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“Public health” can be a somewhat misunderstood profession. But the online Master of Public Health (MPH) degree is one of the most popular online master’s degrees available.

Even working professionals in public health can sometimes find it difficult to describe what exactly public health is and is not.

Often it is only when public disasters or disease outbreaks strike that society is reminded again that there is this system called public health. Public health is not treating a disease, it is working to prevent the disease in the first place.

Public health does not manage large-scale health crises. Instead, it looks at populations to promote education and better procedures to avoid a future crisis. Public health is a network of healthcare professionals who are engaged in a process of preventing disease and harm. They work hard to present information to help the public disengage from harmful practices.

There are countless MPH best programs to consider. Yes, even beyond what we’ve included on this list! The long list includes:

• Liberty University online MPH 
• Loyola University
• Florida International University
• Mercer University
• Drexel University
• University of California Los Angeles
• University of Iowa Des Moines

So how do you choose the best MPH program to start public health careers?

Before selecting a college or university, it is important to look into the following factors:

• Required course load and necessary prerequisite courses
• Accreditation
• Graduation rates
• Full time availability of instructors and classes
• State tuition costs
• Degree options and specializations offered

A hybrid format may also be available for some dedicated students interested in combining virtual education with on-site elements such as lab work and internships. Taking the time to research each of these components will help potential students make an informed decision about their academic future.

The length of time it takes to finish a public health degree varies based on an individual’s educational goals and program requirements. Many accelerated programs can be completed in as little as 12 months.

However, these accelerated MPH options are designed for motivated individuals with prior healthcare or public health experience.

For those without such background, the most common program length is around 18 months to two years. It is important to keep in mind that accelerated programs can still require more intensive study. They are presented in compressed formats with accelerated MPH coursework to help you meet your educational goals.

There are even some 4-year programs that focus more on research opportunities. That’s while balancing rigorous academic course work to give students access to both educational and practicum experiences.

You’ll also need to consider whether you plan to study on a part time or full time basis.

What to Look for in MPH Best Programs

When looking at the top MPH programs, ask yourself the following questions:

• What are the graduation rates?
• How does the school support current and incoming students?
• Will I be able to have a flexible schedule?
• Is this an affordable option, with financial aid available?
• How rigorous are the admissions requirements and will I need to submit GRE scores?
• Does the school offer on campus visits to give me an idea of whether
• Do I need full time work experience?
• How many years to complete this degree?
• Can I complete classes on a part time basis?
• Is this a terminal degree?
• Will I be able to complete a practicum experience or internship experience?
• What kinds of concentration areas are available?
• Are there resources for online learning?

These questions might not be important for all MPH students to answer. Some degree programs will check off some boxes for you but not all. Try to find the public health program that will meet most of your goals but be sure to research all options with detail.

Admissions Requirements for a Public Health Degree Program

There are certain admissions requirements that must be met. Applicants must submit:

• Two letters of recommendation (sometimes it’s three letters) in support of their application, often from prior employers or professors
• A bachelor’s degree with at least three years of relevant experience in the industry
• A personal statement detailing your interest in public health and health sciences
• A GRE score that meets the program’s stated criteria

It is important to take these considerations into account before starting the admissions process. Some schools have high standards and this will  increase the chances of enrollment success.

Students enrolled in a public health degree program will learn a variety of skills and develop an appreciation for a holistic approach to healthcare.

You’ll take essential classes such as epidemiology and biostatistics. Plus, students are also exposed to elective courses which vary depending on the school they attend.

Some students explore further topics such as health promotion and communication or even leadership skills.

Common courses and public health specializations will allow you to gain a competitive edge. The average MPH curriculum includes practical experience and asynchronous coursework in topics like:

• Data analytics and educational technology
• Global disaster management
• Maternal and child health
• Nutrition and dietetics
• Public health informatics
• Social and behavioral aspects that affect public health
• Public health law and health policies
• Health administration
• Public health challenges in community organization
• Spatial data science
• Environmental factors in human health and wellness
• Infection control and infectious diseases
• Community health sciences/community health education

Many schools require students to complete a public health practicum as well. Some programs require a public health internship in local communities, too. Others require a culminating capstone project for applied practice experience.

They provide students with professional networking opportunities that are vital for building professional relationships and communication skills.

Ultimately, a public health degree program provides students with both theoretical knowledge and practical skills. These can be applied to the chosen field for career advancement. You may be eligible for federal financial aid or scholarship.

What Kinds of Jobs Can I Get With a Public Health Degree?

A Public Health degree provides the perfect stepping stone for working professionals to work in government agencies, community organizations, and the healthcare industry in general.

With government agencies, public health majors have a wide range of career opportunities. You could help carry out health screenings or aid programs that provide medical care for those in need.

Community organizations also rely on individuals with a Public Health background for research and analysis of health trends. You could also work on developing initiatives aimed at improving public well-being.

Healthcare administration is an excellent field for individuals with a degree in Public Health; these professionals are often renowned for their ability to effectively manage personnel and resources.

After earning an online master of public health, you could also work in the following fields and career paths in the healthcare field:

• Social workers
• Health policy
• Community health promotion
• Public health workers
• Epidemiologists
• Health data analyst
• Health Services administration
• Environmental health science

As you can see, the best online MPH programs are those that are interdisciplinary and flexible. This is a generalist degree that can prepare you for all kinds of career goals, including preparation for later doctoral degrees if desired.

Top 10 Public Health Programs

1. University of South Florida
2. University of Nebraska Medical Center
3. University of Illinois at Chicago
4. University of Alabama at Birmingham
5. Tulane University
6. University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill
7. University of North Texas Health Science Center
8. University of Florida
9. University of Massachusetts Amherst
10. University of South Carolina

Best MPH Programs in the World Methodology

There are countless top MPH programs online with accreditation. But how do you find the right one? From the Liberty University MPH online to the University of Florida MPH, there are no shortage of options.

We focused on several important sources that are available to the public:

• the Council on Education for Public Health (CEPH)
• Public Health Accreditation Board (PHAB)
• the American Public Health Association (APHA)
• U.S. News and World Report
• U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics
• the websites of schools offering online MPH degree programs

We developed a four-point crediting system to rank the top schools, as follows:

• School reputation (25%)
• Affordability (25%)
• Program accreditation (25%)
• Accessibility/flexibility (25%)

Ready to learn more? Keep reading to find out everything you need to know about the 30 best online programs for public health students!

30 Best MPH Online Programs

#30. Benedictine University

Online Master of Public Health

You will find one of the best online MPH programs at Benedictine University.

The comprehensive, 58-credit online MPH program at BenU offers six session start dates a year. The online MPH can be completed in just two years. Students start with 46 credits of foundational coursework. The core curriculum for the online MPH includes:

• Research Methods in Public Health
• Community Health Analysis
• Management of Health Services Organizations

The remaining credits can be used to gain a public health certificate alongside the online MPH. Certificate possibilities include:

• Emergency Preparedness
• Health Management & Policy
• Epidemiology

A thesis paper is not required for graduation from this online master’s degree. However, students must participate in an internship with 240 contact hours.

Support services and resources are also comprehensive. These start even before an application is submitted. Prospective students can go through a step-by-step guide to the admissions process and explore the online delivery system. They will even be assigned a program manager for whatever guidance is desired.

#29. University of Maryland

Master’s in Public Health

The University of Maryland MPH online is another one of the best options.

UMD’s School of Public Health offers a hybrid online Master of Public Health, Public Health Practice and Policy (MPH-PHPP) program. The coursework for this online MPH is 100% online plus six required weekend residencies of on-site instruction.

The online MPH has 42 hours of fifteen mandatory courses. There are both an internship and Capstone Project. Students study topics such as:

• Healthcare Strategic Planning and Evaluation
• Health Law and Ethics

Students move through the online master’s degree as a cohort. They can complete the program in just two years. A web-page maintained by UMD’s Office of Extended Studies is full of resources and guidelines specific to online public health graduate students. This can help both prospective and current students find the services and support they need to be successful in the online MPH degree.

#28. University of Alaska Anchorage

Master’s in Public Health Practice

The online MPH in Public Health Practice through the Department of Health Sciences at UAA’s College of Health is an interdisciplinary, 42-hour online MPH. It has a specific emphasis “on the needs of Alaska and the circumpolar north.”

The foundational coursework is in subjects like:

• Circumpolar Health Issues
• Public Health Emergencies and Disasters

The interdisciplinary electives for this online MPH degree program are all 100% online. Students must come to campus once a year for a face-to-face meeting with faculty and other MPH students. You must also come to campus to defend the final practicum thesis or project. The practicum requirements are dictated by CEPH accreditation. Students should expect to put in 225 hours over the course of two semesters. Students in the program often graduate within two to four years. This depends on whether they take classes for the master of public health on a full time or part time basis.

#27. San José State University

Online Master’s in Public Health

San Jose State University has an online MPH program format through the International and Extended Studies department. This online MPH is a twenty-four month, cohort-model program. It starts every fall for about twenty-five students.

Classes for this master of public health are delivered in a synchronous and sequential fashion. Students benefit from moving through the program with their cohort. They participate together each week as if in an actual classroom.

The curriculum is based on the CEPH recommendations. The 42-credit master of public health program provides a specialization in community health. It is one of only five in the country. It includes a culminating experience. San Jose State University offers multiple advising resources to current students in the master of public health. 

#26. New Mexico State University

Master’s in Public Health

Next on our list of MPH best programs is New Mexico State University. With an online program that mirrors the on-campus program, the 42-hour online MPH offers students the same quality program. It is delivered in an asynchronous format for their convenience. Core courses in the online MPH cover topics such as:

• Epidemiological Approaches to Disease Control and Prevention
• Community and Psychosocial Aspects of Public Health
• Health Services System: Administration and Organization

There are two concentration options for this mater of public health:

• Community Health
• Health Management, Administration and Policy

A field experience provides students with the opportunity to apply what they have learned and culminates the master of public health program.  

#25. University of West Florida

Master’s in Public Health

The 42-credit online MPH at the University of West Florida’s Department of Public Health provides students an opportunity to explore a multidisciplinary program. This master of public health has the added benefit of customizing it to fit their career goals.

Students at the University of West Florida can opt for a general track. Or they can select the specialization in Health Promotion, Education, and Behavior.

An internship and a comprehensive exam are also required. Several key student services are also made available for online students. These include academic and career advising, and military and disability services.

#24. Johns Hopkins University

Online Master’s in Public Health

Another top MPH is the John Hopkins MPH online.

The part-time online MPH program at the Johns Hopkins University Bloomberg School of Public Health has asynchronous, per-recorded lectures. Classes for this master of public health can be completed when convenient for each student.

The 80-credit program requires at least four weeks of on-campus face-to-face classes of the student’s choice. There is a free, non-credit course, Introduction to Online Learning. This is required at the beginning of the master of public health to help future students become acclimated to the online culture at Johns Hopkins University. Students then take the core courses and choose their electives. They are able to customize the master of public health from over 200 offered classes.

The program is rigorous and comprehensive. But as an added benefit all online/part-time students receive the Welch Scholarship to defray the cost of out of state tuition.

#23. Emory University

 Executive Master’s in Public Health

The Rollins School of Public Health at Emory University offers an Executive MPH (EMPH)  program. This is delivered as a hybrid program.

Within this 42-credit program at Emory University there are three tracks from which students can choose:

• Applied Epidemiology
• Applied Public Health Informatics
• Prevention Science

All students start the program in the fall semester. They complete the program in two years. Eleven core courses and a two-credit practicum serves as the foundation for all students regardless of chosen concentration. Classes for this best online master of public health include:

• Social Behavior in Public Health
• Public Health Advocacy

This program is for working health professionals with at least three years of professional experience. 

#22. Northeastern University

Master’s in Public Health

The MPH in Urban Health degree through NU’s Bouvé College of Health Sciences is a 100% virtual program. This best online master of public health has 42 credits. General education classes cover subjects like:

• Race, Ethnicity, and Health in the United States
• Principles and History of Urban Health
• Society, Behavior, and Health
• Health and Human Rights
• Food, Food Policy, and Health

This will allow you to perceive and explore how public health is affected by issues “ranging from poverty, violence, and substance abuse to immigration, migration, and suburbanization.”

A 200-contact hour practicum is also required for this best online master of public health. However, students can participate in the program full or part-time. They have between two and five years to complete it.

#21. University of California, Berkeley

Master’s in Public Health

The University of California Berkeley online MPH degree at the School of Public Health is a two-year powerhouse of a program. In this best online master of public health, students take six core courses in their first year. They take two core courses plus electives and a practicum in the second year. Faculty teach the same rigorous curriculum as on-campus.

Courses for these best online MPH programs include:

• Introduction to Probability and Statistics in Biology and Public Health
• Global Health Disaster Preparedness and Response

Students take fourteen courses (at least 42-credits) to graduate from these best online MPH programs.

There are several different tracks that students can choose to follow at the University of California Berkeley. The degree is very customizable. Students can follow an interdisciplinary approach. Or they can choose from either the Health Policy and Management (HPM) concentration or Global Health concentration.

#20. California State University, Northridge

Master’s in Public Health

Graduate students will find another one of the best MPH online programs at California State University, Northridge.

The Tseng College of Extended Learning at CSUN provides a fully online MPH: Community Health degree program. This master of public health is offered in conjunction with the College of Health and Human Development.

The best online master of public health program is designed for students with little or no experience. These are candidates who are “seeking to enter or advance in the field” of public health. The master’s presents a curriculum which focuses in the “five core areas of public health and professional preparation (such as biostatistics and epidemiology).” Students move through the 42-credit hour, two-year program as a cohort.

Classes include topics such as:

• Advanced Concepts of Health Behavior
• Curriculum Development in Health Education

A 300-contact hour Practicum is required for graduation. It can be chosen from appropriate placements in the student’s location (with advisor approval).

#19. Kent State University

Master’s in Public Health

The College of Public Health at Kent State offers an online 46-credit MPH online program with two specialization options.

The Health Policy and Management (HPM) specialization is ideal for individuals who want to make a difference on a local or national level through policy change. The Social and Behavioral Sciences (SBS) specialization is a good fit for professionals who desire to “prevent disease, promote health and health equity, and manage chronic illnesses.” This is on an individual and collective-community basis.

Fifteen of the 46 credits are devoted to the specializations. The remaining credits are made up of twenty-five credits of core courses.

The best online MPH programs here include studies in subjects such as:

• Fundamentals of Public Health Epidemiology
• Public Health Administration

There is also a practicum experience.

#18. National University

 Master’s in Public Health Promotion

Through the Community Health department at the School of Health and Human Services, National’s online MPH program offers three specialization options:

• Health Promotion
• Healthcare Administration
• Mental Health

All students take the eight required core courses (36 quarter units).

The best online MPH programs here include classes in:

• Theories of Health Behavior
• Public Health & the Environment

They will then participate in their eight specialization required courses (36 quarter units) to complete the degree. Students may transfer up to thirteen and a half quarter units from another institution.

#17. Northern Illinois University

 Master’s in Public Health

Northern Illinois University is home to one of the best MPH programs online. The online MPH at NIU’s School of Health Studies is through the College of Health and Human Sciences. This online master’s in public health promotes understanding public health from many different points of reference.

Two specializations are offered by the Northern Illinois University online master’s in public health programs:

• Health Promotion
• Health Services Management

Students must take 43-46 credits in order to graduate.

Core coursework for these best online MPH programs include:

• Problems and Issues in Environmental Health
• Principles and Methods of Epidemiology
• Community Health Planning

Both programs develop students into leaders in the field. The Health Promotion specialization prepares students for the Certified Health Education Specialist (C.H.E.S.) exam. Students in the Health Services Management specializationare eligible to participate in the Illinois Nursing Home Administrators Licensing Examination.

#16. East Tennessee State University

Master’s in Public Health

Three MPH concentrations are available completely online at ETSU:

• Community Health
• Epidemiology
• Public Health Administration

All three concentrations require sixteen core courses. These best online MPH programs include classes such as:

• Philosophy of Public Health
• Health Service Administration

The remaining credits in the 43-credit program are made up of concentration courses, electives and a final, six-credit culminating experience. This is known as “Pubic Health Program Field Experience – Community and Behavioral Health.”

The MPH Community Health degree provides the same on-campus quality program in a convenient delivery. Online classes offered in both a synchronous and asynchronous format.

A dedicated online tech support service is available to assist students with any questions or problems they may have with the online process. There are other services and resources to help the online student succeed as well.

#15. University of Memphis

Master’s in Public Health

Five focus areas await the MPH student through U of M Global’s online program:

• Biostatistics
• Epidemiology
• Environmental Health
• Health Systems and Policy
• Social and Behavioral Science

These best online MPH programs are 42-credit programs. The core curriculum covers:

• Environmental Health
• Social and Behavioral Sciences Principles

The focus area choice determines the twelve credit hours of specialization electives. A practicum of 240 contact hours completes the degree.

#14. University of Southern California

Master’s in Public Health

The Department of Preventive Medicine at Keck School of Medicine of the University of Southern California offers the only medical school-based online MPH program. The medical school’s has a world-class faculty. Students can customize these best online MPH programs with five concentration options:

• Biostatistics and Epidemiology
• Health Education and Promotion
• Global Health Leadership
• GeoHealth
• Health Services and Policy

Each concentration track requires twenty units towards the online degree requirements. Students have three start dates a year at which to begin their online education journey.

#13. George Washington University

Master of Public Health Program

The Milken Institute School of Public Health offers George Washington University’s online MPH  program (called MPH@GW). There are several offered length-options. Students can participate in the MPH@GW program on a part-time basis. Students complete the MPH program in two, three or four years. Or they can opt for one of the two full-time accelerated options and complete the program in twelve months or eighteen months.

The curriculum at George Washington University is the same coursework no matter the pace.

The online master of public health has 45 required credit hours. These are in courses such as:

• Comparative Global Health Systems
• Biological Concepts for Public Health
• Principles and Practice of Epidemiology

Electives can be chosen from a broad range of topics. Or they can be grouped together in a particular focus area. Options include:

• Global Health
• Health Communication
• Health Policy
• Program Planning and Evaluation

A practicum and a culminating experience are both required to complete the program at George Washington University.

#12. Loma Linda University

Online Master of Public Health Program

You will find another one of the best MPH programs in the world at Loma Linda University.

Two online MPH options are offered at Loma Linda’s School of Public Health. The MPH with a concentration in Lifestyle Management is a 56-unit program. This MPH program is for current practitioners who want to further their reach in the arena of public health. It is also ideal for those who wish to advocate for “lifestyle change interventions and promote healthy behaviors for patients with chronic diseases.”

The online master of public health at Loma Linda University also requires 56 units to graduate. It is the only online program of its kind in California. Students in both programs focus on helping provide health instruction to patients and potential patients. This is all with the goal to help prevent and manage disease.

#11. University of Minnesota

Master of Public Health Program

The University of Minnesota’s renowned School of Public Health (SPH) offers an online MPH. This online MPH program has a focus on Maternal & Child Health (MCH).

The curriculum for the online master of public health entails:

• fifteen credits of public health core courses
• at least five credits in subjects like “Global Reproductive Health” and “Maternal and Infant Nutrition”
• fifteen credits of methodology, policy, management, advocacy topics and application work (internship and final paper)

The remaining coursework is comprised of electives. These are to complete the 42-credit hour program (or 48 credits for those students without a prior earned master’s degree).

There is a dedicated Office of E-Learning and Academic Services at the SPH. All elements of distance learning are supported. Students of the online MPH MCH program can be assured that their program will provide them every opportunity to succeed.

#10. University of South Carolina

Master of Public Health Program

The MPH in Health Promotion, Education, and Behavior (HPEB)-Professional Online Program is offered through the Arnold School of Public Health at the University of South Carolina.

This online MPH degree is a 45-unit, interdisciplinary degree. It is ideal for those who are already working as practitioners in the field of public health. It’s also a great option for those who want to make deeper, long-lasting improvements in society.

The online master of public health program requires fifteen credits of a public health core curriculum. It has fifteen credits of a HPEB core. The remaining credits are made up of the HPEB focus courses:

• Race, Ethnicity, and Health: Examining Health Inequalities
• Consumer Health in Contemporary Society
• Applied Health Communication

There is also a practicum seminar and field experience. All classes in this MPH degree are delivered online. The MPH program is offered via an asynchronous delivery for flexibility. Students complete the program in about two years.The master’s degree in public health at the University of South Carolina is one of the best for giving students real world experience.  

#9. University of Massachusetts Amherst

Master of Public Health Program

The University of Massachusetts Amherst’s School of Public Health and Health Sciences offers two online MPH options.

There is the general track MPH in Public Health Practice or the specialized MPH in Nutrition. The MPH degree concentration in Nutrition is the first online degree of its kind. The online master of public health requires 44-credit hours to graduate. Students take core MPH courses. There are nutritional core classes in subjects such as:

• Nutritional Epidemiology
• Nutritional Problems in U.S.

There are three electives, and a 200-contact hour practicum.

The Public Health Practice track requires 42-credit hours with a focus on the core coursework. The online MPH program also has six electives and the same practicum requirement. All classes are delivered in an asynchronous format for flexibility and convenience. Students are allowed to take up to four courses as a non-degree student before being admitted.

This is a benefit for individuals who desire to get a head start on coursework. It’s also great for those who want to test an online course to see if the program is a good fit for them. 

#8. University of Florida

Master of Public Health Program

This online master’s in public health science is designed to emphasize the “development of competence in key public health skills and to meet current standards in the field of public health.” The online MPH is offered through the College of Public Health and Health Professions at UF. It is a 100% online, asynchronous MPH degree.

The public health online master’s requires 48-credit hours to graduate. It allows students to start with core courses in:

• Public Health Management and Policy
• Epidemiology
• Social and Behavioral Sciences

This is all before choosing a concentration in Public Health Practice or Social and Behavioral Sciences

#7. University of North Texas Health Science Center

Master of Public Health Program

The University of North Texas offers two online MPH options for students interested in their MPH program.

There is the 48-credit hour MPH Online degree and the 42-credit hour MPH Online – Professional Option.

Both of these educational opportunities at the University of North Texas take an interdisciplinary approach. But the students in the Professional Option must have already achieved an advanced degree. Or they must be enrolled in another master’s program along with the MPH program.

There are required core courses for both public health online programs. These cover topics such as:

• Environmental Determinants of Health
• Leadership for Public Health

Then students choose twelve credits of electives. For students in the standard online program their electives will fall into one of two tracks: Global Health or Geographic Information Systems.

Students can attend a School of Public Health Admissions Webinar for assistance with their application. Once admitted, all online students can take advantage of all the same student services that are available on-campus. However, these aspiring public health professionals can access the resources from the comfort and convenience of their own homes. 

#6. University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill

Master of Public Health Program

The MPH at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill is a brand-new online format. It is a version of the same stellar on-campus MPH programs offered at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill Gillings School of Global Public Health.

Three different degrees are offered. These online master’s in public health programs are all 100% online. There is a 42-credit hour MPH and the 42-credit hour MPH with Leadership Track. There is also the 51-credit hour Master of Public Health/Registered Dietitian degree in Nutrition (MPH/RD).

All three public health online programs offer online students the same curriculum, faculty and well-known rigorous instruction as their on-campus counterparts. It’s just in an online delivery.

#5. Tulane University

Master of Public Health Program

Three distinct MPH programs are offered through the distance learning online format through the Center for Applied Environmental Public Health (CAEPH) at the Tulane University School of Public Health and Tropical Medicine.

The program provides MPH specializations in:

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

All classes are provided in real-time. However, they are also recorded for students who need added flexibility.

They are designed for professionals already mid-career in the public health field. The core MPH curriculum focuses on the five foundational basics of:

• epidemiology
• behavioral science
• environmental health
• biostatistics
• management

This is to further each student’s scope and professional potential. The concentrations then serve to specialize each student’s chosen focus area. Specific focus classes for this online master’s in public health include:

• Principles of Industrial Hygiene
• Environmental Aspects of Disaster Response
• Biological Basis of Disease 

#4. University of Alabama at Birmingham

Online Master of Public Health Program

The 42-credit hour degree program through the UAB School of Public Health offers five different departments. There are a multitude of concentration options for the online MPH student. There are multiple departments involved in these public health online programs. They include:

• Biostatistics
• Environmental Health
• Epidemiology
• Health Care Organization and Policy

Together, they offer concentrations such as:

• Epidemiology
• Health Behavior
• Health Care Organization & Policy
• Industrial Hygiene
• Maternal and Child Health Policy and Leadership

Students have three different start-dates to begin the program. All applicants to the program must be able to demonstrate that they have met The Biological Basis of Public Health Competency Requirements. Students must participate both in an internship and a Public Health Integrative Experience.

#3. University of Illinois at Chicago

Online Master of Public Health Program

This school claims the distinction of being the only school in the nation to offer an online MPH in Public Health Informatics degree program. UIC’s School of Public Health also offers two other online MPH programs. These online master’s in public health have concentrations in Community Health Sciences or Health Policy and Administration.

The programs range from 42 to 45 required credit hours. The program can be completed in a flexible format. All classes are offered in an asynchronous format.

The curriculum for these public health degree programs covers:

• Social Ethics and Public Health
• Public Health Concepts and Practice
• Leadership in Public Health Practice

#2. University of Nebraska Medical Center

Online Master of Public Health Program

The College of Public Health at the University of Nebraska Medical Center offers multiple online master’s degrees. There are also several certificate options. Two MPH concentrations are accessible online. These are the MPH in Biostatistics and the MPH in Environmental and Occupational Health.

Both public health degree programs require 45-credit hours. They share some of the same key curricular elements. Classes for these online master’s in public health include:

• Foundations of Public Health
• Public Health Environment and Society

The focus then goes in different directions. The Biostatistics concentration curriculum emphasizes “statistical and quantitative evaluation of public health research and programs”.

The alternative specialization concentrates on:

• ecological health
• environmental health
• occupational health
• safety or toxicology with particular emphasis on agriculture

On-campus, advisors, online library resources, and career services are all available to online students. The only difference in their education experience is the flexibility and convenience of completing their public health degree programs.

#1. University of South Florida

Online Master of Public Health Program

There are no less than seven distinct online MPH specializations available through the University of South Florida College of Public Health.There is also an online DrPH program and thirteen online MPH graduate certificates). Prospective students are sure to find a program track to fit their needs in our number one pick.

This program at the University of South Florida requires at least 42-credit hours. Some concentrations in this interactive online degree require more credit hours than others. Students enjoy foundational coursework in:

• biostatistics
• epidemiology
• health policy and management
• environmental and occupational health

Online students can choose to customize their degree with focus areas in:

• Epidemiology
• Public Health Practice
• Global Disaster Management
• Humanitarian Relief & Homeland Security
• Infection Control
• Social Marketing
• Nutrition & Dietetics
• Health, Safety & Environment

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According to the BLS, in 2020 alone, there were more than 61,400 jobs posted. About half of all engineers begin their aerospace engineering career with a bachelor’s degree. A master’s degree is also a smart choice.

Most aerospace engineers are never required to get Professional Engineering (PE) state licensure. Doing so is the best way to get a leadership position. 

Plus, getting a master’s degree in aerospace engineering will set you up for an aerospace engineering career that is quite lucrative. PayScale lists a handful of the more popular companies employing aerospace engineers. The average reported salaries are quite impressive. 

Some examples, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics:

• National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) – $101k
• SpaceX – $92k
• General Electric (GE) Aviation – $90k
• Northrop Grumman Corporation – $90k
• The Boeing Company – $89k
• Lockheed Martin Aeronautics Company – $80k
• Naval Air Systems Command – $68k

Engineers with five to 10 years’ experience under their belts earn about $20,000 per year more. That is compared to those with less than five years. That makes for some hefty pay raises in a very short amount of time.

According to the National Science Foundation, out of the seven engineering subfields, aerospace engineering has the fewest graduates. It has shown the largest percentage of upward change.

Keep reading to find out why a master’s in aerospace engineering is such a valuable investment.

 See Also: 10 Best Master’s in Industrial Engineering

ADMISSIONS REQUIREMENTS

Now, on to admissions requirements. Aerospace engineering master’s degree requires the completion of a Bachelor of Science in Aerospace Engineering or a related field. Many programs also include an internship or a cutting edge research project. Some schools may also ask for GRE scores or letters of recommendation. These letters of recommendation should be from professors or employers. Of course, you will also need to submit official transcripts.

The admissions requirements for each program vary. It is important to check with the graduate school you are interested in attending for specific admissions requirements. In addition to checking for admissions requirements, be sure to ask about the timeline for applying for your MSAE program.

Aerospace engineers often work in aircraft and parts manufacturing. Because of the vast nature of processes aerospace engineering covers, there are several associated occupational career options. Aerospace engineering and operations technician are the closest. 

Florida Tech lists a few intriguing aerospace engineering career options for aerospace engineers. Examples include:

• Aircraft/Spacecraft Designer 
• Mechanical Engineer
• Military Aerospace Engineer  
• Data Processing Manager
• Drafter 
• Aerospace Technician 
• Inspectors 
• Mission Specialist
• Payload Specialist

 FINANCIAL AID & SCHOLARSHIPS

College isn’t getting any cheaper. Before you rush to take out a student loan, make sure you’ve maximized every financial aid and scholarship opportunity.

The time it takes to fill out an application is less than the hours than students work to pay back a loan! Federal Student Aid is the clear winner when it comes to popular financial aid options. If you’ve finished an undergraduate degree, then you’re familiar with the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) process. Graduate students can use it to apply for aid, too. 

If you have amazing grades and fall into a lower income bracket, you should make every effort to maximize your aid and career opportunities. There are Pell Grants and other federal grants for grad students. These include:

• Fulbright Grants
• TEACH Grants
• Iraq and Afghanistan Service Grants.

Many schools also have college-based financial awards or tuition discounts. You’ll need to look out for local and regional scholarships, too. 

For aerospace engineers, there are dozens of scholarship opportunities. There are also unique competition-based awards. An example is the National Inventors Hall of Fame’s Collegiate Inventors Competition.

Many grad students fund their schooling with Graduate Teaching Assistantships and Graduate Research Assistantships. You will get work experience and help paying for your degree. 

For additional information on engineering related financial aid application information, be sure to check with your school.

OUR RANKING CRITERIA 

We have a time-tested four-part formula designed for ranking the best colleges in the nation.

We prioritize four major factors in our best aerospace engineering graduate schools rankings:

• Earnings Potential
• Affordability
• Student Satisfaction
• Selectivity.

If you want to know more we encourage you to check out our methodology page. 

Check out our list of the 10 Best Master’s Programs in Aerospace Engineering. See what awesome online and on-campus aerospace engineering graduate programs await!

#1. MISSOURI UNIVERSITY OF SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY

MASTER OF SCIENCE IN AEROSPACE ENGINEERING

Missouri University of Science and Technology is one of the top aerospace engineering graduate schools. It is a land- and space-grant university. It is nestled in the college town of Rolla, MO. It was founded in 1870 and is home to 1,759 graduate students. Missouri S&T may have small-town roots. Its engineering department is top-ranked. The graduate school offers other engineering degrees as well, such as mechanical engineering.

The university offers a Master of Science in Aerospace Engineering. It is for both on-campus students and for working professionals who need the flexibility of an online program. 

The MSAE provides an interdisciplinary learning experience. It can benefit those in the aerospace field and other engineering sectors.

The online course requirements include a minimum of 30 credit hours. Of these, six are cutting edge research that is applied toward the thesis. The option without a thesis replaces the research credits with courses from outside of the aerospace department. 

Sample online course offerings include:

• Aero Eng 5131: Intermediate Thermofluid Mechanics
• Aero Eng 5169: Intro to Hypersonic Flow
• Aero Eng 6222: Theory of Elasticity. 

The university is home to professional and honor societies. These include:

• AIAA
• Sigma Gamma Tau
•  Tau Beta Pi

The graduate school has an active on campus life. There are more than 200 student organizations! Missouri S&T is also big on intramural and club sports. It hosts annual events.

This school is also top rankings-wise. It is No. 1 for Best Value College in Missouri, according to SmartAsset.com. It is No. 2 for Engineering Programs for Non-Traditional Students, per College Factual. It is No. 6 for Annual Return on Investment, according to PayScale.com. 

#2. PURDUE UNIVERSITY – MAIN CAMPUS

MASTER OF AERONAUTICS AND ASTRONAUTICS AEROSPACE ENGINEERING

Purdue is considered the No. 1 destination for international students in STEM disciplines. Purdue has an online Master of Science in Aeronautics and Astronautics (MSAAE) option. It is flexible and high-quality – more convenient than ever! 

In this one of the best aerospace masters programs, you will take a variety of courses. You can take courses in related disciplines, such as mechanical engineering. The aerospace engineering courses cover topics such as:

• Aerodynamics
• Structures & materials
• Astrodynamics & space applications
• Propulsion
• Computational fluid dynamics
• Aerospace structures and materials
• Engineering management
• Systems engineering
• Aerospace engineering. 

This aerospace engineering program is 30-credit hour online program that does not include a thesis. Graduate students engage with online video content whenever they need, wherever they want. Graduate students may also complete an Interdisciplinary Master of Science in Engineering with a concentration in aeronautics and astronautics. 

Many part-time graduate students enroll in just one class at a time. 

U.S. News & World Report listed Purdue Online’s College of Engineering in its Best Online Programs for Grad Engineering 2019. It is also among the best Veteran Grad Engineering programs in 2019. Purdue creates innovative platforms geared toward making online learning effective and high quality.

#3. GEORGIA INSTITUTE OF TECHNOLOGY

MASTER OF SCIENCE IN AEROSPACE ENGINEERING

If you attend Georgia Tech, get ready to work! This STEM-centered institution is among the top-ranked public colleges and research universities in America. It was founded during the post-Civil War Reconstruction period. It has – unlike many of its tech-oriented peers – remained a public university. This helps keep tuition rates low. 

It is home to one of the best aerospace engineering masters programs. The school offers other engineering degrees as well, such as mechanical engineering.

The Daniel Guggenheim School of Aerospace Engineering has a flexible 33-credit hour Master of Science in Aerospace Engineering. It is customizable to help you meet your individual study goals. 

Concentration areas include:

• Aerodynamics and fluid mechanics
• Aeroelasticity and structural dynamics
• Flight mechanics and control
• Space flight dynamics
• Dynamics and control
• Aerospace structures and materials
• Structural analysis and structural health monitoring
• Propulsion systems and combustion
• Engineering management
• Structural mechanics and materials behavior
• System design and optimization. 

Georgia Tech also offers an MSAE Distance Learning Program. This meets the same academic and research and development standards as the on-campus version. Students still must attend classes live, via streaming video. This option is designed for part-time students.  There is no thesis option available for distance learning students. 

The School of Aerospace Engineering is devoted to research and practical education. It gives students marketable skills. At the same time, it prepares them to stand apart from the competition.

There are many research facilities and labs. Examples include:

• Aerodynamics & Fluid Mechanics
• Aeroelasticity & Structural Dynamics
• Flight Mechanics & Controls
• Propulsion & Combustion
• Structural Mechanics & Materials
• System Design & Optimization

U.S. News & World Report rankings ranked the Daniel Guggenheim School No. 2 in Aerospace /Aeronautical / Astronautical Engineering. It was No. 4 in Most Innovative Schools. 

Georgia Tech’s Atlanta campus sits on a beautiful 400 wooded acres. It is the perfect setting for its 25,000 graduate students to engage in active on campus life. 

#4. NORTH CAROLINA STATE UNIVERSITY

MASTER OF SCIENCE IN AEROSPACE ENGINEERING

You will find one of the best aerospace masters programs at North Carolina State University. North Carolina State University has a high-speed, 30-credit online Master of Science in Aerospace Engineering. It takes a short 12 months. Yes, even for those working full-time jobs! 

There is no thesis requirement, no final oral exam, and no in-person attendance. You can access content through lecture videos, and online activities. This is all through NC State’s WolfWare platform. 

Course requirements for MSAE Online and Distance Education graduate students include:

• 30 credit hours 
• Complete 500- or 700-level courses
• An overall 3.0 GPA
• Six MAE courses
• Project Work in Aerospace Engineering
• Three elective courses of any grad-level engineering (including mechanical engineering), math, or statistics 

Sample courses include:

• MAE 495 – Special Topics in Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering
• MAE 501 – Advanced Engineering Thermodynamics
• MAE 513 – Principles of Structural Vibration
• MAE 531 – Engineering Design Optimization. 

NC State is accredited by the Engineering Accreditation Commission of ABET. 

The College of Engineering stays on the cutting edge of research. It had about$198 million in research and development spending for 2018-2019. There are more than 20 centers and labs.  These are dedicated to engineering-related research ambitions.

On-campus students have unprecedented access to an array of real-world projects and industry connections. Online students are also able to benefit from the knowledge gleaned via on-site work. 

NC State has a habit of raking in top rankings! It was named the No. 1 Best Public University in North Carolina (Money). U.S. News & World Report ranks it No. 6 in Best Value Among Public Universities Nationally. It is No. 8 in Online Graduate Engineering Programs Nationally.

#5. UNIVERSITY OF VIRGINIA

MASTER OF ENGINEERING (ME) IN MECHANICAL AND AEROSPACE ENGINEERING

University of Virginia (UVA) has offered accredited engineering classes to distance learners for over 35 years. You will find one of the top aerospace graduate programs here.

The Department of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering has a 30-credit hour, online Master of Engineering (ME) in Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering. It includes the same coursework as that of the traditional route. But there’s less of the hassle!

Examples of VEO courses include:

• MAE 6230: Mechanical Vibrations
• MAE 6250: Multibody Mechanical Systems
• MAE 6420: Engineering Mathematics II
• MAE 6710: Finite Element Analysis
• MAE 6080: Constitutive Modeling of Biosystems. 

UVA’s online classes are not pre-recorded and reused. They are live-streamed, for real-time engagement. They are also recorded for students who need to access the material on their own time due to time constraints. The school offers other engineering degrees as well, such as mechanical engineering.

The University of Virginia is ranked No. 28 among National Universities by U.S. News & World Report. 

#6. AUBURN UNIVERSITY

MS IN AEROSPACE ENGINEERING

Another one of the best aerospace grad schools is Auburn University. Alabama’s Auburn University has gone through a few name changes since its founding in 1856. Its commitment to engineering achievements has always been a staple. Kathryn Thornton, the second American woman to walk in space, is a notable alumnus!

The Department of Aerospace Engineering offers a Master of Science in Aerospace Engineering. It has both thesis and non-thesis options. There’s also an online degree program.

The thesis option requires 30 credit hours. There are six credit hours for AERO 7790, Research and Thesis. There’s also an oral exam at the end. 

The non-thesis option is also 30 credit hours. There’s no residency requirement. There is no research or oral exam, either.

Core areas covered in the program, offered by one of the most prestigious universities, include:

• Aeroacoustics and aerodynamics
• Aerospace structures and materials
• Flight dynamics and control
• Engineering management
• Systems engineering and mechanical engineering elective options
• Orbital mechanics and astrodynamics
• Engineering management
• Dynamics and control
• Aerospace design and vehicle stability
• Rocket propulsion.

Auburn’s program in aerospace engineering offers offers various forms of financial support through teaching and research assistantships. The school offers other engineering degrees as well, such as mechanical engineering.

The department has several dedicated research labs: 

• Advanced Flow Diagnostics Laboratory
• Aerodynamics Laboratory
• Flow Visualization Laboratory
• Space Technology Application Research Laboratory (STAR)
• Advanced Propulsion Research Laboratory
• Mechanics of Materials Laboratory
• Combustion Laboratory
• Vehicle Systems, Dynamics, and Design Laboratory
• 3i Space Dynamics Laboratory

Auburn’s on-campus graduate students in aerospace and mechanical engineering have ample opportunities to get out and enjoy life! And plenty of career opportunities as well. The sweeping 1,875-acre campus is home to hundreds of student organizations and graduate student organizations.

#7. UNIVERSITY OF ILLINOIS AT URBANA-CHAMPAIGN

MS IN AEROSPACE ENGINEERING

You will find one of the best aerospace engineering masters programs at the University of Illinois. The University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign’s Grainger College of Engineering knows how to network! The school, one of the most prestigious universities, offers other engineering degrees as well, such as mechanical engineering. This degree program has ties to:

• the Department of Defense’s Multidisciplinary University Research Initiatives
• the National Science Foundation
• the Department of Homeland Security Centers of Excellence

The college pulled in $221 million for research expenditures in 2018. When people talk about the best engineering programs in the nation, Illinois often comes up as a leader in the field. The Department of Aerospace Engineering is staffed by world- renowned faculty and top-notch research facilities.

The department of aerospace engineering offers a degree in Master of Science in Aerospace Engineering (AE). There is also a Master of Engineering (with a focus in Aerospace Systems Engineering). Either program will prepare you well for a variety of career opportunities. The department of aerospace engineering offers a graduate program that will prepare you for just about anything. This graduate school is one of the best for online and on campus students alike.

The MSAE graduate program offers both thesis and non-thesis options. On-campus students must complete the non-thesis degree within four semesters. The thesis graduate program takes five semesters.

There’s also an online Master of Science. For this, there is no thesis. Conducting research is also not required. Online students receive the same lectures and assignments. They complete the same tests and projects. You will be prepared for the same types of career opportunities.

The general areas of study for the MSAE are:

• Aerodynamics
• Astrodynamics
• Combustion and propulsion
• Control systems
• Dynamical systems
• Dynamics and control/guidance navigation and control
• Fluid mechanics and fluid dynamics
• Structural mechanics and structural health monitoring 
• Materials

UIUC’s curriculum builds a foundation in aerospace engineering fundamentals. It has core classes in:

• Fluid Mechanics
• Solid Mechanics and Materials
• Dynamics and Controls

Specializations for the online degree in the school of engineering can include:

• Aerodynamics
• Fluid mechanics
• Combustion/propulsion
• Structural mechanics

The non-thesis degree has 32 credit hours of coursework. It is found at one of the best aerospace graduate schools.

Grainger’s engineering graduate program ranks No. 10 overall among the Best Graduate Schools. That is according to U.S. News & World Report (March 2019). It is No. 7 in the Aerospace / Aeronautical / Astronautical category. Meanwhile, UIUCS came in at No. 2 on the American Institute of Economic Research’s survey of Best College Towns from U.S. News & World Report. 

You will have plenty of career opportunities after completing this program!

#8. IOWA STATE UNIVERSITY

AEROSPACE ENGINEERING MASTER’S DEGREE

If you want to learn how to deflect asteroids from hitting the planet, Iowa State University ISU could be the place for you! Its AE research extends beyond the traditional aircraft and spacecraft topics. It dives deep into everything, including:

• Turbulence research
• Icing physics
• Tornado simulation
• UAS formation flight control
• Yes, even asteroid deflection!

The Department of Aerospace Engineering offers two paths to get a graduate degree. There is a Master of Science or Master of Engineering. The school of engineering offers other engineering degrees as well, such as mechanical engineering.

Both degrees have 30 semester hours. A unique feature of the curriculum is that there are no requirements regarding the specific courses students take. You can design your own plan of study.  

The faculty have experience mentoring graduate students students in aerospace and mechanical engineering. They know how to help them explore their aerospace engineering career goals.

You must complete at least 30 semester hours of advanced research and/or coursework. 

The Master of Science is research-oriented. It has a thesis. It is recommended for anyone wanting to pursue a Ph.D. The Master of Engineering, on the other hand, focuses on coursework over research. The coursework for this option can also be combined with a creative project.

Grad students may opt to specialize in several areas, such as:

• Aerospace systems design
• Atmospheric and space flight dynamics
• Computational fluid dynamics
• Control systems
• Wind engineering
• Solid mechanics
• Fluid mechanics and fluid dynamics
• Optimization
• Structural analysis
• Non-destructive evaluation. 

ISU has a wealth of student organizations and resources. For example, there is the Aerospace Engineering Graduate Student Organization. This organization promotes involvement, networking, and communication among students and faculty. There is also the Aerospace Mentorship Program and the Aerospace Student Council. 

ISU ranks No. 41, in a tie, for Best Graduate Aerospace Engineering Schools, per U.S. News & World Report. The Department of Aerospace Engineering’s tornado simulator garnered fame as the most important natural disaster simulator in the country! 

If you’re looking for ample job opportunities, this degree in aerospace engineering is the right degree for you.

#9. VIRGINIA POLYTECHNIC INSTITUTE AND STATE UNIVERSITY

MASTER OF SCIENCE IN AEROSPACE ENGINEERING

Virginia Tech is another recognized leader in the world of aerospace engineering. Its Kevin T. Crofton Department of Aerospace and Ocean Engineering has a flexible online master’s degree. This degree in aerospace engineering emphasizes:

• Aerodynamics
• Structures
• Propulsion
• Fluid dynamics
• Flight mechanics. 

Distance-learner students have two online tracks to choose from in this Master of Science in Aerospace Engineering graduate program. The school of engineering offers a thesis or non-thesis track. Both have 30 credit hours. This includes 12 credits of core coursework. The suggested course load is one to two courses per semester. The graduate school offers other engineering degrees as well, such as mechanical engineering.

Required core classes for both tracks are: 

• AOE 4404: Applied Numerical Methods 
• AOE 5024: Vehicle Structures 
• AOE 5104: Advanced Aero and Hydrodynamics
• AOE 5204: Vehicle Dynamics and Control 

Examples of some of the approved electives are:

• AOE 5034: Mechanical and Structural Vibrations
• AOE 5064: Structural Optimization
• AOE 6114: Transonic Aerodynamics
• AOE 6124: Hypersonic Aerodynamics
• AOE 6145: Computational Fluid Dynamics. 

All students must pass a final oral exam. 

Virginia Tech’s cutting-edge AOE department is invested in scintillating research. This advanced research:

• Creates new technologies for aerospace travel
• Harnesses renewable energy from the motion of the atmosphere
• Invents instruments and sensors to be used in air and space. 

Virginia Tech’s graduate program has six concentrations:

• autonomous systems
• cyberphysical security
• environmentally responsible systems
• renewable energy
• small satellites and space-based sensing
• national security

U.S. News & World Report ranked Virginia Tech at No. 31 (tie) among Best Engineering Schools. 

It’s scored even higher in many other rankings, including:

• No. 4 in Best Value Aerospace & Aeronautical Engineering graduate programs (College Factual 2019)
• No. 5 in Aerospace Engineering Graduate Programs Global (Center for World University 2018 rankings)
• No. 5 in Top-ranked Aerospace & Aeronautical Engineering graduate programs (College Factual 2019)

Students work closely with faculty members in this program. Financial aid is available as well.

#10. UNIVERSITY OF WASHINGTON

MASTER OF AEROSPACE ENGINEERING

UW launched its aeronautical engineering department about a century ago. This was through the Guggenheim Fund for the Advancement of Aeronautics. The Aerodynamics Laboratory in the school of engineering was built in 1917 after a donation from the Boeing Airplane Company. It is used today by the university, industry, and federal government researchers. 

The University of Washington’s William E. Boeing Department of Aeronautics & Astronautics features a multidisciplinary Master of Aeronautics Engineering (MAE). There is also a Master of Science in Aeronautics & Astronautics (MSAA). The latter graduate program includes lots of independent research. The graduate school offers other engineering degrees as well, such as mechanical engineering. This is perfect for candidates interested in a degree program that will prepare them to work with the federal government, 

The MAE is a terminal degree and includes only coursework. It is a part-time graduate program with a three-year timeframe. Courses are held at night, once per week. Students have the choice of attending in-person or online through the UW Continuum College. 

Online attendees may watch classes live via webcast or at their convenience

The MAE allows for four concentration options:

• Controls
• Fluids
• Aerospace structures
• Composites. 

The MSAA is a more traditional, full-time graduate program. It has both a master’s thesis and a coursework-only track. It allows for concentration options of:

• Controls
• Fluids
• Plasmas
• Aerospace structures.

Admissions details are on the graduate program page. 

Nestled in downtown Seattle, the University of Washington is one of the oldest public universities in the West. It’s also one of the highest-ranking. The 2019 Academic Ranking of World Universities lists UW at No. 14 in the world. It’s also ranked No. 1 in federal research funding for public universities. Financial aid is available as well.

OTHER NOTABLE GRADUATE PROGRAMS

#11. The University of Texas at Arlington

Location: Arlington, Texas

Degree: MS/MSE in Aerospace Engineering

Net Price: $12,533

Website

#12. University of Colorado Boulder

Location: Boulder, Colorado

Degree: MS in Aerospace Engineering

Net Price: $20,323

Website   

#13. Mississippi State University

Location: Mississippi State, Mississippi

Degree: Master of Science in Aerospace Engineering

Net Price: $16,056

Website

#14. Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University

Location: Daytona Beach, Florida

Degree: Master of Science in Aerospace Engineering

Net Price: $35,358

Website     

#15. Old Dominion University

Location: Norfolk, Virginia

Degree: MS/ME in Aerospace Engineering

Net Price: $15,213

Website   

IF YOU ENJOYED THAT THEN CHECK OUT OUR ARTICLES ON THE BEST ONLINE MASTER’S PROGRAMS IN SOFTWARE ENGINEERING & BEST ONLINE MASTER’S PROGRAMS IN MANAGEMENT INFORMATION SYSTEMS (MIS)!

Are you a history buff who wants to take your studies to the next level? If so, you may be wondering if an online masters degree in history is right for you.

Why get an online masters in history degree? The real question should be, “why not?” If you’re passionate about history and want to know everything there is to know about the past, then one of the best online history graduate programs is likely right for you.

Why You Should Consider One of the Best Online History Master’s

A love of history can lead to a rewarding career in a number of different fields, from teaching and museum work to government and law. To pursue many of these careers, advanced degrees are required. Enter – the online master’s in history.

Online master’s programs offer students the opportunity to pursue their educational goals without having to relocate or take time off from work. In addition, online programs are often more affordable than traditional on-campus programs.

For students who wish to study history at the graduate level, enrolling in one of the best online history graduate programs is the way to go. With a flexible schedule and the ability to study from anywhere in the world, online programs offer a unique opportunity for students to pursue their dreams. Many of the best online masters in history also offer lower tuition rates than traditional programs. Enrolling in an online history graduate program is a smart choice for any student looking to further their education.

How to Find the Right Online History Masters Programs

When it comes to choosing an online history master’s program, there are a number of factors to consider for prospective students.

First, look for a best online masters in history that is accredited by a reputable agency. This will ensure that your degree will be recognized by employers and other institutions. Second, make sure that the program offers coursework in your areas of interest.

Many master of arts programs allow students to tailor their studies to their specific interests. Finally, check out the faculty of the program you are considering.

Choose a master’s degree in history program whose faculty are experts in their field and who can provide you with the best possible education. With these factors in mind, you can be sure to choose one of the best online history master’s programs available.

In this post, we’ll explore some of the pros and cons of pursuing a history degree online. We’ll also give you a few recommendations for quality programs. So whether you’re just starting to research graduate programs or are ready to enroll, keep reading for important information on earning your history master’s online!

Prospective students should check out our list of the 10 Best Online Master’s in History Degree Programs! 

#1. WESTERN KENTUCKY UNIVERSITY

Master of Arts in History

Want an online masters degree American history that will let you live in one of the country’s most historic cities? You’ll find a top history program at Western Kentucky University. And if you don’t want to study on-campus, no worries. This school also has an online master’s in history that’s just as awesome. 

Bowling Green is a medium-sized town in southwestern Kentucky. The city has 70,000 residents. About a quarter of a million people in the metropolitan area. The city’s historic downtown gives it a small-town feel. Yet Bowling Green is also home to several manufacturers. Every Chevrolet Corvette built since 1981 comes from Bowling Green. The city is also home to Fruit of the Loom underwear and Duncan Hines cake mix.

This university is located right in Bowling Green. It began as Western Kentucky Normal School for teachers, in 1906. Now, this university welcomes more than 20,000 students. The online campus offers more than 100 online degrees, including the Master of Arts in History through the History Department.

This online master’s is ideal for those who want to teach at the college level. The MA in History is also a great option for secondary teachers who want to work toward history certification requirements. Students may apply to WKU’s online MA in History for admission in either the fall or spring semester. However, all students must take the GRE before applying. The full 36-credit degree program can be completed online. If completing the online master’s in history full time, students can take classes during both semesters and the summer. In doing so, it is possible to complete thisprogram in just three years.  The online program is only offered as a non-thesis option. 

All MA students complete a course in historiography in this online masters in American history. This online degree requirement reviews historical writing and historical methods. It focuses on European and United States history from ancient times to the present.

The next four courses are in the student’s area of concentration. WKU offers five concentrations:

• Pre-Modern European History
• Modern European History
• Pre-Civil War United States
• Post-Civil War United States

Students must also show competency in a research methods tool. This can be done by passing an exam in a foreign language or completing a course in statistics. Finally, students complete 21 hours of electives. These are history courses that rotate through the online offerings. Students may transfer up to 12 hours from another graduate program. 

All students receive support services from WKU’s dedicated online learning staff. The master’s degree in history program begins with an online orientation. This gives students a chance to explore everything available via the Student Resource Portal. Students have free access to the library, online writing center, online tutoring, and career services. The portal also includes technical help for getting and staying online. WKU delivers online classes using the Blackboard LMS. 

#2. NORWICH UNIVERSITY

Master of Arts in History

You will find another one of the best online masters programs in history at Norwich University. Northfield is a small town of about 6,000 in Vermont. This is the land of covered bridges and scenic drives! Northfield is about 10 miles south of the state’s capital, Montpelier. If you’re looking for a master’s degree in history program with real clout, studying at Norwich will let you access one of the country’s most famous historic sites.

Norwich University was founded in 1819 as the first private military college in the country. Norwich has always emphasized useful and practical education. Past graduates include the chief engineer for the Northern Pacific Railroad and the past president and chairman of AT&T. The group also includes a U.S. Army Chief of Staff.

This school also has plenty of online master’s to choose from. Norwich Online began in 1998, making it one of the pioneers in extended education. Today, the College of Graduate and Continuing Studies offers programs that accommodate students’ busy lifestyles. The list of online master’s includes a Master of Arts in History. No GRE or GMAT is needed, making this the best online history masters degree no GRE required. All Norwich instructors have doctoral degrees. History teachers help students to customize their studies based on their interests. 

The MA in History at Norwich University has four start dates each year. Students can expect classes in the history department to be made up of about 15 students. The 36-credit program includes six courses in the history department. Each of these is offered over 11 weeks. Many students finish their master’s degree in as few as 18 months. Students can complete lessons on their own schedule. There are always weekly assignments and class discussions. 

Students select from one of three concentrations:

• Public History
• World History
• United States History

The Public History track is a non-thesis program. This program includes a research and planning seminar and capstone project. These courses require an internship of 400 clock hours. This online master’s requirement can be spread over nine months, if necessary. 

Norwich Online offers many advantages over other online degrees. The online learning platform includes 54,000 electronic journals. There are more than 100 online databases, and hundreds of thousands of ebooks. Students have a 24/7 technical staff available to help with any online issues they encounter.

Norwich also offers many scholarships to help students fund their education. One example is a new scholarship for students pursuing an MA in History with a Public History concentration. Recipients receive $4,200 spread out over the six courses. Those awarded the scholarship must maintain a 3.5 GPA.

See Also: 20 Best Online Master’s in Secondary Education

#3. LOUISIANA TECH UNIVERSITY

Master of Arts in History

You will find another one of the best online master’s history program options at Louisiana Tech University. Louisiana Tech University is located in Ruston, LA. Ruston is a small town in north-central Louisiana. The college town of 22,000 offers the best of small-town living. Yet there is easy access to big cities. It sits about 30 miles west of Monroe and about an hour east of Shreveport. Ruston has a charming historic downtown district filled with boutiques, shops, and restaurants.

Louisiana Tech University was founded in 1894. It began as the Industrial Institute and College of Louisiana with one building, 20 acres of land, and 202 students. The school changed over the years. It became Louisiana Polytechnic Institute in 1921. It was renamed Louisiana Tech University in 1970.

Today, Louisiana Tech has more than 12,000 students working on bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral degrees. Louisiana Tech has an online learning program. This includes a Master of Arts in History that is delivered through interactive online courses. 

The online master’s program at Tech is ideal for students who plan to teach social studies at the high school level. The history online curriculum is also great preparation for those who want to pursue a doctoral degree in history and need to understand research methods in US and global history beyond what you’d learn in a bachelor’s degree. 

To pursue the MA, students select a major and complete 12 hours in that theme. There are two options for the MA in History at Louisiana Tech. There is a thesis and a non-thesis option. 

All master’s in history students at Louisiana Tech take Introduction to Historiography. They also take Introduction to Historical Research and Writing. These history online classes offer readings, discussions, and practical experience in history. Students interested in the Historical Research and Writing course will complete an original research paper. Both thesis and non-thesis students must take these two courses. Louisiana Tech offers financial assistance and financial aid for MA students. Financial aid includes graduate assistantships, fellowships, and scholarships. Students interested in receiving aid should complete the FAFSA. 

#4. UNIVERSITY OF LOUISIANA AT MONROE

Master of Arts in History

Looking for an online master’s that will teach you more about history than what you’d learn in a bachelor’s degree? The University of Louisiana at Monroe is a great option for completing your history online degree.

Monroe is a scenic town in northern Louisiana on Interstate 20. It is about equal distance from Jackson, Mississippi, and Shreveport. Each of these cities is about a 90-minute drive from Monroe. The town of Monroe has a population of 50,000. The greater Monroe-Bastrop area has a total population of about 200,000. The Ouachita River and the Bayou DeSiard run through the town. Great outdoor opportunities are located nearby.

Monroe is also home to the University of Louisiana Monroe. ULM is a state-funded school that opened in 1931. The campus encompasses 238 acres with the Bayou DeSiard running through it. Today, there are more than 9,300 students at ULM working on undergraduate and graduate degrees. You’ll find one of the best online master’s in history here. 

Online students at ULM earn the same degrees as face-to-face students. ULM Online has a great support system for online students. It offers guidance and support throughout the program.

To apply to the online master degree in history, students must hold a bachelor’s degree with 18 hours of social sciences and at least nine hours in history. Applicants must also submit either GRE or GMAT scores. They should submit a thesis or research paper of no longer than 10 pages. Once accepted into ULM’s online MA in History, students can begin work on the 30-hour, non-thesis program.

All students take a course in History Research Methods. This familiarizes them with research skills and techniques. You’ll also learn how to collect and criticizing data and to apply research methods. The program also includes 4000- and 5000-level courses. At least half of the 30 hours taken must be in 5000-level courses. Courses for this online master’s in history might include:

• Contemporary History
• Native American History
• Renaissance and Reformation
• East Central Europe Since 1400
• History of Warfare
• Military History

Seminars are also offered each semester on reading and research in special topics. These might focus on:

• Early American History
• The National Period of American History
• European History
• Latin American History

There are also opportunities to take courses in directed reading and research. Students interested will just need the approval of the department head.

#5. SAM HOUSTON STATE UNIVERSITY

Master of Arts in History

You will find another one of the best online master’s at Sam Houston State University.

Huntsville is a small town about 70 miles north of Houston. Home to Texas’ favorite son, Sam Houston, it sits on the edge of Sam Houston National Forest. Sam Houston State University is located in Huntsville. The historic landmark on campus, Austin Hall, opened in 1851 as Austin College. Local hero Houston was even in attendance for the building’s dedication!

Austin College moved out in 1876. After some time as a Methodist school for boys, Austin Hall became the Sam Houston Normal Institute in 1879. The campus grew over the years and the school expanded. It evolved into Sam Houston State Teachers College, in 1923. The school was officially renamed Sam Houston State University in 1969.

Today, it is home to more than 21,000 students. It offers 80 bachelor’s degrees, 50 master’s degrees, and six doctoral degrees. SHSU is a Doctoral Research University. This is as designated by the Carnegie Commission of Higher Education. It ranks among the top 10 Best Online Colleges in Texas. It was also ranked the No. 1 best online college in Texas. Along with its historic campus, SHSU offers many degrees online. These include a Master of Arts in History earned completely online. 

The MA degree comprises 30 hours for the thesis option. Non-thesis students will take 36 hours. Both thesis and non-thesis students complete a foundational course, Methods in History. This gives them the chance to conduct original research, hone critical thinking skills, and uncover the best approaches for communicating their findings. SHSU offers three tracks for the MA in History:

• Encounters and Exchanges
• Rights and Identity
• War and Violence

The history program includes 15 to 21 hours of track core courses and electives. The Encounters and Exchanges track includes courses in:

• Colonial America
• The American West
• Texas History
• Latin American History

The Rights and Identity track includes courses in:

• Recent African-American History
• Early National America
• American Cultural & Religious History

The War and Violence track includes courses in:

• Early Medieval Europe
• U.S. Civil War
• The Ottoman Empire
• European Diplomatic History

Those who select the thesis option will earn six credits in thesis work. Those who choose the non-thesis option take a 3-credit Seminar in History. In this, they will work with faculty members to write a personal essay article  based on primary sources.

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

#6. ARIZONA STATE UNIVERSITY – TEMPE

Master of Arts in History

Students interested in military history, research skills, or general historical events will appreciate the online master degree in history at Arizona State University. Arizona State University is home to countless historical events itself, to say nothing of the surrounding state!

Arizona opened its first institute of higher education 30 years before gaining statehood. The Territorial Normal School opened to 33 students in 1886 on a small campus in Tempe. At the time, Tempe was a small farming community 10 miles east of Phoenix. The school grew as the area developed. It became Arizona State College. By 1958, it was Arizona State University.

Tempe is now in the midst of the Phoenix Metropolitan Area. This is a region encompassing about 5 million residents. ASU has continued to grow. Today, more than 20,000 students attend ASU. They study across 22 schools and departments. It is in the top 1% of the world’s most prestigious universities. That’s according to Times Higher Education. ASU is also the No. 1 school in the U.S. for innovation. That’s according to U.S. News & World Report. Students outside Arizona can experience that same high quality education in fully online programs. The long list of online programs include the online history master’s degree. It is one of the few with a focus on art history and digital history. Formally, it is called the online Master of Arts in History at ASU.

Students in this master of history program will complete 10 classes. Each of these advanced historical methods courses  runs 7.5 weeks. The courses offered each semester vary, but might include:

• Historical Methods
• North American History
• Global History
• Comparative Colonialism
• Global Environmental History
• Genealogy

ASU Online offers ongoing support to all master’s students. The ASU Online degree begins with an orientation. This gives students a chance to meet other online students, explore the tools used in the courses, and get help with technical questions. Each course is delivered via a web browser. No additional software is needed to complete the assignments. Online students have access to all resources in the ASU Libraries. These include  databases, electronic journals, e-books, and more. These are reachable via the Library One Search system. It locates materials across all ASU resources. 

ASU also offers online Career and Professional Development Services. These services help students with job searches, career advice, resumes, and more. ASU has been ranked as a military friendly school by G.I. Jobs magazine. It offers assistance to veterans besides just teaching them about military history!

#7. PITTSBURG STATE UNIVERSITY

Master of Arts in History

Pittsburg, Kansas is a small town of about 20,000 people in the southeastern part of the state. It’s about two hours south of Kansas City and 45 minutes north of Joplin, Missouri. 

The PSU faculty specializes in United States History and History of the Modern World. Online students at PSU pay in-state tuition rates on a per-credit basis, if enrolled in 11 hours or fewer. The per-credit rate is $390.

All History MA students take three core courses:

• Historical Research and Historiography
• Seminar in American History
• Seminar in World History.

After the core courses, students select either the thesis or seminar option. The 30-credit thesis option includes a course in Research and Thesis, along with 20 to 23 credits in history. The seminar option requires a Final Assessment course and 24 credits in history. Online students at PSU get the same quality education as on-campus students. They use remote technology to attend classes that are offered by the same faculty who teach on campus.

#8. MISSOURI STATE UNIVERSITY – SPRINGFIELD

Master of Arts in History

You’ll find one of the best online master’s at Missouri State University.

Missouri State University is located in Springfield, MO. There are more than 26,000 students enrolled at MSU. The main campus is in Springfield. There are supporting campuses in West Plains and Mountain Grove, MO. There is also a campus in Dalian, China. In addition, the outreach program offers online classes. MSU offers 102 bachelor’s degrees, 61 master’s degrees, and seven doctoral degrees. Among its graduates are the owner of the Kansas City Royals, a retired three-star U.S. Army general, and actor John Goodman. 

A Master of Arts in History is available through Missouri State Online. The 30-hour online program typically takes two years to complete.

Tuition for online instruction at MSU is the same for both Missouri residents and non-residents, $295 per credit hour. The suggested course plan calls for taking two courses each semester, including the summer semester.

Students take 10 courses. These include:

• Historiography
• Colonial America
• Women’s History
• American Social History
• The Civil War
• The Middle East
• Latin American History

Research seminars feature in-depth study of a topic, along with extensive research. The readings seminars feature chosen readings on the topic and periods of history. 

#9. UNIVERSITY OF MEMPHIS

MA in History

Memphis, Tennessee is synonymous with blues and rock ‘n’ roll. It is home to Sun Studio, where Elvis Presley, B.B. King, and Johnny Cash recorded some of their most legendary sounds. Elvis Presley’s Graceland is an iconic part of Memphis. The city of almost 700,000 is in far western Tennessee, on the banks of the Mississippi River at the Arkansas border. Memphis is also home to the University of Memphis. 

Today, there are more than 21,000 students. U of M offers:

• 17 bachelor’s degrees
• master’s degrees in 54 subjects
• doctoral degrees in 26 areas
• law degrees
• an education specialist degree
• graduate certificate programs in 44 areas

Many of U of M’s degrees can be completed online through U of M Global. 

The 33-hour history program is only offered as a non-thesis option for online students. Up to nine credits may be earned from 6000-level courses; the rest must be 7000-level courses. All students must pass a comprehensive written exam before graduating. As a U of M student, expect to take at least one research seminar, which will involve completing original research and presenting the findings in writing.

The program’s 7000-level courses include:

• Philosophy & Theory of History
• Principles & Practices in History Education
• Women/Gender Historiography
• English History

Practicums and fieldwork in history are also available under the direction of either U of M or other faculty. They might include opportunities in grant writing or research. U of M Global also offers many Topics in History courses that give students a chance to study periods or problems across subject areas and times.

#10. UNIVERSITY OF NEBRASKA AT KEARNEY

HISTORY MA

Imagine watching 650,000 sandhill cranes flying overhead. Each spring, you can see just that in the Central Nebraska Flyway in Kearney. The town of Kearney, located on Interstate 80 about 200 miles west of Omaha, is home to about 31,000 people.

Today, UNK is home to more than 6,900 students. They come from all 50 states and around the world. There are 120 majors and 27 graduate programs over three colleges. The beautiful campus is a Nebraska Arboretum site. UNK offers more than 30 online graduate degrees, including an MA in History. Online study through UNK’s eCampus is delivered through Canvas, the school’s learning management system. 

Online students attend an eCampus Student Orientation that gives them information about using Canvas, the school’s email system, accessing library resources, and more. There is also a 24/7 Help Desk and video tutorials explaining online learning. The 36-hour MA in History combines:

• coursework
• research
• collaboration

This provides students an ideal basis to pursue careers in:

• education
• government
• business
• law
• doctoral degree

All students will take America Interpreted and Historical Methods. America Interpreted is a course with readings in American historiography. The Methods course helps students to learn the tools and methods used by historians. Additional courses include:

• Public or Digital History
• U.S. History
• non-U.S. History
• World History

If you are completing the online program with the thesis option, you write your 6-credit thesis after you complete the coursework, under faculty supervision.

The Public History option also requires an internship. For that emphasis, students can take courses in Digital History and Readings in American History on such topics as:

• Museums
• Oral History
• National Parks

UNK offers extensive opportunities in public and digital history. This includes research and partnerships focusing on:

• public history
• museums
• digital history community history and preservation

Online students have the chance to collaborate with museums, historical societies, and national parks. UNK also offers several fellowships and grants for graduate history students.

FAQ

Which online colleges have the best online master degrees in history?

There are many programs to choose from when you are looking for a history master degree. In addition to the many programs listed above, you’ll find other top online history master’s degree offerings at schools like:

• Southern New Hampshire University
• Fort Hays State University
• Slippery Rock University
• University of North Alabama

What classes will I take in an online history master’s degree?

No two history graduates will take the exact same classes as part of their degree.

Sample areas you might study in a history master degree include:

• Military history
• Legal and constitutional history
• Directed research
• Evaluating primary and secondary sources
• World history

In some cases, you may even be able to study the history of a foreign language that interests you. These degrees are highly customizable. You can work with faculty members to create the degree that’s right for you.

What is the average salary after earning a history degree?

The average salary for a history graduate will vary. This is based on what you choose to do with your degree as well as where you choose to study.

What is required to apply to a master’s in history degree online?

To apply, you will like need to submit an online application. Prospective students may have to have an interview with faculty members or the admissions team. You might need GRE or GMAT scores. Often, an academic writing sample is required to showcase your writing and critical thinking skills. Some faculty members also like to see some work experience, so be prepared to submit your resume, too. A 3.0 minimum GPA is standard for most online history programs.

OTHER NOTABLE PROGRAMS FOR ONLINE MASTER’S DEGREE

#11. Indiana State University

Location: Terre Haute, IN

Degree: MS in History

Net Price: $11,443

Website          

#12. Southern New Hampshire University

Location: Manchester, NH

Degree: MA in History

Net Price: $39,638

Website        

#13. University of North Carolina Wilmington

Location: Wilmington, NC

Degree: MA in History for professional history educators

Net Price: $16,831

Website        

#14. Wayland Baptist University

Location: Plainview, TX

Degree: MA in History

Net Price: $18,693

Website

#15. Emporia State University

Location: Emporia, KS

Degree: MA in History

Net Price: $14,013

Website

#16. University of North Alabama

Location: Florence, AL

Degree: MA in History

Net Price: $12,103

Website

#17. University of Massachusetts-Boston

Location: Boston, MA

Degree: MA in History

Net Price: $10,991

Website

#18. Slippery Rock University of Pennsylvania

Location: Slippery Rock, PA

Degree: Online Master’s Degree in History

Net Price: $17,557

Website

#19. Fort Hays State University

Location: Hays, KS

Degree: Online Master in History

Net Price: $12,196

Website

#20. Liberty University

Location: Lynchburg, VA

Degree: Online Master in History

Net Price: $26,954

Website

Related:

• Top 10 Most Affordable Online Masters in Secondary Education
• 20 Best Masters in Education

Attorneys who have earned their Juris Doctor (JD) degree in the US are sometimes in need of further education in a specialized area like child law, human rights, or real estate.

World- trained attorneys, on the other hand, need training in American law practices. That’s if they desire to take the Bar Exam and practice law in the U.S.

The online Master of Laws (LLM) degree is one of the most popular online master’s degree programs. It often takes just a year to complete online. The LLM degree allows lawyers to focus in a specific area.

Don’t have a JD? Need to know more about certain legal proceedings and laws? There’s no need to feel left out.

You’ll find several law degree programs online. These are to familiarize students with what they need to know about the law. That’s without making them pursue a full JD. Master of Legal Studies, Master of Law, Master of Jurisprudence.

These are some of the degrees available for non-lawyers to gain specialized knowledge. They can perform their jobs with a better understanding of how the law works.

It doesn’t matter whether you’re a practicing attorney, an attorney who was educated outside of the United States, or a professional whose career would be enhanced by better understanding the law.

Read on to find some of the best master of jurisprudence online degrees.

Quick Links to Our Top 10

1. University of Arizona
2. Seton Hall University
3. University of Southern California
4. Georgetown University
5. New York University
6. Washington University in St. Louis
7. Arizona State University
8. Emory University
9. University of Arkansas
10. Tulane University

Methodology: To make our list of the best juris master online programs, we used public sources like U.S. News and World Report, the American Bar Association, and the websites of schools. These are schools that offer online Master of Law, Master of Jurisprudence, Master of Legal Studies, etc.

In this, we recognized several common factors that brought 50 online graduate law programs to the forefront of our research. We developed a point system to rank the programs based on those factors. Programs that received the same point value were ranked with the lower out-of-state tuition per credit hour as the tie-breaker. The criteria for the ranking can be found below.

• Degree customization– number of degrees offered online and options to specialize
• Program flexibility– the extent to which the degree can be completed entirely online
• School reputation and commendation– being ranked or recognized by independent, reputable sources such as U.S. News and World Report

#1. University of Arizona

University of Arizona James E. Rogers College of Law has a General Master of Law that can be completed online (through UA Online). In this juris master program, students can form their own concentration. You can select electives from a wide range of options. The 24-unit LLM degree can be completed in two years on a part-time basis.

The school also has an online Master of Legal Studies degree. The College of Law has ten concentration options in addition to the general MLS. The concentrations cover many legal areas and provide a thorough understanding of the law.

They include:

• Compliance and Legal Risk Management
• Indigenous Peoples Law and Policy
• International Economic Law and Policy

The 30-unit legal studies program offers comprehensive coursework for non-lawyers with classes such as:

• American Common Law System
• Legal Analysis, Writing & Research
• Human Resources for Legal Counsel

All UA Online students in these legal studies programs are well supported through their assigned Student Academic Success Specialist. This master’s degree is approved by the American Bar Association.

Admissions website

#2. Seton Hall University

Seton Hall Law has a juris master legal studies program that is online. It is for attorneys. The Master of Science in Jurisprudence (MSJ) degree is online for non-attorneys.

The MSJ program requires 31 credit hours. The JM program can be done online within two years. It has five concentration options. Students can specialize in focus areas such as:

• Pharmaceutical and Medical Device Law & Compliance
• Health and Hospital Law

Seton Hall Law is well-known for academics in health law. It created the Pharmaceutical and Medical Device Compliance Manual. This was published by the American Health Lawyers Association (AHLA) and the Food and Drug Law Institute (FDLI).

The LLM degree also offers an online Health Law focus. This is in addition to the online LLM in Financial Services Compliance. It has 24 credit hours of coursework such as:

• Compliance Issues for Healthcare Providers
• The Law of Patient Care.

All health-focused degrees are offered through the School of Law’s Center for Health & Pharmaceutical Law & Policy. This JM program is also approved through the American Bar Association.

Admissions website

#3. University of Southern California

The online juris master JM degree at the USC Gould School of Law is a 21-unit program. It can be completed in just three semesters. This graduate degree is available for both U.S.-trained and international attorneys.

The JM program is the only one that offers a graduate certificate in Business Law. U.S.-based attorneys also have their choice of online certificates in:

• Entertainment Law and Industry Compliance
• Financial Compliance
• Health Care Compliance
• Human Resources Law Compliance

Another juris master JM that is offered online and is 21 units in length is the Master of Studies in Law degree program. This juris master JM is for the student who does not intend to become an attorney.

Coursework includes an array of classes to prepare students for a variety of career fields. These include:

• Constitutional Law
• Legal Research

The prestigious faculty members are invested in each student’s success. They make themselves available for guidance regarding legal training and support. There are specific online USC Law student resources for prospective students to learn more about the program and USC Law.

Admissions website

#4. Georgetown University

Georgetown University Law Center (Georgetown Law) has a 24-credit hour juris master JM degree online. This legal studies program exists as an Executive degree program. There are two options, the LLM in Taxation degree and the exclusively-online LLM in Securities & Financial Regulation degree.

Both offer online students the same Georgetown Law experience. The master’s degree is complete with respected faculty and rigorous academics. It just has the added benefit of online convenience and flexibility.

The Taxation LLM JM program has a large and specialized array of tax courses taught to prepare students for the bar examination and for any other career fields requiring legal training. Plan on providing a personal statement for this juris master JM.

There are two specialty certificates online for the LLM in Taxation. Georgetown Law also offers the online Executive Master of Studies in Law in Taxation for non-lawyers. There are three online specialty certificate options. The curriculum includes seminars and courses taught such as:

• Advance Topics in Exempt Organizations
• International Tax Controversy

Admissions website

#5. New York University

The prestigious NYU School of Law has a 24-credit hour Executive LLM in Taxation degree program. With careful planning, this JM program can be completed online.

The master’s degree is designed to be completed on a part-time basis. Students often finish the degree in three years but have up to five. The curriculum is what you would expect from NYU Law. It is rigorous and extensive.

Some of the coursework in this master’s degree can lead to Professional Certificates in:

• Corporate Taxation
• Estate Planning
• International Taxation.

Executive LLM in Tax students can utilize the Career Services resource once they have earned enough credits. This is significant in that many employers in heavily regulated industries search out NYU LLM graduates. The career center is vital in preparing students for the bar examination and to become desirable working professionals. Graduate students should definitely take advantage of this career center!

A second degree is online for students without a JD: NYU Law’s Master of Studies in Law in Taxation. This degree requires about 24 credit hours. It allows students up to five years to finish the program. There is only one required course in this juris master.  It is Survey of Tax Procedure. Students can choose from many online courses to customize their juris master degree and enable them to practice law in a variety of career fields.

Admissions website

#6. Washington University in St. Louis

Washington University School of Law provides an online Master of Legal Studies (MLS) degree. This juris masters degree is for professionals who do not possess a JD degree. There is also an online LLM for international-trained attorneys.

The coursework for the 24-credit hour MLS program is offered online as an “immersive online learning experience.” It takes just a year.

In this juris masters, students receive the same rigorous and celebrated educational experience as their on-campus peers. The classes are presented in the Socratic method. This legal studies program allows for the dialogue to progress through critical thinking and engaged interaction.

The classes are relevant. MLS students may choose electives from classes such as:

• Professional Responsibility
• Trial Advocacy

If they choose, @WashULaw students are welcome to attend the on-campus optional immersion weekends. These are held twice each year, once in the Spring and once in the Fall.

Admissions website

#7. Arizona State University

The Sandra Day O’Connor College of Law at Arizona State University has an online Master of Legal Studies (MLS) degree program. This legal studies master’s degree is for professionals who need to gain “a general understanding of U.S. law and how decisions are made within the U.S. legal structure.” That’s all without obtaining a JD.

The 30-credit hour master’s degree program does not require the LSAT, GRE or GMAT as admission requirements. The juris master JM offers five emphasis areas to customize the degree.

Students can focus on:

• Corporate and Health Care Compliance
• Criminal Law
• Human Resource & Employment Law
• Intellectual Property Law
• Sports Law & Business
• Sustainability Law

If there is an area that is not represented in the curriculum, ASU Law will implement a new law course “if at least ten students commit to taking the course.” This graduate degree makes it possible for students to obtain legal training in just about any legal education pathway.

ASU Law graduates can participate in the Law for Life program. In this, alumni can take advantage of additional law degrees at a fraction of the normal cost.

Admissions website

#8. Emory University

The online LLM program at Emory University School of Law is a 24-credit hour program. This juris master JM has two customization options:

• the Business Law and Regulation concentration
• the Health Care Law, Policy, and Regulation concentration

The LLM degree program joins the online Juris Master (JM) program.

Students can also choose to concentrate in these legal studies programs. Options are in Business Law and Regulation or Health Care Law, Policy, and Regulation online with the JM degree.

The 30 credit hours are provided as an eighteen-month, sequential program. There is asynchronous coursework.

Classes for both specializations include:

• Introduction to the American Legal System
• Analysis, Research, and Communication for Non-Lawyers
• Contract Law

The remaining classes are specific to each concentration. The online LLM and the online JM require three three-day on-campus residencies. Information sessions are held for prospective students of the JM program to learn admission requirements. Admitted students are integrated into the Emory Law community with resources, services and support. Plan on providing a personal statement for this juris master JM.

Admissions website

#9. University of Arkansas

The online LLM in Agricultural and Food Law degree program at the University of Arkansas School of Law is an advanced law degree program. This juris master JM has had different names over the years. Yet it is one of the best master of legal studies degrees out there, with over 30 years of innovation and experience.

The 24-credit hour program focuses on the “important area of law, connecting lawyers to our food system, from farm to plate.” There are classes such as:

Business Human Rights & Corporate Responsibility

• The Right to Food
• Agricultural Biotechnology
• Farmed Animal Welfare Law & Policy

All coursework is constructed under the guidance of the UA Global Campus. This pioneering program has been at the forefront of “agricultural and food law education, research, and outreach” for more than 30 years. It produced the first “specialized journal devoted to food law and policy issues.” The juris master JM also participates in multiple food and agriculture initiatives. There is financial assistance in the form of several scholarships.

Admissions website

#10. Tulane University

The well-established Tulane University Law School provides human resource professionals with an online Master of Jurisprudence in Labor and Employment Law (MJ-LEL). The goal of this juris master JM is to help them navigate the complex human resources laws and to provide quality legal counsel.

The 30-credit hour master’s degree program has courses such as:

• Employment Law
• Negotiating Skills
• Social Media Issues in the Workplace

All online students in this master of legal studies must attend one on-campus Immersion weekend. This is at the beginning of the master’s degree program. A final Capstone course culminates the degree.

Students are assigned to groups to gain collaborative experience. Students learn from faculty experts in the field. These experts in the legal studies programs are well-known authorities on labor and employment law issues, as well as other career fields.

#11. Hofstra University

The Maurice A. Deane School of Law at Hofstra is home to the 100% online Master of Laws or Master of Arts in Health Law and Policy degree program. The degree includes 25 credits for the LLM degree. It has 30 for the MA. Because of this, with this master of legal studies, students can graduate in eighteen months.

There is also no LSAT or GRE needed to start legal training with this program. There are   three start dates a year. Students can begin the legal studies programs at their convenience.

Coursework for both programs cover important topics such as:

• Medicare and Medicaid Law
• Bioethics and the Law

The master of legal studies program is for students who do not have a JD or formal legal training. It has two additional courses:

• Introduction to the American Legal System
• Health Law

Students benefit from the distinguished and extensive Hofstra Law faculty. They engage in the Gitenstein Institute for Health Law and Policy. These legal studies help shape the course of the health of the world through advocacy and programs.

Admissions website

#12. University of Alabama

The University of Alabama’s distance education system is called “Bama By Distance”. These legal studies programs are 100% online through the School of Law.

Students can choose from the Business Transactions track or the Taxation track. Both potential career fields have 24 credit hours of synchronous coursework. The graduate degree exists in a cohort format.

Beginning each August, each concentration has a set of required courses. Examples include Tax Research and Advance Business Entities. There are also legal studies degree electives from which students can choose.

Non-lawyers can also pursue a degree online through Bama By Distance. This is the online Juris Master in Taxation program. The juris master program allows “accountants, business students, and CPAs the opportunity to obtain an advanced tax degree without having to pursue the JD.”

The 30-credit hour, two-year program is also presented in a cohort format. It starts in August. All students start this master of legal studies with an online orientation (as does the online LLM student). They progress through required courses such as Capital Transactions and Civil Tax Procedure.

Admissions website

#13. Boston University

The Boston University School of Law offers two online LLM programs. These juris master degrees, despite having different names, are both an excellent option for working professionals.

To quote, they are for “experienced practitioners who are unable to attend traditional, nine-month residential programs.” The 20-credit hour Executive LLM in International Business Law provides online coursework. It has one two-week residential experience. The “intensive” session is held in either Boston or Budapest, Hungary. Students can choose which to attend.

Often, students make the most of their time by taking two courses and one colloquium. Three concentrations are available online for the Executive LLM. These are in:

• Enterprise Risk Management and Compliance
• International Environmental and Energy Law
• International Taxation

Students can take electives from within any of the concentrations if they choose a broader education. BU also offers the 24-credit hour LLM in Taxation degree. There are multiple concentrations and emphasis areas in this JD program. The curriculum is varied with many course options.

Admissions website

#14. University of Oklahoma

The OU College of Law has two online LL.M. degrees. There is one in Energy and Natural Resources and one in Indigenous Peoples Law. There are three distinctive Master of Legal Studies programs.

Students can pursue an MLS in Oil, Gas and Energy Law, an MLS in Indigenous Peoples Law, or an MLS in Healthcare Law.

The flexibility and accessibility of the programs allow working professionals to earn the degree of their choice in just fifteen months. There are three start dates a year to add even more convenience.

The programs range from 32 to 33 credit hours. They are either 100% online, as is the case with the MLS in Indigenous Peoples Law and the MLS in Healthcare Law. Or, the legal studies programs are mostly online with a one-week on-campus residency. This is the case with the graduate degree MLS in Oil, Gas and Energy Law.

The unique degrees all boast specialized coursework. Classes include:

• Introduction to Petroleum Engineering and Geo-Sciences
• Religion, Culture, and Indian Law
• Professional Relationships in Health Care Enterprises

In addition to the online master of legal studies programs, OU Law was the first U.S.-based law school to implement a Digital Initiative.

Admissions website

#15. Wake Forest University

You’ll find another excellent legal education option for aspiring and practicing lawyers at Wake Forest University. This master of legal studies features three start dates and an online, asynchronous Master of Studies in Law (MSL) degree.

The curriculum provides students with the renowned Wake Forest University School of Law experience. It is delivered in a flexible and convenient format. Students have up to four years to complete the 30-credit hour program. They can finish in just 21 months if they choose.

Three dedicated tracks allow professionals to focus on their individual academic goals. Students can choose from:

• Business Law & Compliance
• Health Law & Policy
• Human Resources

All students participate core coursework classes such as:

• Business Law and Literacy
• Legal Foundations
• Private Law

Elective selections vary between concentrations. Working professionals choose from  common class offerings such as:

• Managing Talent and Preventing Discrimination
• Detecting Wrongdoing with Investigations, Monitoring, and Audits
• Cybersecurity

The faculty and staff in this technology law graduate degree are trained in online education. They are accessible at any time to help aspiring and practicing lawyers earn a degree in law as seamlessly as possible.

Admissions website

#16. Drexel University

Drexel University has an interdisciplinary online Master of Legal Studies (MLS) degree program. This master of legal studies is delivered through the Thomas R. Kline School of Law. It exists in partnership with the School of Education, the Close School of Entrepreneurship, and the College of Nursing and Health Professions.

This legal training degree has eight concentration areas. The 30-credit hour program provides students with instruction on “how laws and regulations work and how to properly conduct business” in many different areas. The legal training you’ll receive in this program will not only assist with passing the bar exam. It will help you practice law in just about any area you choose.

Core coursework includes classes such as:

• Ethics and Professional Standards,
• Risk Assessment and Management
• Compliance Skills: Auditing, Investigation & Reporting

All students complete a final MLS Masters Capstone. Students can opt to choose from a wide array of electives. Or they can focus on a predetermined concentration (or two) in such areas as:

• Criminal Law
• Higher Education Compliance
• Cybersecurity and Information Privacy
• NCAA Compliance and Sports Law

There are three start dates a year. You can pursue the degree on a part- or full-time basis to assure convenience. Prospective students can attend virtual open house sessions for more information. ABA approved

Admissions website

#17. Vermont Law School

You’ll find more excellent online juris masters programs at Vermont Law School. There are three distinct 30-credit hour LLM degrees. In addition to these legal studies programs, there are three 30-credit hour Masters degrees. All exist online at Vermont Law School. And all can be completed in as little as one year.

The three LLM degrees are for students already possessing a JD degree. Practicing lawyers can choose to pursue a juris master degree in concentrations such as:

• Energy Law
• Environmental Law
• Food and Agriculture Law

The Master of Energy Regulation and Law (MERL) is offered through the Institute for Energy and the Environment. The Master of Environmental Law and Policy (MELP) and the Master of Food and Agriculture Law and Policy (MFALP) exist through the Center for Agriculture and Food Systems. Both are available for both attorneys and non-attorneys alike.

These innovative and unique programs have online coursework. There is also an invitation to the comprehensive Summer Session Program.

Admissions website

#18. Texas A&M University

The Texas A&M University School of Law has two LLM degree programs 100% online.

Master’s degree options include the LLM in Wealth Management and the LLM in Risk Management. Both degree programs are 24 credit hours. They are open to both U.S.-trained or international students. Both take just one year.

The Wealth Management and Risk Management degrees are 30-credit hour Masters of Jurisprudence (MJur) degrees for non-lawyers. The curriculum for both are identical. They are just with the addition of the “Intro to U.S. Law” for the students who do not possess JDs. Plan on providing a personal statement for this juris master JM.

Students learn from a faculty that includes Professor William Byrnes. He was the pioneer that developed the first online LLM degree from an ABA approved school. Online webinars hosted by the Professor discuss the innovation behind Texas A&M’s online graduate law programs. There are a myriad of resources and student support services. ABA approved

#19. Florida State University

You’ll find another top juris master degree at the College of Law at Florida State University. The school has a 100% online Juris Master (JM) degree program.

This master’s degree is for professionals who need to enhance their knowledge of legal procedures and regulations without becoming an attorney. The 30-credit hour program offers three concentrations.

You can choose to customize the degree with options like:

• Financial Regulation and Compliance
•  Health Care Regulation
•  Legal Risk Management and HR Compliance

All three concentrations share the same core curriculum. Classes train you to pass the bar exam and practice law and include topics such as:

• Introduction to Legal Studies and Research
• Legislation and Regulation

You can start your graduate degree in the fall, spring, or summer. Most students finish the degree in five semesters of study.

Admissions website

#20. George Mason University

George Mason University has a superb juris master online. It is an LLM in Global Antitrust Law & Economics. This law masters online is for both U.S.-trained and internationally-trained attorneys. There is also an LLM in U.S. Law for international attorneys.

George Mason University’s renowned Scalia Law School is open to lawyers around the globe. The LLM in Antitrust Law & Economics has 24 credit hours for students with a JD from a law school within the United States. International law students must complete 26 credit hours.

All students have up to three years to finish the program. Classes cover topics like:

• Economics for Lawyers
• Global Antitrust Law

Students choose thirteen credit hours of electives. These include courses such as:

• European Union Competition Law
• Consumer Protection Law

There is an optional Practical Skills Track in this juris masters degree online too. It adds an additional Supervised Externship. The Global Antitrust Institute (GAI) provides many opportunities to enhance a student’s academic experience. Plan on providing a personal statement for this juris master JM.

Admissions website

#21. Widener University

A General LLM degree with two online-only concentrations await students of Widener University’s Delaware Law School.

The Health Law Regulatory Analysis & Compliance concentration is ideal for practicing lawyers. This JM program is perfect for those who desire to grow their “skills and experience in the health care field with a specialized focus on regulatory compliance.”

This master’s degree has a unique Corporate Law Regulatory Analysis & Compliance concentration. It is open to attorneys from the United States or those who were internationally-trained. Both programs have 24 semester hours. The master’s degree takes one to two years. Students have as many as four years if needed to finish the program.

There are several Master of Jurisprudence degrees for working professionals. These include:

• the 29-credit hour MJ in Health Law
• the 29-credit MJ in Corporate and Business Law
• a dual 48-credit hour MBA/MJ in Corporate and Business Law

If you’re interested in furthering your legal education even more, there is a 15-credit graduate Certificate in corporate or healthcare compliance.  ABA approved.  Accredited by the Compliance Certification Board. 

Admissions website

#22. Samford University

You’ll find even more excellent juris masters programs at the Cumberland School of Law at Samford University. This school has two 100% virtual master of legal studies degrees. Each legal studies degree has multiple concentration options.

The 30-credit hour LLM degree and the 36-credit hour Master of Studies in Law (MSL) degree program take just two years. Students can choose between four predetermined concentrations:

• Financial Services Regulatory Compliance
• Health Law and Policy
• Higher Education Law and Compliance
• Legal Project Management

There are core courses for all LLM students:

• Principles of Business Law
• Intro to Public Policy: Legislations & Regulation

Admissions website

#23. Michigan State University

The Michigan State University College of Law has some of the best juris master programs.

There is an LLM and an MJ in Global Food Law. Both exist online for professionals who want to pass the bar examination and earn a legal studies degree that enables them to practice law in any career field.

The LLM degree has 24 credit hours. The MJ requires 26 credits. Students without a JD must take the additional two-credit “Foundations of Law and Legal Research” class. Both take three years if pursued at a relaxed pace. The curriculum has three core courses. The remaining credits include elective courses such as:

• Halal Food: An Introduction to Islamic Laws and Ethics
• Biotechnology Law and Food Products
• Wine, Beer and Spirits Laws and Regulations

This master of legal studies is ideal for practicing lawyers and professionals in the food industry. The Global Food Law program appeals to a wide range of student backgrounds and goals. ABA approved

Admissions website

#24. Northeastern University

The Master of Legal Studies (MLS) program at Northeastern School of Law is 100% online and is quite flexible. One of the best juris masters programs out there, it was designed for non-lawyers. It takes just two years. There are 30 credit hours. Students engage in core coursework covering topics like:

• Law of Information and Records
• Data Regulation and Compliance

Students can choose to pursue a concentration in:

• Health Law
• Business Law
• Human Resources Law

Admissions website

#25. Loyola University Chicago

The School of Law at Loyola has an online LLM in Business Law and LLM in Health Law. These are in the Beazley Institute for Health Law and Policy. Both have 24 credit hours each. The degree takes one to two years.

Course options for this juris master degree online include:

• Contract Drafting
• European Union Privacy Law
• Transactional Skills
• Law and Bioethics

There are also three online MJ programs for non-lawyers:

• MJ in Business Law and Compliance
• MJ in Children’s Law & Policy
• MJ in Health Law
• All three MJ degrees have 24 credit hours and participation in the EIWs

The Children’s Law & Policy degree is in Loyola’s “nationally-recognized Civitas ChildLaw Center.” Each degree provides many resources and enhancements for online graduate law students. ABA approved

Admissions website

#26. Stetson University

Stetson University is home to some of the best juris master programs. There are several Master of Jurisprudence and LLM degrees that are 100% online or mostly online with a residency. Stetson University College of Law has specializations to enhance the careers of both attorneys and non-attorneys.

The master of legal studies is a 30-credit hour, online MJur in Healthcare Compliance. It is an interdisciplinary program. Students benefit from partnerships with the:

• University of South Florida College of Medicine
• Bay Pines VA Healthcare
• Adventist Systems in Florida

There is also the online MJur in Aging, Law and Policy. This master of legal studies is a 25-credit hour program. It gives online students access to an extensive online library replete with resources on Aging Law and Policy.

The two online LLM degree programs both require brief on-campus residencies. These residences are meant to enhance the academic experience and give students the confidence they need to practice law in any setting. Plan on providing a personal statement for this juris master JM.

Admissions website

#27. Villanova University

Villanova has an online LLM in Taxation. This master of legal studies prepares students for the bar exam. It is a legal studies degree offered through both the AACSB-accredited Villanova School of Business and the Charles Widger School of Law.

The 24-credit hour program takes as little as eighteen months. The juris master degree has courses such as:

• Survey of Tax
• Partnership Taxation
• Professional Responsibilities in Tax and Research & Writing

Students select three electives from choices like:

• Charitable Gift Planning
• Taxation of Corporate Acquisitions and Reorganizations
• Advanced Topics in Employee Benefits

There are three graduate certificates. These offer students the opportunity to specialize the degree:

• State and Local Tax
• Estate Planning
• Employee Benefits

Admissions website

#28. University of Miami

The Robert Traurig-Greenberg Traurig LLM in Real Property Development (RPD) is the LLM degree program. This JM program is offered online at the University of Miami School of Law.

This master of legal studies is a 30-credit hour program. It takes just two years to complete. Students have up to five years if needed. There are two on-campus requirements. These ten day residencies allow distance education students the chance to “feel part of the community of students in the RPS Program.”

Courses include relevant topics such as:

• Environmental Regulation of Real Property
• Land Security and Finance
• Basic Condominium, Cooperative and Planned Unit Development

Admissions website

#29. Northwestern University

You will find another excellent juris master degree at Northwestern University. The Master of Science in Law (MSL) is a part-time program for STEM professionals. It is in the Northwestern Pritzker School of Law.

The 28-credit hour program curriculum is comprised of eight required core courses. These include:

• Business Formation & Structure
• Contract Law & Design
• Research in Law, Business & Technology

The remaining courses are chosen from electives. These are grouped into focus areas in:

• intellectual property and patent design
• business law and entrepreneurship
• regulatory analysis and strategy

Students can choose their electives according to their academic goals. They can concentrate in one area, or choose a wide selection of elective topics.

Elective options include:

• Intro to Accounting & Financial Statements
• Healthcare Law and Policy
• Quantitative Reasoning in the Law

Admissions website

#30. Regent University

There are multiple excellent juris masters programs at Regent University.

Here you will find two LLM specializations and a Master of Art in Law degree. These are the online offerings of the Regent University School of Law.

Both the LLM in American Legal Studies and the LLM in Human Rights exist online and on-campus. They have 30 credit hours to graduate.

There is one shared course between the specializations— Foundations of Law. This is followed by courses such as:

• Foundations of Legal Thought
• American Legal System & Writing
• International Children’s Rights
• Religion in the Workplace

The online MA in Law degree also has 30 credit hours. There are multiple concentration options. A few of the focus areas include:

• Alternative Dispute Resolution
• General Legal Studies
• Wealth Management & Financial Planning

Admissions website

#31. Nova Southeastern University

Nova Southeastern University’s Shepard Broad College of Law has four Master of Science in Law degree programs. Students can complete all degrees online just two years. These juris master options include:

• Master’s in Education Law
• Master’s in Employment Law
• Master’s in Health Law
• Master’s in Law and Policy

Within each degree students have their choice of multiple concentration options. These include:

• Business and Entrepreneurial Counseling
• Health Law
• Intellectual Property, Cybersecurity, and Technology Law
• International Law
• Litigation and Dispute Resolution

Admissions website

#32. Western Michigan University Thomas M. Cooley Law School

Western Michigan University Thomas M. Cooley Law School (WMU-Cooley) has multiple LLM degrees online:

• Intellectual Property Law
• Taxation
• Corporate Law & Finance
• Insurance Law
• Homeland and National Security Law

The programs have 24 credits. Students take less than two years (but have up to three years if desired). Plan on providing a personal statement for this juris master JM.

Admissions website

#33. University of Tulsa

There are two specialized Master of Jurisprudence degree programs at the University of Tulsa College of Law. There is a Master of Jurisprudence in Energy Law (MJEL) and the Master of Jurisprudence in Indian Law (MJIL). This master of legal studies is one of the best for providing a comprehensive understanding of the law.

Both offered full or part-time. They take one and a half to two years. The 24-credit hour MJEL degree program is housed within the Sustainable Energy & Resources Law (SERL) program.

Classes are immersive and comprehensive. They provide an understanding of the law with different names like:

• Water Rights & Water Law
• Natural Resources Law
• Regulation of Energy Markets

Admissions website

#34. Albany Law School

The LLM in Cybersecurity and Data Privacy Law degree program at Albany Law School is an online degree. It takes just one to two years. The juris master is offered in partnership with the Global Cyber Alliance (GCA). Ideal for practicing lawyers, it includes coursework such as:

• Technology Law
• Healthcare Compliance
• Cyber War, Intelligence & National Security
• Electronic Discovery

Admissions website

#35. The John Marshall Law School

Now part of the University of Illinois Chicago as of 2019, the John Marshall Law School offers multiple online LLM and Master of Jurisprudence (MJ) degree program. Students have access to multiple centers in this JD program, including the:

• Center for Intellectual Property, Information & Privacy Law
• the Center for Tax Law & Employee Benefits
• the Center for Real Estate Law

Of course, this master of legal studies also enables students to access the career center.

Admissions website

#36. University of Nebraska – Lincoln

The juris master here is a six semester, part-time hybrid program. There are some on-campus requirements. Nebraska College of Law’s LLM in Space, Cyber, and Telecommunications Law degree is competitive. No more than eight students are admitted each year.

It requires 24 credit hoursCourse requirements include classes such as:

• National Security Space Law
• Domestic Telecommunications Law & Regional Cybersecurity
• International Cyber Security: Mischief, Crime and Warfare

Admissions website

#37. Liberty University

If you want to practice law, you should consider the juris master at Liberty University. There is a Juris Master (JM) degree for non-lawyers and an LLM juris master degree that is 100% online. The Liberty University School of Law allows students to “tailor the level of legal education” to suit their needs.

The juris master degree includes 30 hours of study. It provides two concentrations:

• International Legal Studies
• American Legal Studies

Both concentration options allow students to select electives. The master of legal studies includes course options for a customized legal education JD program. Options include:

• Law & Economics
• Criminal Law
• Corporate Compliance
• Torts Law
• International Public Law
• International Human Rights Law
• International Trade Law
• The Law of Armed Conflict
• Jurisprudence/Legal History

Admissions website

#38. Florida Coastal School of Law

The Florida Coastal School of Law offers another excellent opportunity for legal education. The JD program was the first online LLM juris master degree in the United States Law for international lawyers. There are also juris master JM online degree in law options in Logistics & Transportation and General Law Studies.

The 24-credit hour LLM in Logistics & Transportation is the first of its kind in the nation. It provides asynchronous coursework. It  offers a well-rounded legal education in a degree in law that covers topics like:

• technology law
• corporate compliance
• global risk compliance
• maritime law
• aviation liability and litigation
• labor relations

The 26-credit hour LLM in General Law Studies offers concentrations in

• International Law
• Logistics & Transportation
• Business and Transactional Practice
• U.S. Law Practice
  

#39. Western New England University

The School of Law at WNE provides the sole online LLM in Elder Law and Estate Planning juris master degree in the nation. This JD program is delivered through live and interactive coursework.

The 24-credit hour program focuses on the “practical aspects of drafting estate plans, administering the settlement of estates, and representing elderly clients and families.”

Classes in this degree in law JM program include:

• Federal Wealth Transfer Taxes
• Fiduciary Administration

Admissions website

#40. Touro College Jacob D. Fuchsberg Law Center

Touro Law pioneered the first online LLM in Aging and Longevity degree. This juris master JM is a 24-credit hour,  online asynchronous program.

Students in this JM program degree in law complete three required core courses:

• Core Issues in Aging and Longevity Law,
• Estate Planning or Financial Planning for Aging and Incapacity
• Ethical Issues in Representing Aging Clients and Their Family Members

There is also an Independent Writing Project.

Elective classes include:

• The Guardianship Quality Initiative: How to Humanely and Competently Litigate Guardianship Matters Geriatric Medicine for Lawyers
• How Older Persons Access and Pay for Healthcare
• Familial Relationships, Responsibilities, and Ambiguities

Admissions website

#41. American University

The American University Washington College of Law’s Academy on Human Rights and Humanitarian Law has a hybrid LLM in International Human Rights and Humanitarian Law.

This juris master degree is for both U.S.-based and international attorneys. It has both on-campus and online coursework. The 24-credit hour program has two three-week summer residencies. Students can choose from seminars in topics:

• The Rights of Disadvantaged and Vulnerable Groups
• International Humanitarian Law

Admissions website

#42. California Southern University

Both the Master of Science in Law and the LLM programs at CalSouthern are 100% online through the School of Law.

The juris master JM requires students to possess a JD. You must complete 24 credit hours to graduate. Focus areas are available in:

• Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR)
• Commerce and Global Trade (CGT)

The core curriculum for each area is comprised of twelve credits. There are topics like:

• Negotiations, Theory and Practice
• Group Leadership, Process and Facilitation
• International Business Law
• Uniform Commercial Code

The “innovative, versatile” 36-credit hour MSL program takes as little as eighteen months or up to four years. Seven core classes make up a large portion of the program requirements.

Admissions website

#43. Thomas Jefferson School of Law

Three different concentrations are offered through both LLM and Master of Science of Law (JSM) juris master programs. These are 100% online at Thomas Jefferson School of Law.

Students can choose from:

• Taxation, Financial Services and Wealth Management
• Financial Compliance and Risk Management

The LLM degree requires 24 units. The MSL degree 30 units. The program can be completed at an accelerated pace within a year. Students are encouraged to complete it at their own pace.

Coursework is offered asynchronously for convenience and flexibility. Class topics cover a wide range of subjects depending on the concentration chosen:

• Civil Tax Procedure
• High Net Worth Client Planning
• Securities Law and Compliance

Admissions website

#44. Pepperdine University

Pepperdine Law’s  Master of Legal Studies (MLS) degree is a 32-unit program providing non-lawyer professionals with an excellent preparation for the bar exam. Students learn “fundamental understanding of legal concepts and procedures.”

Coursework focuses on a range of topics including:

• Constitutional Law
• Contracts
• Employment Law
• Negotiation Theory and Practice

Students can choose a concentration in dispute resolution, with courses from Pepperdine Law’s top-ranked Straus Institute. The degree can be completed in as few as sixteen months full-time.

Admissions website

#45. West Virginia University

The Master of Legal Studies (MLS) at WVU is housed within the Public Administration Department of the Eberly College of Arts & Sciences.

It is a 30-credit hour program available 100% online. The MLS provides ten courses that can be completed in just eighteen months.

In addition to a general studies track, there are three emphasis areas in:

• Justice Systems
• Homeland Security
• Health Care

All students participate in the required core courses on subjects like:

• Law & the Legal System
• Dispute Resolution Process
• Administrative Ethics

Admissions website

#46. The Santa Barbara & Ventura Colleges of Law

The Colleges of Law offer an online Masters of Legal Studies (MLS) for professionals “who work—or aspire to work—in fields that routinely intersect with law.” 

It is a 30-credit hour program that can be completed in eighteen months on a part-time basis.

Required coursework covers topics like:

• Litigation and Its Alternatives
• Research and Advocacy
• American Legal System

All students finish the degree by engaging in a Capstone course. Two concentrations are offered to online MLS students.

The Frontiers in Law concentration explores privacy rights and legality. Courses include:

• Emerging Threats
• Global Relationships
• Bio Legal Issues

The Regulatory Compliance/Legal Risk Management concentration focuses on class topics such as:

• Data Security & Breach
• Liability, Risk, and Insurance
• Regulation and Compliance

Admissions website

#47. American Military University

The American Military University School of Security & Global Studies houses the online Master of Arts in Legal Studies.

Classes include:

• Legal & Ethical Issues in Management
• Homeland Security and the Law
• Judicial Politics, Process, and Policy Making
• Methods of Legal Research and Writing
• Constitutional Law
• Criminal Justice Process

A final Legal Studies Capstone culminates the degree.

Admissions website

#48. University of Illinois Springfield

A Master of Arts in Legal Studies is offered online through the Legal Studies Department in the UIS College of Public Affairs and Administration.

The unique program provides 40 credit hours of coursework such as:

• Theories of Justice
• Public Advocacy
• Politics and Law
• Courts and Policymaking

Admissions website

#49. Hodges University

The Master of Science in Legal Studies (MSLS) at Hodges University is online through the Nichols School of Professional Studies. It exists as a full or part-time program. 

30-credit hours are necessary. Students engage in comprehensive courses such as:

• Mediation, Arbitration and Conflict Resolution
• Ethics and Law
• Employment and Human Resources

Admissions website

#50. Webster University

The 39-credit hour Master of Arts in Legal Studies at Webster University is offered online through the College of Arts & Sciences. The curriculum “is designed to provide students with a broad understanding of the legal environment.”

It includes such required classes as:

• Ethics for the Legal Professional
• Anglo-American Legal History
• American Constitutional Law

Students can choose an internship as an elective. There is a final Research and Writing Project for all students. Students can earn a Certificate in Paralegal Studies alongside the degree if desired.

Admissions website

Related Rankings

50 Best Online Masters In Criminal Justice

A master’s degree is earned through a graduate program that typically lasts for around two years. It’s a requirement for anybody wanting to pursue a PhD in the future, as well as being the next step on the ladder after graduating from a traditional college bachelor’s degree. These courses are heavily research-focused and require you to have a high level of mastery in the chosen subject area. While you might choose to study for a master’s degree in order to advance your knowledge in a specific field, obtaining this qualification can also be a way of boosting your earning potential or putting you ahead of other candidates for employment. 

Information from the United States Census Bureau shows that around 13.1% of U.S. adults possess a master’s degree, up by nearly 9% since the year 2000. The report also highlights how, in 2017, a person with an advanced degree earned on average 3.7 times more than someone without a high school diploma. 

What’s more, some careers and senior or leadership roles will ask for a master’s degree as a minimum educational requirement. For example, many states will ask you to have a master’s degree to teach in a public school or to take on many social work-related roles. Aside from these requirements, a master’s degree might also let you bypass certain entry-level roles in your career field, giving you immediate access to higher-paid employment with better opportunities. If you’re looking to progress to senior managerial roles in your preferred field, then you’ll need to study for a master’s degree. 

See Also: 10 Best Master’s in Industrial Engineering 

Common Application and Admission Questions

What do I need to apply for a Master’s Degree?

If you want to enroll in a master’s degree program, then you’ll usually need to have a bachelor’s degree. While this degree doesn’t necessarily need to be in the same subject area, some programs will need you to have completed specific prerequisite courses as part of your undergraduate study. As part of your application, many colleges will also ask for you to provide supplementary information. This might include submitting your high school transcripts, writing a personal essay on a chosen topic or one prescribed by the institution, attending an interview, taking the GMAT or GRE examination, and submitting personal recommendations.

See Also: Best Master of Environmental Science

Are online master’s programs respected?

If you choose your institution carefully, then there’s really no need to worry about the respectability of an online master’s degree. For example, at the Georgia Institute of Technology, their Master of Science programs are specifically designed to be equally as rigorous as their on-campus counterparts. You’ll face the same kinds of challenges and earn the same number of credits across the course of your study with them. 

It’s true that some employers are less familiar, and consequently less trusting, of online master’s degrees. However, the good news is that you don’t even have to highlight that you studied for an online degree when you’re applying for roles after graduation. Ultimately, all that matters is the reputation of the institution that you’ve studied with and the quality of their teachings. On a side note, we’ve actually covered this exact question before with an in-depth article, which you can find here. 

What careers can you get with a master’s degree?

This is a fairly broad question as many degrees in different fields require master’s degrees for the most senior positions. So, we’ll look at just a few of the highest-earning roles that need this level of education instead. Many of the roles needing a master’s degree exist within the medical profession. For example, nurse anesthetists had an annual median wage of $167,950 in 2018. Nurse practitioners, another role that also requires a master’s degree, had a median pay of $107,030. Other roles include occupational therapists, statisticians, economists, mathematicians, and political scientists. Senior management professionals within corporate institutions and companies, especially in sectors like financial services and legal, will in most cases ask for a master’s degree, too. 

Are master’s degrees funded?

In most cases, master’s degrees don’t provide course-specific scholarships — neither full nor partial — to enrolled students. In cases where such funding is available, it’s normally reserved for only the most competitive applicants. For this reason, many students turn to the same source of funding that they did for their graduate studies: the federal government. However, as we’ll cover below in a little more detail, the rules change slightly for graduate students when it comes to filling out the FAFSA. 

An option you may have as a graduate student that undergraduate students typically won’t have is employer tuition reimbursement. Some companies will offer to cover the cost of your tuition so that you can pay for your online master’s and study as you work. Under this program, employers can provide up to $5,250 tax-free in assistance per school year.

What About Financial Aid & Scholarships?

Even if you’re enrolled in a distance-learning, online degree program, you’re still eligible for funding from the federal government. But while you’re probably used to the process of completing your FAFSA, what you might not know is that some of the rules around using the FAFSA and the funding you can receive change when you reach graduate level. One of the most important considerations, when you reach this level, is whether you’re considered to be dependent on or independent from your parents. 

In most cases, students file their application as independent, which means that parental information isn’t required. However, it’s worth keeping in mind — especially as a distance learner that may be living at home throughout their studies — that if you do file as dependent, then your parents’ income will be taken into consideration. This could have a significant impact on your eligibility for the needs-assessed financial awards that are available, regardless of whether your parents intend on helping you pay for college. 

The other main difference at graduate level is that you won’t be eligible for the same subsidized federal loans that are offered to undergraduates. These are loans where the government covers the interest while you’re studying. 

Like any other student, you will need to complete a Free Application for Federal Student Aid, or FAFSA, via the Federal Student Aid website. It doesn’t cost anything to complete an application, so steer clear of any online businesses trying to charge you a fee to help you with an application. Once you’ve submitted the form, it’ll take around three to four weeks for a decision to be made. You’ll receive a Student Aid Report (SAR), which sets out any funding that you’re eligible for. There are four types of student aid you might receive: grants, loans, scholarships, and work-study funding. 

Federal grants, unlike loans, do not normally have to be repaid after graduation. They may be paid by the federal government, the state government in which you reside, or by your chosen institution. There are principally four types of grants available to you: Pell Grants, Federal Supplemental Educational Opportunity Grants (FSEOG), Iraq and Afghanistan Service Grants, and the Teacher Education Assistance for College and Higher Education (TEACH) Grant. The latter two grants are for specific groups of students, but the first two are needs-assessed and available to all students. 

Like grants, scholarships do not need to be repaid, and there are thousands of them available across the country. Schools, colleges and universities, individuals, nonprofit organizations, public companies, and other bodies all offer scholarships with varying eligibility requirements. Many of these scholarships are designed for specific groups, such as those for students with a disability, scholarships specifically for women, and others for previously incarcerated individuals. In some cases, you’ll have to submit a separate application for these aside from the FAFSA. However, it’s worth keeping in mind that many master’s degrees are offered to undergraduates and not graduate students. 

As an online distance learner, a federal work-study job could be useful to you. These programs provide you with a part-time role that lets you earn money while you’re studying, although they’re needs-assessed and typically go to those in the greatest financial need. Students studying on campus will normally be assigned a role that’s based within the school, but for a distance learner, your employer will normally be a private, nonprofit organization or public company. 

How Much Can I Make With an Online Master’s Degree? 

In past years, obtaining a business degree or graduate degree was meant as a means to increase your base salary and opportunities for future promotion. However, nowadays, bachelor’s and even master’s degrees don’t carry the same weight that they used to in the professional world. So many graduates now progress from a bachelor’s to a master’s degree — or beyond — creating much greater competition for subsequent employment. 

That said, it doesn’t mean that you shouldn’t study towards a master’s degree if you’re interested in maximizing your earning potential after graduation. According to a report made by SmartAsset, bachelor’s degree graduates will earn approximately $55,000 greater per year than those without a degree, while master’s graduates will earn an average of around $69,732 more. Of course, these are just comparative figures that show the difference in what an individual might earn in relation to those who have spent more or less time in education. 

There will be some variations based on your chosen field and career path. For example, an online master’s degree achieved in a STEM field will typically lead to a greater average salary when compared to one that was attained in education or historical studies. You should investigate the specifics of your intended career path to work out what earning potential you might have, and then compare this to the cost of studying towards a master’s degree. Resources such as PayScale and the Bureau for Labor Statistics (BLS) are useful for this. 

The bottom line is that, while the average salary for a master’s degree differs from one field to another, you will earn more over the course of your career if you have a higher level of education. In many cases, this can be as much as 35% more when compared to individuals with a lower level of education. 

What Are the Best Online MasDegrees?

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. Georgia Institute of Technology

Georgia Institute of Technology has a pretty colorful history; it was the site of the Atlanta Summer Olympics back in the 90s. During the civil war, it was also the place where the surrender of Atlanta happened. Georgia Tech’s online learning programs have been running for more than four decades, with a choice of ten Master of Science degrees and three hybrid professional master’s programs that can all be taken online via distance learning. 

Their Master of Science courses are all heavily technical-focused, including aerospace engineering, computer science, cybersecurity, and various engineering degrees. Every course is designed to be equally as rigorous as its on-campus counterpart, which lets you build your professional and real-world experience without interrupting your career. Simply put, the Master of Science courses are your ‘typical’ graduate degree programs. 

Meanwhile, the Professional (hybrid) Master’s Degrees are structured differently. As part of the course program, you’ll only need to attend three week-long sessions at the main campus in Atlanta. The rest of your two-year studies will take place over the internet, with a wealth of pre-recorded lectures and real-time conferences providing you with the needed subject matter. Each of these professional programs consists of ten courses and a cumulative capstone course at the end that rounds off each course.

Let’s look at these courses and the differences between them in a little more detail. The Master of Science puts emphasis on research and studying the history, theory, and practices of each academic subject. These courses are suited to you if you want to strengthen your academic skills, like critical thinking and in-depth research. If you’re looking to pursue a PhD or work in an academic field, you’ll likely be looking at a Master of Science. The Professional Master’s focuses on hands-on experience and skills, and practical knowledge, all of which can be immediately utilized in your career. They’re for students who are well-established in a career but want to improve their leadership abilities and technical prowess. 

For a Master of Science course, you’ll need the GRE/GMAT and a bachelor’s degree under your belt. You’ll also need letters of reference, as well as a personal essay as part of the admission process. For the Professional Master’s, you won’t need the GRE/GMAT, but you’ll need a bachelor’s degree and a minimum of five years worth of work experience. In addition to the personal essay and reference letters, you’ll also need to provide your resume alongside your application. 

Tuition fees vary from course to course: the Master of Science in Analytics runs at $275 per credit hour, while the Master of Science in Computer Science is $170 per credit hour. Each year, more than 12,000 students enroll in one of the online master’s or professional programs at Georgia Tech. Their programs also consistently come in the top 10 in annual rankings from the U.S. News & World Report. 

#2.  Texas A & M University-College Station

Did you know that Texas A&M has more than just a campus in Texas? The Texas A&M University in Qatar provides a number of degree programs focused on engineering and sciences. There are also offices in Mexico and a research base in Costa Rica. The official mascot of Texas A&M is Reveille IX, a collie dog, who was donated to the university. She can often be seen around campus and is deeply ingrained in the tradition of the university. 

If you’re wondering what ‘A&M’ stands for, we’ll tell you: it’s ‘Agricultural and Mechanical’, which goes some way toward explaining why current and former students are so often referred to as ‘Aggies’. In the early 1900s, the university students were routinely referred to as ‘Farmers’, but as the 20s rolled around, this changed to ‘Aggie’ — short for ‘Agricultural’. From 1949, the university officially changed its yearbook name to ‘Aggieland’ and the name stuck. 

The Distance Education department at Texas A&M offers more than 40 master’s programs in a broad variety of subjects, including business, education, government and public service, medicine and nursing, science, and law. Unsurprisingly, some of the broadest selection of degree programs fall under the College of Agriculture and Life Sciences. Courses include the Master of Agriculture (MAGR), Master of Engineering (MENGR), Master of Natural Resource Development (MNRD), and Master of Wildlife Science (MWSC). So, if you’re looking to study within this area, you could do far worse than becoming an Aggie given the university’s history. 

Distance education applicants must go through the same process as on-campus students when applying for a graduate degree program. There’s a non-refundable $65 application fee, and you’ll also need to submit several pieces of documentation as part of your application. These include official transcripts and records from all colleges or universities you have attended, as well as official test scores — where required — such as the GRE or GMAT. Application deadlines vary from one course to another, so you should check the deadline for the relevant department. 

At Texas A&M, every student registering for distance education is assessed Distance Education Differential Tuition (DEDT) per hour, based on the type of courses chosen. This varies from course to course and may range from $40 per credit hour to $550 per credit hour. For more explanation as to how this tuition system works, you can view the tuition fees broken down by department here. And if you need any more information to work out the exact cost of tuition with DEDT taken into consideration, then you can use the university’s tuition calculator. 

For students feeling the crunch when fees are due, it’s worth noting that the university has some emergency tuition and fee loans available on a short-term basis. Students can borrow up to the amount owed for up to 90 days. 

#3.  North Carolina State University

Like many of the institutions on our list, NC State University’s heritage dates back to the late 1800s, when it was founded after the federal Morrill Act of 1862. Through this act, government-owned land was donated to the states so that colleges for ‘agriculture and the mechanic arts’ could be established. This is why so many of the colleges on our list are also centers of excellence for agriculture! In the fall of 1889, the first classes commenced with a student body of just 72 students, plus six faculty members for teaching. Since being founded, the university has had five different names, too. As the prospectus grew, ‘North Carolina College of Agriculture and Mechanic Arts” eventually became the North Carolina State University we know today. 

At NC State University, you can be enrolled in an online and distance education program exclusively, or a combination of a distance program and an on-campus program, depending on your reasons for studying remotely. Regardless of the chosen course, your application will be overseen by the NC State Graduate School, which will be responsible for evaluating your potential against the course requirements. Part of the application process involves each academic department forming their own admissions committee to review every application, before the graduate school gives final approval.

Master’s degrees available at NC State cover a broad range of topics, including accounting, agricultural, computer science, education, engineering, languages, sciences, and mathematics. For each specific program, there are slightly varied application and admissions requirements, owing to the department-specific committee responsible for overseeing applications. However, generally speaking, most courses will ask for a minimum GPA to have been achieved on all undergraduate work for an unconditional admission, two copies of all undergraduate transcripts, up to three letters of recommendation from people familiar with your work, and a professional statement of around 500 to 800 words, which describes your professional goals. 

North Carolina State University gets consistently rated as one of the best-value institutions in American higher education. Tuition fee costs for graduate distance education students run at $446.00 per credit hour, with an additional fee of around $15 per hour. For students who are in need of additional financial aid, there are several distinctive programs available directly from the institution. In fact, each of the colleges based at NC State offers its own scholarship opportunities that can be applied for from December 1st. You can view the full list here. 

#4.  The University of Alabama

The University of Alabama’s reputation continually improves year after year. In 2019, the freshman class included 267 National Merit Scholars, which was the largest in the university’s history, as well as recently ranking second nationally among public universities for the same statistics. More than 130 alumni have been winners of prestigious national awards, too, including Goldwater Scholars, Rhodes Scholars, Truman Scholars, Hollings Scholars, and Boren Scholars. Other alumni have also won the Fulbright Award as recently as 2020. Also, there are more than 600 student organizations running across campus, and while you may be looking to study remotely, there are many clubs and activities that take place off-campus that may apply to you. 

The programs available at The University of Alabama fall into a broad range of categories. These include commerce and business administration, communication and information sciences, community health services, education, engineering, human environmental services, law, nursing, and social work. When you’re choosing a course from the prospective list, it’s worth bearing in mind that some are classed as ‘blended’ courses. This means that you’d be expected to attend some degree of on-campus teaching, though in many cases these sessions are held on weekends, so that you can still attend even if you work full-time. 

When you make an application for one of the graduate courses, you’ll need to be prepared to pay a non-refundable application fee of $40. You’ll also be asked to submit a number of supporting documents alongside your application, including transcripts and grades from your bachelor’s degree, a personal statement, and letters of recommendation from up to three different people. 

Online distance learning courses at UA are delivered using a secured website, through which you will have direct interaction with both your professors and fellow students. Lessons are completed via email, while you’ll also use the Blackboard Learn software for online classes. The tools available allow you to easily share information and participate in discussions. 

The cost of tuition at this university runs a little higher than some of the other institutions on our list. For distance learners studying at The University of Alabama, the cost of tuition runs at $420 per credit hour, which is a little more expensive than the undergraduate rate. The exception to this is the Ed.D. in Higher Education Administration, which is $720 per credit hour. Most master’s degrees at UA are 30 credit hours in total, meaning a yearly tuition cost of $6,300. 

Conversely, some of the most generous scholarships in the country are available for new and existing graduate students at UA — including some reserved only for students studying at a graduate level. To apply, you’ll need to be able to provide an official high school transcript and test score from either the SAT or ACT. In total, there are seven different scholarships available, which you can find more information on here. 

#5.  University of Nebraska-Lincoln

The University of Nebraska-Lincoln has been around since 1869 and was founded just two years after Nebraska became recognized as the 37th U.S. state. The institution has seen some alumni go on to great things, including famous writer Willa Cather, and The Tonight Show host Johnny Carson. It’s also a member of the Big Ten Academic Alliance, a nationwide model for effective collaboration between research institutions. By sharing expertise and resources, members of the alliance are able to offer class-leading research and innovative programs for students. 

At the University of Nebraska-Lincoln, the graduate distance learning programs offered cover a broad spectrum of career possibilities. There’s a heavy emphasis on education, with courses like Deaf and Hard of Hearing Education, Visual Impairments, Higher Education Administration, and Youth Development. There are also programs like Professional Journalism, Merchandising, and Business Analytics. Some programs include a short residency period that is intended to help you explore concepts in greater detail, where face-to-face instruction is hard to match with remote study. Most of these residency periods are between several days and two weeks in length, but it’s worth considering whether this will be suitable for you as a remote learner. 

When you apply for a graduate program, you’ll need to submit a one-time fee of $50, which is non-refundable. Alongside your application, you will also need to submit one set of transcripts from each college-level institution attended, listing the courses you completed and the grades you earned. If English isn’t your first language, you will also need to provide official verification of your proficiency in English. 

There are additional admission requirements for some master’s degree courses, and it’s always worth checking the university’s website as these can vary from one course to another. For example, the business program requires you to have taken the GMAT with a score of 600. You’ll also need three references, a professional resume, and to have written a personal statement. For other programs, you might have to submit up to three recommendation letters or a statement of purpose. 

The cost of tuition for graduates studying an online course is $357.00 per credit hour. With master’s degrees typically requiring 20 credits per year, or 40 credits across the duration of the degree, the yearly tuition cost will be approximately $7,140 — though this may differ for courses of a shorter or longer duration, or that require more or less credits for completion. 

Some limited funding is available from the university for certain students, including fellowships, assistantships, and travel grants. Fellowships are awarded to the highest-achieving students without a service or work requirement. Students who are enrolled on a UNL graduate program may be eligible and applications should be made as soon as possible. Assistantships are also available to graduate students for a limited period of time, with the student being expected to pursue activities related toward the chosen degree. Finally, travel grants help students who want to travel to professional conferences and deliver presentations, or for those who need to travel to places related to their dissertation or thesis. 

#6.  Sam Houston State University

Named after Sam Houston, Texas’ greatest hero — or so the university website claims — who was an American soldier and politician,  a pivotal figure in the Texas Revolution, and president of the Republic of Texas. The university has a reputation spanning back more than 139 years, with a motto of, “The Measure of a Life is Its Service”. The university’s mascot is Sammy Bearkat — which is why students are often called Bearkats, too. 

Distance learning at SHSU is delivered via the SHSU Online program, which offers top-ranked and award-winning master’s degree programs that are delivered in small class sizes, with extensive support available. While some online degrees will require some short periods of campus study, not all of them do. The teaching quality for online courses is excellent and on-par with campus-based teaching, with the same professors involved in course design for both. 

The types of courses offered online span across multiple different subject areas, including financial services, business and business administration, criminal justice, social sciences, mathematics, education, and languages. For admissions, you’ll apply the same way as any other student, via the ApplyTexas website. You’ll need an official transcript of your baccalaureate degree, as well as any additional documentation requests by the specific program. This could be letters of recommendation, a resume, personal statements, or GRE/GMAT test scores. 

Tuition fees are clearly explained on the SHSU website — in fact, they were among the easiest to locate of any institution for online courses, which aren’t always well explained. Per semester, you’ll pay approximately $6,156.00, with an application fee of $45.00. For students who need a little extra help with their finances, the Student Money Management Center (SMMC) is an outreach service that provides one-to-one financial support to all students. What’s more, they’re known for awarding scholarships and food packages at their regular workshops.

#7.  University of Colorado Boulder

CU Boulder is a great place to be, as proven by its nearly 400,000 annual visitors who come to campus just to take part in cultural enrichment events, while half a million attend sporting events. The institution’s football team is called the CU Buffaloes, and they’ve won an impressive 28 national championships since 1959. Students at the university also get heavily involved in community outreach programs. But what we really like about this university is how its priorities lie in preparing tomorrow’s leaders by focusing on skills other than just academia, which create well-rounded graduates that are ready to enter and excel in the workforce. 

The University of Colorado Boulder boasts some pretty interesting facts, too. In a recent survey taken by the institution, 91% of graduates were employed, in military service, or had progressed to further education. A total of 85% of graduates were either satisfied or extremely satisfied with their subsequent career, while 80% felt that their degree was either required or gave them a competitive advantage. 

As a distance learning student at the University of Colorado Boulder, you’ll be able to connect to the campus from anywhere to participate in the classroom in real-time. Lectures are delivered live on the learning platform, with personal interaction from professors via an easily-accessible set of software tools. As a distance learner, you’ll get the same opportunities and resources, and the same quality of teaching, than if you were sitting in a classroom on-campus. Though it’s not obligatory or even necessary in order to pass the course, you’ll also have the option of attending classes at the university should you choose to, even as a distance learner. 

If you opt for an entirely online degree program, then your fees are charged per semester, unless otherwise specified for a specific course. The cost per credit hour that you’ll pay if you wish to attend any campus classes during your course is the same as the tuition for normal, main campus tuition — that is, between $376 and $642, depending on the course. While these fees are in some cases fairly high compared to other distance learning courses at other institutions, there are several scholarships and assistantships available at the university. What’s more, every prospective student that applies to CU Boulder is automatically considered for a scholarship. 

The Graduate School at CU Boulder has a general admissions process, though some graduate departments will have slightly more stringent requirements. In general, as an applicant, you’ll need to have a degree from an accredited college or university, or have sufficient work experience equivalent to what’s required for such a degree. You’ll need a minimum 2.75 GPA at the undergraduate level, unless you’re studying a program in the College of Engineering and Applied Science, in which case it’s 3.00. Finally, you’ll be expected to write a personal statement, provide transcripts of your degree, and have passed the GRE. You should also prepare letters of recommendation and be prepared to pay a $60 application fee. 

#8.  University of the Cumberlands

Based in Williamsburg, Kentucky, the University of the Cumberlands has been offering students a college education for more than 120 years. Their educational approach emphasises professional success through academic excellence, and the institution is keen to promote and nurture professional goals right from the outset. Around a quarter of the university’s students are first-generation college students, and the international student presence on campus represents a huge 38 different nations. The average GPA was recently recorded at approximately 3.2 on a 4.0 scale, with the average ACT score being 22.2, above the national average of 21.0. 

Surrounded by towering mountains and incredible falls and rivers, the campus is seriously impressive. But even if you’re studying online via distance learning, you can expect to receive an equally high-quality education as the courses taught on-campus. The online graduate programs available, of which there are over 20, include some subject areas that aren’t offered by many of the other institutions we’ve listed here. For example, a master’s in Christian studies, master’s in justice administration, master’s in addiction counseling, and programs in business-focused areas such as the master’s in project management. 

Many of the courses share the same academic structure and principles when it comes to distance learning. This includes having challenging coursework that makes use of real-life case studies that reflect current, real-world events, and a relevant curriculum that is enriched further through combined group projects. The school also has easily-accessible, experienced instructors who will guide you throughout the program, and a schedule that is flexible while being geared toward career needs and goals.

In 2018, this university announced a huge 57% reduction in annual tuition fee costs, making it the lowest cost university for tuition in the state of Kentucky. This is also seen in the cost per credit hour for online graduate programs, which runs at just over $200, though this varies by course type. 

#9.  Iowa State University

Students at Iowa State are called ‘Cyclones,’ which stems all the way back to a football game in 1895, when Iowa’s opponent said that they had been “struck by a cyclone” after a decisive loss. Clearly, with such a rich history, this university has plenty of interesting stories to tell. Like, to list another example, how in the early 1900s, freshmen were required to wear beanies, which were usually burned on a ceremonial bonfire when they graduated freshman year. One of these hats has survived and can now be found in the university’s archives. 

With around 1,900 acres of coverage, the campus at Iowa State is ranked among the nation’s most beautiful, and it’s also home to one of the nation’s largest campus public art programs. The good news for prospective online distance learners is that it’s also known globally for excellence in science, technology, and innovation. In fact, this university was the home to the world’s first electronic, digital computer, as well as the world’s highest resolution, immersive VR (virtual reality) lab. And finally, it was also awarded a spot in the Top 25 graduate programs by the U.S. News and World Report 2019 for a number of its graduate programs. 

As part of Iowa State’s contribution to the GPIDEA prospectus, you can take courses that fall under the College of Agriculture and Life Sciences, College of Business, College of Design, College of Engineering, and College of Human Sciences. Course structures for each of these degrees can vary quite widely, so it’s worth checking out the individual program pages. For example, some of the programs are coursework-only, with no requirement for a thesis or creative component. 

The cost per credit hour for graduate students taking one of Iowa State’s online master’s degrees is $580 — considerably more than many of the other institutions here. With most master’s degree programs being 30 credits to complete, this equates to around $17,400, or $8,700 per academic year. Distance learning courses are offered under the GPIDEA, or Great Plains Interactive Distance Education Alliance, which is a partnership of nearly 20 different public universities offering high-quality online degrees. These programs combine the best courses from different institutions to offer some of the best online master’s programs available. 

Application deadlines fall on January 15 for the following fall semester, and September 1 for the following spring semester. For many master’s programs, you’ll need to be able to evidence having passed the GRE or GMAT, as well as having proof of your English proficiency if it isn’t your first language. This is in addition to the usual application requirements, which will ask for a copy of your transcripts for each college you’ve attended prior to applying. 

#10.  South Dakota School of Mines and Technology

The South Dakota School of Mines and Technology, also commonly referred to as SD Mines, South Dakota Tech, SDSM&T, or more informally ‘Hardrockers’, is a public university located in Rapid City, South Dakota. It has been offering a variety of bachelor’s, master’s and doctoral degrees in science and engineering since 1885, and has gained a reputation as being one of the leading schools in the region.

The school’s nickname comes from its rich mining background and is now the name of its athletic teams, with Grubby the Miner as its mascot. South Dakota Tech offers sports activities to every taste, such as football, volleyball, basketball, golf, cross country, track and men’s soccer. For those less interested in sports, it offers concerts, plays, students clubs and other social activities.

The school takes pride in offering its students a rigorous and broad academic experience that is based on research and real-work projects. This helps future graduates to understand the world around them and learn how to effectively communicate with it. They put a lot of emphasis on gaining practical experience through great internship programs, so that the students get the best professional development opportunities while studying at SD Mines. The classes are kept small and delivered by professors offering personal attention and mentoring — and the same is true for the online courses offered over distance learning, too. 

At SDSMT you have the opportunity to deepen your knowledge of science and engineering by taking a Master of Engineering program in one of many emphasis areas, such as Civil & Environmental Engineering, Electrical Engineering, and Materials Engineering & Science. Alternatively, there are management-focused programs, including Engineering Management, Construction Engineering & Management, and Mining Engineering & Management. And at a university like SDSMT, you’re benefiting from years of specialized instruction and experience. 

The program requirement is 30 credits for graduation, which consist of 15-24 credits of engineering content selected from one of three available technical emphasis areas: Civil & Environmental Engineering, Electrical Engineering, and Materials Engineering & Science, as well as 6-15 credits for management courses that complement your professional goals. A thesis or final examination is not required. The program is delivered as a combination of face-to-face, hybrid and online courses. While the technical courses are available on-site, the management courses can be completed online from any location.  

A full breakdown of tuition fees is available on the university’s website, but a quick look at the costs for a nonresident graduate assistant shows a cost per credit hour of $211.40 for a SDSMT student. This is quite far below the cost of many other universities offering distance learning. 

SD Mines considers applications in August, January and June ( 15th of each month is the stated deadline). However, it accepts applications made later, which can alter the result of admittance/funding. International graduates self-funding their education are considered 90 days before the start of the semester, compared to 60 days for U.S. applicants. You will also need a bachelor’s-level degree in a related area, 30-33 credits for graduation, a GPA of 3.0 or above, unless you have substantial work experience. 

OTHER NOTABLE PROGRAMS

#11. Oregon State University

Location: Corvallis, OR

Degree: N/A

Net Price: $16,800 ($560.00 per credit hour)

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#12. University of Virginia

Location: Charlottesville, VA

Degree: N/A

Net Price: $11,000 – $16,500 ($550 per credit hour)

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#13. Auburn University

Location: Auburn, AL

Degree: N/A

Net Price: $12,600 – $18,900 ($630 per credit hour)

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#14. Johns Hopkins University

Location: Baltimore, MD

Degree: N/A

Net Price: $40,512 – $69,720

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#15. University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign

Location: Champaign County, IL

Degree: N/A

Net Price: $12,270

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#16. Lamar University

Location: Beaumont, TX

Degree: N/A

Net Price: $8,250 – $16,500

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#17. Villanova University

Location: Villanova, PA

Degree: N/A

Net Price: $27,500 – $28,000 ($1,375 – $1,400 per credit hour)

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#18. University of Texas of the Permian Basin

Location: Odessa, TX

Degree: N/A

Net Price: $9,801.30 – $11,761.56 ($326.71 per credit hour)

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#19. Kennesaw State University

Location: Kennesaw, GA / Marietta, GA

Degree: N/A

Net Price: $11,490 ($383.00 per credit hour)

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#20. University of South Dakota

Location: Vermillion, SD

Degree: N/A

Net Price: $13,974 ($465.80 per credit hour)

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IF YOU ENJOYED THAT THEN CHECK OUT OUR ARTICLES ON THE 10 MOST POPULAR MASTER’S DEGREE PROGRAMS & 40 FASTEST ONLINE MASTER’S DEGREE PROGRAMS!