Does an Online Master’s in Education Take to Complete?

In the cheapest education masters, you will be able to work at your own pace. Therefore, your program length will depend on how many courses you’re able to complete each term.

Most online programs will take about two years to complete. That’s just like in a seated master’s degree environment. A few schools have accelerated programs. These can be completed in just 18 months.

Will I Need to Take the GRE for a Masters in Education Online Cheap?

The pre-admission testing process varies from school to school. A typical graduate program requires online graduate students to take either the Graduate Record Examinations (GRE) or the lesser-known Miller Analogies Test (MAT).

The MAT measures your problem solving abilities using a battery of comparisons. The GRE is more of a general knowledge test. If your school accepts either, it may be worth it to take both as practice exams. You can then choose the one you completed the best as your entrance exam.

Not all affordable online master’s degrees include test scores as part of their admission requirements. Always ask if you’re not sure.

What Do I Need to Apply to an Online Master?

Admission requirements vary between schools and programs. For most you’ll need the following:

• Letters of recommendation
• Official graduate entrance exam scores
• Official transcripts from prior schools (required hours of coursework or credit hours might vary – and some schools accept unofficial transcripts, too)
• Personal statements
• Proof of English proficiency
• Proof of valid teaching license
• Application fee or fee waiver

Some schools may not have this many requirements. Others may have different requirements. Prospective graduate students should always check with the admissions department before they begin their applications. Allow as much time as possible for your application to be completed. It may take some time to collect all of these materials that are needed as part of the admission requirements. 

Keep in mind that admission requirements can vary depending on what sort of advanced degree students applying for might be interested in.

Some popular areas for online graduate students pursuing graduate education include:

• Online master in English education
• Online master’s degree specializing in classroom teaching for elementary school teachers, middle school educators, secondary educators, and even online schools
• Online master in adult education
• Online master in educational administration (school principal, superintendent, CSE chair, etc)
• Online master in mental health counseling
• Online master’s degree in educational research
• Online master in instructional leadership
• Online master in public administration
• Online master’s degree in classroom management
• Online master’s degree with a specialization in math, science, engineering, social sciences, foreign language, etc etc
• Online master’s degree in educational technology
• Online master’s degree in physical education
• Online master’s degree in teacher leadership (often a Master of Arts in Education in Educational Leadership)
• Online master training for curriculum specialists

Many schools offer accelerated online programs. These let you get the necessary coursework and teaching experience in just a year or two. In some cases, you can even pursue teaching licensure after completing an affordable online master’s degree. This is an important question to ask when you’re looking at the many cheapest online master’s degrees out there. If teaching licensure is a goal, ask if it will be possible with the specific affordable online master’s programs you’re looking at.

What to Look for in Online Degree Programs

When you’re looking at online degree programs, it’s important that you consider not only your needs for online learning, but the quality of each online master’s degree.

Most online degree programs fall under the same rigorous standards as on campus master’s degree options.

After you’ve decided which area of study to pursue in your online master’s (educational leadership, curriculum development, special education, etc) think about which affordable online master’s programs are the best. Which will help you meet your goals for professional development the best?

You will want to look at some of the following factors:

• Accreditation – the best online programs are regionally accredited by organizations like the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission
• Online learning technology – what tools are available to help you in your educaitonal journey
• Financial aid – more on this below!
• Support for prospective students – things like advising, career coaching, faculty support, and so on

Financial Aid & Scholarships

Choosing an affordable online Master’s in Education is just the first step. The next is figuring out how you’re going to pay for it. An affordable master’s degree program is still a lot more than nickels and dimes. The good news is that you don’t have to go digging in your couch (and all the neighbor’s couches, too!) to come up with funding. While a master of science in education will almost always be more expensive than. bachelor’s degree, it is possible to find an affordable online master’s. 

Most graduate students need some form of private and federal student aid. When looking at the cheapest masters in education, here are some options for graduate students who have already completed a bachelor’s degree. 

Student Loans

The reality is that student loans are the financial cornerstone of most educational funding. At the graduate level, subsidized loans are seldom offered. You should be able to borrow more than enough to pay for tuition and books without trouble.

Stafford loans do not require a credit check or underwriting in the same way that private sector student loans do. You wouldn’t be in a position where you’d need a co-borrower or to provide any collateral. Your education is your collateral. These loans are accessible to most borrowers.

Scholarships, Fellowships and Grants

There are many scholarships, fellowships and grants available to people seeking a master’s in education. Some, like the TEACH grant, are meant to help bring more high quality educators into schools that are disadvantaged.

Others, like post-baccalaureate Pell Grants, help graduate students who still have financial need despite their employment. They help them earn additional accreditation in education to improve their base pay as an educator. The tuition assistance is a big help, too!

Particular disciplines may offer fellowships or grants for specific subject matter as well.

Grants and fellowships are also available exclusively for minority and female students wishing to pursue degrees in education. These are often offered at your university or local level. There are a number of solid search engines that specialize in graduate school grant funding. These will help greatly expand your search for funding.

Be sure to read instructions with a keen eye for details. Just like admission requirements vary, so, too, do financial aid requirements.

Applying for Aid

Every student should start their financial aid process by filling out the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). This will let your university see your educational picture and offer supportive aid when needed. Some aid is based on your GPA alone. But a great deal of aid is also need-based. The FAFSA helps your student aid department determine how your need compares to other students at your school.

Follow the application instructions to the letter. When an essay is required, remember to keep your focus on how meeting your educational goals will help others, not just you. Many students fail to treat application essays much the same as resume cover letters. They miss out on aid they would have otherwise been excellent candidates for.

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

No one goes into education for the income alone. But many people in the field do extra educational work in order to increase their earning potential over time.

Some districts will pay for all or some of a master’s in education. But many educators and administrators must foot the bill themselves. Therefore, it’s important to know you’ll be able to pay back what you invested.

Potential Earnings With a Bachelor’s in Education

The National Council on Teacher Quality (NTCQ) is an organization that monitors teacher income and supports teachers in other aspects of their careers. Based on their data, first time educators with a bachelor’s degree earn a median of $40,000 to $44,900.

The very top earners can receive compensation of over $55,000 per year. But these are often limited to high cost of living areas or very high demand fields.

Earning More with the Cheapest Education Masters

Holding a master’s in education gives you more opportunities to earn more. That’s whether or not you intend to stay in the classroom. Most districts recognize the time and effort you put into your profession. They realize that you’re bringing a great deal more to the table as you gain more specialized knowledge.

The master’s in education also gives you more opportunities for working in administrative positions. You can even work in subjects that are harder to fill. You might qualify for an entry level university position. You could even take on a teaching job at your local community college. This would never be possible with a bachelor’s alone.

We’ll cover the top online master’s degree in education options below. But if this list isn’t enough, know that you can find other excellent full time study programs at schools like:

• The University of North Texas
• Western Governors University
• University of Texas Permian Basin
• Kansas State University
• Sam Houston State University
• Arizona State University
• South Dakota State University
• Old Dominion University
• Kennesaw State University
• Wilmington University
• Valdosta State University
• Lamar University
• Southeast Missouri State University
• University of South Carolina

All of these schools offer affordable graduate tuition and the academic excellence you’d expect in a top affordable master degree. These are some of the fastest growing universities in the country and offer top programs in hybrid formats that ensure overall quality without skimping on affordability or accessibility.

What Are the Best Affordable Master’s in Education 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. We want to help you reach your goals.

Are you ready to earn an affordable online master degree that will take you to the next level?

Check out our ranking of the best affordable online master’s in education!

#1. Texas A&M University – College Station

MEd / MS in Special Education

You’ll find one of the best and cheapest master’s in education at Texas A&M University.

As a student of Texas A&M’s Department of Educational Psychology (EPSY), you’ll learn from some of the strongest educators in the field. EPSY gained national recognition for its academics and research programs. But its focus on diversity, technology and international activity fuel powerful and influential opportunities for all students. 

You will find a top master of science in graduate education here.

Program Overview

Students in the MEd / MS in special education program at Texas A&M – College Station are professionals in education or administration. If you have a background in education, behavior, disability or related fields, this may be the additional training you need. This is a degree that will prepare you for either working in the field. It will also help you pursue additional graduate level work beyond the bachelor’s degree. 

You will spend two years completing this 36 credit hour degree program. Classes you may choose to incorporate include:

• Applied Behavior Management in the Classroom
• Educating Individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorders
• Bilingual Special Education
• Transition Education and Services for Individuals with Disabilities
• Prevention, Support, and Intervention for Students with Emotional and Behavior Problems

Fellow students will be general and special educators, administrators, counselors, therapists, registered behavior technicians and behavior coaches. They are all professionals like you who want to expand their knowledge base. This cheapest master’s in education will help you better serve diverse student populations. 

Texas A&M – College Station has five online master’s degrees within EPSY. Those are:

• Bilingual education (MEd / MS)
• Educational technology (MEd)
• Educational psychology – specialization in creativity and cognition (MEd)
• Educational psychology – specialization in school counseling (MEd)
• Special education (MEd / MS)

Only educational psychology – specialization in creativity and cognition asks for GRE transcripts. If you’re test-adverse or  don’t have the time to study for and complete the exam, you still have plenty of opportunities here. This is one of the best affordable online master’s degrees in the world. 

This is our top of the best affordable online master’s in education. You can do all your coursework from home or after your teaching day is over. Whatever fits into your schedule best!

#2. Liberty University

Liberty University opened in 1971. It was created by the Reverend Jerry Falwell. This is an accredited Christian liberal arts institution. There are 17 schools and over 100,000 students worldwide. The school’s home campus is in Lynchburg, Virginia. But online students are as welcome on the premises. They are encouraged to participate in a variety of social and educational events throughout the year.

Online Master’s in Education (MEd)

This university also offers in-person intensive study sessions throughout the year. These can be used to fulfill various credit hour requirements or fill knowledge gaps for online students. If you’re looking for a master of science degree program that goes well beyond the bachelor’s degree, this is the affordable online master’s for you.

Program Overview

Liberty University has been doing distance learning since 1985. They started with correspondence courses and adopting technology as it became available. The master’s in education is meant to help working teachers complete or increase their education. This cheap masters in education online can be completed while remaining in the classroom.

The program is accredited by the National Council for Accreditation of Teacher Education (NCATE). You don’t have to worry that your accreditation will fail to transfer or be useful after graduation.

You can choose from four advanced licensure tracks to meet your credit hour requirements:

• Administration and supervision
• Math specialist endorsement
• Reading endorsement
• School counseling

Add-on licensure in curriculum and instruction in gifted education or early childhood education are available to master’s in education students.

Courses are taught as flexible, eight-week sessions. You can graduate in as little as 18 months. Financial aid is available for these online graduate programs.

This school offers several options for teachers who already hold a license and are seeking to reach their career goals faster. They’re excellent choices for teachers looking to work within private school settings or work in educational administration. These programs only have 30 credit hours of coursework. They still result in a master’s degree.

You have the option of pursuing a non-licensure specialty in educational leadership, instructional design and technology. The educational leadership pathway is an excellent option for graduate students looking for online master’s degrees that will allow them to become administrators.

Beyond the educational leadership affordable online master, there are many other curriculum and instruction programs to help you make up your required credit hour plan. Tracks within non-licensure curriculum and instruction include, but aren’t limited to:

• educational technology and online instruction
• history
• leadership
• special education
• higher education
• curriculum development
• early childhood education
• urban education

As is the case with the other online master’s degree programs on this list, financial aid is available.

#3. California State University – Fresno

Master’s of Arts in Education – Reading/Language Arts

This school opened in 1911 as Fresno State Normal School. Since then, California State University – Fresno is dedicated to creating passionate educators and other community leaders.

Today, California State University – Fresno’s Kremen School of Education and Human Development’s primary goal is to help educators and administrators reach their full potential. This is carried out in culturally diverse settings. 

If you’re looking for an affordable online master’s degree program that gives you extensive training beyond the bachelor’s degree, this is the one for you.

Program Overview

California State University – Fresno began as a college dedicated to training the best teachers in California. It still holds tight to that goal within the Kremen School of Education and Human Development.

It educates more California primary and secondary teachers than any other in the state. Through its online programs, including the Master’s of Arts in education in reading/language arts, it is now finding ways to achieve those goals well beyond state borders.

The reading/language arts program gives teachers the additional credentials and credit hour plans they need to excel in reading literacy. Or you can expand into this area. You can choose to complete a project, thesis or comprehensive exam as your culminating experience. 

Higher education sessions are eight weeks long. This allows distance learners to focus on one subject at a time. You can take up to two classes per term. You can skip terms as needed. And you can do classroom work at a time that best fits your schedule. You will be required to log into live sessions. But most of the classroom work in this master of science is more flexible.

This higher education program asks for the completion of 30 credit hour unit prior to graduation. These includes a clinical or field experience. You’ll attend courses like:

• Language Issues in Reading
• Assessment and Development of Reading Abilities
• Literacy Process and Practices
• Research in Education
• Educational Measurement and Program Evaluation

Additional credentials and certificates are available with this degree option. These include the California reading/literacy leadership specialists credential and the California reading/literacy added authorization (certificate). Financial aid is available for online graduate programs here. 

#4. University of North Carolina at Charlotte

MEd in Elementary Education

Graduates of the Cato College of Education at the University of North Carolina at Charlotte learn from some of the best in their field. The exemplary in-house educators have experience in the field. They’re also invested in moving research in education forward. This school is a product of the post World War II education boom.

UNC Charlotte grew from a few night classes into a premier research institution set on a 1,000-acre campus. Of course, it’s also where you will find some of the top online masters degree in education cheapest options for higher education.

Program Overview

Experienced teachers can expand their educational accreditation in a flexible online classroom setting. You’ll receive exceptional support from the decorated faculty of the University of North Carolina at Charlotte’s MEd in elementary education program. You can choose your own concentration. You can have substantial career development in just 30 credit hours of coursework.

Choose from these practical areas of study in the affordable online master’s:

• Academically or intellectually gifted (AIG)
• Anti-racism in urban education (ARUE)
• Elementary mathematics
• Literacy
• Science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) education

Students are prepared for:

• teaching jobs in elementary and pre-K schools
• holding program administration positions
• leading schools as principals or assistant principals

You can apply for a doctoral program created to prepare you for one of many leadership roles.

The University of North Carolina at Charlotte is a school focused on research. Students are encouraged to complete a significant research-based capstone project under the guidance of experienced faculty. Your own classroom or school can serve as an excellent source of reliable data for work. This can be used for presentation at teaching conferences.

#5. North Carolina State University at Raleigh

Master’s of Education in STEM Education

North Carolina State University at Raleigh is located within the North Carolina Research Triangle. This school was destined to become a premier STEM research institution. Its roots were in agriculture and engineering. Today students and facilities work together to innovate in ways that change the world for the better.

Here, education is a driving force behind ever-changing and expansive online master’s of education programs. This school stays ahead of educational trends. It helps to fill needs as they emerge nationwide.

Program Overview

The Master of Education in STEM education is an exciting new program. It shares core coursework with other areas of concentration within STEM education. However, the majority of the 30 hours of coursework you’ll spend in this degree will be dedicated to science education. It is similar to other master of science degree program options in its breadth and depth but allows for more hands-on work. 

You can apply for professional licensure to expand your teaching certifications. Or you can move into areas like conservation science or school administration. Educator preparation courses include:

• Biochemistry of Gene Expression
• Dendrology
• Geospatial Modeling
• Comparative Nutrition
• Comparative Reproductive Physiology and Biotechnology

Most students complete this higher education program in about two years attending full time. Part-time students graduate within four years. Both complete 30 credit hours of coursework. Prospective students may also pursue graduate education in related fields like:

• computer engineering
• health sciences
• aerospace engineering

Educators exploring programs in STEM education have a few other options at North Carolina State University at Raleigh. Online higher education specialities include engineering and technology, as well as mathematics and statistics. All three STEM education concentrations share core courses. These could be helpful for students who may be on the fence about their particular area of study. They can ease into the right online program.

Additional online master’s of education programs at this institution include:

• adult and continuing professional education
• agricultural and extension education
• college counseling and student development
• health professions education.

#6. Appalachian State University

Master’s of Arts in Elementary Education

Appalachian State University first opened in 1899 as a college for future teachers. It continues to lead the pack in higher education excellence. The university was recognized several years running as the national leader for graduates who are National Board Certified Teachers (NBCT). This is a credential that takes years to complete. It demonstrates graduates have achieved the absolute pinnacle of educational excellence. The teacher education programs at Appalachian State University also continue to be recognized among the top education programs in the nation.

Of course, you’ll find a top teaching master of science degree program here that will provide you with extensive training beyond the bachelor’s degree.

Online Graduate Program Overview

This education master’s degree is designed for both teachers who are teaching in elementary schools and those who wish to transfer in. The Master of Arts in elementary education at Appalachian State University takes a multifaceted approach to higher education.

This online program takes about two years to complete on a full-time basis. It has a minimum of 39 credit hours of coursework. This includes 12 hours of teaching field courses. Students enrolled online will follow a rolling schedule. It may take a longer time period to complete, depending on where in the cycle they are accepted.

Educator preparation courses include:

• Advanced Topics in Diversity
• Recent Trends and Issues in Education
• Teacher Leadership and School Improvements
• Advanced Curriculum Design in Elementary Education
• Instructional Technology

Students without teaching experience in grades K – 6 must complete C I 5900: Internship / Practicum. This can cause them to exceed the minimum of 39 hours of coursework for graduation.

Students that complete this program will be ready to take on additional responsibilities within the schools where they’re already working. These include administrative roles. They will be able to address an ever-changing school environment with a great deal of agility.

#7. William Woods University

Master of Education (MEd) in Teaching and Technology

William Woods University has a long history. This reaches back to just after the Civil War. The school opened in 1870 as a school for orphaned girls. It grew until it finally achieved recognition as a college in 1914. The school trained teachers for generations. But it wasn’t until 1972 that additional liberal arts programs were added. Williams Woods University devoted its 150 years to providing education that educates people from all walks of life.

Here, you will find an education master of science degree program that offers exceptional educator preparation.

Online Graduate Program Overview

William Woods University’s Online Master of Education in teaching and technology meets the needs of both classroom and corporate educators. It combines education courses with the latest in research and technology. Together, they create a program unlike any other. Small classroom sizes are vital to success at William Woods University. They continue to help post-baccalaureate students achieve their goals.

Students in this program are a diverse bunch. They have ranging interests, work experiences and backgrounds. This versatile program allows these very different people to follow their own dreams. Many graduates pursuing work as:

• Instructional technology experts
• Classroom educators (licensed educators) of all grade levels
• School principals
• District and school administrators 
• Superintendents

Educator preparation courses include topics like:

• instructional design
• multimedia production integration
• postsecondary education
• social justice and community engagement
• organizational management
• differentiating instruction
• educating students with exceptional needs
• instructional technology
• a capstone project in teaching and technology

This cohort based program has a total of 30 credit hours for graduation. All students are required to take Teaching and Learning in the New Digital Landscape. This is their first course and may be asked to repeat it before taking other courses if they do not achieve a grade of B or higher.

Anyone interested in the Online Master of Education in teaching and technology will need to submit official transcripts from all former colleges and universities. A GPA of 2.5 is required for admission. Students will need to complete a specific program application (pay close attention to all instructions). Three references are often required for those interested in classroom teaching.

For students who have already received certification in the Enhancing Missouri’s Instructional Networked Teaching Strategies (eMINTs) program, up to nine hours of credits may be granted toward degree completion. This depends on your specific certification. Ask about these additional transfer credits if you feel you may qualify.

William Woods University offers additional study opportunities for educators to expand on their degrees. Reach out to an admissions counselor for one-on-one support and to find which foundational courses and professional studies are best for you. Currently, the programs available online include:

• Master’s of Education in administration
• Master’s of Education in athletics / activities administration
• Master’s of Education in curriculum & instruction
• Master’s of Education in equestrian education
• Master’s of Education in STEM

These programs each have their own requirements for admission. It’s important to check with the school directly before applying. Many will request that you show or demonstrate experience with very specific kinds of work. For example, the equestrian education program needs proof of your field experiences working with horses before you complete courses here.

#8. University of Texas at Arlington

Master of Education in Curriculum and Instruction – Literacy Studies

Looking for an online program that’s in your own backyard? OR just want to study at one of Texas’s premier Carnegie Research institutions? No matter what sort of teaching expertise you have, University of Texas at Arlington brings crucial elements of education together in one place. It is one of the best places to gain an accessible education that is also top notch. 

There over 60,000 students between the on-campus and online schools. They can’t be wrong about choosing this university to help start or build on to their education. It’s great for the working teachers of Texas. But it can also be used to expand the knowledge base of teachers from across the country.

Online Graduate Program Overview

If you’re looking for a 30 credit hour program that’s 100% online and doesn’t require a thesis, the Master of Education in curriculum and instruction – literacy studies may be the right program for you.

Students will complete coursework recognized by the International Literacy Association. This helps support the highest quality in teacher education.

This degree offers two certifications. They are reading specialist and English as a second language. The reading certification has to be completed first. But students who pass this certification also have the option of sitting for teaching English to speakers of other languages (TESOL) certification.

The program is intense and focused. It will give you the opportunity to enroll in educator preparation courses. Top courses include:

• Pre-Adolescent & Adolescent Literacy
• Multicultural Literature for Children and Young Adults
• Content Area Reading and Writing
• Understanding Literacy Research
• Teaching the Writing Process

Students holding teaching licenses in the state of Texas will be able to complete all certificate options within 30 credit hours. Those from other states may need to do additional work to achieve full certification. These students can request a memo that serves as proof of their degree completion. This is if they wish to attempt certification in a different state and don’t have a bachelor’s degree that qualifies them for that.

Students from all but 14 states are eligible for enrollment in this affordable online master’s.

#9. University of the Cumberlands

Master of Arts in Education

Looking for a cheap masters in education online? Look no further than Cumberland College.

Cumberland College opened in 1888 as the Williamsburg Institute. It was later dubbed Cumberland College after Williamsburg acquired Highland College in 1913. University of the Cumberlands has a rich history of providing quality education to students from across Appalachia.

Today, the school reaches even further to connect online education opportunities to students across the globe. That is along with the seated master’s degree courses that earned it the reputation it enjoys today. It is truly one of the best master of science degree program options in education around.

Online Graduate Program Overview

University of the Cumberlands’ Master of Arts in education program is designed for licensed teachers who are looking for additional education or certification to achieve their career goals. The online courses offered are flexible. They allow working educators to plan their education around their classrooms. Both full time and part-time students are welcome to pursue certification beyond the bachelor’s degree in areas like:

• Literacy specialist
• School counseling
• Teacher as leader

Upon program completion, graduates looking for a change in scenery can pursue careers as:

• curriculum and assessment directors
• instructional designers
• special education teachers

Program length varies based on certification area. Many can be completed with as few as 30 credit hours. Students interested in a school counseling specialty must earn 45 credit hours prior to graduation. Teacher as leader certifications are available for a variety of disciplines. These include English, math, and social studies.

Courses for the literacy specialist track include:

• Diversity in a Multicultural Society
• Writing Instruction for the Content Areas
• Diagnosis of Reading and Writing Problems
• Literacy Leadership
• Teacher Leader in the Professional Learning Community

Students choosing any of the teacher as leader specialties will have to complete area-specific training. Courses include:

• Research Methods
• Assessment of and for Student Learning
• Best Practices for Coaching and Mentoring Teachers
• Teacher Leader in Professional Learning Communities

Counseling students must complete a range of courses in human development and  counseling. There is also a practicum and an internship. They can then earn the Ed.S school counseling degree with only five more classes.

Most students must hold a valid teaching license before applying to the Master of Arts in education program. There is an exception for those applying to the school counseling specialty track. 

A completed graduate application and application fee, as well as official transcripts and three letters of recommendation must be submitted. 

#10. California State University-Fullerton

Master of Science in Education

There’s a lot to love about the Master of Science in education at California State University-Fullerton. Of course, it didn’t happen overnight. This school has been excelling at online master’s programs for educators since 2002. 

This school has world-class online education programs and its dedication to promoting diversity in both seated and online courses. California State University-Fullerton is a model for what today’s post-secondary education should be.

Of course, it’s also where you will find one of the cheapest online masters in education degrees around.

Online Graduate Program Overview

This online graduate program helps secondary level teachers working in the classroom expand their skills and upgrade their knowledge base. The Master of Science in education is a modular degree. It is flexible enough for students both in-state and out. Students can choose from several culminating experiences to complete the required credit hour allotment. Courses include:

• Comprehensive examination
• Research projects
• Thesis
• Comprehensive curriculum project
• Academic article publication
• Submission for National Board Certification

The online graduate program can be completed 100% online. Local students or those spending significant time near campus can also opt for a hybrid format. It offers 49% of classroom content 100% online and the balance partially online.

Students attending the 100% online graduate program must complete EDSC 501: Introduction to Graduate Studies. This is worth one credit unit. The entire concentration online graduate program consists of 31 credit hour units. This includes courses like:

• Advanced Proficiency in Educational Technologies
• Graduate Studies in Secondary School Writing
• Curriculum Theory and Development
• Family, Community, and Professional Partnerships
• Assessing Student Learning

Six credit hour units of electives are left to the student to choose with their graduate program advisor. Students can also select an emphasis in either teacher induction or teaching foundational mathematics. That’s beyond the general secondary education concentration.

Student hopefuls for California State University-Fullerton’s Master of Science in education, secondary education concentration program must have an executed application on file. This is within the stated filing period for the term they wish to attend and their fees must be paid in full. They must also provide the following:

• Proof of teaching license
• Current resume
• Transcripts showing a GPA of at least 3.0
• Two letters of recommendation
• An approved major

All applicants must also submit a 500-word statement of purpose. This should explain their interest in the program. The goal of this statement is to give the school a better idea of what you will be like as a student, what kind of academic interests you may have, and your current role as an educator. Emphasizing how you can better help others with your degree will also go far to secure your position in the program.

OTHER NOTABLE PROGRAMS

#11. San Diego State University

Location: San Diego, California

Degree: MA in Education in Educational Leadership

Net Price: $14,568

Website

#12. Northwestern College

Location: Orange City, Iowa

Degree: Master of Education

Net Price: $24,269

Website 

#13. University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign

Location: Champaign, Illinois

Degree: Master of Education

Net Price: $15,808

Website 

#14. University of Alabama

Location: Tuscaloosa, Alabama

Degree: MA in Elementary Education

Net Price: $31,460

Website 

#15. Johns Hopkins University

Location: Baltimore, Maryland

Degree: Master of Science in Education – Educational Studies

Net Price: $27,868

Website

#16. University of Wyoming

Location: Laramie, Wyoming

Degree: Master of Arts in Education in Educational Leadership

Net Price: $17,569

Website 

#17. University of Georgia

Location: Athens, Georgia

Degree: MEd in Reading Education

Net Price: $15,539

Website

#18. West Texas A & M University

Location: Canyon, Texas

Degree: MEd in Curriculum and Instruction

Net Price: $13,325

Website

#19. University of Central Florida

Location: Orlando, Florida

Degree: MEd in Exceptional Student Education

Net Price: $13,016

Website 

#20. The University of Texas Rio Grande Valley

Location: Rio Grande Valley, Texas

Degree: Master of Education in Curriculum & Instruction with a Specialization in Elementary Math and Science Education

Net Price: $9,541

Website

IF YOU ENJOYED THAT THEN CHECK OUT OUR ARTICLES ON THE 50 MOST POPULAR ONLINE MASTER’S DEGREES & 50 BEST ONLINE MASTER OF SPECIAL EDUCATION DEGREE PROGRAMS!