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Do you want to learn how to protect data across all devices, including desktop and mobile devices? Are you interested in learning about how crime impacts internet security? 

Perhaps you already have a bachelor’s degree in computer science and you want to take your education to the next level.

Whatever the case may be, an information assurance or information security master’s degree might be the right choice for you.

But what is it – and how do you find the best information assurance master’s degree for you? Let’s take a closer look.

See Also: 10 Best Master’s in Industrial Engineering

What is an Information Assurance Master’s Degree?

Information assurance is the practice of protecting information systems by mitigating risks and vulnerabilities. This can involve anything from security protocols to data encryption. With the rise of cyber-attacks and data breaches, Information Assurance has become a focal point for businesses and governments alike. 

Investing in Information Assurance is akin to investing in a fortified castle to protect your information.

A Master’s degree in Information Assurance takes your security education to new heights. This degree is a comprehensive study of information security, cryptography, cyber law, and more. 

A Master’s degree in Information Assurance is the peak of cybersecurity education. It will prepare you to be a leader in the field.

Why Choose an Online Degree Program?

Online learning is ideal for working professionals. Online students can access course materials when it’s most convenient. Often, graduate students are even able to pursue continuing education while working from mobile devices!

These programs are great for those with other responsibilties, like parents or even military students. You’ll take online courses that go far beyond what you covered in an undergraduate degree. Graduate students build their skills in information security and even gain real-world work experience so they can start working immediately.

Plus, tuition tends to be more affordable for an online degree than a traditional on-campus information technology degree. You’ll pay less per credit because you won’t be paying for room and board or transportation. This lower per credit rate often applies to both public and private schools. Many accept transfer credits with relative ease, too. 

What Classes Will You Take in an Information Assurance Master’s Degree?

If you’re interested in information technology and securing the safety of information systems, an information assurance degree program is a smart choice. But what will you learn?

You’ll take some of the following courses:

• Information technology
• Data management systems
• Information security
• Management information systems
• Data Analytics
• Cybersecurity management
• Computer systems
• Software engineering
• Systems analysis
• Internet security on mobile devices
• Computer science
• Digital forensics/computer forensics
• Protecting data in the cybersecurity industry
• System vulnerabilities in wireless networks
• Security and privacy issues across various industries
• Privacy issues in network design

An information assurance degree can help build decision-making skills and leadership skills. Between core courses and elective courses, you’ll open up job opportunities in a variety of career paths. You’ll take online courses that hone your foundational knowledge far beyond what you learned in your undergraduate degree!

What Can You Do With an Information Assurance Degree?

If you’re thinking about higher education in the cybersecurity field, an information assurance program is the way to go. You’ll gain real-world expeirence in a variety of fields. 

If you’re looking for a new career in the cybersecurity field, then completing an information assurance program is a smart choice. Cybersecurity professionals are needed everywhere, and there’s a massive earning potential.

New job opportunities might include:

• Information systems manager
• Information security analysts
• Information assurance specialists
• Computer forensics specialists
• Cyber operations specialists

This kind of degree can help you succeed in any kind of information systems or cybersecurity career!

Admission Requirements for an Information Assurance or Cybersecurity Master’s Degree

Ready to pursue graduate studies in information assurance? Let’s take a closer look at the application process.

Each information assurance program will differ in terms of what’s required. In general, you’ll need a bachelor’s degree in a related field. This might be in:

• Information technology
• Information security
• Computer science

Many schools allow graduate students to bring in transfer credits, so be sure to check. This can lower your final per credit tuition cost. 

You will also need to furnish, in most cases, GRE test scores, transcripts, and letters of recommendation. Some information security programs also request an essay or an interview. 

OUR RANKING CRITERIA 

We have a time-tested four-part formula designed for ranking the best colleges in the nation. We’d love to share it 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! If you want to know more, we encourage you to check out our methodology page. 

Check out our ranking of the 10 Best Online Master’s in Information Assurance degrees!

Best Masters in Information Assurance Degrees

#1. UNIVERSITY OF MARYLAND Global Campus

MASTER OF SCIENCE IN INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY WITH AN INFORMATION ASSURANCE SPECIALIZATION

You’ll find a top masters in information assurance at the University of Maryland. Online programs are offered in an asynchronous format. Students can work on their coursework at their convenience. Classes have either biweekly or weekly deadlines. They are eight weeks in length. 

The Master of Science in Information Technology with a specialization in Information Assurance has 36 credits. Students with prior graduate experience can bring in up to six credits. This degree is ideal for those who are working in the field. 

This program also provides professional development. It helps students improve their project management skills. It can also prepare students for the following certification exams: 

• CompTIA Security
• Systems Security Certified Practitioner
• Certified Information Systems Security Professional

Curses in this program include:

• Cryptology and Data Protection
• the Law, Regulation, and Ethics of Information Assurance
• Intrusion Detection and Intrusion Prevention

The program culminates in a capstone course. It considers best practices and emerging issues within the information assurance field. 

Admission requirements include an application and proof of a bachelor’s degree. 

#2. IOWA STATE UNIVERSITY

MASTER OF ENGINEERING OR MASTER OF SCIENCE IN INFORMATION ASSURANCE 

Iowa State University was home to the world’s first electronic, digital computer. It also had the first moving tornado simulator. Its virtual reality lab also has the highest resolution in the world for immersive virtual experiences.

This masters information assurance degree is an asynchronous program. Students can view lectures at a day and time that they choose. They don’t have to log in at a specific time.

Iowa State has over 25 online master’s programs. There is both a Master of Engineering and a Master’s Degree in Information Assurance. Both programs have 30 credits.

This information assurance degree allows students to choose between a thesis and a non-thesis option. Non-thesis students decide between doing a capstone experience or a creative component. All students in the MS program must take a final oral exam.

The M.Engr. is a coursework-only information assurance degree program. Students must do six credits worth of research while enrolled. 

Course options for these information security programs include:

• Ethical and Legal Issues in Computer Security
• Cryptography
• Forensics
• Systems Analysis

Graduates of these programs go on to work either for an information technology company or in government. These degrees are housed within the Iowa State University Information Assurance Center.

This center leads research and training on information assurance and computer security. This is done through partnerships with citizens, government, industry, and experts in the field. It is also a designated Center of Excellence in Information Assurance. That’s per the National Security Agency.

#3. FLORIDA INSTITUTE OF TECHNOLOGY

MASTER OF SCIENCE IN INFORMATION ASSURANCE AND CYBERSECURITY

You’ll find another top information assurance master’s degree at Florida tech. It is a school that is mindful of the technological advances made on the Space Coast in Florida. Florida Institute of Technology is on the edge of innovative study across its programs. Alumni of the university are well-known. They include CEOs of Fortune 500 companies, astronauts, and the first female four-star general in the United States Military.

The online experience provides students with the academic rigor they would experience on campus. This is through videos, interactive media, and discussions with faculty members and other students. These courses are offered in an asynchronous format. Students do not need to log in at certain times.

Students learn from experts in the field. Many of them have worked at companies like Raytheon Missile Systems, Xerox, Toyota, and Northrop Grumman. 

Students must submit an online application and provide official transcripts. They are not required to submit the Graduate Record Examination and the Graduate Management Admissions Test. 

There are six start dates offered throughout the year. Students take about two years for students to earn a Master’s Degree in Information Assurance and Cybersecurity. This program is in the Harris Institute of Assured Information. This is a center founded through a partnership with the Harris Corporation.

Students learn about forensics, biometric technology, and data mining. 

FIT has accreditation from the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges. It is also an appointed National Center of Excellence in Cyber Defense Research. 

Students take 11 classes. This includes a total of 33 credit hours. This includes classes like:

• Cryptography and Information Hiding
• Biometric Authentication Technologies
• Secure Data Communications and Networks

#4. EMBRY-RIDDLE AERONAUTICAL UNIVERSITY-WORLDWIDE

MASTER OF SCIENCE IN INFORMATION ASSURANCE

The Master’s Degree in Information Security and Assurance creates leaders within the field of information technology.

Students in this information assurance masters focus on safeguarding resources within a business or organizational setting. They learn how to recognize that the security of this data is crucial to success within their company. They are trained to strengthen their understanding of information systems. They understand the connections between cybercrime and the economy.

Embry-Riddle focuses specifically on three areas of the field: 

• Enterprise
• Knowledge management
• Security assurance

This program is offered through the university’s College of Business. Students become both business- and technology-minded. 

They can also focus their coursework by adding one of the following specializations: 

• Protecting Business Intelligence
• Information Systems Security
• Information Assurance in a Global Context

This program also emphasizes the need for professionals to make decisions to succeed. Students become authorities in the field. 

They must complete 30 credits. Classes include: 

• Integrated Threat Warning and Attack Assessment for Enterprise Information Systems
• Global Information and Technology Management
• Assured Strategic Messaging: Keeping the Message Intact and Effective

#5. SAM HOUSTON STATE UNIVERSITY

ONLINE MASTER’S DEGREE IN INFORMATION ASSURANCE AND SECURITY

Sam Houston State University is the 12th-largest university in Texas. It is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges. The mascot is the Bearkat. The school is home to Division I athletics. 

Sam Houston State emphasizes excellence in academics and student success. This is apparent in its Master’s Degree in Information Assurance and Security. It helps students gain knowledge and practical skills that can be applied to the industry.

Students must finish 36 credits. Courses in this program include:

• Network and Cyber Security
• Business Continuity Management
• Database Security

#6. WESTERN GOVERNORS UNIVERSITY

ONLINE MASTER’S DEGREE IN CYBERSECURITY AND INFORMATION ASSURANCE

This master of science in information assurance is a typical master’s program. It is designed to be finished in two years. However, WGU follows a competency-based model. This means that students can take assessments of their skills to determine if they can have a course waived. 

This model also stresses the importance of skills that can be applied in the real world. This is applied to the curriculum through assessments that students can take as soon as they feel that they can pass them. 

The university also has a liberal transfer credit policy. To be admitted to WGU, students must complete the online application and submit their official transcripts.

Another interesting fact about WGU is that the average student loan debt of the university’s graduates was less than half of the national average. There are also several scholarships available to students. 

For the online Master’s Degree in Cybersecurity and Information Assurance, most students finish their degree in six to 20 months.

The MS requires 30 competency units. It includes courses like:

• Forensics and Network Intrusion
• Secure Software Design
• Cybersecurity Architecture and Engineering

The last requirement of this program is the capstone project. Students must come up with a solution to an issue in the IT industry. 

Students will also earn certifications to become an EC-Council Certified Ethical Hacker and an EC-Council Computer Hacking Forensic Investigator. 

The curriculum matches up with the National Initiative for Cybersecurity Education. It was also created to meet guidelines set out by the United States Department of Homeland Security and the National Security Agency. 

Graduates of this program have gone on to work in local and state government. They also work for Boeing and National Security Technologies. Overall, 100% of employers agreed that students were ready to take on their responsibilities. 97% of alumni recommend WGU.

#7. NORWICH UNIVERSITY

ONLINE MASTER’S DEGREE IN INFORMATION SECURITY & ASSURANCE

The Master’s Degree in Information Security & Assurance, while offered online, is one of the most in-depth information assurance masters degree options you will find.

It ensures that students can come to campus through its one-week residency. There, Norwich hosts forensic exercises and hackathons to allow students to apply what they’re learning in the classroom. 

Students can specialize in this program by choosing from one of five concentrations. These are: 

• Computer Forensic Investigation and Incident Response Team Management
• Critical Infrastructure Protection and Cyber Crime
• Cyber Law and International Perspectives on Cyberspace
• Project Management
• Vulnerability Management

The Project Management concentration is accredited by the PMI Global Accreditation Center for Project Management Education Programs. The MS has 36 credits. Each course is 11-weeks in length. This leads to an average completion time of 18 months. There are four start dates offered throughout the year. Each has its own application deadline.

#8. NATIONAL UNIVERSITY

MASTER’S DEGREE IN CYBERSECURITY AND INFORMATION ASSURANCE

National University has over 100 degree programs. Students can complete a number of these programs online. This includes the Master’s Degree in Cybersecurity and Information Assurance. It’s one of the best MS in information assurance programs you’ll find. 

National also follows a unique schedule of classes. Students only take one course at a time. Each course, however, is only four weeks in length. This allows students to focus on one subject at a time. They can often finish their degrees faster. National also has year-round enrollment. Students can start on a monthly rotation.

As a veteran-founded institution, National prides itself on being a Yellow Ribbon School. It has a variety of military-friendly benefits. This includes a tuition discount for service members and their dependents. 

Students can also personalize their curriculum. They can even choose a specialization. The program’s core ensures that students understand best practices in keeping cyberinfrastructure secure. 

Students also learn how to address challenges to system structures. They learn about risk management and threat prevention. That’s in both a government- and business-oriented setting.

The options for this focus are: 

• Ethical Hacking & Pen Testing
• Information Assurance & Security Policy

Courses in these specializations include:

• Red Teaming
• Ethical Hacking
• Certification and Accreditation
• Disaster Recovery/Business Continuity

Students must finish 58.5 credits to graduate. Students with prior graduate coursework can transfer up to 13.5 relevant work units.

#9. NOVA SOUTHEASTERN UNIVERSITY

MASTER’S DEGREE IN INFORMATION ASSURANCE & CYBERSECURITY

Nova Southeastern opened in 1964. Shortly thereafter, Nova launched its first distance education program in education.

Now, it has 50 master’s degree programs that can be finished all online. One of these is a top masters of information assurance – the Master’s Degree in Information Assurance & Cybersecurity. 

This degree has 30 credit hours. It exists within Nova’s College of Engineering and Computing. This is an area of the profession that secures networks and conducts security analyses.

The program teaches students to utilize cryptographic algorithms to reinforce a digital infrastructure. They should be prepared to tackle cyber emergencies and disaster recovery planning. 

Nova’s program has also been certified by the National Security Agency and the Department of Homeland Security. This designation means that the curriculum meets the standards for leaders in cybersecurity research and practice. 

Full-time students can finish their degree in 12 to 14 months. Part-time students can earn theirs in 16 to 24 months. All students learn from faculty members who have doctorates and are experts in cybersecurity and information assurance. 

Some courses students take include: 

• Applied Cryptography
• Computer and Network Forensics
•  Advanced Network Security

Classes range from 12- to 17-weeks in length.

 #10. OKLAHOMA STATE UNIVERSITY

MASTER’s DEGREE IN INFORMATION ASSURANCE

Oklahoma State University offers a Master’s Degree in Information Assurance. Though the last master of science information assurance degrees on our list, it’s still an outstanding program.

It is housed within OSU’s Spears School of Business. Students benefit from a student-to-faculty ratio of 20:1. The institution itself has 24,649 students coming from over 100 countries and all 50 states. 

Tthe Spears School is accredited by the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business. It is considered a STEM-designated degree program. OSU has also been appointed as a Center for Academic Excellence in Information Assurance Education and Research. The curriculum for the MSIA is approved by the National Security Agency and the Department of Homeland Security. 

It combines management and information assurance coursework. Students complete 32 to 33 credits to earn their degree. This includes courses like: 

• the Upper Layers of Telecommunications Systems
• Scripting Essentials
• Advanced System Certification and Accreditation

OTHER NOTABLE PROGRAMS

#11. Carnegie Mellon University

Location: Pittsburgh, PA

Degree: Master of Science in Information Security & Assurance

Net Price: $27,055

Website

#12. Davenport University

Location: Grand Rapids, MI

Degree: Master’s Program in Information Assurance and Cyber Security

Net Price: $17,160

Website

#13. Liberty University

Location: Philadelphia, PA

Degree: Online Master’s Program in Information Systems with an Information Assurance Specialization

Net Price: $27,432

Website

#14. Hampton University

Location: Hampton, VA

Degree: Master’s Program in Cyber Security

Net Price: $24,605

Website

#15. University of Detroit Mercy

Location: Detroit, MI

Degree: Information Assurance Master’s Program With a Cybersecurity Major

Net Price: $32,300

Website

IF YOU ENJOYED THAT THEN CHECK OUT OUR ARTICLES ON THE BEST MASTER’S IN INFORMATION ASSURANCE & MASTERS IN COMPUTER SCIENCE, CYBERSECURITY, OR INFORMATION ASSURANCE: WHICH ONE IS RIGHT FOR YOU?

If you grew up collecting rocks, admiring sand at the beach, or marveling over volcanoes on TV documentaries, then you might be interested in studying geology. Studying geology goes beyond just looking at rocks and boulders. It involves researching Earth’s substances and learning about earthquakes, volcanoes, glaciers, and other natural processes. It also involves studying the interactions between people and the planet. 

One of the most well-known geologists is Charles Darwin, who is famous for his theory of evolution in the field of biology. Geology deals with earth’s natural activities, and students in this area of study can be expected to participate in  investigation, research, field mapping, and sampling. In geology programs, students spend time in the classroom and they also get an opportunity to work outdoors and in laboratory environments. 

In 2017, there were over 9,000 degrees awarded in geology, showing around a 0.26% growth from the previous year. There are over one million people in America who work in geological sciences. A degree in geology can lead to careers in pollution control, environmental geology, field seismology, glacial geology, and more. According to the US Bureau of Labor Statistics, careers in mining and geological engineering are expected to grow 3% from 2018 to 2028. 

Geology is a dynamic field of study that can lead to many different career paths. For geological engineers, the landscape of their work is continually changing as new technologies and findings are shaping the field. With increased demand for raw materials, there’s also an increased demand for well-educated workers in geology and mining. Careers involve plenty of exploration, research, extraction, and surveying. 

Pursuing a master’s in geology is a good idea for students who are seeking specialized knowledge in the field, or who want opportunities to gain research experience. Having a master’s in geology can also set apart candidates in the job search, since it demonstrates research experience and a specialized education in the subject. 

Before setting out to apply for master’s programs, there are some important considerations to think about first, including applications, financial aid, career prospects, and program rankings. 

See Also: 10 Best Master’s in Industrial Engineering 

COMMON APPLICATION AND ADMISSION QUESTIONS

To apply for a master’s degree program in geology, applicants need a completed bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university. Here are some answers to common application and admissions questions.

Although universities vary in their requirements, some schools require a degree in geology, biology, chemistry, physics, or similar. Some schools don’t require a certain degree, but look for strong performance in mathematics and relevant sciences, or they might require a certain number of credit hours in geology courses. The number of required credits varies based on the particular program and can be found on the school’s website. 

Not all schools require a minimum GPA to apply, but some do. Some programs require at least a 3.0. Other schools that do not have a minimum grade point requirement still list the average GPA of accepted candidates—this can range anywhere from 3.0 to 3.5 and above. However, having a grade-point average lower than the average accepted GPA shouldn’t discourage you from applying to a program, since programs also look at many other factors, including research experience, past projects, and statements of purpose. 

Some geology programs might require the GRE exam. The GRE (or Graduate Record Exam) is administered through Education Testing Services, Inc. The exam can be taken throughout the U.S. and is scored on three sections—Verbal, Quantitative, and Writing. Scores for Verbal and Quantitative sections range from 130 to 170. Scores for Writing range from 0 to 6. Some schools list their requirements for scores on their website, while other schools do not have strict requirements for GRE scores. 

Letters of recommendation are typically part of the application process for most programs. Letters of recommendation should be from former professors, instructors or advisors who can speak to your academic ability and work performance. 

To assess their candidates, schools ask for a written statement of purpose. Programs typically look for candidates who show strong writing skills, research experience, and the ability to carry out quality work. Having a completed undergraduate thesis is a plus. 

If applicants are international students, then a TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language) exam might be required. Some schools require a minimum score for this exam. International applicants might also have to also prove English proficiency for admission into a program, since English is the language of instruction for most American programs. 

To apply for a master’s program in geology, check out schools’ deadlines for applications. Deadlines can vary, based on the program and the start date. Some schools accept applications on a rolling basis or have several deadlines throughout the year, while others have only one. 

See Also: Best Master of Environmental Science

WHAT ABOUT FINANCIAL AID & SCHOLARSHIPS?

Master’s programs can vary in their tuition costs. Funding educational expenses is a big concern for many students. This concern is definitely valid, especially considering the statistics on national student debt. The good news is that some master’s programs in geology offer financial aid, loans, and scholarships to help pay or offset the costs of tuition, housing, or living expenses. 

To help students finance their studies, schools often offer funding in the form of teaching opportunities. With a teaching assistantship, students can instruct undergraduate classes while getting paid. This can include teaching lower-level courses or labs of varying sizes, or leading a seminar. Students with an assistantship are responsible for teaching a certain number  of units per semester. 

Students can also get funding in the form of research assistantships. With a research assistantship, students get an opportunity to help faculty members within different departments. They help faculty members with their research, and the research may or may not be directly related to their own thesis or area of study. Students can typically apply to work with the faculty member of their choice. This choice is fitting for students who want to expand their resume with research experience, while also getting compensation for their work. 

There’s also various funding available in the form of fellowships, grants, and scholarships. These can be awarded based on academic achievement or financial need. Scholarships are typically based on academic performance, while grants are based on financial need. Scholarships, fellowships, and grants do not need to be paid back, which makes them an ideal form of financial support. Universities and school departments offer these forms of funding, but students can also look at outside organizations for scholarships and grants. Honors societies, federal agencies, and organizations often offer scholarships. Some organizations offer financial support based on certain areas of interest. There are also many programs that offer funding for students who are studying in the sciences or who undertake research projects. 

Another option for funding a degree program is with loans. This option is less favored than the others, since it involves paying back the original amount owed (usually plus additional interest charges).  Students also have the option to work while studying. Internships may be available and offer students the chance to gain work experience in their desired area of study. Students may be able to apply for internships with faculty members of their choice. Part-time jobs are also another option. Universities have career resources available for students seeking internships. Getting work experience as a student can lead to more career opportunities after graduation.

See Also: 25 Best Affordable Master’s in Geology

HOW MUCH CAN I MAKE WITH A GEOLOGY DEGREE? 

You might be wondering: What happens after I finish my degree? What are the career prospects for someone who holds a master’s in geology? Pursuing a higher degree can be a big decision to make, and it’s worthwhile to think about career options. 

A master’s in geology can lead to careers in a number of fields. For those who want to work in areas related to geology, there are relevant jobs available in the petroleum industry, environmental geology, mining, and geological engineering. People who study geology have experience with software programs and mathematical computations and can also find work outside their field. Graduates of geology programs can enter professions with nonprofit organizations, or they can work as educators. The degree is versatile and can be applied to many different types of occupations.

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median pay for geoscientists is around $90,000 a year or $44 an hour. Although pursuing a higher degree in geology can come with a price tag, this potential career opportunity is very lucrative. In the next ten years, the job market for geoscientists is expected to grow 6%, which is the average for all jobs. As time goes by, the need for resource management and environmental protections will drive more demand for this profession. 

Geoscientists usually work in areas where there is an abundance of natural resources. They often work outdoors. The city with the highest salary for this profession is Houston, where the average pay for geoscientists is 73% more than the national average. Other states with higher geoscientist salaries include Denver and Dallas. Cities with the lowest salaries for this profession include Chicago, New York City, and Atlanta. 

Another career option for geology graduates is in mining and geological engineering. The median pay for mining and geological engineers is $92,000 a year, or $44 an hour. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, this job is expected to grow 3% in the next ten years. Mining and geological engineers usually work at mining sites. This includes mineral mines and quarries, which might be located in remote locations or by cities and towns. Since they work in remote areas, mining and geological engineers might have variable working hours and schedules, though full-time work is usually available. 

Mining and geological engineers make the most working in industries such as manufacturing, management of companies, and public administration. They tend to make the least in industries like technical services and utilities. The state of California has the highest average salary for this occupation at $134,000. The state with the second highest average salary for mining and geological engineers is New Mexico. Their average salary is $132,000. States with lower salaries for this profession include Idaho ($73,000) and Indiana ($65,000). 

WHAT ARE THE BEST GEOLOGY DEGREES?

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

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

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

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

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

Check out our ranking of the 15 best master’s in eology! 

#1. Texas A&M University – College Station

Master of Geoscience

Texas A&M University is located in College Station, Texas and was founded in 1876. The campus actually has the largest student body in all of the state. The university was first created as an all-men’s college, but has since opened its doors to allow all genders. The name of the original all-men’s college was Agricultural & Mechanical College, which was eventually shortened to A&M. Students call one another “Aggies”, and the official mascot for Texas A&M University is Reveille, a mixed-breed dog. 

At Texas A&M University, the College of Geosciences offers a Master of Geoscience. This program has accommodations for distance learning and on-campus students. That means you can fulfill your course requirements by either taking online courses (even if you are out of state) or attending classes in person. The distance learning option is convenient for working professionals who don’t live near campus or want to gain more knowledge while working, since it offers more flexibility in scheduling.

Two areas of study available for distance learning are ocean data science and geographic information science and technology. The first area of study deals with topics related to ocean industries while the latter deals with the oil and gas industry. The on-campus specialization options are much wider and varied and include Atmospheric Sciences, Geography, Geology and Geophysics, and Oceanography. 

For the on-campus program, 36 hours of coursework are required (or 32 if a student is completing a thesis). Students must also pass an oral examination at the end of their degree program. Eighteen of the required hours must be in geosciences. Students must choose two specializations and must also complete 6 credit hours in a supporting field outside of their chosen specializations. 

For distance programs, students have to complete 36 credit hours and a capstone course. For the capstone course, students are not required to attend on campus, although this is supported and encouraged. 

In addition, students who are pursuing their degree on campus must take a final examination at the end of their degree. This exam may be taken orally or on paper and includes all work from their comprehensive degree program. Distance learners are not required to take this exam.

For students on campus, there is a residence requirement. Students have to complete 9 credit hours on campus during one semester (or a 10-week summer session) at the university; however, a student can petition to be exempted from this requirement. This residence requirement does not apply to distance learners. All students must also complete their degree requirements within seven consecutive years. 

#2.  Colorado State University – Fort Collins

Master of Science in Geosciences 

Less than an hour from Denver, Colorado State University (CSU) is located in the town of Fort Collins. The university was founded in 1870 and is ranked 56 by U.S. News and World Report for best undergraduate teaching. Colorado State University is the flagship campus for the Colorado State University system. There are over 33,000 students at CSU and their mascot is Cam the ram. Sports teams at the university include men and women’s basketball, cross country, golf, and track and field teams. The university boasts many notable alumni, including Rebecca Skloot, author of “The Immortal Life of Henrietta Lacks”, Mary Cleave, one of the first women to complete flight training for NASA, and Yusef Komunyakaa, a Pulitzer prize-winning poet. 

The master’s program in geosciences at CSU, housed in the Warner College of Natural Resources, focuses on various specialization areas, an interdisciplinary approach, and professional preparation. Within the geology program, there are about 18 different areas of study that students can pursue. These areas include applied geophysics, environmental geology, geodynamics, petroleum geology, structural geology, tectonics, and much more. With so many available options, graduate students can fully explore their interests and hone in on their preferred area of study. 

The duration of the program is two years, and students are required to complete 30 semester credits. To receive a master’s degree (under Plan A), a thesis is required. The thesis should be completed by the end of the program and needs to be defended with an oral presentation and exam. 

Admission to the master’s program is competitive and selective. It is recommended that prospective students have a GPA above 3.3. This isn’t a requirement, but having a grade-point average in this range does help an applicant stand out. The GRE exam is also required, and competitive applications have scores in the 70th percentile. Admission to the program also depends on strong letters of recommendation from three references, and international students must prove proficiency of English through exams such as the TOEFL. 

In this program, students work with an advisor to map out their coursework and research. The advisor guides the student throughout their time in the program and assesses the graduate student’s progress.

Although funding is a huge concern for many students, the Warner College of Natural Resources offers scholarships and fellowships for their graduate students. Scholarship awards range from $1000 to $5000, and they’re given based on a number of criteria, including financial need, academic achievement, leadership, promise of success, and more.  

#3.  University of California – Los Angeles

Master of Science

Located in the sunny Westwood neighborhood of Los Angeles, the University of California – Los Angeles (UCLA) boasts a world-class faculty. With its prime location, university students can explore the vibrant Los Angeles food, entertainment, and arts scene. There is also the Santa Monica pier less than ten miles away from campus.

The University of California – Los Angeles is a well regarded school and considered one of the top public universities in the nation. It’s known nationwide for its rigorous academics and strong faculty members. According to the U.S. News and World Report, the university is ranked #20 among national universities. The campus is 419 acres, and there are about 31,000 enrolled students—both graduate and undergraduate. UCLA’s mascot is the Bruin, a brown bear, and the school is well-known for its water polo teams. Other sports teams on campus include their basketball, cross country, golf, soccer, tennis, volleyball, baseball, and football teams. UCLA has an impressive list of former alumni, including Jackie Robinson, Jim Morrison, Tom Bradley, and Taylor Wang.      

Students who enter the master’s program in geology at UCLA work with a graduate adviser to plan their courses. Their graduate adviser then assigns the student a faculty adviser to work with them on research and coursework. Students work with their adviser to map out plans and discuss progress in their degree. They also work together to come up with ideas for their capstone project and thesis. Within the department, there are many areas of study available for students to pursue. Some of the many options include geobiology, mineralogy, organic geochemistry, paleobiology, paleoclimate, stratigraphy, structural geology, and tectonics. The department also has excellent educational opportunities available to enhance learning, such as field trips where students can get a chance to explore varied environments.

Full-time students must take at least 12 units of classes each quarter. Some of these courses can consist of independent studies or research. To complete the degree, you must complete 36 units of graduate and upper division courses. At least six of those courses must be completed with a letter grade. Advisers work with their students to create a capstone plan and a thesis plan. 

To apply for this program, applications should be sent in with three letters of recommendation and GRE General exam scores. Applicants should have a completed undergraduate degree in geology, biology, physics, chemistry, or another type of science. The average number of applications received for the master’s program is 37. Of those applicants, only 5 are admitted, making the acceptance rate a mere 14%. Admission to this program is competitive, and applicants should have a record of strong academic performance in science and math courses. 

For this program, funding is available in the form of teaching and research assistantships, loans, grants, fellowships, and scholarships. At UCLA, there are many resources available to help you find scholarship opportunities from outside organizations. Students can also pursue paid internships in their desired area of study. 

#4.  University of Arizona

Master of Science in Geosciences

Home of the Arizona Wildcats, the University of Arizona is one of the largest universities in its state and has three levels of intramural sports. It’s located in Tucson, Arizona and was founded in 1885. The campus is 392 acres, and it is surrounded by mountains and the Sonoran desert, which is known for its year-round sunshine. A total of 40,000 students attend the University of Arizona, hailing from 50 states and over 100 countries. Some well-known alumni of this summery campus include Kourtney Kardashian, John Hughes, Carolina Rhea, and David Foster Wallace. 

The M.S. program in the Department of Geosciences is two years long and heavily research based. The program is very well regarded and ranks #3 in graduate geology programs according to U.S. News and World Report. It’s also ranked #8 in earth sciences and #11 in geochemistry. For admission to the program, a minimum GPA of 3.0 is needed to apply. Applicants also need to have taken the GRE exam and must provide three letters of recommendation, a statement of purpose, a resume/CV, and transcripts. 

This program at the University of Arizona offers studies in many different research areas within geology. The program emphasizes interdisciplinary study and offers courses in geophysics, tectonics, vegetation dynamics, mineralogy, geochronology, and more. The program boasts graduates who go on to work in different fields including research, education, energy resources, and environmental policy.

In this degree program, students must take at least 30 units of course work, and 15 of these units must be from graded courses. Academic performance is taken seriously, and students must maintain a GPA of at least 3.0. If their GPA falls below this, they will be put on academic probation. Students must meet with their advisory committee at least once each year. At these meetings, students will bring a short written summary of their progress over the year and outline their goals for the next months. Advisors will also offer advice and suggestions. 

At the end of the degree program, there is a mandatory oral presentation where students will present their research. By the end of the program, students also have to complete a manuscript or thesis. The proposal of the thesis is prepared during their second semester and is discussed and approved by the advisory committee.  

The M.S program at the University of Arizona provides financial support for their graduate students in the form of teaching and research assistantships, fellowships, and scholarships. All students who apply are considered for financial aid, and almost all students receive funding for their two-year degree.   

#5.  University of Minnesota – Duluth 

Master of Science in Geological Sciences 

The University of Minnesota – Duluth was founded in 1947 and its campus is 244 acres. The university has an inviting campus full of amenities, including accessible classrooms, residence halls, laboratories, and a large nature center. UMD’s modern campus consists of over a dozen connected buildings—many of which were constructed after 2000. In Northern Minnesota, there are many outdoor activities available to students—such as skiing, canoeing, and hiking. Students can also explore the rocky landscape and wilderness of Northern Minnesota, which is just about a few hours away from the university. The U.S. News and World Report ranks UMC #51 for best value schools.

The school has 14 sports teams on campus, and an excellent track record in sports arenas; the University of Minnesota – Duluth has won five championships for women’s hockey, two for football, and one championship for men’s hockey. 

The master’s program in geological sciences is under the Department of Earth and Environmental Sciences. There are a number of active research interests available in the department, including ecohydrology, economic geology, hydrology, petrology, structural geology, and tectonics. 

The location of the campus is a major benefit for those who study geology. Students can take advantage of the numerous natural resources available nearby for study. Students also have the opportunity to collaborate and conduct research with local institutions and organizations including the Large Lakes Observatory, the Natural Resources Research Institute, and the Precambrian Research Center. The program prepares students for professional careers in geology, research and academia, education, the government, and more. 

To apply for this program, students must have a bachelor’s degree in geology, geophysics, or a similar field of study. It’s also recommended to have completed a year of prior coursework in calculus, chemistry, and physics. Field camp and research experience, though not required, is a bonus. The minimum grade-point average for applicants is a 3.0. Applicants must also complete the GRE exam. All applicants to the program will be considered for financial aid in the form of fellowships, teaching assistantships, and research assistantships. 

Graduate students in this program have to complete at least 31 credit hours of coursework. The classes offered are face-to-face. There are two plans available for master’s degree candidates—one that requires a thesis and one that does not. The first one, Plan A (thesis), requires 15 to 21 major credits, up to six credits outside the major, and 10 thesis credits. The final exam is delivered orally. Under Plan B (non-thesis), students must complete 25 to 31 credits in their major and up to six credits outside the major. For this option, the final exam is written. 

The master’s program helps prepare students professionally through collaboration with classmates, expert guidance, and scholarly research. Students get a chance to demonstrate graduate-level work by designing their own research projects and using methodology to solve problems. 

#6.  University of California – Santa Cruz

Master of Science in Earth Sciences

The University of California – Santa Cruz (UCSC) was founded in 1965 and is located in Santa Cruz on a 2000-acre campus that overlooks Monterey Bay. The school combines the intimacy of small, liberal arts colleges with the expanse and depth of research universities. There are over 16,000 enrolled undergraduate students and roughly 1,800 graduate students, with a total student body of around 18,000. The university offers 64 graduate programs. According to the U.S. News and World Report, the university is ranked #84 among national universities. UCSC is the home of the Banana Slug, their mascot, a yellow, slimy mollusk without a shell that can be found on the floors of the redwood forest.  Their mascot has gained a lot of attention over the years—it was named one of the ten best college mascots by ESPN and was also featured in articles in Reader’s Digest and People magazines. 

UC Santa Cruz is a member of the Association of American Universities (AAU), an organization that maintains a strong system of research and education among its members. UC Santa Cruz also boasts of world-class facilities and a visually appealing campus. 

The master’s program in earth sciences prepares students for careers within the industry, and also for jobs in consulting, teaching, and government agencies. The M.S can be completed with a thesis in two years. Without a thesis, the master’s program can be completed in one year. 

Students must take 35 quarter units. Of these, a maximum of 15 units can come from undergraduate courses. The program offers seminar courses where researchers come and speak informally with students and faculty. The aim of these seminars is to keep students updated on recent happenings and developments within the field of study. 

Admission to the master’s program in earth sciences is competitive. Applicants should have a bachelor’s degree in earth sciences, planetary sciences, engineering, chemistry, biology, physics, or other related fields of study. Coursework should reflect a lot of experience in quantitative work. It’s also a plus if an applicant has completed an undergraduate thesis or has research experience. For this program, the GRE exam is not required. Applicants need to submit a statement of purpose, letters of recommendation, and transcripts. International candidates need to prove English proficiency with a TOEFL exam. Students are also advised to research the faculty ahead of time and contact ones they’re interested in working with. The program at UCSC only admits applicants after a faculty member or researcher agrees to advise them, making this master’s program function very much like a Ph.D. program. 

The department aims to provide funding for students who show satisfactory academic performance. Funding is available for this degree in the form of fellowships, teaching assistantships, and research assistantships. Fellowships are awarded based on academic merit and financial need. Financial aid is meant to help offset the costs of tuition, fees, health insurance, and living expenses. There are also loans, grants, and work-study opportunities available.

#7.  Missouri University of Science and Technology

Master of Science in Geology 

The Missouri University of Science and Technology has a long history that dates back 150 years. The school was originally called the Missouri School of Mines and Metallurgy, and it was the first technological school in the United States. The school initially educated mining engineers and surveyors, and the campus began growing after World War II. As demands changed, the school eventually refocused and now centers its programs on science, technology, engineering, and math. The campus is 284 acres. 

The master’s program at the Missouri University of Science and Technology can be completed with or without a thesis. For students who are pursuing a thesis, they must first secure the approval of an advisor to work with. The department’s first focus was on hard rock exploration, due to its close proximity to the Missouri Lead District. Over time, this focus has expanded to many other different areas. The different research areas offered include petroleum systems; geophysics, tectonics, and geodynamics; economic geology and petrology; and sedimentology, stratigraphy limnology, and paleoclimatology. Graduates of the program have found employment in mining, petroleum, and environmental industries. 

Required courses for the M.S. include Professional Geosciences Skills and either Advanced Physical Geology or Global Tectonics.

The department offers a host of resources for its graduate students. There is lab equipment for research, and there are also innovative facilities such as the Materials Research Center and the Environmental Research Center. There are also many nearby institutions and organizations that graduate students can work with. These institutions include the Missouri Department of Natural Resources, Missouri Geological Survey, U.S. Geological Survey’s National Geospatial Technical Operations Center, Missouri Water Science Center, and the National Spatial Data Infrastructure Partnership Office Liaisons.

Graduate students in the program can get funding in the form of teaching and research assistantships. The most a student can work is at a 50% full-time equivalent (FTE) rate. The monthly pay for this maximum rate is $2,000 each month, and this is proportional to the percentage of FTE a student works. Out-of-state students who are offered at least 25% FTE can get their out-of-state tuition waived.

The department offers resources for students seeking additional funding. Graduate students of the geology department can apply to the GEM Fellowship. The GEM Fellowship was founded at the University of Notre Dame and aims to increase the participation of underrepresented groups in higher educational programs for engineering and science. A GEM Full Fellow receives full tuition plus housing, fees, a living stipend, and a paid internship with a sponsored employer. GEM Associate Fellows receive full tuition and a living stipend. University Fellows receive full tuition. 

#8.  University of California – Berkeley

Master of Arts in Earth and Planetary Science

The University of California – Berkeley (UC Berkeley) is a public university that is well-regarded as one of the top public schools in the nation. The school is ranked #4 in global research reputation, #6 in geosciences, #2 in environment/ecology, and #4 in plant and animal science. UC Berkeley is located in Northern California’s Bay Area, 15 miles away from the city of San Francisco. There are a total of roughly 40,000 students at the university. 

UC Berkeley hosts multiple museums, such as the UC Museum of Paleontology, as well as biological field stations. In addition to conducting research in laboratories, students also get a chance to undergo research in these field stations. Over the years, Berkeley has housed researchers that have contributed to many scientific discoveries and developments. Researchers at Berkeley have been credited with discovering periodic table elements including californium and berkelium. Other famous alumni of the university include George Takei, Jerry Brown, Viet Thanh Nguyen, and Maxine Hong Kingston. Twenty-nine alumni of the university have also won Nobel Prizes. The prize winners include Thomas Sargent, Steven Chu, Robert Laughlin, Glenn Seaborg, and Carol Greider. UC Berkeley also has an esteemed faculty with Nobel Laureate and award-winning professors including Jennifer Doudna, Saul Perlmutter, and Janet Yellen. 

The M.A. degree in UC Berkeley’s Department of Earth and Planetary Science can only be completed by students who already have a bachelor’s degree within the department. Other candidates may apply to the PhD program. After students complete a bachelor’s degree within the university, then they can complete the master’s program in one year. For the master’s program, students are required to take 24 semester units of upper division and graduate courses. At least 12 of the units taken must be graduate-level courses. Toward the end of the degree, students have to take an oral examination. 

Students in the program work with an advisor to plan out their courses, meeting with them at least four times. Advisors also evaluate the student’s progress and help make suggestions. 

Students can get funding in this program with fellowships, scholarships, need-based aid, instructorships, and research assistantships. In the past, students have received fellowships of over $30,000 plus tuition and fees. Fellowships and scholarships are considered based on an applicant’s previous academic work, academic promise, and intellectual capacity. Need-based awards, grants, and loans are also available. Students must fill out a FAFSA form to qualify for awards based on financial need. 

Students can also work as Graduate Student Instructors (GSI). A GSI is responsible for conducting class meetings and grading exams. GSIs are also eligible for a remission of the Graduate Student Health Insurance Plan. Additionally, graduate students can apply for research assistantships. These assistantships are awarded by individual faculty members who hold research grants. 

#9.  University of Texas at Austin

Master of Science in Geosciences

The University of Texas at Austin was founded in 1883. It is a nationally renowned university that offers a world-class education. In fact, the university ranks #48 in national universities according to the U.S. News and World Report rankings. It’s the highest ranked university in the state of Texas and is the flagship campus of the University of Texas system. It also is one of the largest schools in America. The university is split into 18 different colleges and schools. The largest college within the university is the College of Liberal Arts. The mascot for the school is Bevo, the longhorn steer. Some well-known alumni that have attended the university are Owen Wilson, Laura Bush, Neil DeGrasse Tyson, Wes Anderson, and Rex W. Tillerson. 

The master’s program in geosciences at the Jackson School of Geosciences is a competitive program. It prepares students for work in the petroleum industry, environmental fields, government agencies, and other geoscience fields. Students conduct independent research and learn through graduate-level coursework. Many graduates of the program find employment in the energy industry. 

The department boasts a wide alumni network and world renowned resources and facilities including the Bureau of Economic Geology and the Institute for Geophysics. In total, the department has 27 research programs, 50 faculty members, and 140 research scientists. 

There are around 188 graduate students in the program and roughly 5,000 total alumni from the department. The cost of living in Austin is generally low, but the department still offers financial packages for their two-year master’s students. While studying, students can also pursue work opportunities and research projects. The starting payment amounts for teaching and research assistantships and fellowship stipends are around $2,000 each month. Students also get health benefits. For master’s programs, students are guaranteed financial support for fall and spring semesters throughout their course of study. 

A wealth of useful and up-to-date resources are also available for students to pursue their research. Some of the accessible resources and facilities available to graduate students include the LIDAR systems, an experimental sedimentation lab, an applied geodynamics lab, a digital morphology lab, and much more. 

There are different research concentrations for students to choose from, including surface and hydrologic processes; energy geosciences; marine geosciences; planetary sciences; and climate, carbon, and geobiology. 

For the Master of Science program, students need to complete 24 semester hours of courses and a culminating thesis. Students plan their coursework with their committee members. Completion of this program prepares students for doctorate-level study or careers in geology. 

#10.  University of Washington – Seattle Campus

Masters in Earth and Space Sciences, Applied Geosciences

Founded in 1861, the University of Washington (UW) is a well-regarded school located north of downtown Seattle on a 634-acre campus, in a vibrant urban environment. The University of Washington is among one of the oldest public universities located on the West Coast. It’s ranked #62 in national universities according to the U.S. News and World Report. The Seattle campus makes up one of the three campuses of the University of Washington—the other two are in Tacoma and Bothell. The mascot for UW is Dubs, a husky. There are a number of famous and notable alumni that have attended the university, including Bruce Lee, Bill Gates, Sr., Beverly Cleary, and Kyle MacLachlan. 

At the University of Washington, the masters program in earth and space sciences, applied geosciences (MESSAGe) was designed for students who want to work in the private sector or public agencies, or those who wish to pursue jobs in geology, geomorphology, environmental geology, or engineering geology. Students in the program learn in the classroom in addition to learning through field experiences. With this combined approach to learning, students can discover the knowledge and practical skills needed to help them develop in their careers. 

With the master’s program, there are flexible options available that can cater to different students’ needs. With an intensive program, students can complete their degree in as little as 18 months. Students can also work on their degree part-time for a duration of up to 3 years. These options can suit people who work full-time or those who are looking to quickly enter the workforce. Students who work on their degree full-time can complete it in around 2 years.

To qualify for graduation, the program requires 5 to 6 quarters of coursework. Graduate students must take classes in core geoscience fundamentals, professional practice and technical communication, and applied geology. In addition to core classes, students also get to choose two electives and complete a capstone internship.

Seminars and field courses are offered so that students can gain hands-on experience that prepares them for work as professional geologists. The capstone internship can be completed with government or private employers. Students who participate in this program get an opportunity to develop their data collection, analysis, planning, budgeting, and writing skills. After the internship, they create a technical report and give a public oral presentation. 

To apply for this program, applicants must have a bachelor’s degree in geosciences or another related field of study. The department also has course requirements that applicants should meet. These include two quarters with analytical geometry, three quarters of advanced math, at least two quarters of physics, two quarters of general chemistry, and two courses of writing. If an applicant has not met one or two of these course requirements, the department allows them to make up these courses during their degree. 

Funding a graduate degree is a huge investment to make. The University of Washington stresses its commitment to supporting its students and offers financial support in the form of teaching and research assistantships, grants, loans, and fellowships. 

OTHER NOTABLE PROGRAMS

#11. Stanford University

Location: Stanford, California

Degree: Master of Science Degree in Geological Sciences

Net Price: $50,000

Website

#12. University of Wisconsin – Madison

Location: Madison, Wisconsin

Degree: Master of Science in Geoscience

Net Price: $68,000

Website

#13. University of Michigan – Ann Arbor

Location: Ann Arbor, Michigan

Degree: Master of Science in Earth and Environmental Sciences

Net Price: $48,000

Website

#14. University of California – San Diego

Location: San Diego, California

Degree: Master of Science in Geosciences

Net Price: $34,000

Website

#15. Pennsylvania State University – University Park

Location: University Park, Pennsylvania

Degree: Master of Science in Geosciences

Net Price: $41,000

Website

IF YOU ENJOYED THAT THEN CHECK OUT OUR ARTICLES ON THE TOP TEN REASONS TO EARN YOUR MASTER’S DEGREE

& TOP 50 HIGHEST PAYING MASTER’S DEGREE PROGRAMS!

Environmental science is a wide-open field. There are many subcategories within this field. Environmental science graduate degrees include:

• Natural resources
• Ecology
• Agriculture
• Conservation
• Environmental biology
• Environmental studies
• Environmental law and environmental policy analysis

If you want to become an environmental scientist, you’re in luck.These careers have exploded in popularity over the last few decades. Because of that, you might be wondering what the best environmental science graduate programs are. There are lots of environmental science degrees out there for you to choose from.

We are pleased to present the top 50 online Master’s of Environmental Science degrees. The list of graduate degrees is sorted by category. The top schools have programs for environmental science. The second tier incorporate similar subfields. The remaining group of top environmental science grad programs offers degree programs related to environmental science or engineering. Graduate school is great for an aspiring environmental engineer or someone interested in environmental policy. However, they are in more peripheral areas among a dozen colleges and schools.

See Also: 10 Best Food Science Masters Programs

1. Troy University

Troy University is a public, comprehensive university. It is a network of campuses scattered across Alabama and worldwide. The University’s main campus is in Troy, Alabama. It rests on a beautiful and historic 820 acres. Troy University is able to offer programs on its several campuses, centers, and online platform. Troy University has high-quality and affordable academic programs.

You will find one of the best environmental science degrees at Troy University. It is an interdisciplinary program that explores all kinds of environmental issues. 

Environmental Science Degree Details

Troy University offers a Master of Science in Environmental Science and Biological Sciences. This first school in our list of the best schools for environmental science is in The College of Arts and Sciences. 

This one of the top environmental science masters programs is available online. The M.S. in Environmental and Biological Sciences is a 30 semester-hour thesis option. There is also a 36 hour non-thesis option. Graduate students must complete a comprehensive examination. The program teaches graduate students how to manage conflicts. 

Applicants must hold a baccalaureate degree (a technical subject area is preferred). They should have completed foundational courses in biological sciences, general chemistry, and course statistics.

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

2. University of Illinois at Springfield

The University of Illinois-Springfield is a university in Springfield, Illinois. It first opened as the Sangamon State University in 1969. Today the University of Illinois-Springfield is one of three campuses within the world-class University of Illinois System.

UIS offers many degrees. These are relevant to both the personal and professional student success of graduate students. There are four colleges (each of which house many departments).

UIS offers over 30 bachelor’s, 20 master’s and a doctoral degree program. There are both traditional on-campus and online options. 

Environmental Science Degree Details

The University of Illinois-Springfield offers two different environmental sciences masters programs. There is both a Master of Arts in Environmental Studies and a Master of Science in Environmental Sciences. The M.S. in Environmental Sciences is designed to provide graduate students with a “strong scientific understanding of ways to study, evaluate, and interpret environmental realities and their impact, as well as to manage and mitigate environmental problems.”

The M.A. in Environmental Studies purpose is to educate graduate students in the ways to “balance social and economic needs with environmental realities.” The M.A. is available in three concentrations. It is an interdisciplinary program that explores all kinds of environmental issues. These include:

• Sustainable Development and Policy
• Environmental Planning and Management
• Environmental Humanities

See Also: 40 Fastest Online Master’s Degree Programs

3. Johns Hopkins University

Johns Hopkins University is in Baltimore, Maryland. It is a private institution of higher education. It was the first research university established in the United States. The school  is named for Johns Hopkins, a 19th century Maryland philanthropist.

Johns Hopkins University is accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education. The University offers many undergraduate, masters and doctoral programs. It has nine academic divisions to ensure student success. 

Environmental Science Degree Details

Johns Hopkins University offers an online Master of Science in Environmental Sciences and Policy. This one of the top environmental science masters programs is available through the Krieger School of Arts & Sciences. It is described as a “springboard to leadership” for environmental professionals.

It is an environmental science gradate school that explores all kinds of environmental issues. The degree  is designed by the academic leaders of Johns Hopkins’ Department of Earth and Planetary Sciences. It also incorporates feedback from experts in applied science at federal and regional agencies and institutes. It provides graduate students with an understanding of where “the sciences overlap and inform policy while providing insight into how policy is implemented and affects environmental outcomes.”

It is available online. There is one onsite class at the University’s D.C. campus. The program includes core courses including:

• Geology
• Hydrology
• Oceanography
• Meteorology
• Ecology
• Geographic information systems (GIS)
• Policymaking

This is a flexible program. Students are able to customize their academic experience through electives. These vary from core courses focused on policy to those which  emphasize scientific inquiry.

4. University of Arkansas – Fayetteville

The University of Arkansas is a public research university. It is on a picturesque campus in Fayetteville, Arkansas. It opened in 1871 . The Carnegie Foundation classifies the University as offering “the highest possible level of research.” This places it in the top 2% of all colleges and universities in the nation. The University’s ‘student-first’ philosophy helps it to stand out from the rest. It is often ranked among the top public research institutions in the country.

U of A is home to 27,000 students. They represent all 50 states and over 120 foreign nations. The University offers over 200 academic programs through its several colleges and schools.

Environmental Science Degree Details

The University of Arkansas offers an online Master of Science in Human Environmental Sciences. It is one of the best grad schools for environmental science. It is available through U of A Online. The program offers a 33-credit hour non-thesis option. This includes a comprehensive exam taken upon completion of core coursework. There is also a 30 credit-hour thesis option. It is an interdisciplinary program that explores all kinds of environmental issues. 

The M.S. in Environmental Sciences is available 100% online. It is available with concentrations in:

• Apparel Merchandising and Product Development
• Human Development and Family Sciences
• General Human Environmental Sciences

All core courses are taught by graduate faculty in Human Environmental Sciences. The  program is accredited by both the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools and the American Association of Family and Consumer Sciences.

5. University of Idaho

The University of Idaho (UI) is Idaho’s flagship and oldest public university. It opened in 1889. UI serves as the state’s primary research university. It spends more than $110 million spent in research each year. The school is a noted national leader in student-centered learning and interdisciplinary research that promotes public service.

UI also offers a variety of online learning options. These include undergraduate and graduate degrees and certificates.

Environmental Science Degree Details

The University of Idaho offers an online and traditional Master of Science in Environmental Science. This one of the best environmental science masters programs is in the College of Natural Resources. It is available with a non-thesis or thesis option. The entire  program has 30 graduate-level credits.

Regardless of the chosen option (thesis/non-thesis), students must participate in a research project. This consists of “a substantial project in which the student demonstrates the ability to do rigorous independent work.” The M.S. in Environmental Science is structured around three option areas:

• Biology science
• Physical science
• Social sciences

Students must complete a minimum of 12 credits in the thesis option. There are 15 credits in the non-thesis option in one of the three option areas. Three credits at the Master of Science level must be completed in each of the other two option areas.

6. University of Florida

The University of Florida is a public, land-, sea-, and space-grant research university. It is in Gainesville, Florida. The school is classified as a Research University with Very High Research by the Carnegie Foundation for the Advancement of Teaching. The University of Florida is home to about 5,000 faculty members. 

Environmental Science Degree Details

The University of Florida offers three of the best environmental masters programs:

• the Master of Science in Environmental Engineering Sciences
• the Master of Engineering in EE Sciences
• the Master of Science in Soil and Water Sciences with a concentration in Environmental Science

The latter program is in the Soil and Water Sciences Department’s online branch (SWS Online). The M.S. and M.Eng. are available through UF’s Herbert Wertheim College of Engineering and the Department of Electronic Delivery of Gator Engineering (UF EDGE).

The purpose of UF EDGE is to provide convenient and accessible programs and core courses to students worldwide. This is done via online delivery of all course lectures and materials. It is an interdisciplinary program that explores all kinds of environmental issues. 

All degrees and certificates earned online are held to the same high-quality standards as their on-campus counterparts. Yet there’s the added convenience of being able to participate from anywhere in the world. The M.S. in Soil and Water Sciences Environmental Science track is designed to accommodate place-bound students. Students interested in the environmental issues surrounding the soil and water quality of various locations. These include agricultural lands, rangelands, forested lands, urban lands or wetlands.

7. University of Houston – Clear Lake

The University of Houston-Clear Lake (abbreviated UHCL) is a four-year state institution. It is one of four distinct institutions within the Houston System. It is in Houston, Texas on a 524-acre campus.

It opened in 1974. Yet it was not until 2014 that the University offered freshmen- and sophomore-level classes.  Over 80 graduate and undergraduate programs exist online and in a traditional campus setting. These are through the University’s four schools:

• the College of Business
• the College of Education
• the College of Human Sciences and Humanities 
• the College of Science and Engineering

Environmental Science Degree Details

The University of Houston-Clear Lake offers an online Master of Science in Environmental Science through UHCL Online. It was created to be a diverse and affordable solution. The online  program option merges quality with convenience. It meet the unique educational needs of working professionals. This one of the best environmental graduate programs is a 36-credit-hour program. The M.S. in Environmental Science follows a comprehensive curriculum. It provides the necessary training and skills to excel as leaders and innovators in the field. It is an interdisciplinary program that explores all kinds of environmental issues. 

Dedicated students can complete the program in as little as 16 months. This requires 3 core courses per semester across the fall, spring, and summer semesters.

It is taught by distinguished faculty members. The  program is available in a general track or in an occupational safety and health track. Both options provide access to core courses in a variety of subject areas, such as:

• Environmental biology
• Chemistry
• Geology
• Industrial hygiene
• Safety
• Conservation biology
• Health and environmental issues

8. Texas A&M University

Texas A&M University is a research-intensive university. It is in College Station, Texas. The University opened in 1876 as Texas’ first institution of higher education. Texas A&M’s main campus sits on 5,200 acres. It is about 90 miles northwest of Houston. It is home to more than 67,000 students. 

Environmental Science Degree Details

Texas A&M University offers a Master of Science in Ecosystem Science and Management. This is through its Department of Ecosystem Science and Management. It focuses on ecology and natural resource management. The  program is available with a thesis option. This option is for students interested in continued research experience. There is also a non-thesis option for students interested in a professional career outside of research.

It is an interdisciplinary program that explores all kinds of environmental issues. There are specializations in four main research areas including:

• Ecosystem science
• Ecosystem management
• Genetics
• Systematic
• Evolution
• Spatial sciences.
• Conservation biology

All students work with an advisor to develop a degree plan for the coursework and research credits they will take. This is based on their unique academic needs. It is 32-36-credit-hour  program. You can complete the degree after two years of full-time work.

9. Montana State University Bozeman

You will find another one of the best graduate schools for environmental science at Montana State University Bozeman. This one of the best colleges for environmental sciences is the state’s first institution. MSU opened in 1893.

It has regional accreditation from the Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities (NWCCU). MSU offers associate, bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral degrees through its several colleges.

Environmental Science Degree Details

Montana State University offers a Master of Science in Land Resources and Environmental Sciences through its online branch, Montana State Online. This online schools is one of the best grad schools for environmental science.

This degree is a 30-credit-hour program. It is a flexible, interdisciplinary program. It adapts to meet the needs and interests of each student. Elective course options include environmental issues such as:

• Environmental risk assessment
• Biodiversity survey and monitoring methods
• Applied watershed hydrology
• Wetland ecology & management
• Chemical ecology
• Herbicide physiology
• Toxicology
• Natural and social sciences

Montana State Online’s mission is to offer every student an active, hands-on learning environment. It also seeks to provide a flexible choice for many students. All of MSU’s online core courses utilize the Brightspace learning management system. Most programs are available 100% online.

Admissions

10. Oregon State University

Oregon State University (OSU) is an international, public, research university. It is headquartered in Corvallis, Oregon. The University operates two campuses, 15 experiment stations, 35 Extension offices and offers over 200 academic programs. These are both on-site and online through its Ecampus. It draws students from all fifty states and over 100 foreign countries. OSU comprises 11 colleges.

The University’s Ecampus offers over 50 degree and certificate programs. These are  100% online. Each online course was developed by the same world-class OSU faculty who teach on-campus and online. Students can be assured that they will receive the same quality academics, transcript, and diploma as traditional students.

Environmental Science Degree Details

Oregon State University offers a Professional Science Master’s in Environmental Sciences (PMS ENSC). It is online through its Ecampus. The school is certified by the National Professional Science Master’s Association. OSU’s ENSC is unique in that it is designed to provide students with cutting-edge training in scientific disciplines.

Students can customize their degree to meet their unique interests with seven track options. These include:

• Biogeochemistry
• Ecology
• Environmental education
• Natural resources
• Quantitative analysis
• Social sciences
• Natural and social sciences
• Water resources

It is a non-thesis program. Students participate in an internship experience. This replaces the traditional graduate research project and thesis.

Admissions

11. New York Medical College

New York Medical College is a member of the Touro College and University System. It is a private biomedical health sciences university in Valhalla, New York. This school opened in 1860. New York Medical College (NYMC) has been a long-time bastion against anti-Semitism and bigotry. It is ahead of its time. Female students were admitted early, in 1863. The College’s first African-American graduate was valedictorian of the Class of 1870. 

Environmental Science Degree Details

New York Medical College offers a Master of Public Health degree. This degree has a specialization in Environmental Health Science. It is available through the University’s School of Health Science and Practice (SHSP). The  program is in a traditional classroom format and online. There is also a hybrid program where on-campus classes are mixed with online coursework. The Environmental Health Science specialization addresses issues such as:

• Air and water quality
• Solid waste
• Natural and social sciences
• Environmental studies
• Environmental and industrial toxicology

Core courses are taught by faculty members who are active practitioners and researchers. SHSP and the Environmental Health Science program have a special relationship with the Environmental Health Officers of the U.S. Public Health Service (USPHS). Students benefit by receiving personal career advice. There is also assistance with the application process for internships and assignments available through USAJOBS.

12. North Carolina State University

North Carolina State University is a leading research-extensive institution. It is in Raleigh, North Carolina. It is dedicated to “excellent teaching, the creation and application of knowledge.”

NC State is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools. It offers a total of over 300 undergraduate and graduate programs across 60-plus departments.

Environmental Science Degree Details

North Carolina State University offers two programs in the field of Environmental Science. There is the online Master (MENE) and the online Master of Environmental Assessment (EA). The MENE degree program is for students who already hold an undergraduate degree in an engineering discipline and wish to pursue a  degree. Students who do not have a bachelor’s degree in an area of engineering may still apply to the program. They may need to complete additional coursework before being accepted. Several areas of concentration are offered including:

• Air quality and air pollution prevention and control
• Groundwater hydrology
• Contamination and remediation
• Geoengineering
• Environmental exposure and risk assessment
• Solid waste management
• Environmental studies
• Water and water treatment
• Water resources

The program is designed for working professionals who are interested in pursuing graduate-level work but are not seeking a career in research. It is a 32-credit-hour program. The Master of Environmental Assessment degree is administered through the College of Natural Resources. It is affiliated with the Professional Science Master’s program. The latter is a 2-year innovative degree.

13. Villanova University

This school is in Villanova, Pennsylvania. Villanova University is a private, Roman Catholic institution. It opened by the Order of Saint Augustine in 1842. The University traces its roots back to the old Saint Augustine’s Church of Philadelphia. This opened in 1796 by Augustinian friars. It’s also linked to its parish school, Saint Augustine’s Academy. This opened in 1811. Today, the University has comprehensive education. It is rooted in the liberal arts. Villanova University has six colleges and schools.

Environmental Science Degree Details

Villanova University offers a Master of Science in Water Resources and EE (MSWREE). This is through its College of Engineering. It is 100% online. Most core courses are available online through the University’s E-Learning program. This provides additional flexibility and convenience for working professionals. Full-time students who take 2-3 classes per semester are able to complete the degree in as little as two years. Part-time students earn their degree in three years. This is by taking one course each semester. The MSWREE program has been nationally recognized for its distinguished leadership. It also has cutting-edge research and collaborative opportunities. These are available through the Villanova Center for the Advancement of Sustainability in Engineering (VCASE), the Villanova Urban Stormwater Partnership (VUSP), and the campus’s Green Infrastructure Stormwater Research Park.

14. Prescott College

Prescott College is a private liberal arts institution. The College was founded in the 1960s by Dr. Charles Franklin Parker.

Today, Prescott College describes its mission as being to “educate students of diverse ages and backgrounds to understand, thrive in, and enhance our world community and environment.”

Environmental Science Degree Details

Prescott College offers an online Master of Arts in Environmental Studies. This is through its online division. It is flexible degree option. There are minimal visits to the campus for orientation. There is also a one on-campus colloquium each semester. These limited-residency requirements are designed for the students benefit. They provide mentored studies and in-person opportunities. These connect classmates and faculty alike. Potential paths within environmental studies and sustainability include the areas of:

• Conservation science
• Environmental education
• Social ecology and social sciences
• Environmental studies
• Film studies
• Sustainability science

Students can design and customize their degree based on their interests and career goals. They will work with experts in the field. 

15. California State University – Fullerton

California State University-Fullerton (CSUF) is a leading campus of CSU. It is accredited by the Western Association of Schools and Colleges. The University offers many of undergraduate and graduate programs.

Environmental Science Degree Details

California State University-Fullerton offers an online Master of Science. This is through its College of Engineering and Computer Science. It is designed to educate and prepare future leaders to serve in environment–related fields. The program follows the cohort model.  Students progress through the 2-year curriculum as a group.

The  program equips students with both technical knowledge and practical information on a number of relevant environmental topics and issues. Examples include:

• Potable water treatment
• Wastewater treatment and disposal
• Stormwater runoff management and treatment
• Water reclamation and reuse
• Solid and hazardous waste management
• Environmental studies
• Landfill design
• Remediation of contaminated groundwater and soil
• Global warming issues
• Air pollution control engineering
• Sustainable development

Students are prepared to sit for the professional engineering exam.

16. Auburn University

Auburn University is a public research university in Auburn, Alabama. It was the first land-grant institution in the south. The University opened as the East Alabama Male College under the Morrill Act in 1872. It became co-educational in 1892. Auburn University offers over 100 degree programs through its several colleges and schools.

It is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools. Auburn University also offers several programs which may be earned 100% online. There are also some that are a blend of on-campus and online delivery methods.

Environmental Science Degree Details

Auburn University offers a distance graduate degree program in Crop, Soil and Environmental Sciences. It is available as either a Master of Science or a Master of Agriculture. Both environmental studies programs consist of 30 total credit-hours. However, the former requires the GRE. The Master of Agriculture does not. 

The distance learning program resembles the University’s on-campus program. There are options to customize the curriculum to meet each student’s individual needs and professional goals. Course options include:

• Plant & Weed Science core courses
• Soil Science core courses
• Landscape Entomology
• Food Laws and Regulations
• Analysis of Plant, Soil, and Animal Data
  
• Environmental Policy analysis
• Environmental studies
• Developing, Implementing, and Auditing Food Safety Programs
• Introductory Mycology

Auburn University also offers both the Master of Science and the Master of Agriculture in Soil, Water and Environmental Sciences. It is a 36-hour, multi-institutional, multi-disciplinary program. This environmental scientist degree is a collaboration between the University of Georgia, North Carolina State University, and Texas Tech University.

17. Kentucky State University

Kentucky State University is a public, comprehensive, historically black university in Frankfort, Kentucky. It is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools. Kentucky State offers many undergraduate and graduate programs. These are through its several colleges and schools.

The University also comprises an Honors College, Distance Education Department, The Institute of Life Long Learning, Reserve Officers Training Corps (ROTC), and Atwood Institute.

Environmental Science Degree Details

Kentucky State University offers a Master of Science in Environmental Studies. The program helps students become aware of the issues surrounding the restoration of balance between humanity and the changing environment. It is built on an understanding of the interactions between ecology, sociology, economics, and other disciplines.

The M.S. in Environmental Studies is available through the College of Agriculture, Food Science and Sustainable Systems. It “emphasizes the agricultural interface between humans and the environment.” Core course requirements include:

• Introduction to Environmental Studies
• Population and Community Ecology
• Biostatistics
• Environmental Studies
• Environmental Policy
• Energy and the Environment
• Student Team Project and Research

18. University of Illinois at Urbana – Champaign

The University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign (abbreviated U of I) is a public institution in the twin cities of Champaign and Urbana. These are in east-central Illinois. It opened in 1867. U of I has  a reputation as a world-class leader in teaching, public engagement, and research. It was named #1 among all universities according to the National Science Foundation, of whom the National Science Foundation awards funding. 

Environmental Science Degree Details

The University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign offers two online graduate programs in the area of environmental science. There is the Master of Science in Natural Resources and Environmental Sciences (NRES) and the Master of Science in Civil and Environmental Engineering. The program exists on Illinois Online. The NRES program is available through the College of Agricultural, Consumer and Environmental Sciences. The degree is available through the College of Engineering.

The latter program requires 36-credit-hours (no thesis requirements). It offers specialties in:

• Construction Management
• Infrastructure
• Transportation Engineering
• Structural Engineering

The NRES degree is a flexible program. It takes 32 credit-hours to complete. It covers the areas of:

• Natural Resources and Environmental Studies
• Agricultural Education
• Crop Sciences
• Environmental Policy
• Horticulture
• Environmental Studies
• Plant Patholog

19. Worcester Polytechnic Institute

Worcester Polytechnic Institute (WPI) is a private research university in Worcester, Massachusetts. It opened in 1865. It has 14 academic departments. WIP is accredited by the New England Association of Schools and Colleges. It offers over 50 undergraduate and graduate degree programs.

The environmental science degrees are taught by faculty members who are ranked top in the nation for quality and accessibility. WIP’s curriculum features a flexible, rigorous program.

Environmental Science Degree Details

Worcester Polytechnic Institute offers a Master of Science. It is available online. The program is designed with the unique needs of adult learners in mind. It offers a flexible curriculum that allows students to focus on their areas of interest. It is available with thesis or non-thesis options. The program may be pursued either full- or part-time.

Through WIP’s program, students are able to participate in cutting-edge research. They can also work on course projects. These provide a fuller understanding of both the professional and technical aspects of preserving the environment and protecting public health. Students gain many beneficial experiences in cutting-edge, interdisciplinary research.

20. Columbia University in the City of New York

Columbia University in the City of New York is a private, nonprofit institution. It is on West and Broadway in New York, New York. This graduate school is the oldest institution of higher learning in New York and the fifth oldest in the United States. Columbia University opened in 1754. Columbia University was the King’s College by the royal charter of King George II of England. 

Environmental Science Degree Details

Columbia University offers a Master of Science in Earth and Environmental Engineering through the Fu Foundation Graduate School of Engineering and Applied Science. It is a 30-credit-hour degree. The program is delivered online. It requires the GRE as well as a GPA of 3.0. It concentrates on the central theme of conscientious stewardship of natural resources.

The M.S. degree is designed for engineers and environmental scientists who are pursuing or already engaged in environmental management/development careers. The program’s focus is on sound mining and processing of primary materials. This is as well as the proper disposal of used materials.

21. University of Colorado Boulder

The University of Colorado Boulder (CU-Boulder) is a four-year, public, research university. It is in Boulder, Colorado. The graduate school is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission. CU-Boulder offers over 3,800 courses in 150 fields of study. It is several colleges and schools.

It is one of just 34 U.S. public research institutions to belong to the prestigious Association of American Universities (AAU). CU-Boulder is also the only member in the Rocky Mountain region to hold this membership. 

Environmental Science Degree Details

The University of Colorado Boulder offers two online master’s programs in the area of environmental studies. There is the Master of Science in Environmental Studies and the Master of Science in Environmental and Architectural Engineering. It serves as a “hub” for facilitating interdisciplinary collaboration in sustainability and environment. The  program is designed to provide interdisciplinary academic training.

At the same time, it provides guidance for students with career goals in environment and sustainability-related fields. CU-Boulder’s Civil Environmental and Architectural Engineering program is in the Graduate School’s Civil, Environmental, and Architectural Engineering Department. This focuses on producing environmental scientists engineers who are capable of “identifying, preventing, and solving building, construction and environmental problems.”  

Both Masters programs are offered with online delivery options. CU Boulder’s distance education courses are synchronous. Students can watch classes live and participate in classes from a distance.

22. Missouri University of Science and Technology

Missouri University of Science and Technology (Missouri S&T for short) is a four-year public research university. It is in Rolla, Missouri. It was one of the first technological institutions established west of the Mississippi. Missouri S&T was founded in 1870. It includes the prestigious association of the College of Arts, Sciences, and Business and the College of Engineering and Computing.

Environmental Science Degree Details

Missouri University of Science and Technology offers a Master of Science. It is a 30 credit-hour program. The degree focuses on “engineering analysis that incorporate the fundamental physical, biological and chemical characteristics of natural and engineered environmental systems, while putting these engineering solutions in the context of societal needs the requirements of environmental laws.”

It is available online through the University’s distance education department. The Master of Science degree program has no residency requirements and most classes do not require live participation. This allows students to view course material on their own schedules. Exams are handled by each environmental scientist professor. Some require a proctor. Others assign projects rather than exams. Graduate students have six years to complete the program. However, most students take 1 to 2 classes per semester and finish in 3 years.

23. University of Tennessee-Knoxville

The University of Tennessee – Knoxville is in Knoxville, TN on a 910-acre campus. The university (abbreviated UT) is a public research institution. It is Tennessee’s flagship  university. UT is a member of the University of Tennessee System. It opened in 1794 as Blount College. UT has seen countless changes and weathered many storms. UT is a Carnegie Engaged University. It is classified as a Doctoral University with the highest research activity by the Carnegie Foundation. It is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.

There are more than 900 programs (including over 360 undergraduate programs and 530+ graduate programs).

Environmental Science Degree Details

The University of Tennessee Knoxville offers a Master of Science in Environmental Engineering.  There are thesis and non-thesis options. The program requires a minimum of 30 credit hours for completion. This includes six credit hours of thesis (thesis option) or a three-hour special problems course (non-thesis).

You will also need to complete at least 24 credit hours of coursework. All non-thesis students must pass a final comprehensive written exam at the end of the  program. The  program is available with several concentration options. These include:

• Climate Impacts Engineering
• Environmental Engineering
• Water Resources Engineering
  

24. University of New Haven

The University of New Haven is a private, nonprofit, coeducational institution in West Haven, Connecticut. It opened on the Yale campus in 1920.

It is accredited by the New England Association of Schools and Colleges. New Haven offers over 100 academic programs through its several colleges and schools.

Environmental Science Degree Details

The University of New Haven offers an online Master of Science in Engineering. It is a 30-credit-hour degree. The online program builds on the rich tradition already established by its on-campus MS. It provides busy students the option to continue their education from anywhere in the world.

The online program is taught by the same world-class faculty members who teach on campus. It combines the same flexible curriculum with innovative instructional delivery methods. It is designed to create an ideal learning environment for adult learners.

The program can  be completed within 2 years of dedicated study. Each class lasts just 6-7.5 weeks in length. Each class integrates theory with real-world applications.  Many include a project in lieu of a final exam. This allows students to put into action what they learn in the classroom. 

25. Clarkson University

Clarkson University is an independent, nonprofit, technological university in Potsdam, New York.

It is accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education. Clarkson University offers many undergraduate and graduate programs.

Environmental Science Degree Details

Clarkson University offers a Master of Science in Civil & Environmental Engineering. 

The MS degree is available with both thesis and non-thesis options. The former typically takes 18-24 months to complete. It requires students to write and defend a thesis on their independent research. The latter option is a project-based program. It requires 30 credits in total. This includes all coursework and a project. This option is also available with a concentration in construction engineering management. Both  program options include interdisciplinary research. This is facilitated through the:

• Institute for a Sustainable Environment
• Center for Air Resources Engineering & Science
• Center for Advanced Materials Processing 
• Environmental Studies
• Environmental Policy
• Natural Sciences
• Cold Regions Engineering Research Group

26. Southern Methodist University

Southern Methodist University is a private, nonprofit research university in Dallas, Texas. It is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools. The University offers many undergraduate and graduate-level degree programs.

It has small class sizes, abundant research opportunities, leadership development, and innovative programs. The University’s mission is to “create, expand, and impart knowledge through teaching, research, and service.”

Environmental Science Degree Details

Southern Methodist University offers a Master of Science through the Lyle Graduate School of Engineering. The program is designed to address the fundamental science and regulatory aspects of the field. It also emphasizes engineering analysis and design of technological and management-oriented solutions to environmental problems. It is a flexible program. Students are able to enroll in either a master degree part- or maser degree full-time. Working individuals benefit by taking the non-thesis route.

This requires 30 credit hours of coursework. It is available with evening classes and online delivery options. The program accommodates the schedules of busy professionals.

Applicants must hold a Bachelor of Science in an engineering discipline or in a quantitative science. Applicants must also have completed a minimum of one year of college-level calculus. They should have completed at least one year of college-level chemistry, and possess a solid background in the fundamental engineering sciences (including thermodynamics and fluid mechanics).

27. Illinois Institute of Technology

The Illinois Institute of Technology (IIT) is a private, nonprofit, technology-focused research university. It is in Chicago, Illinois.

Environmental Science Degree Details

The Illinois Institute of Technology offers a Master of Science in Environmental Engineering. It is available through the Armour College of Engineering. Foundational courses include:

• Environmental chemistry
• Chemodynamics
• Biological science
• Natural Sciences
• Environmental Policy
• Physicochemical processes 
• Hazardous waste engineering

Students must maintain a GPA of 3.0/4.0 in the core areas. In addition to the core course requirements, students may also choose to concentrate in one of several areas of specialization. These include:

• Air Pollution Engineering
• Chemical Engineering
• Energy/Environment/Economics (E3)
• Environmental Chemistry
• Environmental Resource Management
• Hazardous Waste Engineering
• Water and Wastewater Engineering

28. American Public University

American Public University (APU) is a private institute. It is a member of the accredited American Public University system. This graduate school is a leader in online and distance-learning higher education. The University is headquartered in Charles Town, West Virginia.

The  graduate school is one of the largest providers in online higher education. APU offers over 200 degree and certificate programs. These are available in asynchronous, online formats. Classmates and professors stay connected via discussion boards, forums, blogs, and other forms of social media. Online students also have full access to APUs library, study resources, and academic advisors. 

Environmental Science Degree Details

American Public University offers a Master of Science in Environmental Policy and Management. It is a 36 credit-hour  program. The degree is online. It can be completed in as little as two years with full-time study.

The coursework equips students with the environmental management tools and strategies necessary for resolving complex environmental controversies and problems. The MS in Environmental Policy and Management has several concentration options. These help students gain further specialization in their field and include:

• Environmental Planning
• General
• Environmental Sustainability
• Global Environment Management
• Biological science
• Environmental Policy
• Natural Sciences and Social Sciences
• Fish and Wildlife Management
• National Environment Policy Act (NEPA)

29. University of Maryland – University College

The University of Maryland-University College (UMUC) is a four-year, public university. It is a member of the University System of Maryland. It is in Adelphi, Maryland. The University opened in 1949. It was the College of Special and Continuation Studies. It was a branch of the University of Maryland’s College.

It is dedicated to serving working adults and servicemembers. UMUC was the first university to send faculty overseas. This was to educate active-duty military personnel in Europe in 1949.

Environmental Science Degree Details

The University of Maryland University College offers the Master of Science degree in Environmental Management. It is available through the University’s Global Campus.

The program equips students with the necessary:

• business management skills
• industry-standard technology
• environmental science 

to assume high-level management responsibilities in many programs and organizations.

It is available 100% online. The s program requires 36 credits. Up to six of which may be transfer credits. Outcomes of the program include:

• the ability to assess threats, hazards and risks to the environment from an organization’s operations
• analyze and communicate health, safety, and environmental risks
• understand U.S. environmental and energy law and policy, including its development, implementation, and enforcement
• apply best practices in land use management, including where to build, how to build, and when to build

30. Webster University

Webster University is a private, nonprofit institution of higher education in St. Louis, Missouri. It opened in St. Louis in 1915, by the Sisters of Loretto, a Catholic religious organization. The University was first called Loretto College. It was progressive for its time as one of the first women’s colleges west of the Mississippi River. Today, Webster University is coeducational.

Environmental Science Degree Details

Webster University offers a Master of Science in Environmental Management. It is available online through the College of Arts & Sciences. The program equips students with the tools and techniques to navigate the business aspects of environmental management.

The program has an emphasis in environmental sustainability. This provides environmental managers with specialized coursework. Graduates will be able to conduct environmental research. They can:

• Communicate risk from an organization’s operations
• Assess environmental-related risk
• Identify environmental hazards affecting air, water, and soil quality
• Develop controls to reduce or eliminate risk
• Use geographic information systems (geographic information systems is often shortened to GIS)

31. Southern New Hampshire University

Southern New Hampshire University (abbreviated SNHU) is a private, nonprofit, nonsectarian university. It is in Manchester, New Hampshire. This school is one of the fastest-growing universities in the nation. It has 3,000 traditional campus students and 80,000 online students. SNHU offers 200 career-focused online and on-campus college degree programs.

Environmental Science Degree Details

Southern New Hampshire University offers an online Master of Business Administration in Sustainability & Environmental Compliance. It is designed for motivated, adult learners who are eager to make a difference in the world. The program educates students on how to apply practical solutions to the biggest environmental challenges. Graduates will demonstrate an understanding of how energy requirements affect society and the environment. They will also:

• have the ability to examine energy-related issues
• understand and address the ecological consequences of a given situation
• present accurate and cogent arguments to decision-makers that provide a diversity of perspectives

There are many benefits of enrolling in SNHU’s online courses. These include:

• top-quality academics
• solid student support
• convenience and flexibility
• abundant networking opportunities
• affordability

It is an efficient program. Full-time students are able to complete their degree in as little as 15 months. This can be done by taking two courses per 10-week term.

32. Slippery Rock University of Pennsylvania

Slippery Rock University of Pennsylvania is a comprehensive, four-year, public, coeducational university. It is in Slippery Rock, Pennsylvania. It opened in 1889 as the Slippery Rock State Normal School. Its original purpose was the training of teachers.  Slippery Rock University offers 150 undergraduate majors and minors. There are 40 master’s degree programs and 3 doctorate programs.

Environmental Science Degree Details

Slippery Rock University of Pennsylvania offers the Master of Education in Environmental Education. It is in the College of Health, Environment and Science and the Parks and Conservation Department. The program is accredited by the Council on Accreditation of Parks, Recreation, Tourism and Related Professions (COAPRT). It is geared toward working educators as well as working natural resource managers.

It is a 30-credit hour program. The degree may be completed in as little as two calendar years. It is taught by experienced university faculty. The program’s coursework focuses on the “theory, practice, and application of experiential, inquiry-based environmental education and communication.”

33. Sam Houston State University

Sam Houston State University (abbreviated SHSU) is a public university in Huntsville, Texas. It is a member of The Texas State University System. SHSU was founded as a Normal School in 1879 by the Texas Legislature. It had the original purpose of training public school teachers.  It offers over 80 bachelor’s degree programs, more than 50 master’s, and five doctoral degrees.

Environmental Science Degree Details

Sam Houston State University offers the Master of Agriculture degree with a major in Sustainable Agriculture and Food Environment (SAFE). It is in SHSU Online and the Department of Agricultural Sciences and Engineering Technology. The program focuses on sustainable agriculture and food systems. It is designed to prepare individuals for advanced studies in agriculture. This is while it is “integrating the framework of sustainable practices.”

The program curriculum covers the areas of applied knowledge of plants, animals, and soils. It blends eco-friendly practices with problem-solving skills. This is for the purpose of advocating the role of agriculture in the creation of healthy communities.

It is a 36-credit-hour program. All courses are taught by talented and credentialed professors in small classes. SHSU Online is committed to supporting students. It provides 24/7 support access. Online students can rest assured that they are earning an accredited degree from SHSU. There is nothing on their degree or transcript that indicates online learning. All of SHSU’s course credits – whether earned on campus or online – are considered equal.

Admissions

34. Colorado State University

Colorado State University is in Fort Collins, Colorado. Colorado State University is a public, doctoral, research institution. It is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

Colorado State University also has a strong online presence. This is thanks to the CSU-Global Campus. Many of the University’s internet-based programs are offered here. 

Environmental Science Degree Details

Colorado State University offers a Master of Science in Environmental Health. It has a specialization in Environmental Health & Safety. It is in the Graduate’s School’s Department of Environmental and Radiological Health Sciences. The department is home to one of the largest environmental health programs in the nation. It is the only one to incorporate radiological health into the core curriculum. The potential career paths for environmental health professionals include:

• Toxicologist
• Occupational health nurses and physicians
• Epidemiologists
• Industrial hygienists
• Air and water pollution specialists
• Sanitarians
• Natural Sciences
• Environmental Policy
• Biological science
• Hazardous and solid waste specialists
• Health educators

35. University of Wisconsin – Madison

The University of Wisconsin-Madison is a four-year, public, research institution. It is in Madison, Wisconsin. The school opened in 1848. It is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission. It offers many programs including over 250 master’s, doctoral, and professional programs.

There are over 200 undergraduate majors and certificates through its several colleges and schools.

Environmental Science Degree Details

The University of Wisconsin-Madison offers the Master of Science in Environmental Conservation. This is through the Nelson Institute for Environmental Studies. It intended to meet emerging global challenges and demands. The program was designed to offer environmental leadership training. It was created in close consultation with environmental practice leaders. It is a 15-month accelerated program.

The degree’s curriculum exists in a blended format with a mix of on-campus and remote experiences. These accommodate the busy lives of working professionals. There are on-campus classes during the summer and fall semesters (two of Wisconsin’s most beautiful seasons). During the spring all classes are able to be accessed  online from anywhere around the globe. In the fourth and final semester, students complete the Master of Science leadership project.

36. Duke University

Duke University is a private, nonprofit, research institution located in Durham, North Carolina. It opened in 1924. The University has top-quality academics, faculty members, and research. It includes several schools and institutes.

Environmental Science Degree Details

Duke University offers the Master of Environmental Management through the Nicholas School of the Environment. It is also known as the Duke Environmental Leadership Master of Environmental Management (DEL-MEM). The program offers “working professionals the opportunity to continue their education, advance their careers, and become leaders in their organizations.”

It is in an innovative, flexible, online format. The program is designed to allow students to balance the demands of both work and personal life. That’s all the while earning their master’s degree. The DEL-MEM provides students with:

• relevant curriculum in which real-life case studies are tackled
• a multidisciplinary approach which utilizes the University’s resources in environmental science, engineering, policy, and business
• courses that are taught by top-notch faculty
• opportunities for leadership development
• coursework that can be applied to the benefit of each student’s career at their organization or agency

37. University of Denver

The University of Denver is a private nonprofit institution. It is in Denver, Colorado. It is a student-centered school that emphasizes learning by doing. The University strives for the values of excellence, innovation, engagement, integrity and inclusiveness.

It is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission. The University of Denver offers a wide range of undergraduate and graduate degree programs. This is through its several colleges, schools and divisions.

Environmental Science Degree Details

The University of Denver offers the Master of Environmental Policy and Management through the University College. It is designed to equip students to solve environmental challenges presented in both local and global communities.

The program focuses on the complex relationships between the environment, management, and policy. It challenges students to become problem solvers. This is through innovative thinking, strategic analysis, and ethical leadership. There are evening classes or online. Each term lasts 10 weeks in length. There are GRE or GMAT admission requirements. Many students complete the environmental studies program in as little as 12 months with full-time study or 18 months. This is when enrolled part-time. There are a number of concentrations. Options include:

• Energy and Sustainability
• Environmental Analytics and Reporting
• Environmental Management
• Environmental Policy
• Natural Sciences
• Biological science
• Environmental, Health and Safety
• Natural Resource Management

38. Arizona State University

ASU is in the greater Phoenix metropolitan area. Arizona State University (ASU) is a top ranked public university. It is headquartered in downtown Tempe. Arizona, ASU operates several campuses and regional learning centers all across the state. It is one of the largest public universities in the country in terms of enrollment. ASU is classified by Carnegie as a research university with the “highest research activity”. It opened in 1885 by an act passed by the Arizona Territorial Legislature. ASU was first called the Territorial Normal School at Tempe. In 1945 the school became Arizona State College. In 1958 it was renamed Arizona State University.

ASU offers more than 100 undergraduate and graduate degree programs through its online platform. This platform is headquartered in Scottsdale, AZ. ASU’s online classes are taught by the same faculty. Students receive the same diploma as traditional students.

Environmental Science Degree Details

Arizona State University offers the Master of Science in Environmental and Resource Management (M.S. in ERM). This is through the Ira A. Fulton Schools of Engineering. Though categorized as campus-based, the environmental studies program’s are classes are able to be completed at a distance online. This makes it ideal for working professionals from across the country or the world. The M.S. in ERM is available with three options:

• a thesis
• an applied project
• coursework only with a comprehensive written exam administered at the end of the program

The ERM program is ideal for students coming from a wide range of undergraduate degree backgrounds, including:

• the sciences (chemistry, biology, geology, environmental science, etc)
• engineering
• industrial hygiene
• public policy

Two areas of concentration are also available. These are in either environmental management or international environmental management and sustainable development. Core classes for either focus area include:

• environmental law
• toxicology
• natural sciences
• chemistry of hazardous materials

39. University of Tennessee Martin

The University of Tennessee-Martin is one of five campuses within the University of Tennessee System. It is in Martin, Tennessee. The University is a public, coeducational institution of higher education. 

Environmental Science Degree Details

The University of Tennessee-Martin offers the Master of Science degree in Agriculture & Natural Resources. It exists in the Department of Agriculture, Geosciences, and Natural Resources. The environmental studies program is designed to “meet the growing needs of place-bound Agriculture and Natural Resources professionals.” It is 100% online. The 36-credit-hour environmental studies program is available with three concentration options in:

• Agribusiness & Risk Management
• System Science in Agriculture
• Natural Resources Systems Management.

The latter concentration includes courses related to natural resource management such as the areas of:

• wildlife biology
• park administration
• geosciences
• agricultural engineering technology

The Agribusiness & Risk Management concentration provides a range of agricultural economics coursework. It addresses risk management issues related to agribusiness enterprises. The Systems Science in Agriculture concentration features coursework in the areas of:

• agricultural engineering technology
• management science
• Environmental Policy
• agricultural economics

40. Texas Tech University

Texas Tech University is a comprehensive public research university. It is in Lubbock, Texas. It is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC).

It is listed by the Carnegie Classification of Institutions of Higher Education with the “Highest Research Activity” possible. Texas Tech is committed to both teaching and the advancement of knowledge.

Environmental Science Degree Details

Texas Tech University offers the Professional Science Master’s degree (PSM) in Environmental Sustainability and Natural Resource Management. This is through its Graduate School. It is an interdisciplinary online master’s degree. The environmental studies program’s purpose is to prepare graduates for science careers in the areas of business, government, and nonprofit sectors. It also focuses on “sustainability science as it applies to natural resources and the environment.”

The master’s degree combines the study of science with:

• practical training in management
• financial understanding
• teamwork
• communication skills
• marketing concepts that are essential for a student success in their professional career.

The environmental studies program is available in two program tracks. One is in Ecology and Environmental Sustainability. This is available through the College of Arts and Sciences and the Department of Biological Sciences. The other is in Natural Resources Management. This is available through the College of Agricultural Science and Natural Resources and the Department of Natural Resources Management.  

41. The University of Findlay

The University of Findlay is a private, coeducational, Christian institution. It is in Findlay, Ohio. It opened in 1882 by joint partnership between the city of Findley and the Churches of God, General Conference. Today the University offers science, health professions, animal science and equestrian studies programs. 

The University of Findlay offers a wide range of undergraduate and graduate degree programs. These include over 80 bachelor’s, about a dozen master’s and four doctoral degrees.

Environmental Science Degree Details

The University of Findlay offers the Master of Science in Environmental Safety and Health Management (MSESHM). It is available in a variety of formats. These include online, on-campus, or a blend of the two. The MSESHM equips students with the skills to “make managerial decisions and provide leadership in environmental, safety and occupational health careers.”

The program includes eight core curriculum courses. There are twelve semester hours of electives. The environmental science degree is also available with certificate options. These are  available in addition to or independent of the master’s degree. Options include:

• Emergency and Disaster Management
• Environmental Science Management
• Occupational Health and Safety Management

The environmental science master’s degree combines engineering, science, policy and business concepts. These are designed to prepare students in five key areas. These areas are:

• Business Knowledge in Environmental Science
• Analytical Skills in Environmental Science
• Managerial Skills in Environmental Science
• Environmental Policy
• Technical Knowledge in Environmental Science
• Integrative Skills in Environmental Science

42. Virginia Tech University

Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University (Virginia Tech) is a public university. It is in Blacksburg, Virginia. It is dedicated to serving the “Commonwealth of Virginia, the nation, and the world community.” The school is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools. It offers 110 bachelor’s degree programs and 170 master’s and doctoral degree programs. This is through its several colleges, schools, and Graduate School.

Environmental Science Degree Details

Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University offers a Masters in Agricultural and Life Science program. It is available with 100% online delivery. The environmental  program provides broad, scientific-based courses. These are in the areas of agriculture, life sciences, and related fields. It is geared towards place-bound working professionals in environmental science. The program’s online delivery provides maximum flexibility. This enables working students to earn their master’s degree while maintaining their other responsibilities from the convenience of their own home.

The environmental science program includes a set of core courses and five concentration options. These build upon the core curriculum. These concentration options include:

• Education
• Environmental Science
• Food Safety and Biosecurity
• Leadership Studies
• Environmental Policy
• Plant Science and Pest Management
• Applied Nutrition and Health Sciences

Virginia Tech is an approved SARA Institution. It is a participant in the National Council for State Authorization Reciprocity Agreements (NC-SARA). 

43. North Carolina A&T State University

North Carolina A&T State University is a public, coeducational institution. It is in Greensboro. It opened in 1890. NC A&T is home to an award-winning faculty. It offers intensive research programs. It has community-focused initiatives. It is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools. The University offers a wide range of undergraduate and graduate degrees and certificate programs. This is through its several colleges and schools.

Environmental Science Degree Details

North Carolina A&T State University offers a Master of Science in Agricultural and Environmental Systems. It has a concentration in Natural Resources and Environmental Systems. It is available through the College of Agriculture and Environmental Sciences and the Department of Natural Resources and Environmental Design.

The College is a leader in research within the University. The environmental science program provides ample opportunity for students. They gain valuable research experience while working and learning from the College’s top environmental scientists. The environmental science program’s concentration in Natural Resources and Environmental Systems is outstanding. It offers “wide-ranging areas of study to equip our graduates with the knowledge and resources to effectively develop solutions [for] current and future challenges in environmental sustainability and agricultural production.”

Applications for the environmental science program must be submitted through the University’s Graduate School. Admissions during the Fall and Spring semester are open to both domestic and international students. Summer semester admissions are only open to domestic students.

44. University of Wisconsin Stevens Point

The University of Wisconsin-Stevens Point is a four-year institution. It is in Stevens Point, Wisconsin. The school is accredited through the Higher Learning Commission. The University offers a wide range of undergraduate, master’s, and doctoral degree programs. There are also certificate options. These are  through its several colleges.

Environmental Science Degree Details
The University of Wisconsin-Stevens Point offers the Master of Science in Natural Resources through the College of Natural Resources. The environmental science program is available with an emphasis in a number of areas. These include:

• Forestry
• Wildlife
• Fisheries
• Water Resources
• Environmental Education and Interpretation
• Soil Science
• Waste Management

Special outreach and extension environmental science programs within the degree include options offered by the Wisconsin Center for Environmental Education. This provides “leadership and resources to advance education for sustainable human and natural communities.” The Center offers opportunities for:

• professional development
• hands-on classroom resources
• curriculum for energy, environmental, and forestry education

45. University of Wisconsin Whitewater

The University of Wisconsin-Whitewater is a four-year, public university. It is in Whitewater, Wisconsin.

It is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission. The University offers a wide range of programs through its several colleges and schools.

Environmental Science Degree Details

The University of Wisconsin-Whitewater offers the Master of Science in Environmental Safety and Health. It is designed for working professionals. The environmental science program is in an online format. This is both convenient and flexible for students who are busy maintaining career and personal responsibilities with their education.

The online M.S. in Environmental Safety & Health (ESH) focuses on issues such as:

• traditional regulatory compliance
• risk management
• environmental stewardship
• sustainability

The environmental science program’s curriculum is reviewed and approved by the Board of Certified Safety Professionals. It is a GSP® Qualified Academic Program.

Graduates will be able to:

• implement and manage effective ESH programs
• influence risk perception by applying appropriate communication strategies
• perform risk assessments using a systems perspective
• prepare for and develop the capability to respond to emergencies in the workplace

46. Pennsylvania State University

 Pennsylvania State University (often referred to as Penn State) is a public, research-intensive university. It is in University Park, Pennsylvania. There are 24 campus locations across Pennsylvania as well as a teaching hospital. Penn State is the largest public university in the state. It is Pennsylvania’s only land-grant institution. The University has over 23,000 acres and 1,784 buildings statewide. This includes 7,343 acres and 947 buildings at its main University Park campus.

Out of its 17,000 faculty members, 30 are members of National Academies of Science, Engineering and Medicine. Penn State offers more than 160 bachelor’s degree programs. There are over 160 graduate degree programs.

Environmental Science Degree Details

Pennsylvania State University offers the Master of Professional Studies in Renewable Energy and Sustainability Systems. This is through the Penn State World Campus, the University’s online branch. It is a 32-credit-hour online environmental science program. It is designed to provide students with technical depth. This is in areas related to renewable energy.
It also aims to equip them with a “comprehensive understanding of the applications of technology in society, the energy economics, and the project development process.”

Students are encouraged to customize their degree. They can choose an area of emphasis. Options are in either Solar Energy or Sustainability Management and Policy. The degree is available through Penn State World Campus. The environmental science program draws upon the strong partnership that exists between the University’s four colleges and eight academic departments. This gives students the opportunity to benefit from the array of unique perspectives and expertise of the University’s faculty.

47. University of Colorado-Denver

  The University of Colorado-Denver is a comprehensive, public research university. It is in downtown Denver, Colorado.

The University of Colorado-Denver is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission. It offers over 140 programs across its several locations. This is through its many colleges and schools.

Environmental Science Degree Details

The University of Colorado-Denver offers the Master of Public Administration. It has a concentration in Environmental Policy, Management, and Law (EPML). It is available through the School of Public Affairs. The EPML program is available as a stand-alone graduate certificate environmental science program. It is also a concentration option within the MPA degree. The curriculum provides students with an understanding of how the environment is affected. This is by the relationships between entities such as:

• legislatures
• administrative agencies
• courts
• federal, state, and local governments
• government and the nonprofit and private sectors
• government and the public

48. University of Wisconsin – Stout

The University of Wisconsin-Stout is a public, comprehensive, career-focused polytechnic university. It is in Menomonie, Wisconsin.

It is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission. The University of Wisconsin-Stout (UW-Stout) offers many undergraduate and graduate degree programs. This is through its several colleges and schools.

Environmental Science Degree Details

The University of Wisconsin-Stout offers the Master of Science in Sustainable Management. It is a 34-credit-hour environmental science program. The M.S. in Sustainable Management is available 100% online. It may be completed at the student’s own pace and on their own schedule. The environmental science program is designed to prepare students who are well-versed in the areas of both business and science. It equips them with the skills to communicate complex issues.

It also helps them understand the role and impact of the built environment. They learn to evaluate the social and political impact of sustainability. Graduates possess the ability to impact the design of products, processes, energy production and use. They even learn how to minimize waste and prevent pollution. Graduates possess the ability to analyze the relationship between human activity and various environments. 

It is a unique environmental science program. The M.S. in Sustainable Management is a collaboration between five partner institutions. These include UW-Stout as well as UW-Parkside, UW-River Falls, and UW-Superior.

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It doesn’t matter whether you’ve already earned a bachelor’s. Perhaps you’re just starting to think about pursuing advanced education. You probably already know that earning an MBA is a smart choice.

With an MBA, you’ll not only gain the skills necessary to succeed in business. You’ll also gain access to the professional networks you need to be a successful industry practitioner, too. 

But if you also have interests that lie in the marketing world, you might feel torn.

Should you pursue a marketing degree or an MBA?

The good news is that more schools are adding online MBAs in marketing to their list of degrees. You no longer have to choose between the two for online education. 

What is marketing?

If you choose to pursue a career in marketing, your work may take a variety of forms. All marketing professionals have one thing in common, though. You will be involved in creating value and communicating that value for a product or service. You will work to create a positive image for your client. 

As a student in a marketing program, you’ll learn how to advertise, promote, and sell various types of services and products. You’ll also gain the business chops necessary to work in a variety of settings.

That includes those in:

• finance
• accounting
• international business
• information management
• business law
• financial management
• sales management
• strategic planning
• cybersecurity management
• marketing communication
• human resource management
• managerial economics
• business ethics
• data analytics
• business research
• managerial accounting
• information technology management
• global management
• nonprofit management
• public relations society management
• sports management
• healthcare administration
• organizational leadership 

Most MBA programs prepare you for careers in just about any business related field. But an academic background can open up even more doors. Some common career paths for graduates of this online master include:

• Marketing manager
• Marketing analyst
• Marketing research analysts
• Research analysts
• Integrated marketing communications
• Business managers
• Healthcare marketing
• Media marketing managers
• Social media marketing
• Global marketing managers
• Brand management and marketing

There are countless other marketing jobs and options for marketing professionals as well. These jobs are in high demand and offer many benefits to graduate students. These benefits include significant flexibility when it comes to how they structure their careers.

Earning an online degree is a smart alternative to studying on campus. You will be able to follow and complete the same rigorous curriculum that you would complete if you were studying on campus. But you’ll also be able to access the same kinds of job opportunities that you would experience as a campus-based learner, too. 

The flexibility of online programs allow full time students and part time students alike maximum convenience. Take classes in a part time format, and you can earn a degree while continuing to work. Study full time, and you’ll complete the degree’s curriculum quicker so you can get out into the workforce.

A degree online (whether it’s a full time MBA or a part time online master’s) is identical to one earned on campus. Most universities don’t even differentiate between the two when printing your diploma! 

Online degrees offer many of the same experiences as campus-based programs, like a rigorous curriculum and access to internships, cooperative learning experiences, and other career-building opportunities. 

The benefits of earning an online degree are tenfold. You will be able to follow a self-paced schedule. You can enjoy the convenience of studying from home. Plus, an online degree is perfect for someone with other commitments that make it a challenge to get to campus.

Earning an online degree is smart for another reason. It’s often more affordable.

Online degree tuition tends to be much less expensive than an on-campus counterpart. Why are there affordable tuition rates? For one, many of the administrative costs of offering a college degree are reduced or removed.

You won’t have to worry about paying for things like transportation, room, and board. You won’t have to worry about the logistics of traveling to and from campus, either. Plus, many schools charge in state tuition or cost based on semester instead of credit hour. That means you can easily make an online program one of the most affordable options just by taking more classes at once. 

Affordable tuition rates? Check. Flexibility? Check. A degree that is consistently ranked as one of the best for giving business professionals a better understanding of the business world? Check and check.

An MBA in marketing management is one of the best ways to accelerate your progress toward a rewarding career. 

So what are you waiting for? There are many options for online programs in business management and marketing for you to consider. But there’s no time to waste!

Consider these 35 Best Affordable Online MBAs in Marketing Management and start filling out your applications today.

See Also: 10 Best Master’s in Industrial Engineering

Common Application and Admission Questions

You might feel overwhelmed by the prospect of applying to an MBA program. And that’s okay! It’s a daunting task to say the least. Even if you already went through the process of applying to a bachelor’s program, working on grad school applications is a whole new beast entirely. 

Add to that the complexity of applying to an MBA. This is different than a regular master’s degree. It’s easy to see why this process is stressful for so many students! 

Take a deep breath. You’ve got this.  

First, consider the schools you are planning to apply to. It always pays to stop by the school for a visit. Take time to talk tot he admissions office to see what kinds of admission requirements they have for their undergraduate and graduate programs. Chat with faculty, staff, and local students.

This is the best way of determining whether a program is right for you. That’s important even for working professionals who plan to study online. It will also let you get a feel for the school’s admissions requirements. 

Admission requirements will vary depending on where you choose to apply. In general, you’ll need a bachelor’s degree.

This bachelor’s degree doesn’t always have to be in a field like marketing or business. However, qualified applicants will have some related work experience in a relevant field. You will also be expected to demonstrate academic excellence in business-related topics.

Even some experience in a related field, like accounting or economics, is a good idea. You may be asked to provide approximately two years of related work experience or more. You’ll need to back this up with other requirements, like professional references and a personal goals essay. 

If you didn’t earn a bachelor’s in a field related to business, don’t panic. Most schools will still welcome your application. Certain non-business majors, like English and communications, are relevant. Even if you only have one year of experience, it can help. 

Most schools also require a minimum GPA for the bachelor’s degree. Again, this varies. Try to have a 3.0 on a 4.0 undergraduate GPA scale. You may have to submit GRE or GMAT scores (usually, a score of 600 or higher is a requirement for the GMAT). The GMAT requirement isn’t listed for all schools. Some have a GRE required while others waive testing altogether in favor of other requirements, like the personal statement essay. 

But it’s not all about the numbers or the bachelor’s degree. Many universities also like to see that you have some work experience. Again, that’s about one year to three years for most working professionals. You will likely need to submit documentation to prove this. In addition to GMAT or GRE scores, submit a:

• resume
• letters of recommendation
• personal statement

While you’re enrolled, you’ll take classes that build on the knowledge you acquired during your bachelor’s degree.

At the same time, your courses will help develop your understanding of advanced concepts. Some topics you might cover include:

• public relations
• management
• advertising
• data science and quantitative analysis
• key marketing principles
• understanding consumer behavior
• new product development
• accounting
• finance
• business marketing
• international marketing
• marketing research
• project management
• marketing communication
• strategic planning
• market analysis
• business law
• consumer science

Many programs offer unique concentrations in digital marketing and social media. Others will allow you to participate in internships to provide you with real-world learning opportunities. 

Most MBA degrees will take you one year to two years to earn.  Some are in between at around 18 months. That’s when you study on a full-time basis.

However, you may be able to pursue an accelerated degree that can save you both time and money. Or you might choose to spread out your studies over the course of several years. That way, you can manage your other life commitments. All while you are earning your MBA in marketing!

What Are the Best Marketing MBA Degrees?

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Best Affordable Online MBA in Marketing Management

#1. Liberty University

MBA in Marketing

This is a private evangelical Christian university to pay attention to! Liberty University is located in Lynchburg, VA. It is ideal for distance learners. It has one of the best online marketing MBA program options you will find.

Its campus is a suburban haven that consists of more than 7,000 acres. Yet this school is known for providing much more than just what its physical campus has to offer.

This school has 17 colleges. That includes a school of law and one of osteopathic medicine. Liberty University enrolls more than 15,000 students on campus.

However, what’s really impressive is that the school enrolls a whopping 94,000 learners on its online campus alone. Almost all of its on-campus programs are also offered online. This makes it one of the most accessible degrees for distance learners to pursue. That’s even truer if you’re looking for an online MBA in marketing!

In fact, more than 550 total programs are available. In addition to theMBA in marketing, there are 366 on campus and 289 online.

The School of Business alone has 67 master’s degrees to choose from. This school enrolls more students than any other university in the United States. Liberty University is ranked as the best online college in America by Niche. 

The MBA in marketing at Liberty University consists of 45 credit hours of study. The MBA in marketing takes most learners just two years to complete. All classes for the MBA are offered 100% online. Each takes just 8 weeks to complete.

The program is accredited by the Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs. This is a testament to its quality and affordability. If you’re a transfer student, you don’t have to worry. You can transfer in up to half of the degree total. For busy online MBA students, this is a huge benefit. It can make earning a degree easier than ever.

The curriculum of this online MBA in marketing degree is structured to support innovators, entrepreneurs, and creative thinkers. The school is an industry leader among other online MBA marketing programs. It combines ethical coursework with practical, hands-on work.

You’ll be able to study modern issues in today’s marketing culture. At the same time, you will gain an in-depth understanding of topics like:

• market research
• consumer behavior
• promotions
• advertising

You’ll also gain the skills you need to flourish in a general business environment. Courses are taught by actual practitioners. They are business professionals with real-world experience. Your studies will culminate with a capstone course. This will allow you to demonstrate your business skills in a hands-on project. You will be able to collaborate with other distance learners. 

Curious about the classes you’ll take? The list of classes varies between learners. In general, you can expect to take classes such as:

• Supply Chain Management
• Consumer Behavior
• Marketing Promotions
• Marketing Research

This online MBA in marketing has multiple start dates each year. It is one of the most convenient options you might consider as a distance learner or busy working professional. 

Liberty makes it possible for distance learners to complete their degrees in a convenient, affordable fashion. Tuition has not increased in six years. That is despite the fact that other universities have increased their rates. This school is ranked within the top 1% of more than 2,100 online universities. It offers affordability, accessibility, and academic prestige. 

#2. University of North Texas

Online MBA in Marketing

You will find another one of the best and most affordable online MBA options at the University of North Texas. This school for graduate and professional studies is a public research university in Denton, TX.

There are many online MBA programs to choose from. The University of North Texas also has campuses in Frisco as well as online. This school is known for its broad offerings in a variety of disciplines. It was founded as a private teachers’ college in 1890. But it became a state university just over a decade later and began to rapidly expand its programmatic offerings.

Today, UNT comprises 14 colleges and schools. That’s along with an early admissions math and science academy. The G. Brint Ryan College of Business is home to five academic departments. That includes Marketing, Logistics, and Operations Management. It has seven undergraduate programs. There are fourteen MBA and master’s degrees. These graduate degrees are ranked as some of the best online MBA programs in the country by U.S. News & World Report. 

The MBA in marketing at the University of North Texas is just one of many online program options. In fact, there are more than 80 online program options available. About 1,200 online courses are offered each term. You don’t have to commit to studying 100% online, either. Many of these programs include flexible learning options at the Frisco and Denton campuses. 

In addition to the MBA in marketing, the University of North Texas offers related programs. These include the MBA in marketing analytics and the MBA in organizational behavior and human resource management.

The marketing MBA consists of 12 classes for a total of 36 credit hours. There are multiple start dates each year. This program, offered by the G. Brint Ryan College of Business, is convenient.

The degree offers the breadth of a traditional MBA. That’s along with the depth of a marketing program. The curriculum will give you a conceptual business foundation along with the managerial skills you need to be successful. Both full- and part-time degrees are offered in this accelerated program.

Courses are short. Most last just five to eight weeks. You can take classes in the fall, spring, and summer semesters. There are other optional concentrations for this MBA in marketing, too. That includes those in:

• supply chain management
• supply chain analytics
• strategic management

You’ll acquire marketable skills in how to handle complex business situations. You’ll also learn how to become a valuable team player.

Core courses include:

• Accounting for Management
• Marketing Management
• Seminar in Ethics and Social Responsibility
• Retailing and Marketing Channels

You’ll become prepared for a wide variety of top managerial positions. Graduates go on to work as:

• advertising executives
• account managers
• public relations representatives

As a Texas resident, you’ll pay just $23,900 in tuition and fees. You can’t beat that kind of value.

You will need to have a minimum GPA of 3.0 on your undergraduate coursework. A background in business, marketing, statistics, computer information systems, or finance is not required. It is, however, encouraged. 

#3. University of Alabama Birmingham

Online MBA in Marketing

The University of Alabama is a regionally accredited school. It is known for its many online MBA degrees. It’s also home to some of the best affordable MBA degree programs.

There are programs of study in 13 different divisions.  The University of Alabama Birmingham offers a variety of unique degrees in rare topics. These include metallurgical engineering, anthropology, and Romance languages.

The business programs here are remarkable as well. The online MBA in marketing is offered by the Collat School of Business. The online MBA in marketing at the University of Alabama Birmingham has multiple concentrations. That includes those in:

• finance
• management information systems
• health services
• marketing

There is also a general track for students who aren’t sure what kind of path they wish to pursue. 

Regardless of the pathway you choose, you’ll find that this online MBA in marketing program will help you build your expertise. You will expand your economic and financial knowledge along with your skills in behavioral management and emotional intelligence. You can use the online MBA in marketing degree to prepare you for work in a variety of diverse fields.

The Collat School of Business is accredited by the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business. UAB is ranked by the Princeton Review as one of the Top 10 Universities in the United States for Diversity.

Graduate from this online MBA in marketing program, and you’ll be well-equipped with the skills you need for a vast array of careers. Graduates of the online MBA in marketing program have gone on to work as:

• logistics directors
• chief information officers
• marketing officers

With this online MBA in marketing program, you’ll build and hone your skills in things like:

• core business principles
• web analytics
• operations and supply chain management
• organizational management
• real estate decision analysis

You’ll build a strong professional network of accomplished peers and faculty. Finding a job upon graduation is as seamless as can be. 

You will take 36 to 39 credit hours as you complete your courses. Required course titles include:

• Economics for Managers
• Marketing Strategies
• Strategic Cost Analysis and Decision Making.

You will also complete a capstone. This will allow you to bring together everything you have learned into one comprehensive final project. 

If you’re already working, this program is perfect for you. You’ll be able to choose from multiple concentrations. Available concentrations for this online MBA in marketing align with growing sectors of the economy.

You will also be able to focus on a variety of business concepts such as:

• analytics
• leadership
• management techniques
• business insights.

You’ll be able to draw from your coursework. You can apply the concepts you’ve learned in your online MBA in marketing to your job right away.

You can complete your courses for the online MBA 100% online in as little as two years. Relevant experience is not required for this online MBA in marketing. But students who do have experience in business or marketing may be eligible for a GMAT test waiver. This can help streamline and expedite the application process. 

#4. Southern New Hampshire University

Online MBA in Marketing

Southern New Hampshire University is home to some of the best online degree programs you will find. In addition to a top general MBA, it also has an affordable MBA. The online MBA in marketing is the perfect graduate degree for graduate students interested in a degree in marketing.

This school is a private, nonprofit university located between Hooksett and Manchester, NH. It is one of the fastest-growing universities in the United States with new online programs added every day. Here, you’re sure to find an online degree that makes distance learning easy. And one that helps MBA students meet their career goals of all kind!

The MBA in marketing at Southern New Hampshire University will teach you how to maximize the market potential of businesses and brands. In this online MBA in marketing, you’ll go beyond learning how to sell a product. You will develop the skills necessary to build relationships between consumers and businesses. 

You can complete this degree in just one year. With this online MBA in marketing, you will earn valuable, career-relevant credentials. The online MBA in marketing degree is accredited by ACBSP. It is affordable, with tuition coming in at just under $19,000. That’s not per semester, but for the entire program! 

You will graduate not just with an online MBA in marketing credential. You will also have the skills and credentials you need to enhance your resume along the way. You’ll learn how to interpret and analyze data for strategic decision making. You will gain the skills necessary to create and implement plans that are sensitive to cultural, legal, ethical, and sustainability needs. 

You’ll take core classes such as:

• Optimizing Brands
• Promotion Management
• Brand Management
• Consumer Behavior and Marketing

You’ll gain real-world experience through the business core. You will take three concentration courses that each explore a different area of marketing. In total, you will take seven core classes and three concentration classes. The curriculum of this online MBA in marketing will allow you to graduate in just a year should you choose to attend full-time. 

Core business concepts are interwoven throughout the curriculum of the online MBA. You can build a toolkit of skills in a more relevant way.

Online MBA courses are flexible with no set meeting times. All materials are delivered online. You can access course resources whenever it’s most convenient for you. You’ll be able to transfer credits from previous institutions if you already started your online MBA in marketing elsewhere. You won’t have to worry about finding a job after you graduate, either.

In fact, since the school produced its first MBA class in 1974, it has welcomed more than 20,000 MBA graduates to the alumni network. You’ll be able to tap into an extensive business networking group. As a graduate of this online MBA in marketing program, you will enjoy college mentorship opportunities as you learn. 

Your instructors are a wealth of knowledge, too. They offer real-world experience that that will help you navigate the challenging business world. You can even pursue internship opportunities as part of this program!

Southern New Hampshire University has racked up hundreds of accolades over the years. It is recognized for its innovative, affordable, and rigorous programs. In fact, it’s been ranked as one of the most innovative universities by U.S. News & World Report since 2015. It was hailed in 2017 as a digital learning innovator by the Online Learning Consortium.

Ready to apply? SNHU charges no application fee for this online MBA in marketing. It requires very few materials in order to complete your application. In addition to an online application form, you will also need to submit your undergraduate transcripts. No GRE or GMAT is required for the online MBA. All admissions decisions are made on a rolling basis. 

#5. University of Nebraska at Kearney

Marketing MBA Concentration (Online MBA in Marketing)

The marketing degree program at the University of Nebraska isn’t just one of the best online MBA programs to choose from. It’s one of the best marketing degree graduate programs, period.

This state university was first known as the Nebraska State Normal School at Kearney. Now, the school is a member of the University of Nebraska System and was founded in 1905. It was first a school for teachers. The university became Kearney State College in 1963, when it began the process of adding programs in other popular areas. 

Today, the school offers a variety of campus-based undergraduate and graduate degree programs. In addition to the well-known online MBA in marketing, it has dozens of other high-quality offerings online. There are even blended programs available. The school is ranked as the best Public Regional University in the Midwest by U.S. News & World Report. It’s also received nods from the publication for its online college, too.

Enroll at the University of Nebraska at Kearney. You’ll become “Loper,” a title that alumni and current students bear with pride. You’ll have access to a variety of resources and support services as part of this online MBA in marketing. These include nonremedial tutoring, career placement services, and more. 

Class sizes in the online MBA in marketing are small and close-knit. There is an average student-to-faculty ratio of just 13:1. The vast majority of classes in the online MBA in marketing contain fewer than 20 students. This will allow you to foster close connections with your instructors and fellow classmates. There’s no better way to build your professional network than by interacting with a diverse group of peers!

The online marketing MBA at the University of Nebraska at Kearney is designed to provide learners with the decision-making, critical thinking, and leadership skills they need. In this online MBA in marketing, you will gain the skills needed to manage an organization. The online MBA in marketing is a blended program that is convenient. It offers all the flexibility of online learning. Plus there are the benefits of in-person interaction with faculty and peers.

The online MBA in marketing consists of 33 credit hours of study. There are 18 hours of core classes and 15 hours of electives. In addition to the popular online MBA in marketing, students can choose between emphasis areas in human resources and accounting. Or you can pursue a generalist pathway. If desired, the marketing MBA can be completed entirely online.

This online MBA in marketing has a curriculum accredited by the AACSB International. It is one of the best in the country. It will prepare you for a variety of in-demand careers. Graduates of this online MBA in marketing have gone on to jobs as:

• a nonprofit organization director
• a management consultant
• an entrepreneur

You will take a number of industry-relevant courses. These include:

• Principles of Accounting
• Financial Administration
• International Marketing
• Consumer Behavior

You will also complete a final capstone project. This will bring together everything you have learned so far. 

This degree isn’t just flexible. It’s also affordable. Scholarship and other financial aid opportunities are available, too. 

To apply to this degree, you will need to have a bachelor’s degree from an AACSB-accredited program. You’ll need a GPA of 3.50 or higher on a 4.0 scale. If you have three or more years of relevant work experience, you can apply with just a 3.0 GPA. In most cases, a GMAT of 480 or the equivalent GRE scores are also required. 

#6. St. Bonaventure University

Online MBA in Marketing

St. Bonaventure University is home to another one of the best online marketing MBA programs. This leader among regional universities is known for its marketing online courses. That’s as well as its general business graduate programs.

This school is located in sleepy Allegany, NY. With only 2,381 students total (including both undergraduate and graduate populations), it’s a small school. It was established by the Franciscan Brothers in 1858. 

The physical campus sits on 500 acres near Olean, NY. Most campus buildings are designed with red brick and Italianate roofs. It’s a gorgeous campus that’s close to the Allegheny Mountain range. But you don’t have to study on-campus in order to benefit from the exceptional quality of education here. The marketing courses here are some of the best, but it’s not only the business school to pay attention to. 

Today, this private university offers more than 50 academic programs, many of which are also available to distance learners who would prefer to study online. These include combined degree health care programs and award-winning journalism degrees. The business programs here are second-to-none, too.

Ready to accelerate your career and learn how to navigate the ever-changing global business environment? You may want to consider earning an accredited online MBA from St. Bonaventure University. This online MBA program will teach you how to conduct market research and apply it to strategic decision-making processes. It will also help you learn how to lead with ethics and influenza as you explore the role of management in any setting.

The School of Business at St. Bonaventure University is just one of 5% of business schools worldwide to be accredited by the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business. The marketing concentration will prepare you to explore diverse roles such as:

• director of marketing
• market research manager
• public information officer

The online MBA includes courses like:

• Quantitative Foundations of Management
• Marketing Research
• International Marketing
• Consumer Behavior

This online MBA degree can be tailored to fit your unique career goals, work experience, and educational background.

Every step of the way, you’ll receive 1:1 attention from faculty members who are laser-focused on you as an individual. You can contact faculty in the online MBA at any time. This can be done by video, telephone, or email as you move through your courses.

You’ll be able to develop your skills through:

• scenario-based projects
• videos
• readings

You’ll have access to plenty of professional development opportunities from the career center, too. 

In addition to the concentration in marketing, this program features other unique concentrations. These are perfect for students from a variety of undergraduate backgrounds. If you aren’t sold on marketing as your concentration of choice, you may want to consider pathways in:

• accounting
• finance
• business analytics

You can also choose to follow a general MBA plan of study. No matter what you choose, you’ll find that the curriculum of this online MBA in marketing helps you build your skills. You will cultivate a more interdisciplinary knowledge of business.

St. Bonaventure is ranked as one of the top Regional Universities by the U.S. News & World Report. This is a testament to its affordability, accessibility, and superior academic quality. It’s also ranked as the second-best value in education in New York State by the U.S. News & World Report. The rankings speak for themselves! 

#7. West Texas A & M University

Online MBA in Marketing

Another one of the best regional universities to consider on your search for the best online MBA programs in marketing degree options is Texas A&M University.

This school isin Canyon, TX. West Texas A&M University is a public university that is part of the Texas A&M University System. It was first established as the West Texas State Normal School. It was one of the first state-funded teacher’s colleges in the state.

Today, however, the school has much more to offer than just teacher education programs (though these are still going strong on-campus and online, too). Let’s take a look.

One of the best online MBA programs for veterans. One of the best online MBA programs overall. One of the best online MBA in marketing programs.

Based on these rankings, U.S. News & World Report knows it. And so does The Princeton Review. This is a publication that ranked West Texas A&M University’s online MBA programs within the top 25 in the country. 

You don’t have to take our word for it when it comes to this online MBA in marketing. The praise speaks for itself. The  marketing program here is one of the best in the country. The online MBA here offers a multitude of options for students who want to pursue a professional education from a top notch business school.

It offers five different specializations and is available 100% online as an asynchronous online MBA in marketing program. You can also choose to complete some courses on-campus. That’s perfect if you don’t want to complete your degree entirely online.

The online MBA is designed for full-time employed professionals. It allows for up to six years for completion. You can enjoy the perfect work-life balance. Most students find that they are able to complete their studies in just two years of work. You can take your classes throughout five semesters each year. That’s fall, winter, spring, and two summer terms. 

28-30 hours of core courses are required to complete the MBA core. Requirements include classes in:

• computer application and technology
• quantitative analysis
• accounting
• corporate finance
• economic theory
• management
• business integration
• marketing
• international business

You’ll also be required to complete a capstone course that will bring together everything you have learned into a final portfolio.

In addition to the marketing specialization, you can pursue a concentration in management, healthcare management, or computer information systems. West Texas A&M also offers an accounting concentration through the MPA program. There are economics and finance concentrations through the MFE programs. 

‘Sample classes for the marketing concentration include Marketing in the Age of Social Networks and Seminar in Evolutionary Marketing.

After completing the MBA core for this online MBA, you’ll also need to complete 37-46 hours of marketing courses for your specialization. In general, this is around nine hours of study. You will need to have a four-year bachelor’s degree from a regionally accredited university. You’ll be able to create your own personalized plan of study once you enroll.

West Texas A&M University offers one of the best programs, hands-down, for business students seeking a more research-focused education. You’ll have access to some of the best marketing and business minds in the industry. That’s along with all kinds of research facilities and centers for innovation. The school regularly teams up with other institutions to conduct innovative work, such as:

• the Alternative Energy Institute
• the Cooperative Research, Education, and Extension Team

#8. University of South Dakota

Master of Business Administration – Marketing specialization (Online MBA in Marketing)

You’ll find another one of the best online marketing MBA programs at the University of South Dakota.

This school was created by the Dakota Territory legislature in 1862, the University of South Dakota is a public research university that was created decades before the state even existed! It’s the flagship university for the state of South Dakota and, as you might imagine, the oldest public university in the state, too. 

It’s located in Vermillion, SD, just 63 miles from Sioux Falls and just north of the Missouri River. Home to the state’s only law and medical schools, the campus offers a variety of other unique features to learners, too. For example, it’s home to the National Music Museum and has graduated more than a dozen Truman Scholars.

If you’re interested in earning a business degree but don’t want to leave your current place of employment, the University of South Dakota has something for you, too. 

With the marketing specialization at the University of South Dakota, you’ll learn the skills you need to be successful in a variety of marketing areas. You’ll gain in-depth skills in things like:

• branding
• new product development
• consumer behavior

Your core MBA courses will prepare you for leadership in any business role. The marketing specialization in the online MBA will help you cultivate the skills necessary for a more focused career path. 

You’ll complete 36 to 54 credit hours of study for this pathway. The degree is offered by the Beacom School of Business. It was established in 1927. The school has been accredited by AACSB International since 1949. The business school prepares leaders for industry, business, and government. It encourages those who have an interest in teaching as well as those who wish to enter right into the workforce. 

Marketing isn’t the only specialization offered, either. You can also pursue pathways in:

• business analytics
• finance
• health services administration
• operations and supply chain management

The school is top ranked by publications like Forbes, Washington Monthly, U.S. News & World Report, and The Wall Street Journal.

With the marketing specialization, you’ll take core classes in subjects like:

• Managerial Marketing
• Strategic Management
• Leadership Development
• Supply Chain Management

There’s a fast-track option available if you don’t yet have a bachelor’s, either. The fast-track option will allow you to complete both a Bachelor and a Master of Business Administration. It takes just five years to complete the two degrees at the same time.

Your opportunities to learn will extend far beyond the classroom (online and on-campus) here, too. The University of South Dakota has more than 170 student organizations. That includes fraternities, concert-hosting organizations, clubs, professional development activities, and more.

There are even opportunities for students to join different media outlets! You will find plenty of opportunities to build your professional network, gain experience, and have a little fun. Yes, even when studying online.

To apply to this program, you’ll need to have an undergraduate degree from an accredited university. Official transcripts are required. You’ll also need letters of recommendation and a statement of purpose. 

#9. Montclair State University

Online MBA in Digital Marketing

Still looking for the best and most affordable online MBA in marketing? Look no further than Montclair State University.

This is a public research university located in Montclair, NJ.

Montclair State University is the second-largest university in the state. In addition to the online MBA in marketing, there are more than 300 majors for you to choose from. These programs are supported by faculty who work hard to make sure students are granted plenty of opportunities for hands-on work experience. This comes in the form of internships, cooperative education, and research.

The online MBA at Montclair State University is offered by the Feliciano School of Business. 

The online MBA offers concentrations in:

• business analytics
• human resources management
• project management
• marketing
• digital marketing

The marketing concentration is one of the most popular specializations here. But the digital marketing concentration is a new offering. This unique online MBA in marketing degree prepares learners for in-demand careers in the ever-expanding digital marketing industry. 

Through this online MBA in marketing program, you’ll be able to combine your passion for creativity with your business acumen. This will help you succeed in the fast-paced digital advertising world. The online MBA in marketing degree is accredited by AACSB International. This is a recognition shared by fewer than 5% of business schools worldwide. Digital marketing is an in-demand discipline. The demand is expected to rise by 38% in the next year alone.

If your grades weren’t quite up to snuff prior to beginning your coursework in this program, don’t worry. If you did not earn a B- or higher in accounting, finance, or statistics, you can complete online foundation modules in these topics to get you caught up to where you need to be. 

Otherwise, you’ll begin by taking MBA fixed core courses like:

• Managerial Economics
• Corporate Financial Decision Making
• Achieving Competitive Advantage
• Business Growth Strategy.
• Then, you will move on to concentration courses like:
• Omni-Channel Retailing
• Digital Marketing Strategy and RODMI (Return on Digital Marketing Investment)
• Digital Customer Experience Management

A total of 36 to 39 credit hours are required for degree completion. 

Before you graduate, you’ll complete a practicum in e-commerce as well. This practicum will provide you with the practical understanding of how the Internet influences the way business is conducted. You’ll address a major digital marketing issue, like online market research. Then you will work to build an effective web presence that works around and solves that issue.

This online MBA in marketing degree is also available as a 12-month, 17-month, and mentorship-accelerated program. If you aren’t sold on the idea of studying online, that’s okay! Montclair State also offers on-campus hybrid Saturday, weeknight, and dual degree MBA programs too. The options for advancing your career are endless. 

You can even expand your career opportunities by pursuing a variety of certificate programs. Montclair offers certificate programs in things like:

• human resources management
• professional accounting
• project management
• digital marketing
• business analytics
• forensic accounting

The degree is one of the most affordable among AACSB-accredited business schools, particularly in the state of New Jersey. There are six start dates each year. The degree is well-suited for busy working professionals seeking more flexible and convenient offerings. 

#10. Saint Leo University

Marketing MBA Concentration (Online MBA in Marketing)

Last but not least on our list of the best online MBA in marketing degrees is Saint Leo University.

Saint Leo University is a Roman Catholic university in St. Leo, FL. It opened in 1889. The private school is affiliated with the Holy Name Monastery and the Saint Leo Abbey. It was the first Roman Catholic college in the state. The school is now one of the five largest Catholic Colleges in the country. It’s also home to one of the best online MBA in marketing degrees. 

It was one of the first schools in the nation to offer distance learning opportunities. These efforts began long before the Internet. The school educated military members in 1973 during the Vietnam War. Today, the school offers more than 40 majors for students to choose from. These degrees are at the associate, baccalaureate, master’s, doctoral, and certificate level.

Saint Leo University’s College of Business offers a dynamic online marketing MBA that is perfect for students who are working full-time. It’s also a great online MBA in marketing for those who wish to pursue careers in marketing-related fields like:

• promotions
• sales
• marketing research
• e-marketing
• brand management

You’ll gain a broad foundational knowledge in the analytical technologies and tools you need to solve complex management problems. In this online MBA in marketing, you’ll also emphasize core leadership skills.

The online MBA is accredited by the Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs. It includes core classes that address topics like:

• the business implications of the new economy
• teamwork
• oral and written business communication

You’ll take just two courses during every eight-week term for this online MBA in marketing. You can complete the 36 credits needed for graduation in just a year. Or you can extend your studies for up to five years. You aren’t limited to just the marketing concentration, either. With this online MBA in marketing, you can pursue two separate concentrations. You can start your courses during any one of the six terms each year.

You will take core classes like:

• Brand Management
• Marketing Research
• E-Marketing
• Strategic Management

A total of 33 to 36 credit hours are required. The online MBA in marketing has an optional internship toward the end of your degree. The internship is often done as a paid experience. This will allow you to practice master’s-level business skills in a real-world setting. 

This degree is high-quality, but it’s also affordable. Saint Leo offers an impressive MBA Online Academic Achievement Scholarship to online MBA in marketing students. This can provide a savings of up to $6,000 over the course of your program. 

This school is top-ranked by a variety of publications. That includes U.S. News & World Report. It’s considered one of the Best Regional Universities in the South. It’s also a Best Value University. Military Times has also ranked Saint Leo as one of the Best for Vets: Colleges.

To apply, you will need to submit an online application. Provide official transcripts showing a GPA of a 3.0 or higher. If your GPA is lower than a 3.0, you can use a minimum GMAT score of 500 to fulfill the rest of your eligibility requirements.

You’ll also need to submit:

• a resume with two or more years of professional work experience
• two professional recommendations
• a statement of professional goals

OTHER ONLINE MBA IN MARKETING PROGRAMS 

#11. University of Saint Mary

Location: Leavenworth, KS

Degree: MBA in Marketing and Advertising

Net Price: $11,340

Website

#12. Lamar University

Location: Beaumont, TX

Degree: MBA in Marketing

Net Price: $8,174

Website

#13. Villanova University

Location: Villanova, PA

Degree: MBA in Marketing Specialization

Net Price: $19,005

Website

#14. Messiah College

Location: Mechanicsburg, PA

Degree: MBA in Digital Marketing

Net Price: $12,060

Website

#15. Southeastern Oklahoma State University

Location: Durant, OK

Degree: MBA with a Concentration in Marketing

Net Price: $5,022

Website

#16. Maryville University of Saint Louis

Location: St. Louis, MO

Degree: Master of Business Administration in Marketing

Net Price: $15,646

Website

#17. University of Massachusetts

Location: Amherst, MA

Degree: MBA in Marketing

Net Price: $15,782

Website

#18. Wichita State University

Location: Wichita, KS

Degree: MBA in Marketing

Net Price: $6,904

Website

#19. Florida Atlantic University

Location: Boca Raton, FL

Degree: MBA Marketing Concentration

Net Price: $6,657

Website

#20. Northwest Missouri State University

Location: Maryville, MO

Degree: MBA in Marketing Online

Net Price: $6,618

Website

#21. Nova Southeastern University

Location: Fort Lauderdale, FL 

Degree: M.B.A. With A Major In Marketing

Net Price: $20,620

Website

#22. University of Kansas

Location: Lawrence,  KS

Degree: MBA in Marketing

Net Price:  $11,027

Website

#23. Tennessee Tech University

Location: Cookeville, TN  

Degree: Master of Business Administration (MBA) in Marketing

Net Price: $11,283

Website

#24. Brenau University

Location: Gainesville, GA

Degree: MBA with concentrations in management

Net Price: $12,910

Website

#25. University of Texas at Tyler

Location: Tyler, TX

Degree: MBA with a Concentration in Marketing

Net Price: $7,126

Website

#26. Colorado State University

Location: Fort Collins, CO

Degree: MBA in Marketing Data Analytics

Net Price: $6,970

Website

#27. University of Colorado

Location: Denver, CO

Degree: Master of Business Administration (MBA) in Marketing

Net Price: $13,246

Website

#28. New England College

Location: Henniker, NH

Degree: MBA in Digital Marketing

Net Price: $18,570

Website

#29. Tiffin University

Location: Tiffin, OH

Degree: Master of Business Administration in Marketing

Net Price: $13,000

Website

#30. Walsh University

Location: North Canton, OH

Degree: MBA in Marketing

Net Price: $12,610

Website

#31. University of Redlands

Location: Redlands, CA

Degree: MBA in Marketing

Net Price: $21,552

Website

#32. Dominican University

Location: River Forest, IL

Degree: Master of Business Administration (MBA) in Marketing

Net Price: $20,660

Website

#33. Webster University

Location: Webster Groves, MO

Degree: Master of Business Administration (MBA) in Marketing

Net Price: $13,500

Website

#34. Dallas Baptist University

Location: Dallas, TX

Degree: MBA with a Concentration in Marketing

Net Price: $18,262

Website

#35. Notre Dame de Namur University

Location: Belmont, CA

Degree: MBA with a Concentration in Marketing

Net Price: $16,696

Website

IF YOU ENJOYED THAT THEN CHECK OUT OUR ARTICLES ON THE 40 FASTEST ONLINE MASTER’S DEGREE PROGRAMS  & 50 MOST POPULAR ONLINE MASTER’S DEGREES!

Let’s face it—technological growth is not something that is slowing down any time soon. In fact, as organizations continue to grow, so, too, do their demands for technology, data, and information security. 

Companies large and small are constantly on the lookout for capable, knowledgeable IT professionals. Technology is everywhere, and businesses need people who can not only understand it, but can also create and fix it in a pinch. While computer skills and a bit of technical savvy are often enough to land you a job, having strong leadership skills is a great way to skyrocket your career as you take things to the next level.

If a career in management sounds appealing to you, then earning an MBA in information systems is the way to go. When you pursue a career in the information systems industry, you’ll be able to be involved in the software, technology, and data industries that you love so much—yet you’ll also be able to apply these to the business world.

An MBA in information systems will provide you with the technical skills and knowledge you need to support your professional goals and aspirations in practically any field. You’ll learn the hard skills and gain the aptitudes with numbers and digital innovations that you need to be a successful leader. 

When you choose a concentration in information systems, you’ll be able to manage and analyze data and to lead a team in any setting. Although an undergraduate degree in business or information systems is a great place to start when you’re pursuing an entry-level job, only a master’s degree will help you take your career to the next level. In fact, earning a master’s degree is a great way to get your resume to the top of the pile.

That’s not to say that it’s always going to be easy. Many students are deterred from the idea of going back to school, assuming (incorrectly, of course) that they can’t afford it, they don’t have time to earn a degree, or that they would have to sacrifice their current careers or other life commitments in order to complete their coursework.

With the rise of distance learning, that is no longer the case. More students than ever are choosing to earn their degrees online, and with so many wonderful programs to choose from—many of which are identical to their on-campus counterparts—why wouldn’t you choose to study online?

You can keep your current job, stay committed to your other personal and professional obligations, and benefit from the same on-the-job training and hands-on coursework that you would access while learning on-campus. Online programs, particularly today’s best online MBAs, are taught by the same talented, attentive instructors who teach on campus and offer learners enriching experiences like internships, practicum placements, and other hands-on activities. Needless to say, you won’t just be staring mindlessly at a computer screen the entire time you’re working on your degree!

So what are you waiting for? If you’re thinking about a leadership career in information technology, you may want to consider one of the 25 Best Affordable Online MBA in Information Systems degrees. 

See Also: Best Master’s in Management Information Systems (MIS)

Common Application and Admission Questions

Before you think about applying to graduate school, you need to decide on a program. You’ve come to the right place! We’ll tell you all about the best affordable online MBA in information systems so that you can find the right degree for your needs and preferences. An online program is a smart choice, particularly if you’re unsure about how much work you want to take on all at once.

Online degrees offer unparalleled flexibility, allowing you to study from home while continuing to remain committed to your other personal and professional obligations. You can study at your own pace, taking classes either full-or part-time. Decide what kind of schedule you would like to commit to before you submit your application—that way, you’ll know which programs are best suited to your unique lifestyle.

It’s also important that you think about narrowing down your search as much as possible. While it might be tempting to apply to dozens of schools at once, this is not a great idea—for several reasons. Not only will it get expensive in a hurry (those application fees add up!) but it will also take up too much of your time. You may be drawing important attention away from your top schools’ applications to work on applications for schools that don’t matter that much to you.

Narrow your list of choices down to three or four schools. That way, you’ll have plenty of options to choose from if your top pick chooses not to accept you, but you won’t suffer from “decision fatigue” when the offers start rolling in, either. 

Finding the right program is only half the battle—now it’s time to work on that application!

Applying to graduate school can be daunting, particularly if it’s your first time (and we’re guessing that it is!). Fortunately, there’s one easy way to streamline the process, and that’s to get in touch with the admissions department at the school at which you intend to apply. Your counselor there will provide you with the best and most accurate information about what’s required from you each step of the way. 

Each school differs in terms of what is required for the application process. However, most of the time, you’ll be required to submit a detailed online application and pay a minor application fee. 

You will also need to prepare your transcripts. An undergraduate degree from an accredited university is required for most MBA programs. Sometimes, schools request that MBA applicants have undergraduate degrees in business or a related field. In other cases, you may be able to get by with a degree of any major, provided that you take a few prerequisite courses when you begin your graduate studies. 

A high GPA often is not required, but you’ll want to check in with your school of choice before you send off those final grades. The most competitive graduate programs require a GPA that ranges between 3.5 and 3.7. Sometimes a higher GPA will mean that you can forego sending GMAT or GRE test scores, while a lower GPA may still get you accepted with additional prerequisite classes required as a condition of your acceptance.

Don’t panic if your GPA isn’t quite up to par. Often, you can offset a less-than-perfect average with things like letters of recommendation, work experience, or a killer personal essay.

Related: Best Online MBA in Information Systems

What About Financial Aid & Scholarships?

Paying for college isn’t cheap. Unfortunately, cashing in all that change from your piggy bank probably isn’t going to cut it when those tuition bills come due. Therefore, you’re going to want to think about other ways you can finance your graduate education.

The good news is that an MBA, more often than not, will pay for itself. You’ll get a great return on your investment with one of these degrees, particularly if you take the time to explore additional opportunities to enhance your learning while you are enrolled in school (such as work-study, graduate assistantships, internships, study abroad, and extracurricular activities and clubs). 

However, even if you’re earning a six-figure salary upon graduation, you still need to find a way to bankroll your tuition in the meantime. It can take up to four years to earn an MBA in information systems, or sometimes even longer if you only want to take a class or two at a time. 

Fortunately, all of the programs in our list of the best affordable online MBA in information systems degrees are incredibly affordable. They offer low tuition rates as well as substantial financial aid and other savings opportunities. 

The first place to start when you’re looking at ways to lower the cost of a college degree is to consider the overall cost of the school. What is the tuition rate? Are there additional fees incurred for online learning? Are discounts available if you study full-time or at an accelerated rate? Talk to your school’s financial aid department to get more information on what your program costs. 

Remember that public schools aren’t always cheaper than private schools, either. In fact, although public schools (particularly those that are located in your state of residence) offer lower tuition rates at face value, private schools are often able to offer significant financial aid opportunities to offset the higher tuition costs. It might seem like a school is more expensive, but upon further research, a private school is actually the cheaper alternative.

After you consider the “sticker price,” or the amount you’re expected to pay, it’s time to consider the financial aid opportunities that might be available to you. Take the time to research any and all opportunities out there—leave no stone unturned! 

Your first step is to submit the FAFSA, or the Free Application for Federal Student Aid. This can be completed as early as January 1 of the year in which you plan to attend school. This form will require you to input information from your tax returns, W2s, and other financial documents. It uses this information to determine your eligibility for federal and state financial aid. 

Although students with the highest demonstrated financial need will receive the most financial aid, you shouldn’t be deterred from filling out the FAFSA if your financial need is on the lower side. Many schools use the information provided in and by the FAFSA to determine your eligibility for aid like grants, scholarships, and assistantships. Often, you may qualify for lower interest rate student loans, too. 

And let’s not forget that outside aid! You might be eligible for institutional scholarships as well as those from third-party organizations and businesses. Your own employer might be willing to pay part (or all) of the cost of your college attendance in exchange for a commitment of several years’ work. Again, make sure you research any and all opportunities before you seal the deal.

How Much Can I Make With an MBA in Information Systems? 

An MBA, or a Master of Business Administration, is one of the most diverse and versatile degrees you can earn. After all, a career in business is remarkably versatile. You could work in a setting like human resources or logistics, or you could own and operate your own small business, too.

When you earn an MBA in information systems, your options might be a bit more limited, but they’ll also be more specialized. With that specialization comes the potential to earn a much higher salary. After all, there are fewer professionals out there who have the skills to do just what you do. 

Because of this, you will likely be paid a respectable salary. Data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics proves that wages for business-related professions are much higher than those, on average, for other workers. Although you might log more hours on the job, you’ll be rewarded handsomely for your time and effort.

When you’re first starting out with an undergraduate degree only under your belt, your salary might not be as high as you’d expect. However, as you gain both experience and education (both of which an MBA can provide), your wages will increase dramatically. In fact, the average wage for management careers is around $81,320, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. 

Diversifying your education is the best way to expand your pay. You’ll want to study a range of nonbusiness subjects as well as those in information technology or computer science. This will give you a level of professionalism that can really enhance your career prospects (and your pay). 

In fact, computer and information systems managers earned an average salary of $146,360 per year in 2019, according to data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics. That’s a whopping $70.37 per hour! While a bachelor’s degree is all that’s required to enter into one of these careers, you’ll earn a much higher salary when you gain more experience. 

Some more great news? You won’t face stiff competition when it comes to applying for a job, either—especially if you take the time and spend the money to earn a graduate degree or MBA. in fact, these jobs are expected to grow an impressive 10% by 2029, which is double the national average. This excellent job outlook is fueled in part by the fact that demand is increasing for skilled computer and information systems managers as companies expand their operations to digital settings. 

As a computer and information systems manager, you’ll be responsible for implementing these changes and goals. More jobs are also expected to be created as companies recognize the need to improve cybersecurity and to prevent the likelihood of cybercrime and similar threats. 

Needless to say, if you’re looking for a job that is well-paying and easy to find, you’ll have few better options than by earning an MBA in information systems. 

What Are the Best MBA in Information Systems Degrees?

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

#1. The University of Texas at Dallas

MBA in Management Information Systems

As a public research university with more than 140 different degree programs across eight separate schools, the University of Texas at Dallas is a top contender as you search for the best affordable online MBA in information systems degrees. This program is identical to the one offered on-campus, and you can even choose to take a few of your courses on campus if you so choose.

This program is offered by the Naveen Jindal School of Management. Here, you will find a wide variety of degree options that are geared specifically toward working adults as well as traditional full-time graduate students. Each program stresses the theory and use of applied sciences behind management and administration while also offering learners the opportunity to gain hands-on, integrated experience when it comes to the analytical tools required for effective management. 

The program consists of 36 credit hours of study, which are divided evenly between elective and core courses. You’ll be able to choose from multiple courses such as applied machine learning, agile project management, big data, and even accounting information systems and configuration. 

The management information systems concentration is not the only concentration option for students to choose from. In fact, this MBA comes with specializations such as product lifecycle and supply chain management, project management, and healthcare leadership and management, too. Regardless of your concentration choice, you’ll complete the same core prerequisites and many of the same business courses before moving on to your specialization in management information systems. 

Best yet, with this program, you’ll be able to study at your own pace. There is a full-time, evening, and flex program available so that you can access coursework whenever it’s most convenient for you. Of course, the online option is one of the most flexible. 

One of the most impressive features of this program is its information systems internship. With this internship, you’ll be able to gain extensive experience and to improve your skillset through work assignments in real-life business environments, and you’ll be required to identify and submit your own learning objectives and then complete a paper, poster presentation, or oral presentation reflecting on your experience at the end of the internship. 

Although the GMAT or GRE are required for admission, you can receive a waiver if you earned a minimum GPA of 3.6 in an undergraduate business program that is accredited by the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business.

As you might expect, this program is also one of the most affordable. The University of Texas at Dallas offers a consolidated tuition rate which is capped at 12 semester hours for all students. Your rate will cover all program costs, including tuition, fees, and even incidental fees. Depending on your residency status, you’ll pay an average of $1723 per credit hour. 

Extensive financial aid is available to help make this program more affordable, too. Depending on your circumstances, you may be eligible for scholarships, grants, work-study, and a variety of student loan options.

#2. New Jersey Institute of Technology

MBA MIS Concentration

Located in Newark, NJ, the New Jersey Institute of Technology has an online MBA with a management information systems concentration that is not only accredited by the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business but is also one of the most affordable in the country.

The university has a long history of success and prestige, first opening its doors in 1881 as the Newark Technical School. Its campus is impressive, home to roughly 50 different education centers, research facilities, and laboratories. In fact, the school houses more than 120 different business incubators where countless breakthroughs in business-related research and development have been conducted. 

The MBA in information systems is also one of the most popular at the university. Its unique design makes it suitable for any industry professional interested in pursuing leadership roles, either as MIS managers, CIOs, or in some other similar position. A nationally ranked degree, the program is regarded as one of the best online MBA degrees by U.S. News & World Report. 

This should come as no surprise, since the New Jersey Institute of Technology is regarded as a Top Public School and Best National University as a whole by this ranking affiliate, too. You’ll enjoy a small student-to-faculty ratio of just 18:1, meaning you’ll be learning from instructors who know you by name and are truly committed to helping you succeed. 

A 48-credit hour program, the degree is split into 16 courses with most classes costing just over $3,000 a piece. The school’s low tuition is just one reason (combined with phenomenal career placement services) that the student loan default rate at New Jersey Institute of Technology is one of the lowest in the country.

Management information systems is not the only concentration to choose from when you apply to this program, either. Other options include finance, healthcare management, marketing, and innovation and entrepreneurship. If you’re motivated to succeed and have a unique vision of where you’d like to take your studies, you might even consider building a custom concentration. The custom concentration allows you to design and determine your own career path by working closely with an academic advisor to select the right courses for your goals. 

The degree has a global perspective and prepares students for the challenges and benefits of working in a global society. You will learn how to manage uncertainty and change and will engage in real-time studies that will give you hands-on access to the latest business intelligence software and management techniques. 

You can take two classes per semester, with the entire degree taking most students just eight semesters to complete (each class is 15 weeks in duration). Core courses you will take include Information Systems Strategy, Knowledge Management, Data Mining and Analysis, Decision Support Systems for Managers, and Corporate Governance and Strategic Management. 

#3. East Carolina University

MBA in Management Information Systems

East Carolina is a large school located in Greenville, NC. Home to more than 29,000 students at the undergraduate, doctoral, and graduate level, this four-year public university is segmented into a dozen different schools and colleges. 

The university first opened its doors in 1907, when the General Assembly passed an act to establish a normal school in the eastern part of North Carolina. Originally founded to educate teachers, the school now offers dozens of majors and minors to students who aspire to work in all kinds of industries. 

A 33-credit hour program, this degree is also incredibly affordable. You’ll pay just over $1100 to take three credit hours of coursework, a tuition rate that’s easily one of the most affordable in the nation. You’ll take core courses such as Topics in Management Information Systems, Web Application Development for Business, Information Systems Analysis and Design, and Telecommunications and Networked Systems. 

East Carolina University is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, Commission on Colleges, but its business programs are accredited through the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business. In fact, it has been AACSB-accredited since 1967. Not only was it one of the first schools and programs to receive such an accreditation, but it is one of just 5% of all business schools in the world to receive such a designation. 

It has an unparalleled student-to-faculty ratio of just 18:1, meaning you’ll get to know your instructors on a more personal level as you pursue your degree. Not only that, but when you enroll at East Carolina University, even studying online on a part-time basis, you’ll become part of PirateNation, which will enable you to connect with a large, close-knit network of accomplished alumni and friends. 

A highly affordable program, the MBA consistently is ranked as a best buy for online education. With a number of course waivers available, the program has low tuition that is particularly low for residents of North Carolina. In fact, many students will complete their degrees for less than $15,000. There are more than $300,000 in graduate scholarships awarded each year along with more than $550,000 in graduate assistantships, too. 

You can pursue this degree entirely online, entirely on-campus, or as a hybrid of the two delivery methods. The course requirements and course structures will be identical regardless of the option you select. There is no residency requirement either, meaning you’ll be able to complete each and every one of your courses from the comfort of your own home. 

Perfect for undergraduates who majored in business as well as those who did not, this degree is entirely self-contained and has no prerequisite business coursework or experience. As a result, you’ll find that you’re able to interact with a diverse cohort of fellow classmates to enrich your learning here. 

To apply, you will need to complete a general application form and submit an application fee of $70. You will also need to submit GMAT or GRE scores, official transcripts, and a current resume. 

#4. University of Colorado Denver

MBA – Management Information Systems

When it comes to pursuing a career in business, one of the best ways to enhance your career prospects is to network with the people who understand the industry best. At the University of Colorado Denver, you’ll find the largest MBA program in the state. The benefit of this? The school’s large network keeps current students and recent graduates in touch with a strong network of internship and career possibilities. 

The MBA in management information systems is a 48-credit hour program that is offered by the business school at the University of Colorado – Denver. There are numerous specializations available in addition to the management information systems option. You’ll be able to choose from 15 credit hours of electives as you take 30 hours of core curriculum and three hours of international business courses.

The program offers you the flexibility you need to explore your interests while also giving you a solid business foundation that is applicable to practically any discipline or industry. The program offers the prestige that you would expect with accreditation by the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business but with the affordability of a less prestigious school. You’ll learn from the same internationally-recognized faculty members who teach on campus—and your degree will look no different from the one you would receive on campus, too. 

Curious about the topics you will study? Some of the most common courses include Information Systems Management and Strategy, Business Intelligence and Analytics, Marketing Management, and New Venture Operations and Project Management. 

The affordable online management information systems degree at the University of Colorado Denver is the largest of its kind in the state of Colorado. That’s unsurprising, given that the school is also regarded as the largest research institute of higher learning in the state. It receives more than $375 million in research grants every year, on average. 

This four-year public research university offers a wealth of degree choices at the undergraduate, graduate, and doctoral level. You can take all of your courses online as you complete your degree, or you can choose to take some classes on campus. The university has two—one is located in downtown Denver and the other is about ten miles away in Aurora, on the Anschutz Medical Campus. 

This MBA degree, which comes with the option for numerous other specializations, is nationally accredited and supported by the school’s many other credible recognitions and rankings. U.S. News & World Report repeatedly lists the University of Colorado Denver among its top schools—most notably, it is regarded as a Best College for Veterans, a Top Public School, and a provider of the Best MBA Programs in the U.S., too. 

This university also has a reputation for being one of the country’s most diverse. More than half of its freshman class, in fact, is composed of students of color. With this program, you’ll be able to choose from a dozen different career-focused areas of interest and learn from a cohort of peers who will share their diverse backgrounds and experiences to enhance your experience, too. 

#5. University of Maryland-College Park

MBA with Information Systems Concentration

Just four miles northeast of the nation’s capital is the 400-acre campus of the University of Maryland, College Park. This school is home to a variety of breathtaking features, including the large urban forest (home to the famous Paint Branch Trail and the Paint Brush stream). 

It first opened its doors in 1856 as the Maryland Agricultural College. This close-knit school enrolled just 34 students at first, all of whom studied on-campus beginning in October of 1859. Now, the school is much larger, home to nearly 40,000 students at the undergraduate, graduate, and doctoral levels. 

A four-year public university, the University of Maryland-College Park is well-ranked by U.S. News & World Report. It’s regarded as one of the best schools in the nation by U.S. News & World Report, while Kiplinger’s Personal Finance has recognized the school as a best value for in-state students, too. 

The Robert H. Smith School of Business at the University of Maryland-College Park offers a superior online Master of Business Administration with an information systems and business analytics concentration. Offered entirely online, the degree has been ranked as one of the best online programs in the country by U.S. News & World Report for several years in a row.

This degree can be completed in fewer than two years—in fact, most students complete their studies in just 21 months. A 54-credit hour program, it includes foundational courses and residency credits along with elective classes like Managing Digital Business and Platforms, Data Analytics, and Social Media and Web Analytics. 

At just over $1400 per credit hour, this university has low tuition rates and offers graduates a sound return on their investment. In fact, the average salary of entry-level employees is up to $78,000! You won’t have to worry about finding a good-paying job when you choose to study at the University of Maryland-College Park. 

You’ll never even have to step foot on campus. In fact, you’ll complete all of your courses online and be able to collaborate with your peers and professors to create that valuable sense of community you likely crave. You’ll enjoy an engaging learning experience as you explore multiple advanced features, like video and audio messaging, discussion boards, simulations, integrated digital and multimedia workspaces, and more. 

You’ll be able to form precious connections with peers, faculty members, and alumni, joining a network of more than 66,000 business school alumni upon your graduation. 

There’s really something to be said about the faculty here, too. They are industry leaders and influencers who have decades of experience in information technology. Always eager to share their findings, faculty at the University of Maryland regularly involve students in their research and exploration. 

To apply, you will need to submit an online application along with an application fee, an essay, and a letter of recommendation. In most cases, you will also be expected to have completed at least two years of work experience. 

#6. Florida State University

MBA with a specialization in Management Information Systems

Located in Tallahassee, FL, Florida State University first opened its doors in 1851. It is the oldest continuously-operating higher education institution in the state, in fact. Here, students can choose from a variety of courses in management information systems, including Advanced Project Management, Information and Technology Management, Social and Organizational Issues in Management Information Systems, and much more. 

This four-year public university offers degrees at the associate, undergraduate, graduate, and doctoral level, enrolling more than 40,000 students each year. It has a high graduation rate of close to 80% and equally high levels of student satisfaction, as evidenced by its remarkable retention rate. 

In most cases, students can complete this degree in as little as 24 months—you’ll just need to complete two classes per semester. Most classes are offered asynchronously, with core topics covering systems analysis and design, database development, and more. You can even personalize your studies by taking one of five different elective courses. 

The degree is identical to the one offered on-campus. You can choose to take courses full or part-time, or in an accelerated or evening format. The business school at Florida State also provides learners with the opportunity to earn a joint JD/MBA, MSW/MBA, or real estate/MBA degree, too. 

When you’re pursuing an MBA in any of these settings, know that management information systems is not your only concentration option, either. In fact, you may also choose to take classes in other specializations, such as finance, business analytics, human resources, marketing, real estate, and supply chain management. 

In the management information systems specialization, you will be introduced to core fundamental concepts dealing with the design, use, and implementation of information systems in a variety of organizations. You’ll learn how to incorporate key information systems to help any organization achieve its strategic goals and objectives. 

It’s ranked as one of the best in the nation by U.S. News & World Report and, as one of the most affordable programs of its kind nationwide, offers one of the best returns on investment. In fact, its low tuition cost comes in at just $780 per credit hour, and with graduates earning an average early career salary of more than $60,000, pursuing this degree is a no-brainer. 

There are plenty of financial aid opportunities for you to pursue, too. The College of Business offers a variety of university fellowships and assistantships to students of high academic standing. There is also an MBA LOANS program that can help you secure a low-interest loan to finance your tuition costs. 

To apply to this program, you will need to submit a formal application along with GMAT or GRE scores, letters of recommendation, and evidence of some professional experience. If you achieved a high undergraduate GPA (3.4 on a 4.0 scale or higher), you may even be eligible for a GMAT or GRE waiver. 

#7. University of South Florida

Master of Business Administration in Management Information Systems 

Established in 1965 in St. Petersburg, FL, the University of South Florida has several campuses around the state, along with a vibrant online platform. Here, the school offers programs at the associate, undergraduate, and graduate levels. Despite being a smaller school with highly hands-on programs and interactive classrooms, this university offers some of the best academic prestige. 

In fact, this online MBA in information systems is ranked as the second-best in the state of Florida and fifteenth best in the United States overall, according to the U.S. News & World Report. It is accredited by the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business, and the university as a whole is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges. 

Here, the online MBA is split up into 27 credit hours of core coursework and nine hours of core courses in management information systems such as IT Project Management, Data Visualization, Business Process Management Development, and Predictive Analytics. A nationally ranked program, this degree will help you develop the creative and analytical skills you need to be successful in the modern business world. 

In addition to completing this degree online, you can also complete your courses on-campus in either Tampa or Sarasota-Manatee. Regardless of the option you choose, you’ll have access to plenty of career-building opportunities. For example, you’ll be granted a personal MBA coach who will help you meet your career goals. 

You will also be able to engage in unique options like career fairs. In fact, the university hosts multiple career fairs each year, bringing in representatives from local and national companies alike. There are virtual options available for career assistance, too, (including cover letter writing assistance, interview practice, and business etiquette seminars) meaning you don’t even have to step foot on campus to benefit from the exceptional career-building programs here. 

Every year, the Muma College of Business at the University of South Florida hosts a Virtual MBA Case Competition. In this competition, students analyze a case, come up with a solution, and deliver a business recommendation in 24 hours. It’s a great way to build your portfolio and your career expertise. Other opportunities you might benefit from include networking, corporate connections events (which feature corporate recruiters from major companies like Tech Data, Bank of America, and Northwestern Mutual), and mentorship programs. 

To apply, you will need to submit three letters of recommendation, an online application form, a resume, a statement of purpose, and GMAT scores. In some cases, GMAT waivers are available. 

Although you will be required to pay a small application fee to apply to this program, don’t worry—it’s minimal. Plus, the program is highly affordable and offers a great return on investment. Consisting of 36 credit hours, tuition costs just $461 per credit hour for a total cost of just over $16,000—for the entire program! You won’t find a more reasonable and reputable program than this. 

#8. West Texas A & M University

MBA (Master of Business Administration) in Computer Information Systems

West Texas A&M University is located in Canyon, TX, but you don’t have to travel to the Lone Star State in order to benefit from the dynamic programs offered at this institution. Ranked as one of the best in the nation, the online MBA in computer information systems at West Texas A&M University is also one of the most affordable.

Here, you’ll pay a shockingly low tuition rate of just $244 per credit hour. The total cost of tuition is less than $10,000, making the degree a phenomenal bargain for budget-minded students. It is designed to be completed in two years on a part-time basis, but if you’re interested in moving through the curriculum more quickly, you can graduate in as little as 12 to 18 months by taking courses on an accelerated basis. 

Choose to complete courses on more of a part-time basis and you can take up to six years to complete your degree.

The computer information systems specialization is one of five different options available to distance learners. It’s available as 100% online asynchronous classes with other specialties including management, marketing, healthcare management, and more. You can also choose to complete a general MBA that’s perfect for students who are undecided about their ultimate career path. 

The MBA in computer information systems at West Texas A&M University enables students to specialize in general business while they pursue core courses, or to expand beyond those core courses for an emphasis area in computers. Ranked as one of the best MBA programs by U.S. News & World Report, it is also highly ranked for its online MBA programs, its online graduate business programs, and it’s low in-state tuition rates. 

The College of Business at West Texas A&M University is also ranked as one of the best schools for veterans and is well-respected for offering one of the most affordable online MBAs, too. That’s also according to the U.S. News & World Report. 

You won’t sacrifice quality for cost, either. This program is accredited by the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business and consists of 37 credit hours of rigorous, hands-on coursework. You’ll take 28 hours of core courses like Seminar in Advanced Microeconomic Theory, Data and Information Management, Information Technology Management, and Project Management for the Enterprise.

This program has a high graduation rate and is offered by one of the panhandle area’s top four-year public universities. Despite its large size—it’s home to nearly 10,000 students at the undergraduate, graduate, and doctoral level—the classes here are remarkably close knit and hands on.

To apply, you will need to submit a formal online application, official transcripts evidencing an undergraduate GPA of at least a 3.0, three letters of recommendation, a resume showing some work experience, a statement of your goals, and a history of foundational courses in business. 

#9. Charleston Southern University

MBA in Information Systems Analysis and Design

Charleston Southern University is a four-year, not-for-profit university with humble beginnings. Today one of the largest fully accredited private universities in the state, Charleston Southern has its origins in 1965, when classes took place in classrooms located at the First Baptist Church of North Charleston. 

Today, however, the school has a further reach. It offers more than four dozen different undergraduate programs and fifteen graduate programs to more than 3,600 students. It is regionally accredited through the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, Commission on Colleges, and has an impressive graduation rate. The school is recognized as a “College of Distinction” and offers one of the best (and most affordable!) online MBA in information systems analysis and design programs.

The online MBA in information systems analysis and design is priced at just $625 per credit hour. You’ll pay less than $21,000 to earn your entire degree and enjoy the convenience and flexibility of being able to study from your own home. The degree consists of just 33 credit hours of study and is equipped with numerous specialization options (including general management, supply chain management, and healthcare management, along with information systems analysis and design) so that you can hone your coursework to your unique career interests. 

A ten-month program, this degree is ideal for working professionals. It can be completed in an accelerated fashion so it won’t take you long to meet your academic and professional goals. This program is the flagship degree of the College of Business—and has been for more than 25 years. Here, you’ll find a curriculum that’s not only academically prestigious and rigorous, but it’s offered within a faith-based community, too. 

There are six separate specializations offered by the graduate school so you’ll be able to focus intently on your area of interest. It is ranked as one of the best online graduate business programs in its own respect by U.S. News & World Report and is also hailed as one of the best business programs for veterans. Specialization options include accounting, finance, organizational development, accounting, and of course, management information systems. 

You’ll start by taking a series of prerequisite courses (which in some cases may be waived if you have ample undergraduate experience) before going on to 18 hours of core courses and nine hours of electives in information systems. These courses include fundamental training in subjects like management, marketing, financial and managerial accounting, business data and decision analytics, and the market process and world economy. 

Then, you’ll take courses in your specialization, such as information systems concepts, data security and emerging information technologies, database design and management concepts, and more. 

To apply, you’ll need to submit an official graduate application along with official transcripts from all of the institutions you have attended. You’ll also need to supply a resume and academic statement, two letters of recommendation, and official test scores. In many cases, you’ll be able to waive the GMAT or GRE requirement. However, it’s important to note that the school offers full-time students who have earned a GMAT score of 500 or higher a 10% tuition discount. 

#10. Stevens Institute of Technology

MBA in Information Systems

With a main campus in thriving Hoboken, NJ, Stevens Institute of Technology is one of the best business schools in the state. Here, you’ll find an impressive and hands-on (yet fully online) Master of Business Administration. It has an emphasis in information systems and features 48 credit hours of core courses like Financial Decision Making, Project Management Fundamentals, Integrating Information System Technologies, and Database Systems and Decision Support.

Beyond those core courses, you’ll also be able to take classes in various elective areas such as Business Intelligence and Analytics, Project Management, and Business Process Management and Service Innovation. The curriculum is designed to ensure that your studies will be closely aligned with your personal and professional goals. Not only will you take a variety of technology-focused management courses, but you’ll also be able to choose four classes that are focused on your career interests or free electives so you can explore other disciplines.

Information systems is not the only specialization offered here, either. You can also take classes in areas like corporate innovation, finance, and project management. Regardless of the option you choose, you’ll complete a final capstone course that will bring together everything that is taught throughout the curriculum. You can choose between three courses: Technology Commercialization Practicum, Industry Capstone Program, and Application and Integration of Technology Management. 

In the Technology Commercialization Capstone, you’ll take what you’ve learned about entrepreneurship to start your own business or to develop your own product. In the Industry Capstone Program, you’ll gain real-world experience in which you’ll go to work with managers at a company on an industry problem. Your final option, the Application and Integration of Technology Management, will enable you to manage the entire spectrum of a business of your choosing in an intense business simulation experience. 

This degree is highly affordable, with tuition starting at just $1,501 per credit hour. Although this tuition rate is slightly higher than what you might pay at other institutions, graduates report success upon searching for jobs—the average early career salary of graduates is right around $72,000. Not too shabby, especially when you consider that most students will complete this degree on a part-time basis. 

Offered by the School of Business at Stevens, this degree is accredited by the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business. It is also regionally accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education. With a graduation rate of 82%, it’s clear that the instructors in this program know a thing or two about preparing their students for successful careers. 

As the oldest institution of higher learning in the country to be dedicated to mechanical engineering, Stevens Institute of Technology has a diverse student body that represents all 50 states and more than 60 different countries. Although it first opened its doors in 1870, the school’s programs are anything but antiquated. When you enroll at Stevens, you’ll have access to a program of study that is rigorous, up to date, and incredibly forward-thinking. 

OTHER NOTABLE PROGRAMS 

#11. University of Arizona

Location: Tucson, AZ

Degree: MBA with a Management Information Systems concentration

Net Price: $13,044

Website

#12. Auburn University

Location: Auburn, AL

Degree: MBA in Management Information Systems

Net Price: $11,282

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#13. Tennessee Technological University

Location: Cookeville, TN

Degree: MBA – Management Information Systems

Net Price: $11,283

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#14. University of Connecticut

Location: Mansfield, CT

Degree: MBA Operations and Information Management

Net Price: $17,660

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#15. Florida Atlantic University

Location: Boca Raton, FL

Degree: MBA in Management Information Systems

Net Price: $6,657

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#16. Fort Hays State University

Location: Hays, KS

Degree: MBA MIS Concentration

Net Price: $4,266

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#17. Widener University

Location: Chester, PA

Degree: MBA Information Systems

Net Price: $22,600

#18. Dallas Baptist University

Location: Dallas, TX

Degree: Master of Business Administration in Information Systems 

Net Price: $18,262

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#19. Emporia State University

Location: Emporia, KS

Degree: Master of Business Administration with Information Systems Concentration

Net Price: $8,464

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#20. University of Alabama at Birmingham

Location: Birmingham, AL

Degree: MBA degree program with a Management in Information Systems concentration

Net Price: $8,100

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#21. University of New Hampshire

Location: Durham, NH

Degree: MBA degree program with an Information Systems and Business Analytics specialization

Net Price: $15,935

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#22. Webster University

Location: Webster Groves, MO

Degree: MBA in Information Technology Management

Net Price: $13,500

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#23. Concordia University Wisconsin

Location: Mequon, WI

Degree: MBA (Master of Business Administration) in Management Information Systems

Net Price: $10,848

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#24. University of Central Arkansas

Location: Conway, AR

Degree: MBA with a concentration in Information Technology

Net Price: $6,238

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#25. Gardner Webb University

Location: Boiling Springs, NC

Degree: MBA in Management Information Systems

Net Price: $9,050

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Common Application and Admission Questions

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

What About Financial Aid & Scholarships?

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

#1. Sam Houston State University

Master of Science in Information Assurance and Security

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

#2. Iowa State University

Master of Science in Information Assurance

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

#3. Nova Southeastern University

Master of Science in Information Assurance and Cybersecurity 

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

#4. Norwich University

Master of Science in Information Security & Assurance

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

#5. Regis University

Master of Science in Information Assurance

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

#6. Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University-Worldwide

Master of Science in Information Security and Assurance

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

#7. Western Governors University

Master of Science in Cybersecurity and Information Assurance

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

#8. National University

Master of Science in Cyber Security and Information Assurance

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

#9. Davenport University

Master of Science in Information Assurance and Cyber Security

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

#10. Walden University

Master of Science in Cybersecurity and Information Assurance

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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