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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

See Also: 10 Best Master’s in Industrial Engineering

COMMON APPLICATION AND ADMISSION QUESTIONS

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

• Work experience
• GPA minimums
• GRE scores

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

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

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

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

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

See Also: 20 Best Online MBA in Strategy

WHAT ABOUT FINANCIAL AID & SCHOLARSHIPS?

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

OUR RANKING CRITERIA

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

• Earnings Potential
• Affordability
• Student Satisfaction
• Selectivity

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

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

#1. STEVENS INSTITUTE OF TECHNOLOGY

ONLINE MASTER OF SCIENCE IN MANAGEMENT

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

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

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

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

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

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

#2. THE UNIVERSITY OF TEXAS AT DALLAS

ONLINE MBA IN STRATEGIC MANAGEMENT

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

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

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

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

#3. EMBRY-RIDDLE AERONAUTICAL UNIVERSITY-WORLDWIDE

ONLINE MASTER’S OF SCIENCE IN MANAGEMENT

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

#4. VILLANOVA UNIVERSITY

ONLINE MBA STRATEGIC MANAGEMENT

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

ONLINE MBA IN STRATEGIC MANAGEMENT

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

#6. INDIANA UNIVERSITY-BLOOMINGTON

ONLINE MASTER OF SCIENCE IN STRATEGIC MANAGEMENT

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

#7. HOFSTRA UNIVERSITY

ONLINE MBA WITH A CONCENTRATION IN STRATEGIC BUSINESS MANAGEMENT

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

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

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

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

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

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

#8. QUINNIPIAC UNIVERSITY

ONLINE MASTER’S OF SCIENCE IN ORGANIZATIONAL LEADERSHIP

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

ONLINE MBA IN STRATEGIC LEADERSHIP

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

#10. HARVARD UNIVERSITY

ONLINE MASTER OF LIBERAL ARTS MANAGEMENT

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

OTHER NOTABLE PROGRAMS

#11. Amberton University

Location: Garland, Texas

Degree: Online MBA in Strategic Leadership

Net Price: N/A

Website

#12. National University

Location: San Diego, California

Degree: Online Master’s of Science in Organizational Leadership 

Net Price: N/A

Website

#13. Messiah College

Location: Mechanicsburg, Pennsylvania

Degree: Online MBA with a concentration in Strategic Leadership

Net Price: $27,976

Website

#14. Ottawa University Angell Synder School of Business

Location: Ottawa

Degree: Online MBA with a concentration in Strategic Innovation

Net Price: $25,583

Website

#15. University of St. Francis

Location: Joliet, Illinois

Degree: Online Master’s of Science in Management

Net Price: $19,418

Website

Earning a degree in marketing can be a great idea. It’s even better if you don’t have a particular job or position you want to pursue for your career.

For example, you might find a passion for social media marketing during your bachelor’s degree program or realize that sports marketing is what you want to pursue for a graduate degree.

Likewise, you might want to design advertising campaigns for large corporations as part of your job with a large marketing firm. Or you might prefer using marketing to explore related fields, like travel and tourism or even psychology.

The point is that degrees in marketing are versatile. Professional marketers are needed by almost every company or business for various marketing jobs. But if you hold basic marketing credentials, you have an advantage: You can proceed into higher leadership positions or take on more responsibilities for a higher salary.

Long story short – earning a master of marketing degree is an excellent decision. Better still, many master’s degree programs in marketing take two years or less to complete!

Marketing vs Marketing Management

What’s the big difference between a graduate degree in marketing and a graduate degree in marketing management? It depends on the type of degree you receive.

Many marketing programs are MBAs or Masters of Business Administration. They just have a marketing management concentration.

MBAs are a perfect fit for a marketing management focus. They focus on how to be a better leader in the business arena and how to manage others. That’s in addition to going over solid business concepts. Those who hold MBAs are well-positioned to become administrators, chief executives, or any other kind of managing position at a business or organization. MBAs with this focus include coursework and training that prepares you to head marketing departments. You might even spearhead broad marketing campaigns that can bring your employer great profits.

However, master’s degrees in marketing management come in other flavors, too. Some schools offer a pure Master of Marketing Management degree. These are best thought of as an offshoot of an MBA or a related degree program. They cover many of the same concepts and ideas. At the same time, they focus on marketing as it pertains to modern economics.

A masters in marketing degree can also come as either a Master of Science in Marketing or Master of Arts. Master of Science degrees might be theoretical. They lean more into economics in the broader abstract concepts that drive business decisions every day. Marketing management degrees of the latter type are more appropriate if you want to work for a nonprofit. In this setting, you might focus your marketing efforts on areas besides pure profit-boosting, such as promoting the organization’s mission.

Marketing management degrees that include some element of administration of business, either through the curricula or by being part of an MBA, tend to be better for the immediate practical application of your acquired knowledge. These degrees are perfect for entering the business world right after graduation. Meanwhile, a Master of Science in marketing management degree is better if you want to pursue research. It’s also ideal if you wish to pursue additional education, like a doctoral degree.

Regardless, you will need a bachelor’s degree before launching into a graduate degree program in marketing or management. You don’t necessarily have to major in business, marketing, management, or related fields, but it will be helpful. For example, during a bachelor’s degree program in marketing, you might learn about:

• Social media marketing
• How to identify target audiences
• New media and its role in marketing
• Digital marketing tools
• How to conduct market research

You might also learn how to start a marketing career by exploring career goals, networking with with marketing professionals, and conducting original research.

Clearly, management degrees at the master’s level are valuable. They provide you with many high-level details about marketing and business. They teach you how to manage or lead others. They often feature an interdisciplinary curriculum, too, encompassing various courses and concepts.

A sampling of the classes you can expect from these marketing master’s program options might include:

• Communication/Integrated Marketing Communications
• Strategic Marketing
• Data Analysis/Data-Driven Marketing
• International Marketing
• Digital Marketing

Other marketing-related courses might include Business, Management, and Psychology. Courses with a tighter focus, like Business Ethics, Sports and Entertainment Marketing, and Search Engine Optimization are also popular.

Of course, you’ll take general courses, too, in subjects like English, Statistics, and History.

The exact focus of a given master’s degree in marketing management depends on the individual program. But all marketing programs prepare you to attain leadership positions in marketing departments or at the head of companies. As a marketing major, you will graduate with significant expertise. You will know how to create and follow through with marketing campaigns or efforts that can benefit your employer.

As you might imagine, these positions are sought by almost any company or organization. Profit-driven enterprises always need marketing leaders to head up teams. They need people to manage individuals within a marketing department. They even need people to develop marketing strategies in the first place. Nonprofits or other organizations also need their own marketing managers.

This is perhaps the biggest strength of this graduate degree – its ability to be applied to almost any industry. As a marketing or marketing management program graduate, you will have a vast toolkit of skills you can use in many different applications, making the hunt for marketing jobs that much easier after you graduate. With one of the best master’s degrees in marketing management, you can pursue a top position in almost any company and any field. Anything that requires marketing, that is! 

See Also: Best Affordable Online Master’s in Marketing Management

Common Application and Admission Questions

It isn’t necessarily easy to get into a full or part time marketing master’s degree. Like almost any master’s program, getting into one of the best master’s degrees in marketing management requires excellent grades. You’ll also need a specific portfolio for each school to which you apply.

Almost any master’s degree program requires a bachelor’s degree first and foremost. It is a little less rigid for many to apply to a marketing management degree in this regard. Just about any bachelor’s degree will be enough for most schools. You don’t have to have a bachelor’s degree in business or a related field.

That being said, students who have a bachelor’s degree in business or something at least somewhat related to marketing will be given priority for entrance into the best marketing degree programs. Some common undergraduate degree majors for students who enroll in master’s degrees in marketing include:

• Marketing Communications
• Public Relations
• Social Media Management
• Business or Business Communication
• Advertising
• English
• Journalism

You’ll also need decent grades from all of your prior bachelor’s degree work and other education experiences to be admitted to high-level marketing programs. Full transcripts will be required for each application you submit.

The minimum GPA from your undergraduate degree should be about 2.5 or so. Most applicants average a 3.0 GPA or above. Make this number as high as possible if you’re still in your bachelor’s degree studies. If you must, take additional classes after the fact to bolster your GPA.

Many master’s degree programs for marketing management require that you take and submit scores from the GRE or the Graduate Record Examination. These tests are taken on the computer and measure several aspects of your aptitude for college. This ranges from your critical thinking and quantitative reasoning to your verbal and mathematical skills. Different tests are prioritized by different universities and marketing degree programs. Some schools prefer a high GMAT score instead of a GRE.

You’ll have a full year to take these tests once you apply for them. You can take them up to five times within that year. There are plenty of opportunities to get a better score if your first attempt doesn’t reflect your actual abilities.

You’ll also need to consider other application boosters. Many master’s programs, including those in marketing management, require a history of work experience. You may need a professional resume. Resumes that have work experience related to the degree are, of course, preferred. You should be able to showcase your experience in the marketing or business fields thus far. This might include skills like:

• Social media marketing
• Digital marketing
• Public relations
• Pricing strategies
• Marketing analytics

Having experience in market research, writing press releases, and email marketing is certainly a bonus. So too are skills related to content marketing, brand building, and original research. Any type of professional development in marketing and related areas will boost your admission profile and give you a competitive edge over other applicants.

Also consider letters of recommendation. Most master’s programs ask for at least one letter of recommendation from a superior. This might be your supervisor at your current workplace or your former teachers from your bachelor’s degree studies. Many marketing programs ask for three letters. It’s a good idea to email your former teachers and ask about the letters as soon as possible.

Pay attention to the application deadlines for each university. Some schools are flexible and have multiple application deadlines throughout the year. Others admit just a single class once per year. Be sure you have your application materials ready at all times with up-to-date information.

Not sure what to look for in a school? We’ve ranked the top marketing master’s degrees in this post. However, some other top schools for a marketing degree include the following:

• University of Texas
• University of Southern California
• Northwestern University (via the Evanston, IL campus)
• Johns Hopkins University (via the Johns Hopkins University Carey Business School in Baltimore, MD)
• Columbia University (via the Columbia Business School)
• Michigan State University (in East Lansing, MI)
• Clemson University
• Boston College
• University of Tampa (Tampa, FL)
• Cincinnati State University (in Cincinnati, OH)
• UT Dallas (via the Naveen Jindal School of Business)
• University of Colorado – Downtown Denver Campus
• Vanderbilt University
• University of Georgia in Atlanta, GA
• New York University in New York, NY
• Indiana University
• University of California Los Angeles (Los Angeles CA)
• University of Pennsylvania (Philadelphia, PA campus)

Consider how well the master’s degree you are considering will help you meet your personal and professional goals. Will you have hands-on experiences to help you gain practical skills as you attend classes? If you’re interested in doctoral degree programs later on, will the program give you enough of a foundation in your core courses to continue on? Are there any experiential learning opportunities like internships or study abroad?

The best master’s degrees can and should check off all the boxes.

Also consider accreditation for your master’s in marketing program. The top accrediting organizations for a graduate degree include:

• Accrediting Commission for Community and Junior Colleges (ACCJC)
• Western Association of Schools and Colleges
• Higher Learning Commission (HLC)
• Middle States Commission on Higher Education (MSCHE)
• New England Commission of Higher Education (NECHE)
• Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities (NWCCU)
• Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC)
• WASC Senior College and University Commission (WSCUC)

It is a good sign to be accredited by one of these organizations, whether it’s the Higher Learning Commission, the Middle States Commission, or the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges. So, too, is a nod from publications like the Princeton Review or U.S. News & World Report. It indicates that the marketing degrees you are looking at are well-regarded.

What About Financial Aid & Scholarships for Marketing Degrees?

Paying for graduate school (or a bachelor’s degree, for that matter) expensive for most people. You don’t want to end up in student debt, after all.  But the good news is that there are multiple ways you can seek financial aid, some of which are specific to master’s degrees in marketing management and related master’s programs.

You should fill out a FAFSA or the Free Application for Federal Student Aid at the beginning of every academic year. Most universities require that you do this before applying for other paths to financial aid, anyway. The FAFSA tells the government all it needs to know about your economic situation. They can determine whether you qualify for certain subsidized and unsubsidized government loans, grants, and other types of financial aid.

Always check the financial aid page of both your university and the college or school handling the master’s program for marketing management. There are often two separate pages. You should check out both because the former page often has general higher education financial aid opportunities. It is more inundated with applicants. That’s because undergraduates can take advantage of these offers as well. These financial aid packages tend to be not as large.

The website for your marketing program and its financial aid opportunities is often much more specific. They are also sometimes more achievable. Again, fewer students in higher education apply to them, which can increase your chances of getting an award.

Even more important are the teaching assistantships or internships. Not everyone gets access to one of these opportunities, but they’re valuable sources of financial aid and on-the-job experience if you have the time in your schedule.

Teaching assistantships allow you to work with faculty in your department or college. You might be grading papers or assigning with classroom learning activities in exchange for reducing some or all of your tuition costs. This does take time out of your week that you could otherwise use for studying. However, it’s a great choice if you can manage a good balance between work, life and related areas.

Internships may not always pay you a salary. Yet many of them offered through your school result in a net reduction of your overall tuition. Internships provide additional benefits. They grant you valuable work experience and networking opportunities. These will continue to pay dividends after you graduate. Assistantships and internships are financial aid opportunities best used by those who don’t also need to work at a full-time job while completing their graduate education.

Most students find themselves using a mixture of financial aid options to cover their bills. Check out all that you can to avoid paying full tuition.

See Also: Affordable Online MBA in Marketing Management

How Much Can I Make With a Master’s in Marketing Management? 

Once you complete your education and graduate from the university of your choice, you’ll be faced with a challenging task. Now, you need to find a marketing career that provides you with a master’s in marketing salary worthy of your experience and education.

So how much can you expect to make with a master’s degree in marketing management?

Like almost every business or marketing degree, your actual salary depends on the type of marketing professional you are. Marketing managers who are higher in the overall hierarchy of a large company will be paid more than a marketing manager of a smaller organization. This doesn’t mean you can’t negotiate for a higher salary with any potential employer, though.

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, marketing managers can expect to make an average salary of about $133,380 per year. The Bureau of Labor Statistics also notes the highest salaries were around $208,000 for the same marketing jobs with the same responsibilities. That makes this one of the most lucrative marketing career options.

Your salary depends on how long you have been with the company (e.g., six months vs 16 years), how profitable your company is, and where your position lies on the salary hierarchy. Marketing managers in charge of more people and delivering more profitable results can expect to see higher salaries for their marketing careers. That’s compared to marketing managers working for nonprofits or smaller companies who make comparatively less. This is similar to almost any other business or management executive occupation. It’s true, regardless of industry.

Marketing managers can also become advertising or promotion managers. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, these marketing jobs have median annual salaries of about $127,150 per year. It’s a very similar position to a general marketing manager. However, advertising or promotion managers are focused on a particular aspect of marketing campaigns. That’s rather than marketing as a whole for a company.

Those pursuing a marketing manager position will enjoy a 10% job growth rate projected over the next ten years. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, this is faster than the national average compared to most other professions across industries. Companies are expected to need more marketing managers in the near future, and in high numbers. The time is perfect for recent graduates to pursue a marketing career!

Other marketing jobs for marketing graduates include:

• Marketing Analysts
• Social Media Marketing Directors
• Global Marketing Directors
• Directors of Brand Management
• Public Relations Directors
• Sports Marketing Manager

You might also find jobs that focus on email marketing, content marketing, and other content creation. If the job opportunities before you align with your career goals, there’s a good chance you’ll find something for you on the job market!

Marketing degrees are such versatile and broad credentials. Therefore, you can also use it to pivot into a management position in many industry organizations. Having experience with managing people and leading teams to achieve great results will enable you to take leadership roles outside the marketing sphere and pursue a nonmarketing career.

Management occupations, in general, earn a median salary of about $102,450, making them a viable alternative to a marketing career. They’re ideal if you can’t find a pure marketing manager position that suits your needs or interests. These jobs have titles like:

• Administrative Service Managers
• Compensation and Benefits Managers
• Financial Managers
• Sales Management Lead
• International Marketing
• Human Resources Managers

No matter which career path you take, there is excellent earning potential. This is good news for paying back financial aid like loans as well as for preparing for the future.

Our Ranking Criteria 

We have a time-tested four-part formula designed for ranking the nation’s best colleges and higher education programs. Using the factors outlined below, we can devise a much more detailed and reliable list of best marketing graduate program options than if you were to simply Google “graduate programs marketing” or “masters marketing degree.”

We prioritize four major factors when evaluating a marketing program:

• Earnings Potential
• Affordability
• Student Satisfaction
• Selectivity

Reliable research and well-harvested data are the main ingredients in our recipe for success for ranking master’s programs. 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, nor do world university rankings.

The only way to make it onto one of our lists is to have an incredible academic program at a top school of business that can help lead you into a lucrative marketing career!

What are the Best Master’s Programs in Marketing Science and Management?

We know 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 to provide you with the best list of master of marketing degree programs. This methodology is based on the following three aspects:

• 40% Potential Salary After Graduation: Average mid-career salary of school alumni (as opposed to recent graduates, whose incomes are often lower)
• 30% Institutional Accreditation: Regional and National Accreditation for the 2022-2023 school year 
• 30% Overall Degree Affordability: Average cost of undergraduate and graduate tuition per school, including financial aid

At Master’s Program’s 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. 

Check out our ranking of the best marketing masters programs below! 

See Also: Best MBA Programs for Marketing Management

10 Best Masters in Marketing Programs

#1 Marketing Master’s Program: Texas A&M University-College Station

Master of Science in Marketing

You’ll find one of the best masters in marketing programs at Texas A&M University. In fact, many of Texas A&M University’s programs are well-known for their rigor and overall value. The Master of Science in Marketing is no different. It’s ranked as one of the best Master of Science in marketing programs in the United States. That’s from Best-Masters.com and QS Business Masters. 

This school boasts a comprehensive Master of Science in Marketing that is perfect for students with business experience. It’s also ideal if you have a related degree or for those who have an unrelated bachelor’s degree who want to make a career change.

There are very few specific prerequisites for applicants wishing to apply for this program at Texas A&M University. You need good grades and certain GRE scores, of course. Other than that, anyone can apply to this Master of Science in Marketing. This is a recent change. The full time program used to have much more stringent application requirements.

If accepted into the program, you will be considered for a departmental scholarship and a graduate assistantship. These financial aid opportunities combined can reduce most or all of your tuition costs. That’s not to mention that the School of Business can provide you with valuable work experience through the assistantship.

Aside from a top-flight marketing program and ample opportunities for experiential learning, the graduation rate for this business school is one of the best in the country. Moreover, Texas A&M offers robust career services for graduates, so you can get assistance finding a full time marketing career.

Curriculum for the Master of Science in Marketing at Texas A&M University

The curriculum focuses on the fundamentals and specifics of marketing in a variety of circumstances, and builds off of what you learn in your bachelor’s degree in business or marketing. You’ll take classes that discuss and teach about marketing for business and for other organizations. You will showcase the different skillsets and mindsets needed to market in a variety of situations and consumer bases, too.

You will also have plenty of opportunities to complete professional internships over the course of your program. This allows you to use some of those experiences as academic credit.

Some topics you’ll cover in your specialized classes and foundational courses at the Master of Science in Marketing at this school of business include:

• Integrated marketing communications
• Internet marketing
• Digital marketing strategy
• Advanced market research
• Practical marketing analysis
• Marketing metrics
• Brand management
• Customer analytics
• Marketing decision-making
• Business marketing
• International business
• Sales management and pricing strategies
• Writing press releases

Another valuable advantage to this Master of Science in marketing is that it can be completed in as little as 10.5 months. Other marketing programs take at least one to two years. This is just one of the reasons why this is the best masters degree for business on this list!

As one of the fastest marketing degrees you can find across all disciplines, this is an ideal fit if you have plenty of free time to focus on your studies. However, there aren’t any opportunities to slow down in this marketing master’s. It’s not a very flexible program or appropriate for those who can commit to school just part-time.

As with many master’s programs, the priority application deadline is November 1st. The deadline to apply is April 7 for every academic year. You should get a jumpstart on your application if you plan to try this full time program. If accepted, you will benefit from the broad “Aggie Network.” This is the collection of alumni that spans many countries across the globe.

Texas A&M’s alumni network for the marketing master’s is one of the most valuable advantages at this public university. That’s considering the breadth of professions it encompasses and the doors it can open into major companies. Networking is just as important as your academic training, experiential learning, and professional development. 

More Information About Texas A&M

Texas A&M is a public university with plenty of other wonderful aspects that make it worthwhile. It has the largest group of full time students in the state of Texas. It’s just about the largest university by physical size, too. It also has a beautiful campus that spans 5200 acres. Students can take advantage of a huge swath of recreational facilities and a vibrant Greek life. This public university is home to 58 Greek letter organizations. There’s something for everyone!

Don’t forget the school of business’s emphasis on sports excellence, either. Each game is a treat, even if you’re just a casual fan. This Master of Science in marketing is ideal!

#2 Marketing Master’s Program: Georgia Institute of Technology-Main Campus

Master of Business Administration

Another one of the best marketing masters programs is at Georgia Institute of Technology. Again, Georgia Tech has a business school with a leading graduation rate. 

This MBA program may seem just somewhat related to marketing science and management at first. But a closer look reveals that you can choose to focus on marketing management through your class selections.

All MBA program students must complete a series of core business and administration courses. These go over things like the principles of finance, how to lead people and organizations, strategic management, and more.

But you can also pick classes specific to marketing science and management. You can tailor your electives to reflect this strategic focus, too. The resulting MBA is both broad and specific enough to provide you with the marketing science and management knowledge you need to succeed in those positions.

This full time program at the Georgia Tech school of business has other benefits that make it an excellent choice. It’s offered in several formats. These include full-time, evening, and executive formats. This means that whether you’re a focused or flexible student, you can complete this MBA on a schedule that works best for your personal or work lives.

Curriculum for the Master’s Degrees in Marketing

The curriculum is the same between all three marketing master’s programs. What differs is how long it takes to complete the full time program. For example, the full time option takes 21 months to complete while the evening program is a part-time self-paced option.

You’ll take courses common to marketing programs, such as:

• Entertainment marketing
• Supply chain management
• Digital marketing strategy
• Consumer analysis
• New product development and product design
• Digital advertising
• Financial accounting
• Consumer trends
• Marketing analytics
• Market research
• Business communication
• Data driven marketing
• Content creation

Georgia Tech provides small class sizes for all of its master’s programs. This mindset is reflected in the MBA as well. You’ll be able to get more personal attention from the faculty, and you won’t feel smothered by the other students in your class as a result. You’ll also be able to network with individuals rather than be lost in the crowd.

Even better is the college through which the program is administered. Scheller College is in the middle of the Georgia Tech Square innovation ecosystem. This is the heart of most entrepreneurial and business activity within the university and the surrounding city. You will feel rich at home as a student with the drive to begin projects and the desire to make a name for yourself. There are many chances to begin startups or join companies that can make use of your talents.

But that’s not all! Any full-time MBA students in this program have opportunities to intern with Fortune 500 companies. You can also intern with several major consulting and financing firms. You’ll get plenty of work experience and networking under your belt by the end of your academics which helps you achieve your career goals.

More Information About Georgia Institute of Technology

Georgia Tech opened in 1885. It has since bloomed into six separate colleges with 31 departments. It’s a top-ranked university in every regard. It has a beautiful campus located north of downtown Atlanta. Most of the campus is filled with greenery. This makes it feel almost suburban compared to the metropolitan area just a few miles away. This school is ranked 26th among the best business schools by U.S. News & World Report.

#3 Marketing Master’s Program: Liberty University

Master of Business Administration in Marketing Degree

Liberty University has an excellent marketing management master degree. This school provides an MBA for aspiring students like you who want to become a business executive and explicitly focus on marketing.

Marketing science and management are not covered per se. However, the classes covered by the standard MBA core curriculum explore the management and administration side of things. The marketing courses give you the more focused education you need to hold marketing manager positions in any company.

Curriculum for the Master’s Degrees in Marketing

Like a growing number of marketing master’s programs, Liberty recognizes the value of distance learning programs. This marketing MBA is a 100% online program. It includes a curriculum that focuses on contemporary issues in the marketing culture of today’s companies and the economic environment. This is wonderful for many young graduates – succeeding with modern marketing takes different skills and information than marketers used in decades past.

You’ll also take marketing courses that look at consumer behaviors and trends. You’ll examine how they have evolved over previous years. This will enable you to understand and predict where consumer behavior might take companies in the near or distant future. The hands-on experience you get at this business school is just one reason why it has such an outstanding graduation rate.

The core MBA classes prioritize leadership and business communication skills. This will help you succeed in any managerial position. This marketing program also emphasizes the importance of applying ethics to all of your marketing practices. You can feel good about your career and your impact on the world.

Liberty University is a Christian-focused school. That ethical framework is in many of the marketing courses throughout this program.

You’ll complete the online program over the course of two years. It features 45 credits in total.

The rigorous curriculum for this master’s degree in marketing includes core courses such as:

• Marketing analytics
• Market research
• Global marketing
• Pricing strategies
• Data driven marketing
• Business communication
• Customer analysis

Each class lasts for eight weeks to facilitate a fast-paced schedule. Liberty also has one of the most generous transfer credit policies among major universities. You can transfer up to 50% of the credits needed for your graduation, which can speed up your time to graduate, allowing you to hit the job market sooner.

All the classes in this school of business are taught in an asynchronous format. This just means that you don’t need to attend virtual lectures at any point in the process. Instead, you’ll be given assignments. This is often at the beginning of the week. You just need to complete them by a predetermined point without “attending” class. Thus, it’s a great university and program for those who need a flexible graduate schedule to accommodate their work or family lives.

More Information About Liberty University

LU was founded in 1971 and, over the years, has grown by leaps and bounds. In fact, it’s one of the largest private nonprofit universities in the country, according to student enrollment. The university has about 16,000 students on campus and another 115,000 students online.

Though online students may not be there to enjoy it, LU features a beautiful and old-fashioned campus. A Civil War Museum is included within the campus borders, which is 7,000 acres in the west-central portion of Virginia.

#4 Marketing Master’s Program: California Polytechnic State University-San Luis Obispo

Master of Business Administration

Cal Poly is one of the most recognized universities in the state of California. It’s no surprise that this school offers one of the best MBAs in the country. This marketing management masters is ideal for aspiring advertisers like you!

Curriculum for the Master’s Degrees in Marketing

The MBA at this school of business features a specific set of classes that focus on marketing science and management and related concepts. This lets you tailor the degree to your unique career path. It also has a broad core of business administration classes. These classes provide you with the leadership and administrative knowledge you need to hold a higher position within an organization.

The school has an outstanding graduation rate that lends itself well to outside praise, too – ranks #2 among regional universities in the West, according to U.S. News & World Report. The marketing program’s curriculum focuses on ensuring that every graduate understands core competencies in all aspects of management. The curriculum, therefore, covers the essentials of:

• accounting
• marketing
• strategy
• operations management
• economics
• organizational behavior

The electives available to every admitted student are diverse. They focus on subjects like entrepreneurship or negotiations. You might cover marketing principles like:

• Mathematical methods/quantitative methods for market research
• Marketing across different media channels
• Creating customer profiles
• Pricing strategy creation
• Marketing in the global marketplace

You can even choose to take electives in related topics like big data or data science.

You can also make use of Cal Poly’s Center for Innovation and Entrepreneurship (CIE). This center is one of the best networking places for young innovators and future industry leaders. It also provides you with the technical tools necessary to broaden your social network and develop your business skills. It’s an excellent place for self-starters like you to meet others and network with peers.

Cal Poly San Luis Obispo also provides several opportunities for professional certificates associated with business management and marketing degrees. These aren’t necessary for graduation. However, they can make you more attractive to employers. They can help you land more specific or niche jobs that require special skills.

The university focuses on treating each student as an individual. Therefore, most students benefit from a low 13:1 student-to-faculty ratio. This is quite small compared to other colleges in the country. It allows you to have more face-to-face time with your professors than most other college marketing programs.

Every student benefits from hands-on field trips as well. These trips take place a few times over the course of the program. Each trip heads to a different business environment so you can get a real sense of what actual industry leaders deal with in their day-to-day jobs. Even with all of these experiences packed in with a rigorous curriculum, this program lasts 10 months. You can be accepted into the program and graduate within the same year in some cases. In the modern, fast-paced business environment, this is an excellent advantage for graduates who want to hit the ground running and begin pursuing career goals.

More Information About California Polytechnic State University-San Luis Obispo

This public university is located in sunny coastal California. Here, the weather is excellent year-round, with 287 sunny days per year. You might decide to take advantage of the beautiful environment and bike to school. There are over 6,500 bike rack spaces on the campus to accommodate your bike.

Cal Poly has one of the largest campuses in the nation. Should you own a bike, you can tour the 9,678 acres campus at your leisure!

#5 Marketing Master’s Program: Gonzaga University

Master of Business Administration

Gonzaga University has another best marketing masters program in the form of an MBA. Gonzaga has been turning out business leaders for over 50 years. It’s ranked as one of the best schools for part-time MBA studies by U.S. News.

Curriculum for the Master’s Degrees in Marketing

This university focuses on Jesuit values. Its curriculum reflects this ethical focus. At the same time, it provides broad business concepts and foundational knowledge for future business leaders across various industries.

This graduate degree curriculum includes classes on marketing theory and managing. That makes this an effective degree choice if you want to become the leader of a marketing department. It’s also ideal if you want to understand how marketing affects the success or failure of businesses in more detail. A capstone course in strategic management emphasizes the degree’s focus on leadership and managing a business venture.

You’ll also be able to create your own specialization that shows up on your MBA. You can personalize your program when it comes time to choose your electives. A finance concentration is available as well. Students of marketing science and management may choose not to follow this elective path, though. 

This is also one of the more flexible MBA programs. It has a high graduation rate and a business school with extensive opportunities to adapt your schedule to your preferences. There are four main schedule options to complete the program:

• Online
• On-campus
• Full time
• Part time

Whether you need a flexible MBA program or can complete something more rigid, Gonzaga will be able to meet you every step of the way.

You can complete this MBA program in as little as one year, though two years is perhaps a better timeline. You can do this if you take accelerated marketing courses. This is a perfect choice if you want to get into the business environment as soon as possible.

But you can also pursue the degree at a part-time pace. Then it will take around two to four years. This is what most students do. As a bonus, class sizes aren’t large – they average between 20 and 30 students. You’ll have ample opportunity to meet with your professors or network with your peers.

Core classes in this MS program cover topics like:

• Advertising campaigns
• new business development
• product development
• social media management
• brand strategy
• quantitative analysis/data analysis
• consumer insights
• product management
• digital marketing
• business applications for the marketing field
• buyer behavior/consumer behavior

In this MS program, you’ll go beyond strategic marketing courses. Marketing students like you will be able to participate in in-depth market research to understand customer management and marketing decision-making at a personal level. You’ll build your planning and decision-making skills and leave graduate school as one of the industry’s top marketing professionals.

More Information About Gonzaga University

GU is both private and Roman Catholic in terms of its student body and faculty.  It opened in 1887. It has expanded to over 100 buildings over 152 acres. There are two large libraries centered within the campus. There are also several unique pieces of artwork that display famous historical figures and prominent Catholics.

The number of full time students at this university is expanding. This has necessitated the construction of a new building at the center of campu that fits a variety of student services inside its attractive all-glass exterior. Despite the faith focus of many of its classes, over 20 faiths are represented on this campus. It’s not a university just for Catholics.

Gonzaga is one of the top universities for affordability. With lots of graduate degree programs and doctoral programs to choose from, it has a low tuition rate and receives high marks for financial aid options including loans, grants, scholarships, and more.

See Also: Top 10 Most Affordable Online Master’s in Statistics

#6 Marketing Master’s Program: California State Polytechnic University-Pomona

Master of Business Administration

Cal Poly returns to our list once again, but this time it’s the Pomona campus that has the MBA we want to show you. This is one of the best MS marketing programs you will find in California and the nation.

Curriculum for the Master’s Degrees in Marketing

This is a generalized MBA program, like many of the other MBA programs we’ve highlighted. However, it offers the opportunity for you to specialize in marketing science and management through your class selections.

Marketing students like you might be able to take core courses in topics like:

• Marketing research
• Marketing analytics
• Consumer behavior
• Brand management
• New business development
• Product development
• International marketing research
• Marketing strategies
• Public relations
• Social media marketing
• Business applications and brand strategy
• Financial accounting

All students of this MBA program start with a broad core curriculum that focuses on the major aspects of business and leadership. Marketing programs like this provide you with the foundational knowledge you need to succeed in almost any business environment. These marketing classes take up the first year of your studies or more. Most of the concentrated or specialized coursework occurs in the second year of your studies.

You can enjoy some flexibility in how you take your marketing classes. This includes traditional evening classes, weekend intensive classes for those who have less free time, and a hybrid course load that combines the two types. It’s a more flexible program than you might anticipate. The weekend intensive scheduling is good for working professionals that can’t afford to take time off work while they finish their education.

Applicants will also want to pay attention to the financial aid page of this public university. There are valuable scholarships and other financial aid opportunities available for almost every graduate student at this school. There are a few specific offers for students of the business college.

You should also check out the 40,000-plus alumni network, too. Because of the excellent graduation rate at the business school, you’ll have lots of opportunities to connect with your peers or faculty or get your foot in the door for employment after graduation. You can connect with those who experienced the same MBA program that you will.

The classes offered by this program are rigorous and detailed. They’re also supplemented by real-world projects and case studies to apply your learned knowledge. This program does a great job of preparing you for real-world business scenarios. When you get hired by a company, you won’t be confused as you try to apply your learning to actual issues. For those in marketing, this can be almost as valuable as the tailored curriculum itself.

More Information About California State Polytechnic University-Pomona

The Pomona campus is the second of the two Polytechnic universities within the CSU system. It opened in 1938. These days, it offers a multitude of degrees and programs across multiple subjects and industries.

The Cal Poly Pomona campus is situated very close to downtown Los Angeles. This enables all of its students to take advantage of the sunny Southern California lifestyle. There are countless metropolitan attractions in southern California, along with plenty of leisure opportunities available. Cal Poly Pomona also has a big main campus measuring 1,725 acres.

#7 Marketing Master’s Program: Colorado State University-Fort Collins

Online MBA, Marketing Data Analytics

Colorado State University Fort Collins provides a unique MBA pathway that is among the best marketing master degrees for students. CSU is ranked as one of the top schools for higher education by U.S. News.

Curriculum for the Master’s Degrees in Marketing

This online MBA program has a marketing concentration in marketing data analytics. It features a curriculum that combines standard business administration and managerial classes. It also has in-depth marketing data analytics classes. As a graduate of this program, you should be able to lead marketing teams.

The marketing classes at CSU are unlike many others you will find at most other universities. You’ll take classes that teach you how to use some of the best digital data collection tools in the business industry. You’ll also gain the skills to filter that data through a business focus lens. Some of these classes are quite similar to the skill sets you would learn within statistics programs. If you have some experience in this area, you will find yourself right at home.

The curriculum has advanced marketing classes in business education and related fields you’d expect in higher education, such as:

• data mining and analytics
• database concepts in the business world
• making strong business decisions
• consumer insight
• information management
• marketing research
• marketing analytics
• consumer behavior
• global marketing
• business analytics
• public relations
• product management
• pricing strategies
• integrated marketing communications

The MBA side of things provides a host of classes on marketing science and management and research methods. You’ll also learn about leadership in teams and even marketing strategy and planning. It’s a comprehensive class list for any position that is even somewhat related to marketing managing as a profession.

All of the required classes are offered online. There are 42 credits of study in total. Each class is taught by a world-renowned faculty that has business experience already. This program is also quite flexible in terms of scheduling. Students who pursue it at maximum pace can expect to complete everything within 21 months, though you can take up to five years to complete all of the program requirements before you need to reapply. Every semester at the school is divided into twin eight-week sessions. This provides an accelerated format for every class regardless of your overall schedule system.

More Information About CSU

CSU is worth visiting for its campus alone. That’s true even if you plan to take advantage of the online program. It’s located close to the southern tip of the Rocky Mountains. It has a 583-acre campus with astounding views throughout most months of the year.

An expansive green oval dominates the campus. It’s lined with beautiful trees and several recreational centers for student use. The university is a mere two hours away from many major ski resorts. It’s 45 minutes away from Rocky Mountain National Park, too. If you’re an active student or if you like to exercise outdoors, you will find this campus’ location suitable for your lifestyle.

#8 Marketing Master’s Program: Texas Tech University

Master of Science in Marketing Research and Analytics

Texas Tech University is one of the few schools that offers a specialized M.S. in marketing research and analytics. This is a top masters marketing management degree, and it’s offered by one of the country’s best business schools.

Curriculum for the Master’s Degrees in Marketing

This master’s degree in marketing is a 30-hour program. The curriculum encompasses qualitative and quantitative marketing data gathering and analytical skills. The program teaches you to collect data and filter it through a marketing and business-oriented lens. With a leading graduation rate, this program combines many basic concepts from statistics classes with excellent marketing classes. These foundational courses can refine that knowledge into useful business practices and solutions.

Core courses in this marketing degree program include studies in:

• International marketing
• Market research
• Digital marketing
• Consumer behavior
• Marketing analytics
• Statistical analysis
• Consumer intelligence
• Marketing analytics
• Strategic marketing
• Marketing decision making

Several of the classes deal with cutting-edge statistical techniques and how to best apply their results to your current business problem. Other classes are broader. They detail marketing concepts and strategies both in a historical and modern context. Your classes will focus on marketing forecasting and analytics. One course teaches you how to interpret current marketing trends and predict how marketing might change in the future. 

This is a great marketing program if you are in need of a flexible scheduling system – it’s 100% online. You can enroll in the program during any semester of the year. You can start and stop the program as well, provided that you take at least one class for the entirety of your studies. This enables you to take certain semesters where you load up on coursework and other semesters where you reduce your workload with just a single class. It all depends on your home or work life.

You’ll be able to earn the degree in as little as two years, even if you only follow a part-time schedule. Of course, if you devote more time and energy to the program, you can complete the graduation requirements in as little as a year.

All students who apply are considered for a competitive scholarship. This knocks off a significant part of your tuition. Anyone admitted to this marketing program may find that it’s much cheaper than planned for because of this fantastic financial aid opportunity. If you’re a Texas resident, you will find even more scholarship opportunities.

Admission to this business program is on par with many of the other marketing programs on our list so far. Texas Tech requires a detailed and extensive professional resume and three letters of recommendation. This is also one of the few schools that don’t require GRE scores. 

More Information About Texas Tech

Texas Tech boasts other major qualities to prove its worth. It’s a newer school, founded in 1923. However, it features one of the largest student bodies in the entire state. There are hundreds of courses of study, so you can pursue the education that’s right for your career goals.

Texas Tech has a beautiful Spanish Renaissance-themed campus. Many of the buildings are powered by wind energy. A public art collection here is ranked among the best in the United States. This reflects the university’s rich culture and storied history.

#9 Marketing Master’s Program: California State University-Chico

Master of Business Administration

The CSU system has many phenomenal schools. However, California State University at Chico’s marketing program is worthwhile to any aspiring marketing manager. CSU Chico offers an MBA that allows you to specialize your degree. Depending on your preference, you can pursue concentrations in marketing management or another related business field.

Curriculum for the Master’s Degrees in Marketing

This program features a common core list of classes to tackle the major foundational business administration aspects of the degree. However, it also incorporates a mathematics class that goes over business and economics statistics. You’ll study topics like marketing research, consumer behavior, and marketing analytics. Other classes focus on managing and marketing to provide a comprehensive, interdisciplinary education.

This master’s degree is available to students of any undergraduate degree major. You don’t have to have a background in business to be admitted to this marketing program. The program has one of the most comprehensive prerequisite equivalency systems you can find in universities these days. You’ll meet with an advisor upon being accepted into the marketing program. They will go over the prerequisites you do or do not have. Some prerequisites are needed to achieve the core competencies of the marketing program from the beginning.

You’ll take classes that cover subjects like:

• financial accounting
• international marketing research
• marketing strategies
• brand management
• product development
• public relations
• international marketing
• social media
• marketing models
• financial reporting
• consumer intelligence
• customer value
• statistical analysis
• sports marketing

CSU Chico’s system enables many classes that are at least somewhat related to the prerequisites to count for the appropriate amount of credits. You’ll also be able to take quick catch-up mini-courses. In some cases, you can skip the prerequisites based on your work experience and your existing degree. It’s  a flexible system. It is one of the most accessible for students of disciplines other than business or marketing.

The curriculum of this marketing degree program consists of 30 to 33 units depending on the classes selected. You must complete the degree within five years of your enrollment in the marketing program. Most students will take two years or less to complete the degree. This is because of the flexible scheduling systems available. Most students are able to take summer classes if they want to accelerate their graduation timeline.

Unlike many MBAs, all students must complete a master’s project or thesis in order to graduate. The project is better for those who want to prove their practical mastery of their skills. The thesis is a great choice if you are more interested in the academic side of business. An additional independent study class is available for those who have to work while they complete their education. Your existing work experience may even count for course credit toward this requirement.

More Information About CSU Chico

CSU Chico is the second oldest of the 23 campuses in the CSU system. It has an average enrollment of over 17,000 students. It opened in 1887 and has been top-ranked by publications like The Princeton Review and U.S. News and World Report. It has a beautiful 119-acre main campus. The campus also includes 2,330 acres of ecological res erve. It’s a perfect school for environment-minded business students. 

#10 Marketing Master’s Program: University of Houston

Master of Science in Marketing Degree

Rounding out the top ten of our picks for the best marketing programs is the University of Houston. UH offers a Master of Science in marketing program via its business school. It is suitable for both part-time and full-time students alike. This program requires 30 credit hours to graduate. Those 30 credit hours can be completed in 12 months if you commit to the marketing program full-time. Or they can be completed in 24 months if a part-time schedule suits your lifestyle better.

This school might be last on our list of the top master of marketing management degrees. However, it’s one of the best according to publications like Princeton Review and U.S. News & World Report.

Curriculum for the Master’s Degrees in Marketing

You’ll enjoy the full time program’s cutting-edge curriculum. It incorporates classes in:

• digital marketing
• customer relationship management
• social media marketing
• marketing analysis
• consumer behavior
• social media marketing
• public relations

The curriculum also provides many niche electives. These let you specialize the degree even further or pursue topics that are of personal interest. Some of the electives you can take might include:

• Product Management
• Digital Analytics
• Financial Accounting
• International Marketing Research
• Marketing Strategies
• Brand Management
• Product Development
• Entrepreneurship and Technology
• Marketing Communications
• Global Marketing
• Marketing Analytics
• Business Analytics
• Strategic Marketing
• Identifying Target Audiences

These classes give you the skills you need to lead teams in companies and organizations. You will also complete a professional project. This experience serves not only as proof of your understanding of the material but also be a great example of your skills for future employers.

Many of the classes are also offered between 6 and 9 PM on one evening a week. This is great if you’re a working professional that needs to balance your work schedule with your schooling.

UH is connected to the Houston business community. Students admitted to this full time marketing program have many opportunities to network and complete real-life projects with Houston industry leaders. Internships are available and plentiful. This school also has a high-ranking faculty that is world-renowned for its research and awards.

Two application deadlines give you multiple opportunities for application and admission. This removes some stress as you put your portfolio together. Students that don’t have their tuition covered by FAFSA-related offerings can take advantage of specific scholarships provided by UH. These scholarships are quite diverse and expansive. They may do a lot to drive down the overall cost of tuition for this marketing degree program. 

More Information About the University of Houston

The University of Houston opened in 1927. It is one of the largest universities in Texas. It is the site of extensive research activity, but it also features a selection of high-quality varsity athletic teams. The football team often makes appearances at the college bowl games. UH’s men’s golf team has won more than a dozen national championships. This makes them one of the most successful NCAA golf teams in history. Both sports and academics are held in high regard here.

Other Notable Options for the Best Marketing Graduate Program

After completing your undergraduate degree, you might consider the following regionally accredited programs as well. You’ll find that you can gain skills in various areas, from public relations to email marketing to content creation. Additionally, these programs might help you specialize in areas such as:

• Sports Marketing
• Marketing Analytics
• New Media Approaches
• Digital Marketing Specialization
• Generating Advertising Campaigns

These graduate degree options include accelerated programs, online programs, and offerings from public and private institutions. Regardless of the format or type of program, you’ll learn how to write press releases, identify target audiences, and other marketing principles that prepare students like you for a long and productive career as a marketing professional.

#11 Marketing Master’s Degree: McDaniel College

Location: Westminster, Maryland

Degree: M.S. Data Analytics (Online master program; hybrid option available)

In/Out-of-State Tuition: $689 per credit

McDaniel College Graduate Degree in Marketing Program Website

#12 Marketing Master’s Degree: University of Texas at Dallas 

Location: Dallas, Texas

Degree: MS in Marketing (Online master program; in-person option available)

In/Out-of-State Tuition: $1,866/$2,777 per credit

University of Texas at Dallas Master’s in Marketing Website

#13 Marketing Master’s Degree: Vanderbilt University

Location: Nashville, Tennessee

Degree: Master of Marketing (In person)

In/Out-of-State Tuition: $2,215 per credit

Vanderbilt University Online Master of Marketing Website

#14 Marketing Master’s Degree: The College of New Jersey

Location: Ewing Township, New Jersey

Degree: MBA (Online program/hybrid)

In/Out-of-State Tuition: $1,042.58 per credit

The College of New Jersey Graduate Degree Website

#15 Marketing Master’s Degree: East Carolina University

Location: Greenville, North Carolina

Degree: MBA (In person at the main campus; distance learning option available)

In/Out-of-State Tuition: $263.83/$994.33 per credit

East Carolina Graduate Degree Website

#16 Marketing Master’s Degree: California State University-East Bay

Location: Hayward, California

Degree: MBA (In person; more than one marketing concentration is available)

In/Out-of-State Tuition: $28,000/$45,000 (for the entire program)

Explore the Marketing Master’s Degrees from Cal State East Bay

#17 Marketing Master’s Degree: California Lutheran University

Location: Thousand Oaks, California

Degree: MBA, Marketing Concentration (In person)

In/Out-of-State Tuition: $905 per credit

California Lutheran University Graduate Degree Website

#18 Marketing Master’s Degree: University of Florida

Location: Gainesville, Florida

Degree: Master of Business Administration in Marketing (In person; online programs are available)

In/Out-of-State Tuition: $15,921/$37,663 per year

University of Florida Master’s in Marketing Website

#19 Marketing Master’s Degree: California State University-Northridge

Location: Los Angeles, California

Degree: MBA (In person, part time, evening)

In/Out-of-State Tuition: $8327/17831

Cal State Northridge Graduate Degree Website

#20 Marketing Master’s Degree: University of California-Riverside

Location: Riverside, California

Degree: MBA (In person)

In/Out-of-State Tuition: $17,684.24/$21,766.24 per quarter

Cal State Riverside Graduate Degree Website

IF YOU ENJOYED THIS LIST OF THE BEST MARKETING DEGREE PROGRAM OPTIONS, THEN CHECK OUT OUR ARTICLES ON THE 50 BEST ONLINE MASTERS PROGRAMS & THE 40 FASTEST ONLINE MASTERS PROGRAMS!

In today’s digital age, cybersecurity is a crucial part of our lives. It is a field that is evolving.

There is no better time than now to contribute to this area.

Are you passionate about cybersecurity and want to take it to the next level? A graduate degree in information assurance may be your next step. 

But what is a Master of Science in Information Assurance?

Information Assurance is the practice of protecting information from unauthorized access. 

Graduates with a degree in information assurance will learn key skills. They’ll learn how to:

• secure computer networks against malicious attacks
• guard data systems and infrastructures
• protect against hackers, viruses, and other cyber threats

These skills are valuable in the job market. Cybersecurity is more important now than ever.

How do you apply to a graduate program in Information Assurance?

The first step is researching schools that offer the degree. Do an online search! Looking for a program that gives the key foundations of information assurance? You’re in the right place!

Private, public, and technical colleges alike offer security solutions degrees. Candidates should look for a college degree with:

• a strong reputation in the field
• a dedicated cybersecurity department
• solid measures for performance measurement
• knowledgeable faculty members
• access to student organizations
• state, local, and federal financial aid opportunities
• ability to save money with affordable tuition rates
• internships to prepare students for real life work 
• information assurance specialization options
• a start date that matches your schedule
• the ability to transfer credits if that matters to you
• accreditation with an organization like the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges or the Higher Learning Commission

Visit their websites to learn about the admission requirements, tuition fees, and deadlines. Admission requirements vary by the program. Some schools may look for a bachelor’s degree in:

• information technology
• computer and information science

Others allow students from all backgrounds to apply. It doesn’t matter what your higher education background or bachelor’s is. There are new programs out there for all information assurance professionals. Most online programs take two to four years to complete.

What are the best degree in information assurance? There are many schools with strong security and online cybersecurity programs.

Look for online programs with curriculum that matches your career goals. Classes tackle fundamental concepts like:

• cyber law
• digital forensics
• secure software development
• artificial intelligence
• how to access management systems
• database management
• automated technology
• working with open source software
• information system security and data integrity
• preventative measures for computer networks
• managing sensitive data
• system vulnerabilities
• protecting data security 
• managing external threats
• risk assessments
• data analytics
• managing security breaches
• penetration testing 
• security measures for remote work
• intrusion detection
• solving complex problems in network systems
• preventing and handling malicious activities

Other schools with top online information assurance degree programs include:

• Baker College 
• Utica University
• Arizona State University
• Penn State World Campus 

Each of these programs for information security professionals has a unique curriculum. They have specialized cybersecurity tracks. This helps students tailor their degrees to their interests and career goals.

What can you do when you study information assurance? You’ll gain the knowledge and skills required for all kinds of jobs. From communication skills to critical thinking, these programs cover it all. The hands on experience qualifies you for work beyond entry level positions.

You might work for the federal government in legal compliance. There are countless other government agencies you can work for, too. You could even work as a teacher to educate high school students on cybersecurity.

Some of the most common career paths and job titles include:

• IT business managers
• information assurance specialists
• database administrators
• computer systems administrators
• information security analysts

Information assurance professionals are in demand everywhere.

Cybersecurity is an essential part of our lives. Graduate programs in Information Assurance offers you the chance to become a vital part of keeping data secure.

Acquiring your graduate degree in Information Assurance requires research. You’ll need good planning, and careful application. But above all, you’ll need passion. 

Follow our guide and research the top schools. You can make an informed decision to pursue your degree. You’ll take your cybersecurity career to the next level.

WHAT ARE THE BEST DEGREES IN INFORMATION ASSURANCE?

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 have a unique ranking system.

It’s 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% Degree Affordability: Average cost of undergraduate and graduate tuition per school

At Master’s Program’s 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. 

Check out our ranking of the Best Master’s Programs in Information Assurance! 

10 Best Information Assurance Degrees

#1. Iowa State University

Master of Science in Information Assurance

Iowa State University offered information assurance courses starting in 1995. The university houses one of the nation’s largest degree programs. It is in the Debbie and Jerry Ivy College of Business.

Students can earn their MS in information assurance through online learning.  This online MS information assurance program also exists in a traditional campus format. The multidisciplinary program spans six Iowa State departments.

For the degree in information assurance, these include:

• computer and information science
• industrial and manufacturing systems engineering
• mathematics
• political science

Applicants should hold an undergraduate degree in a relevant field. It doesn’t have to be a bachelor’s degree in information assurance. That might be:

• computer science
• engineering
• management information systems
• mathematics
• political science

Submit test scores from the GRE or the GMAT. Each information assurance degree program has different cut-offs for these. 

The Master of Engineering program is open to off-campus students. It’s for those who plan to complete their studies online. It is for individuals with a bachelor’s degree in information assurance. It’s also for undergraduate degrees in computing or related fields.

If you don’t have a bachelor’s degree in information assurance, don’t panic. Applicants who do not hold a relevant undergraduate degree may enroll. They must have at least three years of work experience in information technology. 

The 30-credit information assurance curriculum explores a wide scope of subjects. Course examples include:

• Cryptography
• Information Warfare
• Steganography and Digital Image Forensics

Students can earn credit for summer internships in information assurance.

The program’s capstone course involves:

• designing
• creating
• implementing
• security policy plan

Graduate information assurance students can expect to engage in interactive, team-based projects. These tackle real-world issues in cybersecurity implementation and processes.

Students  conduct experiments at the university’s network security research laboratories. Iowa State’s information assurance faculty have research interests. They have expertise in many areas. These include:

• privacy
• risk management
• secure e-commerce
• wireless security

Financial aid information can be found here.

#2.  Georgia Institute of Technology

Master of Science in Cybersecurity – Information Security track

The Georgia Institute of Technology’s College of Computing is outstanding. It has a Master of Science in cybersecurity. It has an information security track option. The degree program exists in a traditional format at the school’s campus in Atlanta, GA. It is also online.

Applicants must submit materials including:

• three recommendation letters
• satisfactory GRE scores
• transcripts with a cumulative GPA of 3.5 or higher

Applicants must hold an undergraduate degree in computer and information science. It can also be in a related field. 

The on-campus curriculum has of 32 credits of study. It includes a six-course fixed core. This covers contemporary information security theory and practice.

The core curriculum includes:

• Information Security Policies and Strategies
• Introduction to Information Security
• specialized electives in their chosen concentration:
  • cyber-physical (smart energy)
  • policy
  • technology

The cyber-physical specialization includes course options in:

• Dependable Distributed Systems
• Power System Protection
• Sensor Networks

Policy course options include:

• Internet and Information and Communications Technology Policy
• Public Policy
• Scenario Writing and Path Gaming

Technology course offerings include:

• Internetworking Architectures and Protocols
• Programming Language Design
• Reliability and Security in Computer Architecture

Each student also completes one free elective from any specialization. They’ll complete a five-credit cybersecurity practicum project course. The five-hour practicum allows online and on-campus students to gain hands-on work experience. This is in academic, commercial, government, or industrial settings.

The online MS program features a 10-course, 32-credit curriculum. It includes the same core courses as the on-campus program. This includes the practicum experience. It also includes 12 credits of required online courses.

These include:

• Applied Cryptography
• Information Security Lab
• Secure Computer Systems

Online students also choose two electives. These are from options such as:

• Malware Analysis and Defense
• Security Operations and Incident Response

These degrees take two to three years to complete. Find financial aid information here.

#3.  National University

Master of Science in Cybersecurity and Information Assurance

National University offers a Master of Science in cybersecurity and information assurance. These information assurance degrees are in its College of Professional Studies. The degree program is online. It is also on campus in La Jolla, CA. 

Applicants must hold an undergraduate degree. This must be from an accredited college or university. They should have a grade point average of 2.5 or higher. 

Options include the Graduate Record Exam or the Miller Analogies Test. Other application materials include education transcripts and an admissions application. 

NU follows an intensive format. It involves completing one course per month. This format allows students to focus on one subject at a time. They can earn their degrees faster this way.

The professional program builds managerial and technical skills. These are for computing and information systems security. Students can examine digital threats and computer infrastructure vulnerabilities. They develop plans to mitigate and prevent these issues.

Students also examine the effects of legislation and technical advancement. They look at how it relates to cybersecurity and information assurance. The curriculum covers:

• infrastructure
• the legal and ethical aspects of cybersecurity
• risk assessment

The core curriculum consists of nine courses. These include:

• Cyber Security Ethical Issues
• Net Defense and Cloud Security
• Wireless and Mobile Security

The core curriculum also includes three stages of cybersecurity project work. Students have the choice to specialize in pen testing or hacking. They can also choose information assurance and security policy. 

The hacking and pen testing specialization explores penetration tests. These assess security measures in information systems and networks. 

Hacking and pen testing students complete specialized coursework. They might produce a pen test authorization and a rules of engagement document. They might synthesize process specifications for infrastructure defense measures. The specialization includes required courses in:

• Ethical Hacking
• Information Systems Vulnerability and Attacks
• Red Teaming
• Red vs. Blue Team Exercise

The specialization in information assurance and security policy is exceptional. It focuses on the informational and organizational aspects of cybersecurity. The specialization covers codified standards, policies, and practices in information security. It includes specialized coursework such as:

• preparing an information technology risk mitigation and security plan
• an enterprise disaster recovery and continuity plan

The specialization includes required courses in:

• Certification and Accreditation
• Disaster Recovery and Business Continuity
• Ethical Hacking
• Information Assurance

Financial aid information can be found here.

#4.  Nova Southeastern University

Master of Science in Information Assurance and Cybersecurity

Nova Southeastern University is a pioneer in computing education and research. It has offered graduate computer science programs since 1975. It has offered distance learning programs since 1983. It’s one of the best places to earn a MSIA degree.

The College of Computing and Engineering is well-regarded. It has a Master of Science in information assurance and cybersecurity degree. It focuses on security engineering. This includes secure infrastructures and network traffic security analysis. 

The MS in information assurance and cybersecurity program welcomes individuals of all backgrounds. It prefers those with undergraduate majors in:

• computer and information science
• engineering
• information systems
• information technology
• mathematics
• physics

Applicants must have an understanding of data algorithms and structures. They should also understand structured programming languages. Applicants lacking in this background must complete prerequisite courses. These might be in:

• Foundations of Programming
• Data Structures
• Algorithms.

The 30-credit curriculum builds skills in:

• professional communication of cybersecurity management concepts
• developing effective organizational policies in cybersecurity
• mitigating cyber risks through security control measures
• performing risk management analysis compliant with cybersecurity standards

Students must take 10 core courses. This includes an Information Security Management project course. Other core course examples include:

• Ethics in Computing
• Human-Computer Interaction
• Information Security Governance
• Telecommunications and Computer Networking

Nova Southeastern is a leader in cybersecurity education and research. The university is a National Center of Academic Excellence in Cyber Defense education. It is a National Center of Academic Excellence in Information Assurance education. 

Find financial aid information here.

#5.  Robert Morris University

Master of Science in Cyber Security and Information Assurance

Robert Morris University offers a Master of Science in cybersecurity and information assurance. This is through its School of Informatics, Humanities and Social Sciences. The Masters of Science Information Assurance is online. It also exists on the university’s campus in Moon Township, PA. It prepares students to recognize and mitigate threats. It addresses vulnerabilities in computer information systems. It teaches them to develop compliant, reliable, and secure systems. 

The 30-credit cybersecurity and information assurance curriculum is broad. It covers effective administration and management. It explores modern technologies in the information security realm. It builds skills such as:

• identifying threats, tools, and techniques
• understanding security policies, countermeasures, and risk management

Students can concentrate in general cybersecurity and information assurance or enterprise systems. They can also take an internship-oriented route. Each option includes courses such as:

• Information Technology Governance
• Information Technology Security & Assurance
• Secure Programming
• Microcomputing Technology
• Network Technology & Management

The internship route includes 21 credits of core courses. There are 15 elective credits. These include two courses from the computer and information systems discipline. There are nine credits of internship work.

The general concentration includes 27 core credits. There are three elective credits. 

The enterprise systems concentration teaches students key concepts. They learn to develop and maintain secure enterprise information systems. These are for major organizations. It includes 21 required credits and nine specialized credits.

The specialized component consists of three courses:

• Cobol Programming
• Advanced Cobol Programming
• Enterprise Transaction Process Systems

It culminates in the program outcome assessment. 

MU is a National Center of Academic Excellence in Cyber Defense Education. The university houses the Center for Cybersecurity Education. This offers the Department of Defense Cyber Scholarship Program. It grants students access to a variety of cybersecurity resources.

These include certifications like the MSIA certification. It also has competitions, conferences, journals, and more. 

Robert Morris offers many graduate certificate options. These are relevant to the cybersecurity and information assurance field. Students may pursue business-oriented certificates. These are in areas such as:

• Ethics and Legal Studies
• Group Dynamics and Conflict Resolution
• Leadership and Organizational Change
• Nonprofit Leadership

Students may also pursue a specialized graduate certificate. This is in Enterprise Systems. It has 15 credits of study. These are in topics like:

• Cobol Programming
• Enterprise Operating Systems
• Enterprise Transaction Processing Systems

Students can earn the certificate online in one year of study.

#6.  Davenport University

Master of Science in Information Assurance and Cyber Security

Davenport University has a Master of Science in information assurance and cybersecurity. This is through its College of Technology. The degree exists on the university’s campuses in Detroit or Grand Rapids, MI. It’s also online in the Global Campus. Courses exist in a blended format of online and on-campus learning.

Davenport’s information assurance and cybersecurity program is well-known. It is the ideal choice for prospective students without a technological background. The program welcomes applicants of all professional backgrounds. Applicants do not need to have undergraduate degrees in a relevant technological field. 

The 34-credit curriculum covers areas such as:

• application and network security
• forensics
• project management and risk mitigation.

The degree program builds students’ understanding of data protection. It covers ethical and legal issues. It builds skills in analysis and risk mitigation in cybersecurity. It also emphasizes hands-on case studies. There are opportunities for experiential learning in high-tech university laboratories.

The curriculum includes:

• 27 credits of required core courses
• two upper-level three-credit elective courses
• a four-credit capstone.

Students may specialize in information assurance or health care information assurance.

The core MSIA curriculum consists of nine courses. These include:

• Applied Cryptography
• Information Security Planning
• Research Techniques for Information Assurance
• Elective course offerings include:
• Comprehensive Issues
• Healthcare Security
• Wireless and Mobile Security

Students can complete an internship experience related to information assurance.

Davenport is a National Center of Academic Excellence in Information Assurance Education. It’s also recognized for its Cyber Defense Education. This is by the National Security Agency and the U.S. Department of Homeland Security. 

#7.  Florida Institute of Technology

Master of Science in Information Assurance and Cybersecurity

The Florida Institute of Technology has an ideal location. It’s on the Florida Space Coast’s high-tech corridor. It’s among respected organizations such as Harris Corp., Leonardo DRS, and NASA.

The school offers a Master of Science in information assurance and cybersecurity. Students may complete the program online through interactive learning. They can also complete it on the school’s campus in Melbourne, FL. It’s a great master’s in information assurance for working professionals.

The interdisciplinary degree program  prepares students to deal with cybersecurity risks. These include in corporate, government, and military settings. Students can expect to learn about threats such as:

• identity theft
• intellectual property theft
• infrastructure security threats

The curriculum also explores topics including:

• attack models
• biometric technology
• communications encryption
• data mining
• forensics
• security architectures and mechanisms

The program features a student-to-teacher ratio of 15:1. This promotes close connection and mentorship. Many faculty members have relevant experience. This is in academia, industry, and research.

The degree requires 33 credits of study. This includes 18 credits of core courses. There are 15 credits of electives in:

• information assurance and cybersecurity
• computer and information science
• software engineering

Core courses include:

• Biometric Authentication Technologies
• Cryptography and Information Hiding
• Host and Application Security

Students may choose to substitute a master’s thesis. This is for six elective credits. Those who do not complete a thesis must complete a three-credit capstone project.

Graduates may pursue many careers. These include:

• computer network defense engineers
• cybercrime technology directors
• network defense engineers
• threat intelligence analysts

#8.  Regis University

Master of Science in Information and Cyber Security

Regis’ College of Computer & Information Sciences is one of the best. It has a Master of Science in information and cybersecurity. Students may complete the masters in information assurance online. They can also work at the university’s campus in Denver, CO. There’s even a blend of traditional and online learning.

Courses occur in eight week-terms. Campus-based classes follow a cohort model. Groups of students entering the program each August. They progress through sequential coursework at the same pace. Campus classes are on the university’s Denver Tech Center campus.

Regis’ MS in Information and Cyber Security has 36 credits of graduate study. This includes 15 core required credit hours. There are 18 specialization credit hours. The core curriculum consists of five courses:

• Enterprise Architecture
• Information Technology Concepts
• Information Technology Research Methods
• Managing a Secure Enterprise

Students can specialize in cybersecurity or information assurance policy management.

The cybersecurity specialization includes three courses:

• Advancing to Cyber Security
• Computer Forensics
• Offensive Cyber Security

Students in the cybersecurity specialization choose three elective courses. These are from options such as:

• Legal Basics in Cyber and Information Security
• Malware Analysis and Response
• Network Forensics

The information assurance policy management specialization includes courses like:

• Enterprise Information Assurance
• Legal Basics in Cyber and Information Security
• Planning and Implementing Architecture Security

#9.  Dakota State University

Master of Science in Information Assurance and Computer Security

Dakota State University has a great degree in information assurance. It’s a Master of Science in information assurance and computer security. This information assurance masters degree emphasizes hands-on, applied learning. It prepares individuals to lead in the implementation of:

• new technologies
• security strategies
• cyber-attack protections in the public and private sectors

The DSU MS in information assurance and cybersecurity has 30 credit hours of study. That’s beyond the bachelor’s degree in information assurance. The curriculum has 10 core courses. 

These include:

• Computer Forensics
• Cryptography
• Data Privacy
• Ethics and Information Technology
• Incident Response
• Offensive Security

Some courses may have students complete lab-based assignments. These use specialized hardware or software. Each candidate must complete a comprehensive exam in their final semester of study.

You may also choose to follow a banking and financial security specialization. This emphasizes policymaking. MSIA candidates can complete an industry internship experience during the summer. Students start with a generalized internship in computing. It is after their second year of study. They may choose to complete a security-specific internship after the third year.

DSU students can earn their MS in information assurance and cybersecurity fast. It takes two years of full-time study. Students can pursue the degree on a part-time basis at their own pace.

Students can earn the degree as part of Dakota State’s 4+1 graduate program. This allows students to earn both an undergraduate degree and the MSIA degree in five years. Graduates of the MSIA program can then pursue industry certifications.

#10.  Sam Houston State University

Master of Science in Information Assurance and Security

U.S. News & World Report  ranks Sam Houston State University well. It is one of the Best Online Master’s in Computer Information Technology Programs. 

The university has a Master of Science in information assurance and security. 

The MSIA program is through the Department of Computer and Information Science. It’s within its College of Science and Engineering Technology. The department has a variety of institutional computing facilities and resources. These are in programming languages and network protocols. It also operates laboratory facilities that conduct research in:

• data recovery
• network robotics
• network security

The MSIA degree program is open to all applicants. It is for those who have completed an undergraduate degree. They should have a background in computer and information science. It can also be in management information systems.

The curriculum has 36 semester credit hours of graduate study. It builds students’ skills in:

• network damage prevention
• risk assessment
• corporate information protection
• disaster recovery planning

It includes six specified course requirements:

• Business Continuity Management
• Database Security
• Directed Management & Development Project
• Network and Cyber Security
• Operating System Security
• Principles and Policy in Information Assurance

Each student has their own graduate committee. 

Graduates of the program can pursue any information assurance careers. That includes commercial, governmental, and industrial settings. 

OTHER NOTABLE PROGRAMS

#11. Towson University

Location: Towson, MD

Degree: Master of Science in Applied Information Technology

Net Price: $26,820

Website            

#12. Norwich University

Location: Northfield, VT

Degree: Master of Science in Cybersecurity

Net Price: $45,340

Website  

#13. University of Maryland Global Campus

Location: Adelphi, MD

Degree: Master of Science in Information Technology, specialization in Information Assurance

Net Price: $12,336

Website     

#14. Northwestern University

Location: Evanston, IL

Degree: Master of Science in Information Systems

Net Price: $57,762

Website      

#15. Brandeis University

Location: Waltham, MA

Degree: Master of Science in Information Security Leadership

Net Price: $64,348

Website      

#16. University of Denver – University College

Location: Denver, CO

Degree: Master of Science in Information and Communications Technology. Concentration in Information Systems Security

Net Price: $51,090

Website       

#17. American Intercontinental University

Location: Chandler, AZ

Degree: Master of Science in Cybersecurity

Net Price: $19,020

Website      

#18. Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University

Location: Daytona Beach, FL

Degree: Master of Science in Information Security & Assurance

Net Price: $20,340

Website     

#19. Pennsylvania State University World Campus

Location: University Park, PA

Degree: Master of Professional Studies in Information Sciences – Cybersecurity and Information Assurance

Net Price: $13,988

Website       

#20. Wilmington University

Location: New Castle, DE

Degree: Master of Science in Information Systems Technology

Net Price: $21,360

Website       

DID YOU ENJOY THAT? CHECK OUT OUR ARTICLES:

• 10 BEST ONLINE MASTER’S IN COMPUTER SCIENCE DEGREE PROGRAMS
• 50 BEST ONLINE MASTER OF CYBERSECURITY DEGREE PROGRAMS!

COMMON APPLICATION AND ADMISSION QUESTIONS

Teaching demands a higher level of commitment than many other professions. Those teachers who are ready to take their careers to the next level through a graduate degree program–like from our list of the best Master’s programs in Secondary Education–must be ready to devote themselves fully to the rigors of study and assessed teaching practice. 

As you know, every higher education institution has different admission standards, and so does each individual department and program. Because they are so challenging, graduate programs usually have a very high bar for admittance and competition can be stiff. That’s why it pays to spend ample time on your application. You must not only make sure everything sufficiently meets minimum program entry criteria, but also submit a package that makes the department stand up and take notice! 

Many students like to draft up three columns to write their options in—their dream schools, good chance schools, and safety schools. A safety school is one you’re almost certain to be accepted, whereas a good chance school is one you might prefer but has tougher standards. Those dream schools are the ones you’d love to attend but may be long shots. 

We encourage you to apply for all the programs you’re both interested and qualified for! Our list of Best Master’s Programs in Secondary Education consists of schools which are highly ranked and recognized as leaders in the education field. Some have more stringent requirements than others, and it’s imperative to review all prerequisites and other requirements very carefully. Pay special attention to any listed minimum GPA or test scores. 

There are other critical factors to watch out for, too. If the program asks for a letter of recommendation or resume, read their notes telling you what type of information they want to see on these documents, because they are not always the same. If you’re applying to different programs, odds are you may need to customize your letters and resume for each one. If that’s the case, it can be helpful to let your letter writers know about this in advance. In some cases, it can also be useful to draft sample letters for them, which they can then edit and add to as they wish. 

Perhaps the one document which needs the most custom tailoring is your statement of purpose. A resume or letter of recommendation speaks primarily about your past, whereas the statement of purpose is geared towards how you plan to succeed in—and contribute to—each specific program you’re applying to. You’ll want your statement to match up with what they’re looking for. 

It is beneficial to have colleagues look over your application materials. In fact, finances-permitting, it never hurts to hire a professional editor to review your resume and statement of purpose to catch errors and suggest ways to make them even more compelling! 

International prospects should take note of English language proficiency requirements, and keep in mind that certain programs deal with diverse linguistic environments. All applicants should be fully prepared to handle the academic workload of the programs they’re applying for. Sometimes students focus so much on getting accepted that they don’t recognize the full scope of what they’re getting into! Most programs are clear about the time-commitments needed to be successful, but if not, we suggest contacting a department advisor. 

See Also: 10 Best Master’s in Industrial Engineering 

WHAT ABOUT FINANCIAL AID & SCHOLARSHIPS?

Graduate degrees often lead to higher salaries but paying for those degrees is an obstacle for many students. Many teaching programs have such hefty time requirements that students can’t work during the programs. When your income is put on hold, this can obviously make funding even more difficult!

Student loans and need-based grants are offered through Federal Student Aid. They have a handy Financial Aid for Graduate or Professional Students brochure outlining the various programs offered, and their Who Gets Aid page list many of the specific eligibility requirements. 

The most crucial aspect of applying for any funding is to meet deadlines! It can help to create a tracker of some kind, using a notebook or spreadsheet, so you never miss a cutoff date. The Federal Student Aid site also has a handy Graduate School Preparation Checklist which lets you check off your “To Do” items.  

Graduate students may qualify for unsubsidized federal loans of up to $20,500. But before going that route, we recommend seeing what grants are out there before borrowing money, since grants don’t have to be repaid. The Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) site let’s prospective grad students apply for the options they’re eligible for and the schools they’re interested in applying to. After the FAFSA is submitted, a Student Aid Report (SAR) is sent to you showing your Expected Family Contribution, if applicable. Look this over and contact them immediately if you spot an error. 

All information is also sent directly to the prospective schools you listed, and they should assemble financial aid packages on your behalf for any federal aid you qualify for. Do not take this for granted! Call their financial aid offices and speak to them directly, to verify they received your information and to ask questions about any further actions you may need to take. Financial aid officers are beehives of activity, so be patient but persistent and proactive. Always take notes on who you spoke with and what they said. When possible, emails can sometimes be better, since there is a trail of communication and you may have a chance to work with the same individual, versus having to reintroduce yourself and your situation every time. 

It is recommended to ask about school-administered Federal Supplemental Educational Opportunity Grants (FSEOG), as well. Every little bit helps! 

Federal Student Aid Pell Grants are mainly for undergraduate students, but there are Fulbright Grants, TEACH Grants, and Iraq and Afghanistan Service Grants available. 

Most universities have dedicated pages outlining college-based financial aid options. And, specific for teachers, there are numerous scholarship opportunities offered by individual states and organizations, such as: 

• Funds for Teachers
• The Harry Passow Classroom Teacher Scholarship
• The Maley/FTEE Scholarship
• The Mathematics Study & Professionalism Grants for Teachers Grade PreK-6
• Segal AmeriCorps Education Award
• James Madison Memorial Foundation
• Knowles Science Teaching Foundation
• Teacher Professional Development Grants Grades 6-8
• ITEEA/FTEE Scholarships
• The NEA Foundation

Veterans and their eligible dependents can take advantage of their GI Bill to pay for college, and should contact their prospective school’s Veterans Affairs benefits program manager for assistance. If the university is part of the federal Yellow Ribbon Program, there could be zero out-of-pocket expenses for those on the Post 9/11 GI Bill!  

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

Now that we’ve looked at how to pay for going back to college, let’s consider how much it pays to go back to college! Not all degree paths will lead graduates to the exact same careers, naturally, so there is going to be a wide range of income opportunities to students who complete a Master’s in Education. We can gain some insights on average salaries from sources such as Glassdoor, which bases their figures on reported data: 

Per Glassdoor, the average salary reported by K-12 teachers is $40,795 per year, with a high end reported as $49,000. A Virtual Teacher may earn an average of $39,607 a year, up to $47,000. Special Education Teachers report an average income of $39,459 a year, up to $44,000, and Language Teachers reported $61,015, up to $80,000. 

PayScale establishes a salary range of $34,000 to $75,000 for secondary school teachers, based on 1,273 reportings. 

Again, these numbers represent reported salaries and do not breakout teachers holding advanced degrees, but it may be assumed that such teachers will earn within the higher end of the brackets. Salaries will greatly depend on the state and district where graduates work, since geographic location is a huge factor impacting salaries. Other factors include years of experience and the scope of responsibility and specific duties. 

The Department of Labor’s Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) is another great resource for examining salary and other employment-related metrics. Their online Occupational Outlook Handbook listings for High School teachers states that the 2018 Median Pay is $60,320 per year, but this is with a bachelor’s degree. Per BLS, the highest paid 10% made over $97,500. Interestingly, it also notes that local secondary schools earned an average of $61,040, whereas private schools paid an average of $54,150. 

In 2018, there were 1,072,500 High School teachers, and BLS predicts a 4% job growth, which is roughly the same as the average for all other careers. However, they also note that teachers qualified in math, science, English as a second language, and special education will be in higher demand than others. 

The highest number of employees were in the states of California, Texas, New York, Ohio, and Pennsylvania. The highest concentration of employees were in Missouri, Ohio, Maine, Arkansas, and Connecticut. New York and California teachers had the highest salaries, with averages of $85,300 and $80,510, respectively.

In 2018, there were 615,700 Middle School teachers, and they earned a Median Pay of $58,600 per year. The job outlook for this area is 3% growth through 2028. The highest number of employees were in the states of Texas, California, New York, Ohio, and Florida. The highest concentration of employees were in West Virginia, New Jersey, Ohio, Delaware, and Maine. New York Middle School teachers earned the most, at $83,490, followed by Massachusetts at $79,030 a year. 

The BLS Occupational Employment Statistics pages for each category feature specifics on state and metropolitan area profiles, employment numbers, and annual mean wages.

NOTABLE STATISTICS

A University of Pennsylvania study “Teachers Have It Easy: The Big Sacrifices and Small Salaries of America’s Teachers” revealed that 33% of teachers quit their job within three years. The rate goes up to 46% within the first five years. 

According to the Chicago Tribune, surveys showed that the military and teachers contribute the most to society’s well-being.

The pay gap between genders was once essentially bragged about, when the Littleton School Committee in Massachusetts proclaimed it was “poor policy to pay a man” to be a teacher when women were not only better at it but worked at “one third of the price.” Granted, this was back in 1849, but still!

Teachers across the nation continue to pay out of pocket for classroom supplies which are necessary but not funded by their respective schools. As one middle school teacher in New York noted to Business Insider, they paid “at least $500 to $1000 on supplies.” 

NeaToday noted that 94% of teachers used their own money, with an average of $479 spent per year for supplies. 

In terms of demographics, according to the National Center for Education Statistics (NCES), the number of female public school teachers has increased from 75% in 2000 to 77% by 2016, and the number of White teachers dropped from 84% to 80% percent, while the number of Black teachers also dropped from 8% to 7%. Hispanic teachers increased from 6% to 9%. 

During the same period, the number of teachers with a post baccalaureate degree rose from 47% to 57%, showing a significant trend in advanced degree attainment.

Pupil/teacher ratios since 2008 have increased at public schools and were at 16.0 as of 2015. The private school ratio was 11.9 in that year. The average public secondary school class size in 2012 was 26.8 pupils.

There are many misconceptions about teachers, including working hours. When classes let out, this is not the end of the workday! Most teachers come early to prepare, work late, and take assignments home for grading. 

Per NECS, the average teacher in a public school has 14 years of experience and works ~53 hours a week. 

55% of teachers said they were unsatisfied with their salaries. Teachers in unions or education associations were significantly more likely to be satisfied.

During an interview with NPR, Linda Darling-Hammond, the president of the Learning Policy Institute, discussed the institute’s report which noted that half of all schools and 90% of high-poverty schools struggle to find qualified special education teachers. 

Darling-Hammond further noted that, “…1 in 5 teachers in high-minority schools and high-poverty schools is unprepared for teaching.”

Corporal punishment in schools is prohibited in most states, but still legal in 19 of them. 

Now that your mind is filled with notable statistics and trivia related to the world of education, and you’ve reviewed the application tips, notes on funding, and employment stats, it’s time to move on. So get out those notebooks and prepare to dive into our list of the Best Master’s Programs in Secondary Education in the nation! 

OUR RANKING CRITERIA 

We have a time-tested four-part formula designed for ranking the best colleges in the nation that we’d love to share with you. We prioritize four major factors: Earnings Potential, Affordability, Student Satisfaction, and Selectivity. Reliable research and well-harvested data are the main ingredients in our recipe for success. We don’t make recommendations based on personal opinions, or financial incentives. Our revenue and content are completely separate, and sponsored schools have no impact on our rankings. The only way to make it onto one of our lists is to have an incredible academic program! 

WHAT ARE THE BEST MASTER’S PROGRAMS IN SECONDARY EDUCATION?

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 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. For questions, comments, badge downloads, or data corrections, please feel free to reach out to us at editor@collegerank.net.

#1. UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA, IRVINE

MASTER OF ARTS IN TEACHING IN ELEMENTARY AND SECONDARY EDUCATION

A relatively new member of the prestigious Association of American Universities, the University of California, Irvine, offers a dynamic and practical Master of Arts in Teaching in elementary and secondary education (M.A.T.) via their School of Education. With an emphasis on “Learning to Learn from Teaching,” grad students in UCI’s program explore exactly how their teaching methods can affect their own future K-12 students in the classroom. 

The 14-month M.A.T. can be completed with either a Single Subject Credential, for those wishing to teach math, social science, English, science, or art at the middle/high school level; or a Multiple Subject Credential, which preps candidates to teach across the range of elementary subject areas. 

Per the M.A.T. program’s homepage, applicants must complete certain steps before admission, to include: passing the California Basic Educational Skills Test, passing California Subject Matter Tests or a subject-matter preparation program in the content area, and obtaining a valid California-issued Certificate of Clearance or Substitute Teaching Permit. Lastly, applicants must have proof of a recent, negative tuberculosis (TB) test result.

The Program of Study offers options for Single or Multiple Subject Credentials. It doesn’t lay out the exact course load per quarter but does list a breakout of courses held. All classes must be passed with a grade of at least a B. 

An example of the dozens of course offerings throughout the academic year include: 

• Children’s Sense Making in Science
• Outcomes of Schooling/Student Assessment
• Culture, Diversity, and Educational Equity
• Teaching Physical and Health Education in Elementary School

• Curriculum and Methods for Elementary School Reading

• Teaching the Visual and Performing Arts in Elementary School
• Supervised Teaching in Bilingual Education, Elementary

UCI’s General Catalogue features full descriptions of each course. 

After coursework is finished, students must pass a comprehensive exam in their second Summer quarter, via EDUC 248 Understanding Teacher Agency. 

For students in the Multiple Subject option – during the first quarter of student teaching, they must complete full days, four times a week. During the second quarter, they’ll do five days a week. Single Subject candidates teach five days a week for the duration of a public school semester. 

To qualify for student teaching, candidates will be assessed by the quality of their academic output, professional conduct, and potential for success. Those unable to advance to student teaching will be considered for removal from the M.A.T. program.

To acquire a California Credential, candidates must also demonstrate knowledge of the U.S. Constitution, hold a CPR certificate, and pass a Teaching Performance Assessment. Once the basic credential is obtained, students can add more teaching authorizations later. 

Admissions requirements for UCI’s rigorous M.A.T. program include submission of the following: 

• official transcripts from all post-secondary institutions
• a bachelor’s degree and a minimum GPA of 3.0 (see notes on the program’s page for important details)
• Graduate Record Examination (GRE) scores
• statement of purpose
• three letters of recommendation showing ability to pursue graduate-level studies, ability to work with children, and fitness for the teaching environment

At the University of California, Irvine, students have ample opportunity to decompress after putting in a hard day of student and teaching. The Claire Trevor School of the Arts offers an abundance of art, music, theater, and dance options to partake in. 

There’s also a wide range of men and women’s athletics programs, including basketball, baseball, volleyball, water polo, track and field, tennis, soccer, and more! UCI prides itself in strong alumni networks as well, including the Anteater Network and Student Alumni Association. 

#2. UNIVERSITY OF WISCONSIN – PLATTEVILLE

MASTER OF SCIENCE IN EDUCATION 

The University of Wisconsin in historic Platteville is a comprehensive university belonging to one of the country’s largest public education systems! By combining a small college town atmosphere with the financial resources of a renowned educational behemoth, UW-Platteville can stand truly unique among peers as an educational leader!

Their Master of Science in Education gives students the foundation necessary to craft practical lessons while learning how to engage in diverse school environments using modern instructional methods. Students also dive into research methodology as well as practicing leadership and mentoring. 

With small student/faculty ratio averages—20:1—learners are given the individualized attention they need to succeed as they progress through the milestones of the program. Courses can be taken in the evenings, on weekends, and over the summer, allowing for maximum flexibility for those with hectic schedules. 

Degrees may be customized to the desires and career goals of every student through three area focuses: 

• K-12 
• Adult education
• Counseling

The first option, K-12, focuses on the development of skills in research, instruction, and leadership for those planning to teach at elementary, middle, or high schools. This emphasis can lead to licensure in categories such as educational administration, reading, or cross-categorical special ed.

The second choice is adult education, which homes in on abilities such as designing, delivering, and assessing adult learning programs. 

Finally, students selecting the counseling focus area can learn about jobs within the realm of mental health diagnosis and treatment, substance abuse, and human services. This option is approved through the Department of Safety and Professional Services for the Substance Abuse Counselor-In-Training program. 

Applicants interested in any of the above options must submit a request for more information directly to UW-Platteville to receive full details about the degree program. For admissions, applicants must send in transcripts showing a bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution, with a minimum GPA of 2.75. International degrees are considered on a case-by-case basis. No more than twelve transfer credits with a grade of B- or higher will be considered. 

Campus life at UW-Platteville is lively, with over 80 annual events and 200 clubs and organizations. The school is also home to 16 NCAA Division III sports and the Pioneer Activity Center. 

Under the Division of Diversity and Inclusion are several offices dedicated to ensuring students from all walks of life are well taken care of. These include the Office of Multicultural Student Affairs, International Programs section, Student Support Services, Services for Students with Disabilities, the Wright Center for Non-Traditional and Veteran Students, and the Doyle Center for Gender and Sexuality. And with an alumni network of over 44,000 Platteville Pioneer spread out around the nation, the school keeps up strong ties with students long after graduation. 

Always highly ranked across the spectrum, one of UW-Platteville’s proudest claims to fame is its No. 1 in the state ranking for best Return On Investment. It also comes in at an impressive No. 24 in Top Public Schools on U.S. News & World Report’s annual rankings for 2020! 

#3. ARIZONA STATE UNIVERSITY

MASTER OF EDUCATION IN SECONDARY EDUCATION

As the No. 1 school in innovation rankings from U.S. News & World Report, ASU continues to set the pace for others to follow! So what better place to learn about innovative educational techniques than here? 

Students ready to tackle an advanced degree to boost their teaching careers should strongly consider ASU’s Master of Education in secondary education (MEd). Taught by the Mary Lou Fulton Teachers College, the program is for individuals who want to teach in Grades 6-12, and is offered at ASU’s downtown Phoenix campus, Polytechnic campus, Tempe campus, and West campus. 

The program ties theory together with hands-on practice, allowing students to build a rock-solid foundation in teaching and content knowledge, learned from ASU’s expert faculty. Grad students should expect to complete diligent research via a culminating action research applied project, as well as finish clinical experiences and/or field placements which help develop a thorough grasp of how to take what they’ve learned and apply it in actual school settings.

The MEd in secondary education offers a teacher certification through one of three formats to select from:

• Master’s and Arizona Certification – the traditional format, where students attend class twice a week at night and finish field experiences once a week for two semesters, plus a full-time teaching experience in their last semester.
• Induction, Master’s and Arizona Certification – for students working on a teaching intern certificate and who have a full-time teaching job. Students will take classes once a week in this option, while enrolled in apprentice teaching coursework.
• Robert Noyce Teacher Scholars program – for U.S. residents holding a science, technology, engineering, or mathematics (STEM) degree and wanting to teach middle school math or science. 

ASU’s MEd degree requires 33 credit hours in total, including:

• 18 credit hours of required core classes
  • RDG 507 – Content Area Literacy 
  • SED 501 – Introduction to Effective Instruction
  • SED 522 – Secondary School Curriculum Development 
  • SED 544 – Creating Classroom Climates 
  • SPE 555 – Inclusive Practices for Diverse Learners 
  • TEL 505 – American Educational Policy 
• 12 credit hours in the students’ chosen track (students are requested to contact the department for a full list of track course options)
• Culminating Experience of three credit hours, during which time students work with their instructor to develop an action research cycle and to evaluate educational research related to a problem
• SED 593 – Applied Project (three credit hours)

The Program Handbook offers details regarding program of study specifics, as well as details related to the individual campus offerings since the degree is offered in more than one location. 

Many engineering students take advantage of ASU’s accelerated program, which lets students work on a bachelor’s and Master’s at the same time through any of the following ASU engineering degree plans: Automotive Systems, Electrical Systems, Humanitarian Engineering, Mechanical Engineering Systems, or Robotics.

To apply for admission to ASU’s MEd, students need to submit:

• official transcripts showing a bachelor’s or Master’s degree in any field, from an accredited institution
• minimum 3.00 cumulative GPA in the last 60 hours of undergraduate work or 3.00 cumulative GPA in a Master’s (if applicable)
• three letters of recommendation from individuals who can explain the applicant’s potential for success 
• a personal statement outlining the student’s reason for applying
• a resume
• proof of English proficiency, for students whose native language isn’t English 
• no GRE scores required

Renowned as one of the top 100 universities in the world for research and teaching by Times Higher Education, ASU has been dubbed as their “New American University” for good reason. Apply and find out why!

#4. UNIVERSITY OF WISCONSIN – ​MADISON

MASTER OF SCIENCE IN CURRICULUM & INSTRUCTION

If you’re passionate about diversity and learning and ready to effect real change as a teacher, then you’ve got something in common with the UW-Madison’s Master of Science in curriculum & instruction program! 

Graduates of this secondary education degree program will be certified in one subject area plus teaching English as a second language (ESL). This dual certification degree was crafted so graduates can go out and make the world a better place. By gaining skills and tools to become savvy classroom and community leaders, students will be ready for the challenges ahead in their future careers! 

The coursework is combined with amble community and classroom fieldwork, which necessitates full commitment over the course of an academic year plus two summer periods. As such, the school advises on their FAQ page that students pursuing the degree will likely not have time to work full-time while fulfilling the necessary, time-intensive program requirements. 

The four subject areas offered in the UW-Madison MS program are: 

• English
• Mathematics
• Science
• Social Studies

Please visit the pages associated with the subject areas you’re interested in, to review the prerequisites, as well as pertinent, teaching related certification topics. These pages also state the unique criteria which UW-Madison’s School of Education uses to assess each application. 

For example, one assessment question is, “Does the applicant show a genuine commitment to working with all children, not just the privileged or highly motivated?”

Sample course topics within the program include: Inclusive Education in Secondary Schools, Learning Second Languages and Literacy, Professional Launch Workshops, Digital Media & Instructional Technology, Legal Rights and Responsibilities, and Adolescent Development in Educational Contexts, among others. 

New MS students are only admitted during Summer term. The general Grad School application process involves submitting: 

• Transcripts showing proof of a relevant undergraduate degree (note, the relevance of the degree depends on which of the above subject areas the candidate selects to pursue. For example: for the science area, students should possess a degree in biology or a life science-related major, environmental science, geology, chemistry, physics, engineering, etc.)
• GRE scores (waived if GPA is 3.0 or more on the last 60 credits of undergrad work)
• A one-page statement of purpose 
• A Resume/CV citing academic and professional experience
• Two, but up to three, letters of recommendation 
• For international applicants, submission of TOEFL score 92/120, plus proof of funding

Note, UW-Madison’s program is highly competitive and offers in-depth specifications related to each of the above on the Applications Requirements page. The information is extensive, so we encourage you to review everything in detail. 

The 936-acre campus enjoys the spectrum of four seasons, with an abundance of indoor and outdoor opportunities for students to keep busy. The school, founded in 1848, has had 41 Pulitzer Prize winners and receives a truly breathtaking $1.2 billion a year for research expenditures. Both the school and town of Madison receive top reviews from students who love the area. In 2018, UW-Madison was the top producer of Peace Corps volunteers, and holds the No. 13 in Top Public Schools for 2020, per U.S. News & World Report. 

#5. UNIVERSITY OF SOUTHERN MISSISSIPPI

MASTER OF EDUCATION IN EDUCATIONAL CURRICULUM AND INSTRUCTION (ELEMENTARY EDUCATION)

The University of Southern Mississippi, also known as Southern Miss, was founded in 1910 as a teacher training institution and has been a leader in that arena ever since! To help spread their reach, the school’s College of Education and Human Sciences has created an entirely online Master of Education in educational curriculum and instruction (elementary education). This part-time, 30-credit hour program is made to be finished in just three short semesters, allowing for an expeditious path to an advanced degree while also offering the flexibility needed for working students. 

To be admitted into the Southern Miss M.Ed. program, applicants should hold both a degree in elementary education and a current elementary education teaching license.

Students work with faculty and other students on action research projects which will benefit local classrooms and school districts in the state. Topics covered in the curriculum include learning about trends and policies in education, disciplinary and transdisciplinary knowledge, advanced practices, and enhanced communication techniques which improve relations with coworkers, parents, administrators, and even the media. 

Graduates leave well-equipped with the skills and experiences to succeed in teaching across a range of educational situations. Listed career options for holders of this degree include AA licensed teacher, teacher leader, and literacy coordinator/coach. 

The Southern Miss M.Ed. meets state requirements for advanced licensure and provides an optional endorsement in gifted education. Out-of-state licensure inquiries may be sent using the school’s Professional Licensure Form.

Courses necessary to complete the degree include: 

• CIE 606 – Teaching Language Arts in the Elementary Grades 
• CIE 691 – Research in Reading (up to 16 hours)
• CIE 724 – Elementary Mathematics Methods 
• CIE 725 – Social Studies Education in Elementary School 
• CIE 728 – Curriculum in the Elementary School 
• CIE 776 – Seminar in Early Childhood Education
• Plus twelve hours of advisor-approved electives 

To be considered for admission, students must submit the following: 

• Proof of a bachelor’s degree with a minimum 3.00 GPA for the last 60 hours of undergraduate work
• GRE or Praxis II Subject Assessment Examination scores
• Three letters of recommendation from education professionals able to assess the applicant’s suitability
• A statement of purpose outlining professional experience and goals
• A resume/CV
• Copy of current educator license (those without this license may be considered for admission on a conditional basis)

The General Academic Information for all Graduate Students page outlines the various criteria for staying in good standing, including the continuous enrollment policies, the minimum 3.0 GPA requirement for courses, integrity assurance training, the grading system, transfer credit policy, and several other useful tips relevant to Southern Miss grad students. 

Online students have access to several resources for online learners, including a full range of academic services, technical support with the Canvas learning platform, financial aid, and assistance with licensure, admissions, and class enrollment. Southern Miss has a proud alumni association, with amble career services and opportunities to connect with peers. 

The school is also home to the Golden Eagles and competes in 17 different Division I sports, and has been granted the prestigious status of being a Carnegie R1 research institution, meaning they have some of the highest research activity. That’s one more reason why the school lives up to its motto: “Southern Miss to the Top!”

#6. UNIVERSITY OF TEXAS AT AUSTIN

MASTER OF ARTS IN STEM EDUCATION

The University of Texas at Austin’s College of Education has been a forward-thinking leader in the field since 1891. With a motto to “Reimagine Education,” the college is greatly invested in the pursuit of equality and the elimination of educational disparities as they seek to determine unique individual needs and build upon existing strengths. 

Their Master of Arts in STEM education (which also comes in a Master of Education option) offers students a chance to explore STEM education from an academic research angle, working alongside faculty to investigate current issues in the field. Students can select to do a 36-credit hour thesis option or 33-credit hour non-thesis option. 

The general course breakdown includes twelve hours of core courses, nine hours of STEM-specific courses, six hours of research methodology, and three to six hours of supporting courses, depending on if the student is doing a six-hour thesis or not. 

Core courses are: 

• STM 385 – Knowing and Learning in STEM Education
• STM 386 – Curriculum History in STEM Education

Plus two classes from below: 

• STM 390-1 – Equity in STEM Education
• STM 390-2 – Research on Teaching and Teacher Development in STEM Education
• STM 390-3 – Systemic Reform in STEM Education
• STM 390T – Advanced Topics in STEM Education 

STEM classes must be taken at the upper division undergraduate or graduate level. Research methodology classes will cover design or quantitative/qualitative research, as approved by an advisor. The supporting classes are meant to both broaden and deepen understanding of work being done. The thesis, if selected, covers two semesters and will be completed in accordance with the school’s Format Guidelines. 

Students can view a sample Plan of Study with Thesis or Plan of Study, Non-Thesis online. 

As mentioned, a Master of Education option is available. To qualify, students must be certified to teach at the elementary or secondary level.

Admission requirements for UT Austin’s graduate program are:

• A bachelor’s degree
• Transcripts showing a minimum 3.0 GPA during the last two years of undergraduate work (note: teaching experience may be considered if GPA is less than 3.0). 
• GRE scores
• A statement of purpose between one to three pages, discussing applicant’s current roles, desired area of specialization, and future goals 
• A resume/CV
• Three letters of reference
• International students will submit TOEFL scores showing at least 79 on the Internet-based test (iBT), or IELTS scores with an overall band of 6.5 on the Academic Examination. There may also be a brief, no-cost English language evaluation 

UT Austin’s College of Education currently has 969 graduate students and is ranked No. 13 on U.S. News & World Report’s Best Graduate Education Schools list for 2020. It’s also No. 4 in their Curriculum and Instruction rankings for public schools! 

The diverse faculty department is filled to the brim with numerous fellowship recipients and prestigious award winners. And as for the University of Texas at Austin itself? The home of the Longhorns is cited as the No. 7 Best U.S. Public College by Business First (2019) and was Kiplinger’s No. 8 Best Value Public Colleges in 2018. There’s always something big happening at UT Texas!

#7. INDIANA UNIVERSITY BLOOMINGTON

MASTER OF EDUCATION IN ELEMENTARY EDUCATION

At 200 years old, Indiana University is doing better than ever! With over 94,000 students, including 8,500 international students, the institution is one of the most welcoming in the country, with over a 79% admissions rate! But hospitality isn’t its only special feature. IU stays on the cutting-edge of innovation, hauling in an eye-popping $604 million in external funding for research and other activities in 2018 alone. 

IU’s promise is to contribute towards the goal of building a brighter future for all. One of the leading ways it works towards that goal is through teacher education. The IU campus at Bloomington is host to several graduate programs in the field, including a Master of Education in elementary education (early childhood education track). Offered by the School of Education, this is currently a 36-credit hour, in-residence program for those with a teaching license in the same area and who want to advance their career. It’s also expected that applicants should hold a degree in early childhood or elementary education.

The M.S.Ed. builds upon existing experience to facilitate learning to administer early education programs, design curricula, and increase understanding of child development. 

Degree requirements include: 

• Major core classes in:
  • E505 – Organization and Administration of Early Childhood Education Programs 
  • E506 – Curriculum in Early Childhood Education
  • E508 – Seminar in Early Childhood Education 
  • E525 – Advanced Curriculum Study in Early Childhood Education 
  • J500 – Instruction in the Context of Curriculum

There is also a Foundations requirement of P515 – Child Development, plus an additional course in the history or philosophy of education. 

Next come nine to twelve electives which may or may not come from within the School of Education but do need to have a “unified focus” and advisor-approval. Suggested electives are in the fields of: sociology, library science, psychology, folklore, and language education. 

Lastly, students must complete their thesis in education and a practicum/Internship. 

Admission requirements for Indiana University’s M.S.Ed are: 

• A bachelor’s degree with a minimum GPA of 2.75 
• Transcripts
• A personal statement
• 2 letters of recommendation
• GRE scores are required from:
  • domestic students will a cumulative GPA under 3.0
  • all international students
• For international students: a resume and TOEFL score from last two years

Grad students will appreciate the school’s wide range of educational research centers which strive to serve educators throughout the state and beyond, as well as acting within the local communities by offering various important services to those in need. There is also an Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) program designed to help individuals with severe language or communication challenges.  

IU Bloomington features countless student resources for academics, student affairs, international services, tutoring, military students, and IT resources. Cream and crimson-clad Hoosiers can enjoy over 750 diverse student organizations and 70+ clubs and intramural sports. And graduates can reap the professional rewards of being plugged into a massive global alumni network with over 690,000 members!

U.S. News & World Report ranked the School of Education at No. 28 on their Best Grad Schools in Education list for 2020, as well as No. 12 in Elementary Teacher Education and No. 13 in Secondary Teacher Education. With nearly two centuries of experience, it’s no wonder IU Bloomington is so far ahead of the pack! 

#8. UNIVERSITY OF PENNSYLVANIA

MASTER OF EDUCATION IN SECONDARY EDUCATION WITH PA GRADES 7-12 CERTIFICATION

Founded in 1740 by Benjamin Franklin, the University of Pennsylvania (also known simply as Penn) is a private Ivy League institution with historically tough admissions standards. But for those up to the challenge, it’s well worth it! 

The University of Pennsylvania’s M.S.Ed. in secondary education with PA Grades 7-12 certification may be a mouthful, but its unique Urban Teaching Apprenticeship Program (UTAP) is an invaluable means of learning the ropes in a practice-based format. Participants will discover the most student-centered techniques and innovative tools to use within urban environments, building on prior coursework while engaging in genuine field experiences. 

The 10-month, cohort-based teaching apprenticeship covers a whopping 800 hours of fieldwork – nearly double the amount of typical programs. Grads of UTAP can expect to come out empowered with the knowledge and skills to impact their students and schools while increasing educational equity. Certifications are generally done within the fields of English, math, social studies, and science. The student’s chosen focus area will dictate which of two concentrations they’ll be placed in – STEM Inquiry or Active Learning in the Humanities.

The first Summer term will focus on learners, neighborhoods, and community in Philadelphia. Classes will include:  

• EDUC 544 – School, Society & Self
• EDUC 554 – Building and Managing Collaborative Learning Environments in Urban Contexts 
• EDUC 540 – Introduction to Teaching Diverse Learners 

In addition, there is a requirement to complete 20+ hours of fieldwork in local summer programs. Sample programs and locations include: 

Neighborhood – Site

South Philadelphia – Migrant Education

Center City – Philadelphia Free Library

West Philadelphia – White Rock Church Community Summer Enrichment Program

Kensington – Gear-Up

The Fall term dives into curriculum and pedagogy within various disciplines. Courses include topics such as Developmental Theories & Applications with Adolescents; Teaching and Learning in Student-Centered Classrooms; methods in Math, Science, Social Studies and English; and Culturally Responsive Pedagogy. There is also more fieldwork, in the form of a year placement at a local public school during the mornings, serving as a student-teaching apprentice in Grades 7-12. 

Spring term focuses on PRAXIS or putting educational theory into practice as they build their Inquire Portfolio of projects. Courses during this term cover more STEM Field Methods for Inquiry in Secondary Schools, or Humanities Field Methods for Inquiry in Secondary Schools, plus courses in Advanced Methods for Math, Science, Social Studies, and English, and Teaching Diverse Learners. In addition, fieldwork at this point requires teaching five days a week. 

UTAP Students may seek to acquire dual certifications such as math and science, or English and history. They can also obtain additional certifications after graduation in language diversity or special education, by doing apprenticeships and working with partner schools, taking a specialty seminar, and finishing extra coursework during the first year of teaching, in some cases. 

After finishing UTAP, fully qualified students are eligible to receive program faculty recommendation for Pennsylvania Department of Education’s Instructional 1 certification. Please view the program site for a full list of requirements. 

To apply to the University of Pennsylvania’s competitive program, students should submit: 

• Transcripts
• A statement of purpose 
• A resume describing education objectives, interests, and background
• Letters of recommendation from persons who can discuss the applicant’s professionalism, values, character, and interests
• Note, this specific program isn’t listed as requiring GRE test scores, but double check with the Graduate School
• For international students whose native language isn’t English: TOEFL (iBT) or IELTS scores are required of applicants whose native language is not English.

University of Pennsylvania is ranked No. 6 in National Universities (tie) and No. 15 in Best Value Schools by U.S. News & World Report for 2020. It is one of the oldest and most prestigious universities in America. 

#9. UNIVERSITY OF ILLINOIS AT URBANA-CHAMPAIGN

MASTER OF EDUCATION IN SECONDARY EDUCATION WITH TEACHER LICENSURE

The University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign has been a breakout leader in education since its earliest days when John Milton Gregory, the first president, chose to root the institution in liberal arts traditions rather than strictly agriculture and industry. That spirit of intrepidness continues within the College of Education, through which Illinois offers several graduate programs, including a secondary education master plus teacher licensure (EdM). 

The program leads to a Master’s as well as initial licensure in English/language arts, science, mathematics, or social science/history in grades 9-12. The program main page lists breakouts for each available EdM option: 

• English Plus Teaching Licensure Master of Education
• Mathematics Plus Teaching Licensure Master of Education 
• Science Plus Teaching Licensure Master of Education 
• Social Studies Plus Teaching Licensure Master of Education

The English option, for example, has a content area courses requirement of either an undergrad major in English or 32 semester hours of specific language arts topics. Applicants’ transcripts will be reviewed to ensure these criteria are met. 

Admitted students will complete a professional sequence plan of study to include: 

• CI 401 E – Introductory Teaching in a Diverse Society
• CI 473 – Disciplinary Literacy
• CI 403 E – Teaching a Diverse High School Student Population
• CI/EPSY 485 – Assessing Student Performance
• SPED 405 – General Educator’s Role in Special Education (SPED) or SPED 517 – Disability Issues in SPED
• CI 404 E – Teaching and Assessing Secondary School Students
• EDPR 442 – Educational Practice in Secondary Education (Student Teaching)

Note: before beginning the student teaching portion, students must first pass Illinois-approved test of basic skills (i.e. the Illinois Test of Academic Proficiency, ACT, or SAT), as well as the Illinois Licensure Testing System (ILTS) English language arts content area test.

The Illinois program also maintains a strict GPA requirement of 2.5 for all content and professional education work and a Graduate GPA of 3.0. No classes with a grade lower than C can be used towards licensure, endorsement, or approvals. One final state requirement is the edTPA assessment. 

In addition to completing the above, EdM students will take two or three 500-level courses in education (depending on whether SPED 517 – Disability Issues is taken), and one four-credit hour foundational course on Education Policy, Organization and Leadership. 

Advisors can assist to ensure the plan of study includes necessary teaching licensure courses in Psychological Foundations in Educational Psychology and Philosophical and Social Foundations in Education Policy, Organization and Leadership (if not already built into the specialization curriculum). 

Application requirements include: 

• Selection of a specialization
• A personal statement describing professional experiences and prior academic work (minimum 500 words) 
• A Resume/CV
• Three letters of reference from persons with knowledge of the applicant’s academic/professional performance and potential for success in the program
• Transcripts showing at least a 3.0 GPA
• A content test in the appropriate area (note: it’s recommended to submit scores with the application) 
• International students have various criteria to meet, including English proficiency exam score minimums and proof of funding

Illinois is ranked No. 48 in National Universities for 2020 by U.S. News & World Report. Check out the College of Education’s 2018 Impact Report to see stats and goals specific to the department and read up on the faculty bios and latest research developments!

#10. UNIVERSITY OF UTAH

MASTER’S OF EDUCATION IN EDUCATION, CULTURE, & SOCIETY WITH SECONDARY LICENSURE

The University of Utah is the oldest higher ed institution in the state, and home to Pulitzer Prize winners, Rhodes Scholars, Nobel Prize recipients, Turing Award winners, MacArthur Fellows, and a pair of astronauts! U of U faculty consistently garner some of the highest honors and achievements in the world because of the total commitment to excellence! 

This same dedication is offered from their Department of Education, via a secondary teacher education program which gives students both the foundation and experience to excel in increasingly diverse classroom environments within the region. The program combines the secondary licensure program in the Urban Institute for Teacher Education (UITE) with a Master’s of Education in education, culture, & society (ECS).

Emphasis is placed on how to manage family and community partnerships, understanding urban contexts of teaching and learning, linguistic diversity, and creating equitable, challenging learning opportunities. The curriculum includes 58 hours towards licensure and six hours of approved elective credit towards the advanced graduate requirement (taken once licensure is finished), for a total of 64 program hours.  

Admissions criteria are listed on the program’s supplemental packet and on the Grad School admissions page. Requirements include: 

• An undergraduate GPA of 3.0 or higher (see notes on the application page, if GPA is below 3.0)

• Official copies of transcripts from all colleges 
• A personal statement (note: there will be specific questions to address, such as, “What are some of your goals, aspirations, and research interests, and how will these help develop, enhance, and define the ECS department?” and “How do you envision contributing to and affecting social justice in education?”)
• A resume showing relevant experiences in equity and diversity in educational settings
• Letters of recommendation
• No GRE required

The UITE also offers graduate degrees in educational leadership and policy and world languages. Check out their faculty, honors faculty, and graduate assistants pages to learn more about the amazing department personnel you could be working with! The Teacher Education Licensure Data 2019 Annual Report offers valuable insights into the program’s impacts and success outcome rates! 

The campus is dedicated to safety and support, and runs several programs built to ensure all students are able to learn in a safe and welcoming environment. The University of Utah has a vibrant, diverse range of arts organizations for students to participate in and enjoy, such as the Utah Museum of Fine Arts, UtahPresents and Pioneer Theatre Company). In fact the Arts are so popular, they’ve created an Arts Pass to offer student discounts to the literally hundreds of art experiences around the campus each year. Sports fans have plenty to root about, too! U of U is also home to several men’s and women’s sports and Utes Pac-12 athletics. 

U of U comes in at No. 104 on U.S. News & World Report’s 2020 rankings. The school’s prime location in Salt Lake City guarantees that students will always have plenty of activities to engage in—from skiing, access to national parks, urban venues and shows, and NBA games, the city’s got something for everyone! 

OTHER NOTABLE PROGRAMS

#11. Stanford University

Location: Stanford, California

Degree: Master of Arts in Education and a preliminary California Single Subject Teaching Credential Secondary

Net Price: $16,695

Website          

#12. University of Virginia 

Location: Charlottesville, Virginia

Degree: Master of Teaching Social Studies Education

Net Price: $15,945

Website

#13. University of Alabama in Huntsville

Location: Huntsville, Alabama

Degree: Master of Education in Secondary Education

Net Price: $14,190

Website

#14. University of Illinois at Chicago

Location: Chicago, Illinois

Degree: Master of Science in Teaching in Secondary School Mathematics

Net Price: $11,571

Website

#15. University of Washington – Seattle

Location: Seattle, Washington

Degree: Master of Teaching in Secondary Teacher Education

Net Price: $10,068

Website

#16. University of Wisconsin – La Crosse

Location: La Crosse, Wisconsin

Degree: Secondary Teacher Education Preparation

Net Price: $13,265

Website   

#17. University of Mississippi

Location: University, Mississippi

Degree: Master of Education in Curriculum and Instruction

Net Price: $14,678

Website

#18. Montana State University

Location: Bozeman, Montana

Degree: Master of Education in Adult and Higher Education

Net Price: $14,953

Website      

#19. University of Iowa

Location: Iowa City, Iowa

Degree: Secondary Education Teacher Education

Net Price: $14,161

Website

#20. Harvard University

Location: Cambridge, Massachusetts

Degree: Teacher Education Program

Net Price: $16,205

Website

IF YOU ENJOYED THAT THEN CHECK OUT OUR ARTICLES ON THE MOST AFFORDABLE ONLINE MASTER OF EDUCATION PROGRAMS & BEST ONLINE MASTER’S OF HEALTH EDUCATION!