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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

See Also: 10 Best Master’s in Industrial Engineering

COMMON APPLICATION AND ADMISSION QUESTIONS

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

• Work experience
• GPA minimums
• GRE scores

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

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

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

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

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

See Also: 20 Best Online MBA in Strategy

WHAT ABOUT FINANCIAL AID & SCHOLARSHIPS?

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

OUR RANKING CRITERIA

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

• Earnings Potential
• Affordability
• Student Satisfaction
• Selectivity

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

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

#1. STEVENS INSTITUTE OF TECHNOLOGY

ONLINE MASTER OF SCIENCE IN MANAGEMENT

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

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

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

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

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

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

#2. THE UNIVERSITY OF TEXAS AT DALLAS

ONLINE MBA IN STRATEGIC MANAGEMENT

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

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

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

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

#3. EMBRY-RIDDLE AERONAUTICAL UNIVERSITY-WORLDWIDE

ONLINE MASTER’S OF SCIENCE IN MANAGEMENT

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

#4. VILLANOVA UNIVERSITY

ONLINE MBA STRATEGIC MANAGEMENT

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

ONLINE MBA IN STRATEGIC MANAGEMENT

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

#6. INDIANA UNIVERSITY-BLOOMINGTON

ONLINE MASTER OF SCIENCE IN STRATEGIC MANAGEMENT

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

#7. HOFSTRA UNIVERSITY

ONLINE MBA WITH A CONCENTRATION IN STRATEGIC BUSINESS MANAGEMENT

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

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

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

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

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

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

#8. QUINNIPIAC UNIVERSITY

ONLINE MASTER’S OF SCIENCE IN ORGANIZATIONAL LEADERSHIP

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

ONLINE MBA IN STRATEGIC LEADERSHIP

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

#10. HARVARD UNIVERSITY

ONLINE MASTER OF LIBERAL ARTS MANAGEMENT

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

OTHER NOTABLE PROGRAMS

#11. Amberton University

Location: Garland, Texas

Degree: Online MBA in Strategic Leadership

Net Price: N/A

Website

#12. National University

Location: San Diego, California

Degree: Online Master’s of Science in Organizational Leadership 

Net Price: N/A

Website

#13. Messiah College

Location: Mechanicsburg, Pennsylvania

Degree: Online MBA with a concentration in Strategic Leadership

Net Price: $27,976

Website

#14. Ottawa University Angell Synder School of Business

Location: Ottawa

Degree: Online MBA with a concentration in Strategic Innovation

Net Price: $25,583

Website

#15. University of St. Francis

Location: Joliet, Illinois

Degree: Online Master’s of Science in Management

Net Price: $19,418

Website

According to American writer and biochemistry professor Isaac Asimov, “Science can amuse and fascinate us all, but it is engineering that changes the world.” 

This quote holds true for anyone who wants to be a chemical engineer and play a positive role in shaping the future world. From researching fuel production and studying air quality and thermal activity to evaluating equipment and processes to ensure they meet adequate safety regulations, chemical engineers have a large collection of duties and responsibilities. 

Chemical engineers apply the principles of chemistry, biology, physics, and mathematics to solve critical problems that complicate the production or use of chemicals, fuel, drugs, food, and large numbers of other products. They also play a leading role in the development and design of the manufacturing process. They essentially make decisions that impact our lives. As the world becomes more innovative, chemical engineers will use new technology to seek answers to the challenges that could determine our environment’s future.

With an online master’s degree in chemical engineering, you will practice and apply the skills you’ve learned in the virtual classroom in real-world situations. You will also apply engineering principles to solve the physiological and medical challenges that are arising in the world today, such as the coronavirus. You will have the opportunity to specialize in different disciplines of chemical engineering, such as biomedical engineering, environmental chemical engineering, and pre-medicine engineering. You will take courses in pulp and paper technology, thermodynamics, transport phenomena, chemical reaction engineering, and process dynamics and control.

The coursework will be rigorous and demanding with the principle goal of teaching you the most advanced concepts so you can succeed in your future career as a chemical engineer. You will get insight and education from highly respected faculty who have actual experience in the field and will share with you the knowledge that will help make an impact. Through online coursework, you can balance your work and school schedule effectively and study at your own pace. You can earn internships and put together projects that will only benefit you and your career.

The field of chemical engineering is one of the most rewarding in terms of salary and one of the fastest-growing. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, chemical engineers make over $100,000 per year on average. Over the next ten years, the need for chemical engineers is expected to grow between 5% and 10%. With the rise in technology, and as more challenges arise, the need will only increase with time.

There is an abundance of careers you can choose with a degree from one of the 20 most affordable online master’s degrees in chemical engineering. According to Glassdoor, you can pursue careers in any of the following:

• Process engineer
• Chemical engineer
• Production chemical engineer
• Chemist
• Physicist
• Quality assurance engineer
• Field engineer

Getting a master’s degree can be a significant achievement in your life. In 1970, barely 200,000 Americans held a degree higher than a bachelor’s. In the present day, over 20 million employees hold a master’s degree, according to the latest U.S. Census data. That is an increase of 22% from what it was 20 years ago for adults over the age of 25. This is the future of education; graduates are more competitive and are cognizant of the fact that getting a graduate degree can separate them from the competition. A master’s in chemical engineering also prepares you adequately for a doctorate degree, which more students are pursuing each year. 

Some of the programs below include a research thesis as a requirement to graduate, while other programs give you a non-thesis option, such as a capstone project or internship that can go in its place. Below, we go over some of the things you can expect when applying for a master’s degree, such as tuition, scholarship information, and financial aid. We also wanted to give you an idea of what to expect as far as salary expectations go and the overall benefits of earning a degree from one of the top 20 most affordable master’s degrees in chemical engineering. 

See Also: 10 Best Master’s in Industrial Engineering

COMMON APPLICATION AND ADMISSION QUESTIONS

The application process for graduate school in chemical engineering is not only a critical part of the process, but it’s also a competitive one. You will want to make your application and personal statement stand out. Your academic work will need to be stellar and the GRE is something to take very seriously as those scores could play a pivotal role in your acceptance. A maximum effort must be put in during the whole application process. The top schools on our list don’t just accept anyone. 

So what is the best advice if you have an essay or personal statement that you want to be perfect? Simply put, be creative. When you write your essay and/or cover letter, make yours stand out. What makes you unique? What story do you have to tell that will showcase your strengths? Compose an anecdote from a life-changing experience or a time in your life that would help show admissions departments who you truly are and why you deserve a spot in their graduate program. This is your chance to illustrate your personality. Talk to them. Make it personal. Make them feel you’re right there in the room.

The admissions requirements for every school are different. In our list of the 20 most affordable schools in chemical engineering, we highlighted some of the key documents and eligibility requirements that each school adheres to. However, always check with the admissions counselor in the engineering department at the school you are applying to and make a checklist so you can verify that you have all the required documents. One missing document could ruin your application. Stay organized and make sure you know your deadline date.

Every program treats the GRE exam differently. However, most chemical engineering colleges require it because of the magnitude and competitiveness of the degree. While some schools don’t require it, most do, so make sure if you haven’t taken it yet that you prepare to sign up and study to take it. There are some schools that waive it if you meet certain requirements, like a high GPA in your undergraduate coursework.

Additionally, prepare a professional and detailed resume. It’s a good idea to send one along with a cover letter regardless of whether the university requires it or not. It’s another opportunity for you to showcase yourself and why you would be an asset to the program. Make sure that you are as thorough as possible in describing your professional and educational experience, and that your cover letter and resume are neat and organized. It is always a benefit to have one or two extra sets of eyes look over it, such as an English professor from your undergraduate institution. 

Research all you can about the university and know as much about it as possible. Showcase this in your cover letter and your interview, should the school require it. You will want to illustrate that you have a good knowledge of the chemical engineering program at the university and what assets you will bring if you are accepted. 

Finally, have an open mind. We all have our dream school we want to go to, but we must also factor in which schools will give us the best chance of advancing our career while also giving the best value. These schools on our list will provide a combination of value and education. Make a list of pros and cons for your top school of choice and don’t ever look back on your decision. Research the faculty and look for students’ comments on how they perform as educators.

See Also: Best Online Masters in Chemical Engineering

WHAT ABOUT FINANCIAL AID AND SCHOLARSHIPS?

Master’s degrees are not cheap by any means. They are more expensive than bachelor’s degrees at most high-level institutions. Before you apply, make sure you can afford it. The schools on our list are some of the best and affordable programs out there, but they still will cost a lot of money. Fortunately, there are options out there to help pay for your education should you need assistance.

First, if you have a very strong GPA from your undergraduate institution, pursue a scholarship. There are hundreds of scholarships, especially in Chemical Engineering programs. Many of these scholarships will help pay for some, if not all, of your university tuition. Some of the best scholarships you can pursue with a master’s degree in chemical engineering include the following, according to Scholarships.com:

• ACF Woodcock Family Education Scholarship Program
• ASNT Fellowship Award
• Blacks at Microsoft Scholarship
• Cameron Impact Scholarship
• Davidson Fellows Scholarship
• First Responders Children’s Foundation Scholarship
• Jesse L. Jackson-Fellows Toyota Scholarship
• Marie Curie Scholarship (up to $80,000)
• Regeneron Science Talent Search Scholarship (up to $250,000)
• The Collegiate Inventors Competition (up to $100,000)
• The Robert Noyce Scholarship
• Woodrow Wilson Teaching Fellowship

Another option you may want to look into is financial aid. Many students take advantage of this opportunity to help them pay for their graduate school. Fill out the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA), provide your social security number, and submit your federal tax records, your income information, and all of your bank statements. After your application is fully reviewed, you will receive a letter on whether your financial aid application was approved and for how much.

Another good way to receive financial help is through your employment. Many workplaces have tuition reimbursement programs for graduate programs. Check with your human resources department to see if they can help assist you with funding for graduate school. Additionally, many employers will help fund your higher education if they see leadership qualities in you. With online learning, you don’t have to miss work; rather, you can head home every day and work on your studies at night. If you’re already in the chemical engineering industry, you will be able to use what you learn from school and apply it to your job on a daily basis.

Student loans are another way that many students fund their education. While we recommend this as a last resort—because it can take a long time to pay off—it’s worth it if you are driven to be successful in your career. According to U.S. News & World Report, the following banks and loan companies are the best places to apply for a student loan:

• Citizens Bank
• CommonBond
• Discover
• Earnest LendKey
• Laurel Road

Many of the banks on our list above can offer loans of up to nearly $21,000 for your master’s degree. Check the interest rate on your loan to verify it’s not too high and is something that you can afford.

The bottom line is don’t let money be the major issue keeping you from pursuing graduate school. There are many ways to get assistance. If you want it bad enough, go out there and find a way to make it happen! Utilize every option and resource so you can get the best possible education and advance your career. 

See Also: Best Petroleum Engineering Schools

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

Chemical engineers don’t just work in one area; they work in an assortment of different operations. Some work in the medical field improving the efficiency of medical needs while others strive to improve the environment by researching methods in which we can improve air quality and conservation. 

Chemical engineers establish safety procedures for those working with dangerous liquids and chemicals and develop processes for separating factors of gases and liquids. They estimate production costs for management and play a leading role in conducting tests and monitoring the performance of different processes throughout production.

Chemical engineers are some of the highest-paid careers in the country. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the average annual salary of a chemical engineer is just under $105,000 per year. With added experience over time and a master’s or doctorate degree to go with it, that salary is likely to be even higher. There are other careers you can pursue as a chemical engineer in other industries that offer a very beneficial salary. According to CollegeGrad, some of those industries include the following:

• Petroleum and coal products manufacturing, $113,000/year
• Research and development, $108,000/year
• Engineering services, $108,000/year
• Wholesale trade, $103,000/year
• Pharmaceutical and medical manufacturing, $101,000/year

Some other positions you can work with a master’s in chemical engineering include being a materials scientist which makes an average of $76,000/year, according to Study.com. The highest job growth in the field, according to Study.com, is with environmental scientists and specialists. These occupations make just $70,000/year and are expected to see a growth of 11% over the next 10 years.

Most chemical engineers work in laboratories or in offices. They also may spend some time at industrial plants, refineries, and other facilities. They directly monitor or manage operations in an effort to solve onsite problems. Nearly all chemical engineers work full-time and even overtime and on weekends.

WHAT ARE THE BEST CHEMICAL ENGINEERING DEGREES?

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Check out our ranking of the 20 most affordable online schools in chemical engineering!

#1. Texas A&M University at College Station

Master of Science in Chemical Engineering

Founded in 1876, Texas A&M University at College Station is the state’s oldest higher education institution. TAMU not only ranks among the top 30 Public Universities in the Nation, according to U.S. News & World Report, it also ranks No. 15 on the list of Best Graduate Engineering Programs. A Master of Science in chemical engineering will emphasize fundamentals and practices that are applicable to the analysis, development, design and operation of a wide array of chemical engineering systems and processes.

The 32-credit program is tailored toward students developing new understanding and knowledge through research and creativity. The curriculum is a mixture of core courses, electives, seminars, and research with a thesis and non-thesis option. Twenty-five of the credits will come from formal coursework that you will choose when going over your plan of study. The coursework includes a course seminar and a graduate mentoring seminar. Students will work with a research advisor who will guide them through their research. 

For those enrolled in the thesis program, the thesis proposal must be submitted by the end of the first academic year. As part of the final examination, students will present their research to the department. The presentation is open to the public and all students must earn a passing score in order to fully complete the program. The final examination cannot be waived. Graduate courses can also not be re-taken for credit.

Students choosing the non-thesis track do not have to take a final examination. However, they will have to replace the credit with a professional internship coupled with a directed studies project and research assignment. All electives taken must be on the prescribed list of courses from the program. Any course that a student desires to take that is not on the list must get department approval.

Included in the courses that all students will need to take are Transport Phenomena, Chemical Engineering Kinetics and Reactor Design, Applications of Thermodynamics to Chemical Engineering, Chemical Engineering Process Analysis, and Chemical Engineering Laboratory Safety and Health.

When applying to the program, be sure to send all documentation required by the office of admissions. TAMU mandates that a statement of purpose, GRE scores, official transcripts, a resume, and three letters of recommendation be turned in alongside the application. To be eligible for admission, you must have at least a 3.0 GPA in your undergraduate studies and have a degree in chemical engineering or a related field. 

TAMU is most known for its student organizations, most notably the Corps of Cadets, which is the school’s oldest organization and gives the school a military feel. The Corps of Cadets is seen at all home football games and is led by the team mascot, Reveille, a dog who holds the highest rank. Among TAMU’s most recognizable alumni include engineer and astronaut Steven Swanson. If you decide to study on-campus, Kyle Field has one of the best atmospheres for college football and is home to the “12th man”, which refers to the incredibly noise-making crowd that gives the team a boost.

#2.  University of Florida

Master of Science in Materials Science and Engineering

Located in Gainesville, the University of Florida has risen to be a leading educator in the Southeast. Not only does it rank No. 7 on the list of Best Public Universities, but it also ranks No. 15 on the list of Best Graduate Engineering Programs, according to U.S. News & World Report. A Master of Science in materials science and engineering is a distance-learning degree that helps you better understand the properties of metals, ceramics, polymers, and other materials.

The online program does not require you to study on-campus. Rather, you can self-pace yourself in most classes and earn the degree from your own home anywhere in the country. While you can take courses on a part-time basis, you will be withdrawn from the program if you have not completed all the coursework after seven years. UF uses EDGE, which is online learning tailored for off-campus study. Much of the learning is done via streaming video and there will be virtual meetings with your professors.

The 30-credit non-thesis curriculum requires 18-credits of EMA 5000-6000 level courses with a minimum grade of C or better (up to nine credits of courses can be transferred from another institution). The other 12 credits will be obtained through individual work and supervised research for the non-thesis paper. The non-thesis paper requires five parts: a title, an introduction, materials and methods used for research, the overall results found in the research, a conclusion and summary, and a list of references. The paper will be graded by the supervisory committee. 

Students who study on campus will have the option to write a thesis, but if you wish to complete a thesis through online coursework, you must get approval from the program director. 

In order to continue through the program, you must maintain a GPA of 3.0 or higher throughout the coursework. Core courses that you will be required to take include Materials Thermodynamics; Materials Structure and Mechanical Properties; Diffusion, Kinetics, and Transport; and Functional Properties of Materials. 

In order to be eligible for the program, you must hold an undergraduate degree in a qualifying field related to materials science and chemical engineering. You also must have at least a 3.0 GPA to be eligible for consideration. The office of admissions requires the submission of transcripts, a statement of purpose, three letters of recommendation, and GRE scores. After viewing your application, the department will send you a letter notifying you of their decision.

If you decide to study on or near the campus, you will feel the school spirit of the university. College football is a major part of UF, and it competes for national championships in many Division I sports. Many famous names have earned a degree from UF, including quarterback Tim Tebow, journalist Erin Andrews, and senator Marco Rubio. You are also within driving distance of the Florida beaches, Disney World, Universal Studios, Orlando, and Tampa. There are over 1,000 student clubs and organizations at UF, including some in engineering.

#3.  North Carolina State University at Raleigh

Master of Science in Chemical Engineering

When it comes to getting the most bang for your buck, North Carolina State University is among the best. Ranked No. 1 for Best Public College for your Money in North Carolina, according to Money, NCSU at Raleigh helps its students excel in the engineering program. According to U.S. News & World Report, it ranks No. 8 on the list of Best Online Graduate Engineering Programs. With a Master of Science in chemical engineering, you can deepen and build upon your engineering skills and take your career to the next level.

The advantage of NCSU’s chemical engineering program is not just that it’s one of the best in the nation, it’s that you don’t even have to attend campus to complete the degree. The fully online program does not require any residency and can be completed in less than three years with a part-time course load. The purpose of the distance program is to give you the flexibility to advance your career while not having to go through a major readjustment of your schedule and life.

Twelve of the 30 credits required for graduation are taken from core courses in the program. The other 18 credits come from the chemical engineering online graduate list. Any student who wishes to take non-chemical engineering graduate courses for degree credit must seek approval from the director of graduate programs in chemical engineering. There is no thesis attached to the program. While the program is part-time, a student will be removed from the program if they fail to earn their degree within six years.

Core courses that students will enroll in include Chemical Engineering Process Modeling, Thermodynamics I, Transport Phenomena, and Chemical Reaction Engineering. In order to remain in the program, students must maintain a cumulative GPA of 3.0.

If you do not have an undergraduate degree in chemical engineering, you are encouraged to take Core ChE Concepts I and II. If you do not have an undergraduate degree in any engineering discipline, or do not have degrees in physics, biochemistry, chemistry, or a degree-related field, you must contact admissions to see what steps and prerequisite courses you must take in order to qualify for the program. Applicants are required to take the GRE and submit transcripts, a resume, and three letters of recommendation as part of their admissions documentation.

With a degree from NCSU, you will join former Hall of Fame coach Bill Cowher, pianist John Tesh, and famous engineer Christina Koch on the list of people who’ve earned a degree from the school. Along with being a top online engineering school and great value school, it’s also received high rankings for its technology. It ranks No. 31 on the list of Most Innovative Universities, according to U.S. News & World Report. Additionally, its chemical engineering ranks in the top 10 and is also recognized as one of the top research universities, according to the NCSU website. Through online video conferences and virtual lectures, you can learn at your own pace and study when you have the time. 

#4.  University of Virginia-Main Campus

Master of Chemical Engineering

There’s a lot of history behind the University of Virginia. Many of the Kennedy’s, including Robert F. Kennedy, earned a degree from the university, and James Madison, James Monroe, and Thomas Jefferson all lived in Charlottesville. The university is known for many of its programs, including engineering, which ranks No. 36 on the list of Best Chemical Engineering Graduate Schools, according to U.S. News & World Report. The Master of Science in chemical engineering prepares its students for advanced work in industrial and government positions in the field.

The curriculum focuses on six specific core and research areas: biotechnology, catalysis, electrochemistry, energy and the environment, polymers, and separations. Of the 30 credits required for graduation, 24 can be taken through videoconferencing online. Online distance education is offered for those who are unable to attend campus. All students must submit an engineering plan of study assessment, an engineering analysis assessment, and an engineering oral communication assessment prior to beginning the program.

Five courses come from core coursework while the remaining courses can be electives. Included in the core courses that students will enroll in are Advanced Thermodynamics, Chemical Reaction Engineering, Transport Processes, Mass Transfer, and Techniques for Chemical Engineering Analysis & Design. Electives are offered in Applied Surface Chemistry, Polymer Engineering, Biochemical Engineering, and Bioseparations Engineering. 

The program offers a concentration in biomaterials and biotechnology. The faculty places an emphasis on mentoring, entrepreneurship, and leadership in their education. Teachers are experienced in their field and challenge higher thinking so you are best prepared for the field that awaits you. They encourage new ideas, courses, and opportunities through the dynamic research community. UVA presents the perfect environment for you to become a chemical engineer. Through fundamental knowledge and hands-on practice, you will be able to learn and apply your skills to real-world applications.

If you are interested in applying to UVA, you can fill out an online application and submit GRE scores to the office of admissions. Along with the application, you will need to submit transcripts, three letters of recommendation, and a statement of purpose. To see what prerequisite courses you need to have completed before applying, contact an admissions counselor on the UVA website.

For those who decide to study online close to campus or study on campus, UVA offers plenty of opportunities for you to get involved and make a difference. More than 800 clubs and student organizations are out there for you to choose from, including those in sciences and engineering which can help you get more involved in the community and exert yourself in leadership roles. By building more contacts and connections, you’ll increase your job opportunities. Charlottesville is also within driving distance of many big cities, including Washington, D.C., Baltimore, and Philadelphia. 

Having a graduate degree in chemical engineering from UVA will only enhance your resume. The university ranks No. 4 on the list of Best Public Universities, according to U.S. News & World Report. The program itself and the university is highly respected everywhere.

#5.  Villanova University

Master of Science in Chemical Engineering

Located just 12 miles west of Philadelphia, Villanova University is a Roman Catholic institution that serves the purpose of educating students to think critically, act compassionately, and succeed in life while also serving others. The home school to actor Bradley Cooper and artist Toby Keith, VU ranks No. 42 on the list of Best Universities in the Nation, according to U.S. News & World Report.  The Master of Science in chemical engineering is aimed at providing you with sound scientific and technological insight into the scope of chemical engineering.

For those wishing to study on campus, classes are held in the evenings allowing you to successfully balance your work time, family time, and school time. You also have the opportunity to take a mixture of online and on-campus courses or you can earn the degree completely online through mostly self-paced coursework. Through VU’s eLearning program, you can view recorded lectures and access online module videos in the comfort of your own home. Many of the professors who teach on-campus also teach online. The average student-to-teacher ratio is 11-to-1, giving professors ample opportunity for one-on-one feedback.

The 30-credit curriculum requires all students to take three core courses: Thermodynamics, Transport Phenomena, and Chem Kinetics & Catalysis. You then will choose two electives to add to your curriculum along with five additional courses from the CHE offerings. At least four of the additional courses you choose must be 7000-level courses or above. Before you begin, you will consult with your academic advisor and develop a plan of study. 

Among the electives, you can choose to take include Separation Process I, Separation Process II, Advanced Process Model/Analysis, Chem Engineer Reactors, and Advanced Engineering Analysis. A maximum of six may be replaced by an independent study or a thesis project which can take the form of experimental research, process design, theoretical analysis, or a literature survey.

Professors in the program are highly engaged and believe in communication at the highest level. They encourage hands-on practice through internships and work opportunities. Twenty-six students are in the chemical engineering program with three-quarters of them studying part-time. The average age of students in the program is 26.

If you’re interested in applying to VU, you will need to submit to the office of admissions official transcripts, two applicant rating forms, a statement of purpose, a resume, and GRE scores. Anyone accepted into the program without an undergraduate degree in chemical engineering will first have to enroll in VU’s bridging program. This includes prerequisite courses that must be taken before officially beginning studies for the MSCE. These courses can be taken online through Michigan State University.

VU has a strong reputation for not just its academics, but its athletics. If you are a student that studies on or near campus, you can support 24 athletic sports teams, including the men’s college basketball team which has won two national championships in the last five years. If you’re looking for a school that’s affordable, VU ranks No. 48 on the list of Best Value Schools, according to U.S. News & World Report. 

#6.  University of California Los Angeles

Master of Science in Engineering – Materials Science

Known prominently as UCLA, the University of California Los Angeles is the top-ranked public school in the nation, according to U.S. News & World Report. It also has an engineering program that ranks in the top-20 and a medical program in the top-10. With a Master of Science in engineering with an emphasis on materials science, you will learn from some of the best faculty in the world and be further educated on the importance of the microstructure of solids in science.

Materials engineering focuses on the design, fabrication, and testing of engineering materials. The phenomenal study of microstructures looks deeper at how they influence the mechanical, electronic, chemical, and biological properties of solids. Through 36-course credits that can be taken all online, you will conduct research and learn hands-on the importance of materials science in the world.

At least five graduate courses you enroll in must be at the 200-level. Included in the curriculum is a capstone project that culminates the program. However, you can choose an alternative option and instead pass three written examinations for three different graduate-level courses. Six of the nine courses that you sign up for must be from the MAT SCI Department. There is no thesis plan or track required. UCLA requires that the degree be completed within three years. All students must also maintain a 3.0 GPA or higher in order to remain in the program and receive credit.

Sample courses you will have the opportunity to take include Mechanical Behavior of Materials, Materials Science of Thin Films, Principles of Nanoscience and Nanotechnology, Design of Composite Structures, and Material Processing in Manufacturing. The overall expectation is that all the coursework and requirements are completed within two years and one quarter. Each student is assigned an adviser to help them as they progress through their studies.

The office of admissions does require GRE scores to be submitted alongside the application, and you must hold a minimum of 3.0 GPA to be eligible for acceptance. Additionally, three letters of recommendation (at least one from an employer), a resume, a statement of purpose, and official transcripts are all part of the documentation that is required to be submitted with the application. Twenty-percent of those admitted are minorities, according to the program’s statistics site, and 60% of those who registered with eligible applications were admitted last year. The deadline for fall admission is May 15, 2020. 

Located in Los Angeles, UCLA provides a great student life experience for those who study near the campus. UCLA is known for having the most men’s basketball championships of any school in the country. Sports legends such as Kareem Abdul-Jabar and Jackie Robinson earned a degree from this prestigious university. UCLA hosts many campus events and has over 1,000 clubs and organizations for you to join, including many in science. When it comes to rivalries, there are not many bigger than between USC and UCLA. Not only are they two of the best chemical engineering schools in the country and separated by only a few miles, but they are also big rivals on the football field. It’s the game of the year for both schools every year.

#7. Rutgers University-New Brunswick

Master of Science in Biomedical Engineering

Founded in 1766, Rutgers University is the eighth-oldest university in the nation. The New Brunswick campus also stands out as one of the best. According to U.S. News & World Report, RUNB ranks No. 22 on the list of Best Public Universities. It is also ranked among the best engineering schools in the nation, at No. 52, also according to U.S. News & World Report. With a Master of Science in biomedical engineering, you will have the opportunity to engage in and conduct original research and best be prepared for professional advancement in a rapidly advancing field.

The biomedical engineering degree provides innovative courses with the purpose of training future leaders in the industry. There are six key areas of emphasis in the training: molecular systems; nanosystems and microsystems; tissue engineering and regenerative medicine; biomechanics and rehabilitation engineering; physiologic systems; and bioinstrumentation, biomedical imaging, and neuroengineering. You will have the opportunity to take core courses in all of these disciplines.

The online curriculum includes 27 course credits with six credits dedicated to research and a thesis. The written thesis will also require an oral defense. Along with the degree, students can also earn a certificate in medical device development. First-year students can also take advantage of the innovative research rotation program at the New Brunswick campus. 

Sample courses you will have the opportunity to enroll in include Bioimaging Methods; Kinetics, Thermodynamics, and Transport in Biomedicine; Biomechanics and Biomaterials; and Biosignal Processing and Biomedical Imaging. There are also four advanced courses that students can take which includes a professional development option. 

The faculty at RUNB are world-class and are internationally recognized experts in their fields. They work in the science and engineering departments, the medical school, other area academic institutions, and as local industry researchers. They hold prestigious positions in numerous university-wide centers of excellence. They strive to teach ethically responsible research and urge collaboration with peers in an effort to maximize your potential in biomedical engineering.

Applicants to the graduate program are required to hold at least a 3.0 GPA in their undergraduate studies. All students must also submit GRE scores alongside their application. The office of admissions also requires three letters of recommendation, transcripts, and a statement of purpose.

For students who study online near the campus or take face-to-face courses, there are plenty of student life opportunities to indulge in. New Brunswick is less than an hour from New York City and also within driving distance of Philadelphia and Atlantic City. The campus is one of the biggest in the Northeast, occupying more than 2,600 acres of land.

RUNB is also incredibly diverse. More than half of the student population identifies themselves as non-caucasian, and more than 115 countries are represented at the New Jersey campus. With a degree from RUNB, you will join the late actor James Gandolfini, chef Mario Batali, and journalist Natalie Morales as one of hundreds of thousands of alumni to earn a degree from Rutgers.

#8. Auburn University

Master of Chemical Engineering 

Auburn University is the perfect school for you if you want to earn a graduate degree from a school that’s on the rise, both in innovation and education. Located in Auburn, Ala., AU ranks No. 23 on the list of Best Graduate Chemical Engineering Programs, according to U.S. News  & World Report. This is its highest ranking yet—it has been climbing the rankings every year. With this master’s degree, you will further enhance your education in surface science, biochemical engineering, catalysis, environmental engineering, chemical kinetics, and much more. 

AU’s Master of Chemical Engineering degree is one of 13 that you can complete fully online with no residency required. With the online track, a thesis is not required. However, if you do study online and wish to complete a thesis, you can get special approval from the department to do so. Students who study on-campus have the option of pursuing a thesis or going the non-thesis route. 

Of the 30 credits required to complete the program online, 21 of them must be in chemical engineering. Students that complete the six-hour research and thesis component will also need to pass a final oral examination to defend the thesis. The non-thesis track does not have an oral examination component attached to it. Specializations are offered in biomedical engineering; computer-aided chemical engineering; environmental chemical engineering; pre-medicine; and pulp, paper, and bio-resource engineering.

Available courses include Principles of Chemical Engineering, Phase and Reaction Equilibria, Creativity and Critical Thinking in Engineering, Chemical Reaction in Engineering, and Process and Dynamics and Control. There are three start dates throughout the year and each term lasts anywhere from nine to 15 weeks. With online courses, much of the coursework is self-paced with occasional online meetings with the professor and interactive lessons and discussions with your peers. Lessons are streamed via video and are accessed through your internet connection.

If you have an undergraduate degree other than chemical engineering, you will be required to complete a two-semester online bridge program through either Michigan State University or North Carolina State University. You must earn a grade of B- or better in order to begin your graduate work at AU. GRE scores are required along with transcripts and three letters of recommendation. Once admitted, you will work with the school’s graduate school office to create a plan of study.

While you don’t have to study at AU, many do choose to live near the campus. Besides its gains in the engineering program, AU prides itself on its diversity and environment on campus. Over 100 countries are represented at the university, and it was recently ranked No. 4 on the list of Campuses With the Best Quality of Life, according to The Princeton Review. More than 400 student clubs and organizations are available for you to join and 94% of the world-class faculty have the highest degree in their field. Singer Lionel Richie, former NBA star Charles Barkley, and former astronaut Ken Mattingly are just some of the notable alumni to earn a degree from the Southeastern Conference school.

#9.  Johns Hopkins University

Master of Science in Applied Biomedical Engineering

When it comes to respectability, there are not many schools and engineering programs that compare to Johns Hopkins University. Ranked No. 10 on the list of Best Universities in the Nation, according to U.S. News & World Report, it graduated such prestigious names as former President Woodrow Wilson, former secretary of state Madeleine Albright, and former New York mayor Michael Bloomberg. Among its many notable colleges is its engineering program, which ranks in the top-20 among best Graduate Chemical Engineering Programs, according to U.S. News & World Report.

A Master of Science in applied biomedical engineering gives future scientists the opportunity to practice solving critical problems that they will confront in their future career. One of the major goals within the course content is to educate graduates on medical physiology and apply knowledge of life sciences to different biomedical engineering programs. Additionally, professors want students to be able to apply engineering principles so they can solve physiological and medical challenges. 

The coursework can be taken online and requires 10 courses to be completed in no more than five years. There are five core courses required, one additional course from the focus area, and four electives that you can choose from. The program includes three different focus areas: translational tissue engineering, imaging, and instrumentation. As part of the coursework, you will analyze data and use that data in laboratory experiments. 

Sample courses you will see listed on your schedule are Physiology for Applied Biomedical Engineering I & II, Mathematical Methods for Engineers, and Biomedical Practice and Innovation. There are more than 50 electives in the course catalog for this degree, including Topics in Bioentrepreneurship, Cellular Engineering, Neuroscience, Human-Robotics Interaction, and Systems Biology.

As part of the admissions requirements, you must have completed previous coursework in mathematics, calculus-based physics, chemistry, and molecular biology. Your academic and professional background will be considered when your application is reviewed. General admissions requirements include the submission of all transcripts and verification of an undergraduate GPA of 3.0 or higher. GRE scores are not required but can be submitted if you wish to do so. 

A post-master’s certificate is also available for those who wish to pursue it as an option. For the certificate, you must take six courses in less than three years and at least five of the six courses must be from the applied biomedical engineering program. Only grades of B- or better count towards course credit.

Located in Baltimore, those who attend classes on-campus can enjoy many pleasures at the first research university in the U.S. JHU is the home of the Peabody Institute, America’s first academy of music. It is one of the most visited locations among students of JHU along with the city locals and tourists. While athletics isn’t as much of a tradition as it is at some universities, the JHU lacrosse team is very popular and you can go watch a match when you get a break from your studies.

#10.  University of Southern California

Master of Science in Chemical Engineering

Founded in 1880, the University of Southern California is the state’s oldest research university. It scores as one of the best universities to attend in all the country, as well as one the most affordable. According to U.S. News & World Report, it ranks No. 22 on the list of Best National Universities and No. 37 on the list of Best Value Schools. One of the reasons for this is because of its chemical engineering program. It ranks No. 9 in the nation as the Best Engineering Graduate Program, according to U.S. News & World Report. 

USC offers graduate students the opportunity to study a Master of Chemical Engineering which will teach from a variety of disciplines in the field, including thermodynamics, transport phenomena, applied mathematics, kinetics, and reaction engineering. The faculty at USC has extensive experience in the field and brings first-hand knowledge to better educate all students in the program. All coursework can be taken online with the option of going on campus to fulfill many of the required credits. The course uses both an innovative and hands-on approach in its education.

The program can be completed within 18 to 24 months on a full-time schedule and anywhere from two-and-a-half to four years on a part-time schedule. A minimum of 28 required credits is needed to complete the program with 12 of those coming in required core coursework. Additionally, students will have the opportunity to take electives and enroll in workshops which will give them further education on chemical engineering. In order to remain in the program, students must maintain a 3.0 GPA or higher throughout the tenure of the M.S.

As part of the core courses, students will need to enroll in Thermodynamics for Chemical Engineers, Viscous Flow, Modeling and Engineering of Chemical Engineering Systems, and Chemical Engineering Kinetics. Students who attend online will get the same lectures as those who attend on-campus, and many of the same teachers who teach on-campus also teach online. 

If you’re interested in applying to USC, you must meet all the requirements asked by the office of admissions. The selection process is very competitive and USC requires a strong academic record in order to be considered for their master’s program. Part of the selection process is determined by GRE scores, so if you have not taken this test yet, be sure to sign up for it and submit the scores as part of your application process. Furthermore, USC requires that transcripts, letters of recommendation, a resume, and a statement of purpose be included with the application. For more information on all prerequisite courses needed and other documentation, refer to the USC admissions page.

USC has a long list of famous alumni, which include director George Lucas, actor Will Ferrell, and astronaut Neil Armstrong. For those studying on or near campus, you’ll have access to many amenities in Los Angeles where you can take a break from your studies. There are also lots of internship opportunities in the Los Angeles area, and no matter where you live, the program recommends as much practice in the field as possible so you can apply your skills from the course content into your work.

OTHER NOTABLE PROGRAMS

#11. Kansas State University

Location: Manhattan, KS

Degree: Master of Science in Chemical Engineering

Net Price: $18,002

Website

#12. University of Illinois at Chicago

Location: Chicago, IL

Degree: Master of Science in Chemical Engineering

Net Price: $12,248

Website    

#13. University of North Carolina Wilmington

Location: Wilmington, NC

Degree: Master of Science in Chemistry

Net Price: $17,771

Website  

#14. University of Central Florida

Location: Orlando, FL

Degree: Master of Science in Materials Science and Engineering

Net Price: $6,448

Website   

#15. Illinois Institute of Technology

Location: Chicago, IL

Degree: Master of Science in Chemical Engineering

Net Price: $25,814

Website 

#16. Missouri University of Science and Technology

Location: Rollo, MO

Degree: Master in Chemical Engineering

Net Price: $13,993

Website

#17. Lehigh University

Location: Bethlehem, PA

Degree: Master of Engineering in Chemical Engineering

Net Price: $26,782

Website

#18. Clarkson University

Location: Postdam, NY

Degree: Master of Science in Chemical Engineering

Net Price: $31,376

Website  

#19. Columbia University in the City of New York

Location: New York, NY

Degree: Master of Science in Chemical Engineering

Net Price: $21,220

Website  

#20. Stanford University

Location: Palo Alto, CA

Degree: Master of Science in Chemical Engineering

Net Price: $17,271

IF YOU ENJOYED THAT THEN CHECK OUT OUR ARTICLES ON THE 50 BEST ONLINE MASTER’S OF SCIENCE DEGREES IN CIVIL ENGINEERING!

Are you considering a career in law enforcement or public safety?

A Master’s degree in Criminal Justice can open the door to a wide variety of criminal justice careers.

Some common law enforcement careers enjoyed by graduates include basic and leadership positions. These include:

• Roles in federal law enforcement and other government agencies
• Work in the juvenile justice system
• Criminal profilers
• Probation officers
• Criminal law 
• Emergency management directors
• Public administration
• Work with homeland security and other national security organizations 
• Police officers
• Intelligence analysts
• Private detectives
• Public safety professionals
• Forensic science technicians

See Also: 20 Best Affordable Master’s in Information Assurance

Completing a Master’s in Criminal Justice is smart. It can provide graduate students with key technical and conceptual foundations. This will allow you to pursue a career within criminal justice settings.

Graduate students will gain in-depth knowledge of contemporary issues, theories, and research. They will study topics related to crime, victimization, and justice administration.

These advanced programs help to shape a student’s understanding of the legal system. They delve into the complexities of:

• various court decisions
• alternative dispute resolution processes
• security management
• ethical considerations prevalent in the administration of justice

Having a Master’s in Criminal Justice gives graduates an array of opportunities. You can pursue satisfying careers as law enforcement officers and much more. 

Course options include:

• Organizational theory
• Transnational crime
• Forensic science
• State and federal crimes
• Criminal investigations
• Crime control strategies
• Violent crime and dealing with violent offenders
• Legal perspectives
• Fraud management
• Corporate crime
• Social and behavioral science
• Public safety and disaster management (including manmade and natural disasters)
• Organizational theory
• Forensic psychology 
• Collecting evidence for crime analysis
• Emergency management
• Criminological theories
• Criminal profiling
• Technical applications of criminal justice information technology 

Quick Links

1. Michigan State University
2. Florida State University
3. Sam Houston State University
4. Arizona State University
5. Boston University
6. University of Nebraska Omaha
7. Nova Southeastern University
8. Regis University
9. University of Cincinnati
10. University of Colorado Denver

Methodology:

Are you curious about how we decided on the top master’s degree options in criminal justice to ensure student success?

How did we determine the best online Master in Criminal Justice degree programs for our ranking?

We looked at schools with regional accreditation from organizations such as:

• Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
• Western Association of Schools and Colleges
• WASC Senior College and University Commission
• Higher Learning Commission
• Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities

Then, we gathered information to examine from public sources such as:

• the Academy of Criminal Justice Sciences (ACJS)
• the U.S. Department of Labor’s Bureau of Labor Statistics
• U.S. News and World Report
• the school websites

From there, four points served as our guidelines for determining the best programs. In random order, the four guiding points were:

• Affordability
• School reputation
• Availability of focus areas, concentrations or specializations
• Program flexibility and accommodation

Other factors that influenced our decisions were the average tuition and retention rate. Both of these metrics can give you a good idea of a school’s return on investment. 

Ready to learn more about online masters degree programs criminal justice? Here are the 30 best criminal justice graduate programs online!

30 Best Online Masters in Criminal Justice Degrees

#30. Troy University

MS Criminal Justice Program

You will find one of the best online criminal justice programs at Troy University.

The MS in Criminal Justice provides both a thesis and a non-thesis option. The non-thesis online criminal justice degree requires thirty credit hours. The thesis option requires thirty-six.

Classes you will take for your online master’s in criminal justice include:

• Emergency and Crisis Management
• Cyber and Information Threat Management
• Terrorism and Political Violence
• Public Safety

TROY Online provides each prospective student with the “PREPARE Assessment” tool. This computer based test (not a paper based test) in your native language is to make sure online learning is a good fit. 

#29. University of North Texas

This online master’s degree in criminal justice is through UNT’s Department of Criminal Justice (Department of CJUS). It takes 24 months to complete.

The curriculum that students take includes:

• twelve hours of foundational courses
• twenty-one hours of elective courses
• a three-hour capstone course

Your core courses will cover everything from public safety to inequities in the criminal justice system to ensure you are prepared to meet any career goals.

#28. University of New Haven

This master criminal justice online is at the Henry C. Lee College of Criminal Justice and Forensic Sciences. It has 36 credit hours. Students enrolled can complete the entire program in 24 months.

Foundational courses in topics like public safety and data analysis make up twelve of the credit hours. Elective courses make up the remaining twenty-four credits. 

Course options include:

• Advanced Victimology
• Problem Oriented Policing
• Network Security, Data Protection And Telecommunications
• Computer Crime: Legal Issues & Investigative Procedures

Admission requirements for these online criminal justice programs vary. Students may wish to consult with an admissions advisor. 

#27. Liberty University

MS Criminal Justice 

The Helms School of Government at Liberty University is outstanding. It offers a 100% online, 36-credit hour MS in Criminal Justice degree. This award-winning, thesis-optional master’s in criminal justice online also offers four cognate customizations:

• General
• Forensic Psychology
• Homeland Security
• Public Administration

Featured classes for this graduate degree include:

• Rehabilitation & Reintegration of Offenders
• Leadership, Ethics & Policing
• Homeland Security Organization & Administration
• Politics, Strategies & Initiatives of Com. Econ. Development

The online MSCJ at Liberty focuses on “best practices and trends” in higher education. Your courses will cover everything form data analysis to public safety to make sure you are prepared for all kinds of leadership roles in this evolving field.

Graduates leave equipped with the most recent data and most effective methods. The skills they gain in these master’s degrees can help them both achieve their careers goals.

#26. Xavier University

The online master’s degree criminal justice at Xavier provides a focus on administration in the justice system.

The master’s degree has six start dates a year. The curriculum covers everything from research methods in the field of criminal justice to public safety. You’ll be prepared to work at the federal levels and local levels and within a variety of criminal justice careers. These online master’s degree programs are about as well rounded as they get!

Topics covered in the thirty-credit hour criminal justice master’s degree online degree include:

• Sociology of Crime & Delinquency
• Forensics & White Collar Crime
• Human Resources for Criminal Justice Administrators

You can take many courses with real world experience as well.

#25. Columbia College

MS Criminal Justice 

This master’s degree is an online MS in Criminal Justice Administration (MSCJ) degree program. It is through Columbia College’s Criminal Justice Administration and Human Services Department.

This master’s in criminal justice prepares students for a life of public service, either at the federal levels or local levels. The degree focuses on four specific areas:

• trends in criminal justice
• policy development and analysis
• research design and research methods in the field of criminal justice
• ethics in criminal justice
• criminal justice theory
• public policy

Distance learners have the option of pursuing management tracks. These are in Law Enforcement Administration or Corrections Administration. 

Course options in this master’s in criminal justice include:

• Comparative Criminal Justice Systems
• Seminar in Juvenile Justice
• Law Enforcement and the Community
• Community Corrections

#24. University of Wisconsin–Platteville

The MS in Criminal Justice (MSCJ) online program at UW-Platteville gives students three different emphasis areas.

The specializations from which students enrolled in this master in criminal justice online can choose are:

• Criminal Justice Theory
• Criminal Justice Management
• Victim and Offender Services

There is a nine-credit hour certificate in Child Advocacy Studies available.

Some of the classes offered in this criminal law program include:

• Perspectives on Child Maltreatment and Child Advocacy
• Law as Social Control
• Juvenile Delinquency & Justice: Race, Class, Gender, and Youth
• Policing in a Democratic Society

This well-rounded master’s in criminal justice will prepare you for just about any career goals in the criminal justice system. Students will go beyond what you learned in your bachelor’s degree.

The curriculum is designed to provide students with real world experience and a solid understanding of criminal justice so they can pursue all kinds of criminal justice careers and leadership roles.

#23. California University of Pennsylvania

MS in Legal Studies

This master’s degree is offered 100% online. The MS in Legal Studies with a Criminal Justice Concentration degree program at Cal U is outstanding.

Classes criminal justice majors will take include:

• Financial Investigations
• Law and Police Process
• Polygraph and Lie Detection
• Intelligence Practice in Homeland Security

You’ll study criminal justice theory, research method sin the field of criminal justice, and much more. This master’s degree in criminal justice will prepare you for all kinds of career goals in this rapidly evolving field.

#22. Western Kentucky University

WKU Online offers a thirty-credit hour degree. It is a Master of Arts in Criminology degree program. These master’s degrees are 100% online and do not have a thesis. The program requires fifteen hours of core courses.

Course options to prepare you for the criminal justice system include:

• Advanced Social Statistics
• Survey of Criminal Justice Studies

The remaining fifteen credit hours are chosen from electives. Distance learners must select at least two classes from within WKU’s Department of Sociology.

Criminal justice majors will take classes such as:

• Neighborhoods and Crime
• Family Violence

You will be prepared for a variety of positions in the criminal justice system.

#21. University of Louisville

MS Criminal Justice 

U of L’s online MS in Criminal Justice (Justice Administration) (MSCJ) degree program claims a unique program.

This master’s degree is ideal for any role in the criminal justice system or in public safety.

The online master’s in criminal justice includes many networks and partnerships to prepare you for the realities of the criminal justice system.

Core coursework focuses on legal theory, statistics and research methods.

Core courses in the master’s in criminal justice include:

• Crime Prevention Through Environmental Design
• Serial Murder
• Personnel Management in Criminal Justice System
• Public Safety

With an emphasis on student success, this criminal justice master’s is one of the best.

#20. University of California, Irvine

UCI’s Department of Criminology, Law and Society offers two distinct online programs. These explore the psychology behind crime.

First, there is a criminal justice master’s degree that focuses on “theoretical and practical applications central to crime and its control, social policy, and the law.” The Master of Advanced Study (MAS) in Criminology, Law and Society is a thirteen-course degree program. It takes two years. You can take up to 4 years if needed

The major includes classes like:

• Hate Crimes
• Crime Hotspots
• Preventing Errors of Justice

The master’s in criminal justice classes are all delivered online. But there is one introductory accelerated five-day on-campus residency course required.

#19. Colorado State University-Global Campus

Master of Criminal Justice

You’ll find one of the top programs at Colorado State University. The Master of Criminal Justice and Law Enforcement Administration degree is through CSU-Global. It is a practical, foundational 36-credit hour program. It consists of 39 credit hours for students whose undergraduate GPA was less than 3.00. These students must take the graduate-basics “Fundamentals of Research and Writing” course.

Two specialization options await the CSU-Global online campus student. These are the options in Criminal Justice Leadership and Fraud Management.

The Criminal Justice Leadership specialization may need twelve credits of classes such as:

• Criminological Theory
• Working With Criminal Justice Agencies
• Criminal Justice Systems 
• Ethics, Justice, and Social Control

#18. Indiana University Bloomington

These master’s degrees take a year of full time study! The online MA in Criminology leads to research or administrative positions in criminal justice.

Students complete 30 credit hours of study. This criminal justice master’s degree focuses on topics such as:

• Criminological Theory
• Ethical and Philosophical Issues in Criminology
• Crime and Delinquency Prevention Strategies

You will get both a practical and stimulating online education. A final synthesis project culminates the degree. Average tuition is affordable for all online programs here.

#17. University of Massachusetts Lowell

MA in Criminal Justice

An online master’s degree at UMass Lowell includes eleven three-credit hour courses. 

This online master’s in criminal justice includes courses such as:

• Managing Justice Organizations
• Law and Public Policy
• Crime Analysis and Mapping
• Responding to Child Maltreatment
• Violence in America
• Mental Health & Criminal Justice

#16. Rowan University

The online MA in Criminal Justice is through Rowan University’s Rowan Global Learning & Partnerships. It is a good choice for students who have professional goals in career paths such as leadership roles or more higher learning. This online program is an accelerated program. The 30-credit hour degree takes five consecutive semesters. 

You’ll learn everything you need to know about the criminal justice system. You’ll also learn how to conduct criminal justice research.

Classes include:

• Management Of Criminal Justice Organizations
• Contemporary Developments In Theory
• Law And Society

#15. University of Central Florida

MS Criminal Justice 

The online MS in Criminal Justice program at University of Central Florida “pushes boundaries and shifts paradigms.”

This program has all kinds of hands-on experiences.

This is done to create the criminal justice force of tomorrow. Online enrollees will study all aspects of how people come to commit crimes. Students complete classes in how punishment and retribution is shaped by the history of the U.S. criminal justice system. Students must take 36 credit hours to graduate.

Twenty-one hours consist of core coursework in this criminal justice program. You’ll take classes like:

• The Nature of Crime
• Criminal Justice Organizations

You can also take nine credit hours of electives. Plus, there is a Capstone or a thesis. 

#14. University of Oklahoma

This MS in Criminal Justice program requires thirty-three credit hours to graduate. Each course is in asynchronous sixteen-week sessions. Three tracks are available online:

• Corrections Management
• Restorative Justice
• Administration and Leadership

Online enrollees can opt to take six more credit hours to focus on whichever area they choose.

This online master’s in criminal justice has eighteen hours of prerequisite courses. These cover the basics of research methods and theory. There are nine hours of elective course topics such as:

• Restorative Justice Programs for Drug Offenders
• Penology
• Global Drug Trafficking

This online criminal justice master’s degree program has a six credit hour thesis. You can also choose to complete one of the track areas with a comprehensive exam. 

#13. Bowling Green State University

MS Criminal Justice 

You’ll find one of the top programs at Bowling Green State University.

Eleven courses make up the masters of criminal justice online in the BGSU eCampus. There is rolling admission. There are six start dates a year, and two classes offered. That’s for each eight-week term. You can complete the thirty-three credit hour degree program in less than 24 months.

Classes exist in an asynchronous format. There may be some requirements to logon at the same time as the professor and classmates for live discussion.

In this criminal justice master’s degree, students take classes like:

• The Nature of Crime
• Criminal Justice Processes & Institutions

Students choose between a portfolio or final thesis to complete the degree. 

#12. University of the Cumberlands

The online MS in Justice Administration degree at UC is outstanding. It is a practical, experiential program.

It is ideal for students who want to move into or move up in a crime-fighting field. This is a thirty-one credit hour program that takes one year. That makes this one of the fastest criminal justice degree online options.

The master of criminal justice online program requires a one-credit hour Capstone Course in Justice Administration.  

You will learn everything you need to know about the criminal justice system in classes like:

• Legal and Ethical Issues in Homeland Security
• Race, Ethnicity, Gender, and Crime
• Sex Crimes: Myths & Motives

#11. East Carolina University

MS Criminal Justice 

There are eighteen courses at the core of the 36-credit hour program at East Carolina University. This is a non-thesis online MS in Criminal Justice program. It is offered through the Department of Criminal Justice. Classes include:

• Criminal Justice and Terrorism
• Diversity Issues in Criminal Justice
• Civil Liability in Criminal Justice

#10. University of Colorado Denver

The Master in Criminal Justice (MCJ) degree program at CU Denver is in the respected School of Public Affairs. It has 36-credit hours. The program consists of:

• five core courses (focusing on policy, research and theory)
• electives
• either a three to six-hour thesis or three credit capstone project

#9. University of Cincinnati

MS Criminal Justice Program

The University of Cincinnati has an eleven-course, thirty-three credit hour Master of Science Criminal Justice (MSCJ) degree. It is another one of the top master’s to know about. This criminal justice online master degree takes 24 months.

It includes a general track. Students also have choices between three specific concentrations. The Analysis of Criminal Behavior concentration focuses on what makes repeat offenders tick.

In this online criminal justice master’s, you will take classes like:

• Biosocial Factors in Serial Offending
• Computer Criminology: Cybercrime & Digital Security

Then there is the Law Enforcement & Crime Prevention concentration. This concentration examines “theories and practices” in such courses as:

• Applied Crime Prevention
• Seminar on Police Effectiveness

The last concentration option in the online criminal justice master’s is Corrections & Offender Rehabilitation. It offers such classes as “Correctional Theory and Policy”.

#8. Regis University

Regis University’s College of Contemporary Liberal Studies offers a Master of Science in Criminology degree program.

It invites students to examine and research what factors may contribute to crime. Faculty members teach how to establish successful practices for reformation and prevention. The program requires 36 credit hours to graduate.

Three focus areas are available in this online criminal justice master’s. They are:

• Leadership
• Human Behavior
• Cybercrime/Terrorism

You can replace nine credits of the general course with focus-specific classes.

The general curriculum of this master degree criminal justice online covers varied topics like:

• Ethical Conduct and Positions of Power
• Rapid Decision Making
• Crime Prediction and Prevention
• Animal Exploitation

You’ll be able to network with working professionals at the local and federal levels. This is to prepare you for a career in public service as part of this master’s degree in criminal justice.

#7. Nova Southeastern University

MS Criminal Justice

The College of Arts, Humanities, and Social Sciences at NSU provides an online, interdisciplinary MS in Criminal Justice program.

Students in the online master degrees in criminal justice take:

• fifteen hours of required core coursework
• twelve credit hours of a concentration
• a choice between a practicum internship or a master’s thesis

There are twelve concentration options to customize the degree and prepare students for leadership positions. Some are interdisciplinary and in conjunction with another College within NSU. An example is the Emergency Preparedness Leadership concentration. This is through the College of Osteopathic Medicine.

#6. University of Nebraska Omaha

The Master of Science in Criminology and Criminal Justice is at UNO’s School of Criminology and Criminal Justice.

Students in the online master of criminal justice take:

• twelve credit hours of foundational courses
• nine credits of criminal justice electives
• a three-credit Diversity course (either a Capstone or dissertation)
• twelve credits of open electives from other departments

Courses for the criminal justice online curriculum include:

• Survey of Corrections
• Sociology of Deviant Behavior
• Seminar in Theoretical Criminology

#5. Boston University

MS in Criminal Justice Program

This master degree at Boston University offers a choice. There is a general track or a concentration in Cybercrime Investigation & Cybersecurity. There is also a concentration in Strategic Management.

This online master’s in criminal justice is ideal for students who wish to:

• analyze criminal behavior
• apply principles of leadership in organizational settings
• learn theories of social control
• gain an informed perspective of law enforcement, the judicial system, and corrections

The online criminal justice degree masters elective choices include:

• Applied Digital Forensic Investigation
• Trauma and Crisis Intervention
• Criminal Justice Policy and Planning

#4. Arizona State University

The School of Criminology & Criminal Justice at the College of Public Service & Community offers a Master of Arts in Criminal Justice (MACJ) degree program. This is through ASU Online.

Students take twelve credit hours of related classes studying crime motivation.

Core courses in the online master’s in criminal justice and public safety include:

• Criminal Justice Planning and Program Evaluation
• Applied Data Analysis in Criminal Justice

#3. Sam Houston State University

MS in Criminal Justice Program

You’ll find one of the best programs at Sam Houston State University.

The Master of Science in Criminal Justice program at Sam Houston State University is meant to be “Education Everywhere, for Everyone.”

There are 21 integral courses as part of this online master’s in criminal justice.

Core courses include:

• quantitative analysis
• research methods
• policy

They will take classes in the online campus such as:

• Emergent Issues In Criminal Justice Leadership
• Seminar In Organization & Administration
• Communication Theory & Administration Of Justice

#2. Florida State University

It shouldn’t come as any surprise that the Master of Criminology degree program at Florida State University is in our top three.

Florida State University offers us a 36-credit hour program.

Core courses in the online criminal justice master degree include:

• Applied Statistics in Criminology
• Computer Applications in Criminal Justice
• Prevention & Treatment Of Crime & Delinquency
• Race, Ethnicity, Crime & Social Justice

#1. Michigan State University

MS Criminal Justice 

The master’s degree in criminal justice online at Michigan State University has existed at the College of Social Science since 1998. It should be no mystery that this program secures the number one spot on our list.

Students can opt for a general track or one of two specializations. These are Security Management or Judicial Administration.

Many of the courses in the online masters degrees criminal justice cut across a variety of disciplines.

Core courses include:

• Crime Causation, Prevention, and Control
• Policy Analysis under Conditions of Change
• Proseminar in Criminal Justice

Students in the criminal justice master’s online take one to three elective classes.

Related Rankings:

• 50 Best Online Law Degree Programs
• Careers Possible with a Masters of Criminal Justice Degree
• 10 Most Popular and Cheap Online Master’s Degree Programs

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

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

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

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

See Also: 10 Best Food Science Masters Programs

1. Troy University

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

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

Environmental Science Degree Details

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

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

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

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

2. University of Illinois at Springfield

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

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

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

Environmental Science Degree Details

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

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

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

See Also: 40 Fastest Online Master’s Degree Programs

3. Johns Hopkins University

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

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

Environmental Science Degree Details

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

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

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

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

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

4. University of Arkansas – Fayetteville

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

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

Environmental Science Degree Details

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

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

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

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

5. University of Idaho

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

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

Environmental Science Degree Details

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

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

• Biology science
• Physical science
• Social sciences

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

6. University of Florida

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

Environmental Science Degree Details

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

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

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

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

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

7. University of Houston – Clear Lake

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

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

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

Environmental Science Degree Details

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

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

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

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

8. Texas A&M University

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

Environmental Science Degree Details

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

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

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

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

9. Montana State University Bozeman

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

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

Environmental Science Degree Details

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

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

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

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

Admissions

10. Oregon State University

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

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

Environmental Science Degree Details

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

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

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

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

Admissions

11. New York Medical College

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

Environmental Science Degree Details

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

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

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

12. North Carolina State University

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

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

Environmental Science Degree Details

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

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

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

13. Villanova University

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

Environmental Science Degree Details

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

14. Prescott College

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

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

Environmental Science Degree Details

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

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

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

15. California State University – Fullerton

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

Environmental Science Degree Details

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

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

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

Students are prepared to sit for the professional engineering exam.

16. Auburn University

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

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

Environmental Science Degree Details

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

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

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

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

Admissions

17. Kentucky State University

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

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

Environmental Science Degree Details

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

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

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

18. University of Illinois at Urbana – Champaign

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

Environmental Science Degree Details

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

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

• Construction Management
• Infrastructure
• Transportation Engineering
• Structural Engineering

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

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

19. Worcester Polytechnic Institute

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

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

Environmental Science Degree Details

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

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

20. Columbia University in the City of New York

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

Environmental Science Degree Details

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

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

21. University of Colorado Boulder

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

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

Environmental Science Degree Details

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

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

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

22. Missouri University of Science and Technology

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

Environmental Science Degree Details

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

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

23. University of Tennessee-Knoxville

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

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

Environmental Science Degree Details

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

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

• Climate Impacts Engineering
• Environmental Engineering
• Water Resources Engineering
  

24. University of New Haven

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

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

Environmental Science Degree Details

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

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

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

25. Clarkson University

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

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

Environmental Science Degree Details

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

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

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

26. Southern Methodist University

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

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

Environmental Science Degree Details

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

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

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

27. Illinois Institute of Technology

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

Environmental Science Degree Details

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

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

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

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

28. American Public University

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

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

Environmental Science Degree Details

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

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

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

29. University of Maryland – University College

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

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

Environmental Science Degree Details

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

The program equips students with the necessary:

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

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

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

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

30. Webster University

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

Environmental Science Degree Details

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

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

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

31. Southern New Hampshire University

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

Environmental Science Degree Details

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

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

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

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

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

32. Slippery Rock University of Pennsylvania

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

Environmental Science Degree Details

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

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

33. Sam Houston State University

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

Environmental Science Degree Details

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

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

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

Admissions

34. Colorado State University

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

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

Environmental Science Degree Details

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

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

35. University of Wisconsin – Madison

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

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

Environmental Science Degree Details

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

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

36. Duke University

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

Environmental Science Degree Details

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

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

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

37. University of Denver

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

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

Environmental Science Degree Details

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

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

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

38. Arizona State University

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

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

Environmental Science Degree Details

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

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

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

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

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

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

39. University of Tennessee Martin

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

Environmental Science Degree Details

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

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

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

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

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

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

40. Texas Tech University

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

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

Environmental Science Degree Details

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

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

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

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

41. The University of Findlay

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

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

Environmental Science Degree Details

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

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

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

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

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

42. Virginia Tech University

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

Environmental Science Degree Details

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

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

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

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

43. North Carolina A&T State University

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

Environmental Science Degree Details

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

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

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

44. University of Wisconsin Stevens Point

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

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

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

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

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

45. University of Wisconsin Whitewater

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

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

Environmental Science Degree Details

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

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

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

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

Graduates will be able to:

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

46. Pennsylvania State University

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

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

Environmental Science Degree Details

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

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

47. University of Colorado-Denver

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

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

Environmental Science Degree Details

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

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

48. University of Wisconsin – Stout

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

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

Environmental Science Degree Details

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

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

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

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From global markets to consumer behavior, purchasing power to pricing indices, there are all kinds of strategic business decisions that require a fine-tuned understanding of economics. 

Yet many people overlook the power of earning an MBA in economics, opting instead to enroll in a more generalized program of study. Although a general MBA (or Master of Business Administration) can definitely get you where you need to go, consider this—earn one of the best affordable online MBA in economics degrees instead.

There are plenty of reasons to do this. Whether you want to pursue a career in finance, government, or banking, you will need to have relevant skills and training in the economics of today, tomorrow, and the future to become competitive—and to become a true leader.

You have several options if you’re preparing for a career in economics. Many students choose to pursue a Master’s of Arts in economics, and while these degrees are often a good fit for students seeking jobs in the public and private sectors, this kind of degree is more popular for a candidate who will eventually go on to earn a Ph.D. 

You might also consider a Master of Science in economics, which, depending on your career goals, may or may not be the right fit. Usually, a Master of Science degree will be a bit more technically-focused, often including coursework in things like statistics, computer science, or data science. 

Naturally, one of the most popular graduate degrees in economics is the MBA in economics. This kind of degree will offer you all the benefits of a general business degree, yet will also give you a solid foundation in marketing, leadership, accounting, and economics. You’ll be prepared for a broad spectrum of career opportunities as a manager and as a leader.

Fortunately, some of the world’s best business schools now offer MBA degrees with concentrations in economics. That’s great news if you don’t want to sacrifice an education at a leading institution in order to pursue your goals.

But what if you are already working—and either don’t want or simply can’t afford to leave your current job? 

You might want to consider an online MBA in economics. 

Not only does earning an online degree make it possible for you to earn a degree from virtually anywhere in the world, but it can also save you some serious money. Online degrees tend to be more affordable than their on-campus counterparts, offering a better alternative to traditional learning. You won’t have to pay for things like parking, transportation, or room and board, so your expenses will automatically be lower.

Plus, tuition for online programs is often cheaper than what you would pay if you were attending on-campus. 

You don’t have to sacrifice quality for cost and convenience, either. In fact, some of the best and most affordable MBA in economics degrees are now offered online—and they’re identical to their campus-based counterparts. 

Intrigued? Keep reading to learn more about how to find the right online MBA in economics—as well as why you should consider applying soon.

Common Application and Admission Questions

Applying for an online MBA in economics starts with finding the right schools. Sure, you can apply to every single one of the colleges on this list—but while many have free or low application fees, the costs are eventually going to add up. Plus, you’ll drive yourself crazy with all the options!

Instead, start by narrowing down your list of potential schools. A good first step is to consider which features matter most to you when it comes to earning a degree. Do you want a school that offers flexible courses that can be rearranged to fit your schedule—or would you rather take classes in a prescribed order?

How about the course delivery? Do you want classes that are offered synchronously, meaning you’ll receive instructions and complete assignments at the same time as other classmates, or would you rather pursue your studies independently in an asynchronous format?

Whatever the case may be, look for a program that is accredited, ideally one that has received an additional nod from the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business. You will want to look closely at the curriculum for your program of choice, too. In general, an MBA’s curriculum will contain core foundational courses in things like management, accounting, finance, and economics. 

You should look for a degree that, by the time you graduate, will equip you with the skills and abilities necessary to understand the core concepts of modern business management, analysis, and decision making. Usually, your class schedule will be divided between classes that are foundational or “core” courses along with those that are intensive in economics.

Because of this, many universities require applicants to possess undergraduate degrees in business or related areas prior to admission. If you don’t have a bachelor’s in business, don’t panic, many schools do not have this requirement or will allow you to make up for the deficit by taking a few required courses once you enroll. In general, you’ll be expected to have a respectable GPA (3.0 tends to be the baseline, but again, this can vary).

While many schools used to require submission of GRE or GMAT test scores, this is not always the case anymore. In fact, many universities that offer online MBAs in economics no longer have this requirement. Instead, you can demonstrate your skills and abilities by submitting other supporting documents, such as letters of recommendation, a personal essay, and perhaps an interview. 

It is important to note that some universities also require applicants to possess a certain level of work experience. This is because many programs place a high value on real-world experience and want to see that their applicants have what it takes to succeed in a fast-paced business world. While you will often be called upon to supply evidence of this experience via letters of recommendation, you might also do this by submitting a curriculum vitae or resume.

Whatever the case may be, be sure to research the requirements of your university of choice so that you can make sure you’ve checked off all of the boxes when you apply. 

What About Financial Aid & Scholarships?

Paying for an MBA is a major financial commitment—after all, these degrees can easily cost more than $50,000 over the lifespan of the program. 

When you figure that most students pay for their studies with a combination of personal funds and student loans, it might seem next to impossible for you to be able to afford the high price of higher education.

Fortunately, there are plenty of ways to finance an MBA even if you’re strapped for cash—or don’t want to take on a mountain of debt to do so. Not only are there tons of fellowships, scholarships, and other “free monies” available to students who put the effort into applying, but choosing an affordable program can help you lower your expenses right from the outset.

How do you know whether a program is affordable? Don’t be tricked into assuming that, just because a degree is offered by a public university, it’s automatically cheaper than its private school counterparts. Although the “sticker price” for most private schools’ tuition tends to be much higher than what you’d find with a public school, the reality is that many private universities offer additional subsidies and financial aid to students that can significantly offset that higher sticker price.

As a result, you may end up paying significantly less for tuition at a private school than you would at a public school, so it’s worth it to do the research.

Then, make sure you put the legwork in to find all of the financial aid opportunities that are available to you. Chat with the financial aid office at your school of choice to see what kinds of awards you might qualify for. If you are a former or active duty military member (or family member of one), for example, you might qualify for significant discounts in tuition. 

Next, fill out the FAFSA. The FAFSA, or Free Application for Federal Student Aid, is available starting January 1 of the year in which you intend to enroll. This form will take into consideration your “net worth,” as evidenced by documents such as tax returns, W2s, and other earnings statements. You’ll have to provide financial information for yourself, your spouse, if you have one, and/or for your parents, if you are still a dependent.

If you are deemed to have financial need, you may qualify for various state and federal grant and loan programs. Filling out the FAFSA can also qualify you for opportunities like teaching assistantships, fellowships, work studies, and subsidized loans on campus, too. It doesn’t take long to fill out this form, so be sure you do it long before you plan to start school. That way, you’ll have plenty of time to get all your ducks in a row.

Don’t overlook potential outside sources of aid, either. Check with your employer to see if they will help finance part of the cost of your education—many large and small companies alike have generous tuition reimbursement plans. You can look to outside organizations for scholarships, too. Lots of industries, such as the insurance industry, as well as nonprofit organizations, offer significant amounts of money for MBA candidates.

How Much Can I Make With an MBA in Economics? 

With a degree in economics, you’ll have a large variety of jobs available to you. While some employers will consider candidates who have only earned bachelor’s degrees, earning an MBA in economics is a surefire way to get your resume to the top of the pile.

All kinds of organizations depend on finances and the management of assets, so it makes sense that, with one of these degrees, you’ll be able to take your career in any direction. You could find yourself working for a bank or an insurance agency, for a nonprofit organization, or for a government institution. 

Whatever the case may be, you’re sure to find the career choice that’s smart for you. Because your studies will pair relevant case studies with sound business theory, you will be well-prepared to make challenging decisions and solve complex problems in business management. You can pursue a variety of leadership positions or hold a career as an economist, management consultant, or financial manager. 

Because this field is so varied, you’re likely to see a wide range of salaries. Generally, as the work of the economics expert plays such a significant role in the success and creation of an organization, there’s a high potential for solid earnings. You will likely earn a lucrative salary regardless of the career you pursue.

In fact, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the average annual wage reported by economists (one of the leading job titles for graduates of MBA in economics programs) in 2019 was $105,020. The best-paid workers, or those who were employed in finance and insurance, earned the highest salaries, bringing in more than $120,770 per year. 

Employees of the federal government, as well as those who worked in scientific research and development, management, technical, and scientific consulting services, also earned salaries that far exceeded $100,000 per year.

That’s not to say that your only potential role could be as an economist, however. Plenty of workers in this industry are employed as social scientists or in similar occupations.

The job outlook for this field is phenomenal, too. Although this occupation is admittedly small, the field and overall employment are expected to grow by a whopping 14% between 2019 and 2029—that’s much faster than average across all occupations. Many jobs will be those that specialize in consulting and research. 

Why such a high demand? For starters, it’s because economic analysis and quantitative methods are needed in just about every industry. Companies are increasingly turning to economists to help them study and forecast sales, market trends, and business. As the global economy becomes more complex and technologically advanced, this demand is only expected to grow.

And how do you make yourself more marketable for one of these in-demand jobs? By earning an affordable online MBA in economics, of course! Your job prospects will be the strongest if you earn a master’s degree and have strong analytical skills along with skills in a specialized area (such as the use of statistical analysis software). 

What Are the Best Affordable Online MBA in Economics Degrees?

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

#1. Southern Illinois University-Carbondale

Online MBA with an Emphasis in Agricultural Economics

The role of economics in agriculture is an important, yet highly specialized, topic. If that’s where you find that your interests lie, you may have trouble finding the right program to meet your needs—until you consider Southern Illinois University-Carbondale, that is.

This program, an online MBA with an emphasis in agricultural economics, will help you build the skills you need in areas like business and farm management, banking and finance, farm appraisal, market and policy analysis, and more. You’ll take a wide variety of hands-on courses such as Agricultural Development, Agribusiness Economics Research Methodology, and Policies of the Agricultural Sector.

This degree is just one of more than 200 offered by this public university. Established in 1869, the university is a member of the Southern Illinois University system and was originally founded as a teacher training school. It is one of the most diverse schools in the state, having a 30% minority enrollment and an average undergraduate age of nearly 24 years old.

It goes without saying that Southern Illinois University-Carbondale caters to students of all backgrounds, interests, ages, and skill levels. The affordable online MBA in agricultural economics is no exception, with students from all over the country flocking to the physical and virtual campuses alike to take classes here. 

You’ll have the opportunity to study with working professionals from all over the country as you earn a degree—all without disrupting your career. You can learn in a convenient and flexible online format, taking classes that are taught by the same talented faculty members who teach on campus. 

The program is accredited by the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of BUsiness. Additional concentrations are available in subjects like analytics for managers, making it possible for you to fine-tune your training to whatever setting suits you best. You’ll have access to plenty of hands-on opportunities for applied research in the field and be able to pursue a rewarding career in rural development, agriculture, and natural resources upon graduation. 

Ready to start your journey? You’ll need to have a bachelor’s degree from an accredited university, but a business major is not required. You will need to pay a $65 application fee and apply online. A minimum undergraduate GPA of 2.7 is required, as is a minimum 3.0 GPA on all previous graduate coursework. Although you can apply at any time, it is wise to apply as early as possible (or within at least eight months) of when you plan to start your degree.

Tuition at Southern Illinois University-Carbondale is remarkably affordable. In fact, as a public university, the school offers low tuition rates—and uniquely, the tuition rate that you pay during your first year is locked in for the duration of your studies. Nearly 80% of all students here receive some form of financial aid, with many individuals qualifying for and receiving scholarships.

#2. Ball State University

Online MBA with a Health Economics Emphasis

Originally the Indiana State Normal School, Ball State University, located in Muncie, IN, first opened its doors in 1918. At the time, the school was founded to train future teachers for careers in education. 

Today, however, the school has rapidly expanded its offerings, educating more than 22,000 students at the associate to doctoral level. Courses are available both on campus, online, and in a hybrid setting. 

The online Master of Business Administration at Ball State is accredited by the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business, a prestigious designation not shared by all other business schools. In fact, Ball State is among the world’s top 5% of all business schools to have this accreditation. 

You’ll find this degree in the prestigious Miller College of Business, where a number of high-quality programs are offered with rock bottom tuition rates.

In fact, you’ll pay just around $15,000 for all the tuition of this program—without skipping on quality. It’s also easy to begin your studies. You can take classes in whatever format suits you best and choose to begin your studies in the spring, summer, or fall. Needless to say, a Ball State education will pay for itself—but there are lots of financial aid opportunities to help you bridge the gap in the meantime. Four out of every 5 students here receive some form of financial aid, with 500 scholarships granted each year to incoming students. 

The MBA has a reputation for providing students with insightful instruction that is practical, yet academically rigorous, with a special emphasis on the roles that globalization and digitalization play when it comes to the economy. You’ll build your skills in strategy, ethics, leadership, and more. Upon graduation, you will be highly sought-after by top employers—in fact, 329 employers, on average, are engaged per year in on-campus recruiting efforts.

With 24 credits of core courses and up to 9 credits of MBA electives covering topics like marketing, leadership, finance, business analytics, and entrepreneurship, this program offers extensive flexibility as you plan your studies. 

The online MBA has a special concentration in health economics, policy, and administration, one of the best for students considering MBA degrees in economics. That’s not your only concentration option, however. There are also concentrations in sales management, logistics and supply chain management, and entrepreneurship, too. In fact, there are ten other concentrations you can choose from in addition to a general, stand-alone MBA.

Don’t you have a business degree? Not a problem. You’ll just take an additional 7 to 13 credit hours, depending on how many foundation courses you need and which concentration you choose. It will be easy for you to catch up—and get ahead. Flexible and customizable, this program is offered by a school that is ranked as one of the best online MBAs overall by the U.S. News & World Report. 

 And if you’re not sure that a full-fledged MBA is the right choice for you, don’t fret. Ball State offers a business essentials certificate that provides learners with an easy way to earn credits toward an MBA, simply by completing the foundational courses. You might also consider pursuing an additional certificate in professional sales or health economics, depending on your goals.

#3. Wright State University-Main Campus

Online MBA with an Emphasis in Business Economics

Looking for an MBA that will enable you to study abroad? If so, you might want to consider the online MBA with an emphasis in business economics at Wright State University. This program offers numerous opportunities for learners to get off-campus and to build their competencies with experiences outside of the classroom. 

Ranked in the top 2% of business colleges in the nation by the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business, the Raj Soin College of Business has been accredited by this organization since 1974. The school works with a corporate advisory panel made up of many of the Miami Valley’s top business executives. This cohort provides valuable perspectives to make sure that the curriculum of the program remains relevant and up-to-date in a fast-changing business environment. 

Impressed by the competitive edge Wright State has when it comes to offering exceptional business programs? While this school’s reputation is certainly noteworthy, it’s definitely nothing new.

Founded in 1964, Wright State University has had quite an impressive reputation throughout its entire history. The school first opened its doors as a partnership between Miami University and Ohio State University in an effort to extend higher education opportunities to a larger geographic area. Today, the school is highly regarded with the Raj Soin College of Business receiving numerous accolades for its high-quality programs.

This is where you will find the online MBA with an emphasis in business economics. For a total cost of less than $30,000, you’ll be able to complete an MBA from an entirely remote setting. You’ll have access to all the student services you need without ever having to step foot on campus.

As a result, you will be able to move quickly and efficiently through the curriculum. Most candidates complete their degrees in fewer than two years, but you can take up to five years to graduate if your life circumstances make this necessary. 

Business economics is not the only concentration for you to choose from, either. You might consider additional highly marketable options like finance; healthcare management; international business; investments; or management, innovation, and change.

While enrolled, you’ll take classes in topics like supply chain management, implementing competitive strategies, and marketing strategy. All core classes are offered online every semester, with at least three concentration courses offered online each term. You’ll learn from the same award-winning faculty members who teach classes on-campus, employing state-of-the-art software, hardware and support infrastructure to help you make the most of your online courses. 

Ready to apply? The MBA program at Wright has rolling admission, so if you qualify, you could be admitted for any semester. There are three start dates per year in the fall, spring, and summer. If your undergraduate GPA was high—above a 3.0—you will not be required to submit GMAT scores for admission. 

Applying is easy and requires only that you submit an application for the MBA program. You will also need to pay a $40 application fee and submit supporting documentation including your transcripts. That’s all there is to it!

#4. Idaho State University

Online MBA in Economics

Whether you want to take classes at your own dining room table or on a campus in Pocatello or Idaho Falls, Idaho State University has the degree for you.

This school offers some of the best and most affordable MBA programs in the state. If you’re a resident of the state of Idaho, you can earn a degree for just $12,000 (and out-of-state students won’t pay much more than that, either). There is significant financial aid available, too, including the graduate assistantship program that provides free tuition and a $12,800 stipend—all for just 20 hours of work per week.

The courses in this program are so flexible and convenient that you can keep working, either in an assistantship or in your full-time job, without feeling overwhelmed by the demands of earning an MBA. In fact, a full-time course load can be completed in just one year, with most courses taking place either asynchronously or in the evenings. 

The curriculum of the online MBA in economics is accredited by the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business. This is a designation that not every school of business holds—in fact, the Idaho State University College of Business was the first business school to receive this accreditation in 1978. It remains one of only 189 schools holding accreditation in both business and accounting today.

The faculty who teach in this program are qualified, both professionally and academically, with many years of experience in the many areas of business. You will take 18 credits of core courses to help you build your foundational understanding of key business concepts. For example, you’ll develop proficiency in accounting, marketing, finance, management, and economics. 

In your emphasis area of economics, you’ll take nine additional credits of electives that will enable you to align your coursework with your interests and experiences in a particular field. In addition to economics, the university offers MBA concentrations such as healthcare administration, informatics, marketing, operations management, finance, accounting, and more.

You can build your expertise outside of the classroom by engaging in a multitude of experiential learning opportunities, such as international competitions and hands-on internships. Upon graduation, you will be prepared for a number of high-level professional positions. 

In addition to the concentration in economics, students in the MBA program also have the option to complete dual degrees in other graduate programs, from health informatics to healthcare administration or even accounting. There is even a dual degree program with the Idaho State University Pharmacy program that will enable you to earn an MBA PharmD joint degree with just one additional year of study.

To apply, you will need to have completed a baccalaureate degree from a regionally accredited college or university. An overall undergraduate GPA of 3.0 or higher is required, as are official transcripts and GRE or GMAT test scores. You may also need to submit letters of recommendation and a written statement.

#5. Murray State University

Online MBA with a Concentration in Economic Development. 

If legacy is something that matters to you, you may want to consider enrolling at Murray State University. This school, located in Murray, KY, is all about tradition.

The school was established in 1922, originally designed as a normal school to educate teachers for public service. Today, this four-year public university offers dozens of other programs as well. The business school is one of the longest-standing and most prestigious, having offered high-quality and affordable degrees since 1981. 

If you’re looking for quality and prestige, you won’t find a better option than with Murray State. The MBA has been backed by the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business since 1981 and is one of the oldest accredited programs in the nation.

It is offered by Arthur J. Bauernfeind College of Business. Here, the program has enjoyed a long and rigorous tradition of excellence in management and business education for many years. The program has one of the most efficient cost-to-quality MBA ratios in the country, with affordable and reasonable tuition. In fact, the online tuition is some of the lowest in the nation. You’ll pay the same tuition rates as in-state students from Kentucky. 

You’ll complete 30 credit hours of study as you prepare for a leadership role across any and all aspects of business. This broad-based program includes electives from a variety of in-demand areas, making it possible for you to tailor your degree to your unique career interests. You’ll build skills in things like managerial economics, marketing, business analytics, and corporate finance. Before you graduate, you will also be required to complete a final capstone course that is designed to strengthen your background in strategic management. 

When you enroll in this program, you will have access to free, self-paced modules in economics and accounting. These can be completed concurrently with your core coursework so that you get “more bang for your buck,” or so to speak, for the price of your tuition.

As an online student, you’ll be able to enjoy access to the same resources you would be able to utilize on-campus. For example, you’ll have access to extensive career resources. Earning an MBA from Murray State University will pay off for your career, with graduates earning a starting salary that is more than $21,000 higher than those of individuals who earn only bachelor’s degrees. 

Courses are taught 100% online as well as at night and during the day to make earning a degree more convenient than ever. This program is ranked as one of the best MBA programs by Intelligent.com as well as one of the best for active-duty military members. 

The faculty who teach in this program are dedicated to student success, both in the program and in the workforce, and provide extensive opportunities for advancement and personal support. You’ll have access to a variety of resources in the Center for Economic and Entrepreneurial Development, too, a campus organization that offers training, workshops, and consulting services for small business owners in Kentucky.

#6. Texas A & M University-Commerce

Online MBA with a Focus in Economics

Already have a background in business? Don’t waste time taking classes you have already participated in. Instead, consider the online MBA with a focus in economics at Texas A&M University-Commerce.

This 30-credit hour online program is offered by the College of Business. Accredited by the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business, the degree offers learners the option to waive up to 18 credit hours of foundational business prerequisites if they already have a background in business.

Because of this, you can save both time and money (and your sanity!) as you progress toward a degree. You’ll still benefit from Texas A&M University-Commerce’s dynamic location and exceptional reputation. The school, located just outside of the Dallas/Fort Worth metroplex, was originally founded as a teacher’s college. 

As a result, the school knows what it takes to deliver exceptional instruction. Faculty here are some of the best and most experienced in the country, with nearly all of them in the business department holding terminal degrees. Study online, and you’ll have access to the same fabulous instructors who teach on campus. There is no thesis required and most students can complete their studies in just two years or less. 

As an online student, you’ll enjoy some of the best student services. For example, the College of Business offers an in-house Career Services Center that focuses on guiding business students who are looking for full-time employment and internships. You’ll enjoy countless connections to industry members via guest speakers, internships, company tours, professional networking, and other opportunities, too, as faculty and alumni alike are well-connected with the business community.

You will take a variety of core classes in topics like management and organizational behavior, managerial economics, applied business research, and financial management statistical methods. You’ll be prepared for a wide variety of advanced management positions upon graduation, most of which will allow you to display your strong strategic and analytical leadership solutions to an interrelated set of ethical, environmental, and economic issues. 

As a student in this program, you’ll learn from the same exceptional faculty who teach on campus. These professionals are industry leaders and renowned scholars in their own right, producing cutting-edge research in the field.

If you don’t want to stop with just the MBA, you don’t have to. You can also choose to complete a minor. You can complete any minor with your MBA to further enhance your career prospects. Some of the most popular include marketing analytics, cybersecurity, agribusiness, and international administration. 

The business school has plenty of other MBA concentrations to choose from, too. For example, the British Studies for MBAs is a partnership with eleven other universities that makes it possible for learners to enhance their degrees at the international level. Students also have access to a variety of student organizations and activities both on-campus and online, including the Management Club and the Lions Innovation Business Competition.

This affordable program features low tuition—in fact, if you’re a Texas resident, you’ll pay less than $4,000 for nine credit hours of study. 

#7. Southern New Hampshire University

Online MBA with a Concentration in Economics

There’s a lot to love about Southern New Hampshire University. 

This school first opened its doors in 1932, starting out as a small college under the eye of A.B. and Gertrude Crockett Shapiro. Today, more than 90,000 students are enrolled at this school, which has a main campus in Manchester, NH but provides most of its instruction in an online form. 

The 36-credit hour online MBA with a concentration in economics consists of twelve courses and is easily one of the most affordable. You can take each course within just ten weeks apiece, meaning you’ll be able to move quickly through the program requirements and graduate in as little as fifteen months.

Not only that, but this degree has a flexible rolling admissions process so that you can apply for admission and register for courses at just about any time throughout the year. Applying is easy, too, as everything can be done online and there is no requirement for the GRE or GMAT. 

You’ll take a variety of hands-on courses to build your attitudes and confidence in economics. Some of the most common core courses include Macroeconomics Theory and Analysis, Mathematics and Statics for Economics, and Micronics Theory and Analysis. 

You’ll learn a wide variety of skills and methodologies in this program. Not only will you learn how to formulate your own business plans, but you’ll also gain general skills in analyzing data and problem solving that can be applied to other industries. You’ll gain other transferable aptitudes, too, such as cultural sensitivity and both written and verbal communication skills. 

Economics is not the only specialization offered by this degree. You might also pursue specializations in fields like healthcare informatics, human resources, social media, six sigma, project management, music business, leadership, and more—there are more than a dozen options to choose from (20, in fact!). 

In this program, tuition starts at just $627 per credit hour, regardless of your residency. You can complete your studies here even if you started your program somewhere else. In fact, you could be eligible to transfer in up to 12 graduate credits. 

Ready to apply? Don’t worry if you don’t have a background in economics or in business. The faculty at Southern New Hampshire are skilled experts with a wealth of real-world experience, and they’ll help fill in the gaps. 

In fact, if you lack prerequisite courses, you can take a few foundational classes to help you get caught up. You might take classes like Economics for Business, Mathematics and Statistics for Business, or Financial Reporting and Analysis to get yourself on the right track. 

To apply, you must have an undergraduate degree, ideally with a GPA higher than 2.75. If your undergraduate GPA was lower than that, don’t worry—you may just have to submit a few additional documents like letters of recommendation. You’ll have to submit a personal statement regardless, but the good news is that you can apply for admission at any time of the year.

#8. Western Illinois University

Online MBA in Economics

Home to fewer than 1,800 graduate students, Western Illinois University, located in Macomb, IL, is a public institution that, like many other schools on this list, has its origins as a teacher training school. Founded in 1899, this school serves a diverse body of students both on campus (in two separate locations) as well as online.

This university offers some of the best and most affordable degrees, all of which are offered at the bachelor’s through the doctoral level. The university also has multiple certificate programs. In fact, there are more than 120 majors for you to choose from!

If you’re considering an MBA, however, you might want to pursue the online MBA in economics. Western Illinois has one of the least expensive online and hybrid programs in economics. In this program, you’ll take classes through the departments of management and marketing, economics and decision sciences, accounting and finance, and the school for computer science. 

You don’t have to have a business degree in order to apply, either. In fact, the program is open to business graduates along with individuals with backgrounds in engineering, science, mathematics, liberal arts, and other fields. Depending on your background and career goals, you’ll complete anywhere between 33 and 54 semester hours of credit.

Classes are offered in a diverse format, enabling learners to take class on-campus, online, or in a  hybrid livestream setting. You’ll have access to both daytime and evening course schedules, either of which can fit easily into a hectic schedule. Classes are small, too, with an average size of just 20 students.

The faculty members who teach in this program pride themselves on their accessibility and mentoring capabilities. They’re quite experienced in their own regard, too, with many possessing doctoral and law degrees (and hailing from more than 40 internationally recognized universities).

As a student in this program, you’ll take a variety of classes that cover core business and economics topics such as Principles of Management, Decision Making for Global Markets, Economics for Managers, and Corporate Information Systems. Your learning will extend beyond the classroom as you participate in internships and assistantships that let you combine your work with your education.

Let’s not forget how affordable this program is, either. Nonresident students pay the same tuition rates as those that are in-state, with tuition and fees coming in at less than $12,000 per semester. 

To apply, you will need to submit an online application along with undergraduate transcripts from any universities you have attended. You’ll be expected to have a  cumulative GPA of at least 3.0 and a GMAT score of 500. However, if you majored in business and had a GPA of 3.6 or higher, the GMAT is not required. You will need to submit a resume and a personal essay with your application as well.

#9. University of Houston-Victoria

Online Global Master’s of Business Administration with an Economic Development Concentration

Already have some credits and not sure how to make the most of them? If so, you might want to consider the online global Master of Business Administration with an economic development concentration at the University of Houston-Victoria.

This program is one of the most transfer-friendly, enabling students to bring in a large number of their required credits. In fact, the school has transfer partnerships with more than half a dozen community colleges. 

You’ll be able to progress quickly toward a master’s degree when you choose to study at this public university, a member of the University of Houston System. The school has campuses all over the city as well as online. Founded in 1973, this school is designated as an HSI (Hispanic-Serving Institution) and has a commitment to providing affordable, high-quality education to students from all backgrounds and lifestyles. 

With more than 70 degree programs offered online and on-campus, this school offers numerous opportunities for students to earn their degrees entirely online. The 30-credit MBA can be completed online or in a hybrid fashion. It is accredited by the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business and combines specialties in areas like finance and marketing. 

You’ll gain the skills you need to launch and sustain your own business, to consult for other business owners, or to work for a government agency or another setting. You’ll take a variety of classes to build and hone your skills, including Theory and Practice of Regional Economic Development and Introduction to Economic Development and Entrepreneurship. You’ll also complete a capstone project before you graduate.

This capstone, titled Theory and Practice of Regional Economic Development, is a required component of all MBA candidates. It will help you bring together everything you have learned so far in your program in a relevant, applicable way. 

While you are enrolled, you will take classes under the guidance and mentorship of faculty who will train you for real-world business scenarios. You’ll learn via international business simulations, case studies, and hands-on projects. Even when studying online, you’ll benefit from the strategic location of this campus—the Houston area is home to more than 5,000 firms engaged in global commerce. 

The online MBA in economics at the University of Houston-Victoria is highly regarded by top-ranking publications. It’s received awards from the U.S. News & World Report, Princeton Review, and more, receiving high praise as a top performer on social mobility and one of the Best Regional Universities in the West. 

As you might expect, it is also highly affordable, having been ranked as the seventh most affordable public university in Texas by the Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board in 2019. Tuition starts at just $14,999 for this program, and you’ll be able to complete your studies in as few as 16 months.

#10. Liberty University

Online MBA in Economics

It might seem overwhelming, but Liberty University has more than 20 specializations in the MBA program for you to choose from—with that kind of variety, you’re sure to find the degree that will help you meet your business and professional goals.

The MBA is just one of multiple rewarding master’s degrees offered by Liberty University. Some others worth mentioning include the Master of Science in accounting, the Master of Arts in executive leadership, and the Master of Science in finance.

However difficult you might find it to choose, it’s essential that you consider the online MBA concentration in economics. This program is one of the best for aspiring economists and will allow you to concentrate on this pivotal aspect of the business world—all while studying from whichever location is most convenient for you. 

Accredited by the Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs, the degree includes flexible eight-week courses with no set log-in times. You will be required to complete 45 credit hours or fewer so that you can earn your master’s in just two years. 

For the economics track, you will take classes such as Global Economic Environment, Microeconomic Theory, Econometrics, and Money and Capital Markets. You will gain the skills you need to grow as a professional, all without compromising your current family or professional commitments. 

Other specializations include finance, human resources, leadership, marketing, American legal studies, and more. There’s even a fast-track program that will enable you to earn your degree in 36 credit hours (or just one year of study). 

Upon graduation, you will have access to a wider variety of job advancements and opportunities. Your studies at Liberty will enable you to work with business leaders from around the country. Plus, this program is ranked within the top 1% of online schools for its quality, accessibility, and affordability by Niche.com, meaning you’re sure to meet your personal and professional goals.

Ready to apply? You’ll need to have a regionally or nationally accredited bachelor’s degree with a minimum GPA of 3.0. You will also need to submit an application fee and copies of your official college transcripts. Some undergraduate business prerequisite courses may be required. 

Liberty University offers some of the most affordable programs for online learners in general, but especially for military students. Whether you’re a current service member, a veteran, or the spouse of a military member or veteran, you’ll find the support you need to succeed at Liberty. 

There are significant tuition discounts—up to $275 per credit hour for graduate courses—and additional discounts for veterans who serve in civilian capabilities as First Responders. Plus, with short eight-week courses and eight different start dates per year, you’ll find it easier than ever to work your courses around your demanding lifestyle.

OTHER NOTABLE PROGRAMS 

#11. Bellevue University

Location: Bellevue, NE

Degree: Online MBA with a Specialization in Global Economic Threat Environment.

Net Price: $9,635

Website

#12. Mercer University

Location: Macon, GA

Degree: Online MBA with an Emphasis in Economics

Net Price: $21,202

Website

#13. Carnegie Mellon University

Location: Pittsburgh, PA

Degree: Online Master’s of Business Administration with a Focus in Economics

Net Price: $30,847

Website

#14. Regent University

Location: Virginia Beach, VA

Degree: Online Master’s of Business Administration with a Concentration in Economics

Net Price: $16,779

Website

#15. Utica College

Location: Utica, NY 

Degree: Online MBA and Economic Crime and Fraud Management MBA

Net Price: $22,991

Website

IF YOU ENJOYED THAT THEN CHECK OUT OUR ARTICLES ON THE TOP 10 REASONS TO EARN YOUR MASTER’S DEGREE & 40 BEST NO-GMAT ONLINE MBA PROGRAMS!

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

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

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

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

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

Marketing vs Marketing Management

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Common Application and Admission Questions

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

What About Financial Aid & Scholarships for Marketing Degrees?

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

See Also: Affordable Online MBA in Marketing Management

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Other marketing jobs for marketing graduates include:

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

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

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

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

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

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

Our Ranking Criteria 

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

We prioritize four major factors when evaluating a marketing program:

• Earnings Potential
• Affordability
• Student Satisfaction
• Selectivity

Reliable research and well-harvested data are the main ingredients in our recipe for success for ranking master’s programs. We don’t make recommendations based on personal opinions or financial incentives. Our revenue and content are separate. Sponsored schools have no impact on our rankings, nor do world university rankings.

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

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

We know you have educational goals that you’re itching to pursue. But you may not know where to start. The editors of Master’s Programs Guide utilize a unique ranking methodology to provide you with the best list of master of marketing degree programs. This methodology is based on the following three aspects:

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

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

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

See Also: Best MBA Programs for Marketing Management

10 Best Masters in Marketing Programs

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

Master of Science in Marketing

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

More Information About Texas A&M

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

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

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

Master of Business Administration

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

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

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

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

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

Curriculum for the Master’s Degrees in Marketing

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

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

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

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

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

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

More Information About Georgia Institute of Technology

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

#3 Marketing Master’s Program: Liberty University

Master of Business Administration in Marketing Degree

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

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

Curriculum for the Master’s Degrees in Marketing

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

More Information About Liberty University

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

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

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

Master of Business Administration

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

Curriculum for the Master’s Degrees in Marketing

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

More Information About California Polytechnic State University-San Luis Obispo

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

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

#5 Marketing Master’s Program: Gonzaga University

Master of Business Administration

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

Curriculum for the Master’s Degrees in Marketing

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Core classes in this MS program cover topics like:

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

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

More Information About Gonzaga University

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

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

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

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

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

Master of Business Administration

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

Curriculum for the Master’s Degrees in Marketing

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

More Information About California State Polytechnic University-Pomona

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

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

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

Online MBA, Marketing Data Analytics

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

Curriculum for the Master’s Degrees in Marketing

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

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

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

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

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

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

More Information About CSU

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

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

#8 Marketing Master’s Program: Texas Tech University

Master of Science in Marketing Research and Analytics

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

Curriculum for the Master’s Degrees in Marketing

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

Core courses in this marketing degree program include studies in:

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

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

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

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

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

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

More Information About Texas Tech

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

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

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

Master of Business Administration

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

Curriculum for the Master’s Degrees in Marketing

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

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

You’ll take classes that cover subjects like:

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

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

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

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

More Information About CSU Chico

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

#10 Marketing Master’s Program: University of Houston

Master of Science in Marketing Degree

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

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

Curriculum for the Master’s Degrees in Marketing

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

More Information About the University of Houston

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

Other Notable Options for the Best Marketing Graduate Program

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

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

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

#11 Marketing Master’s Degree: McDaniel College

Location: Westminster, Maryland

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

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

McDaniel College Graduate Degree in Marketing Program Website

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

Location: Dallas, Texas

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

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

University of Texas at Dallas Master’s in Marketing Website

#13 Marketing Master’s Degree: Vanderbilt University

Location: Nashville, Tennessee

Degree: Master of Marketing (In person)

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

Vanderbilt University Online Master of Marketing Website

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

Location: Ewing Township, New Jersey

Degree: MBA (Online program/hybrid)

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

The College of New Jersey Graduate Degree Website

#15 Marketing Master’s Degree: East Carolina University

Location: Greenville, North Carolina

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

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

East Carolina Graduate Degree Website

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

Location: Hayward, California

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

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

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

#17 Marketing Master’s Degree: California Lutheran University

Location: Thousand Oaks, California

Degree: MBA, Marketing Concentration (In person)

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

California Lutheran University Graduate Degree Website

#18 Marketing Master’s Degree: University of Florida

Location: Gainesville, Florida

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

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

University of Florida Master’s in Marketing Website

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

Location: Los Angeles, California

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

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

Cal State Northridge Graduate Degree Website

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

Location: Riverside, California

Degree: MBA (In person)

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

Cal State Riverside Graduate Degree Website

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Common Application and Admission Questions

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

What About Financial Aid & Scholarships?

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

How Much Can I Make With an MBA? 

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

What Are the Best MBA Degrees?

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

#1. University of Florida

Master of Business Administration

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

#2. University of Nebraska

Master of Business Administration

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

#3. Texas A & M University-Kingsville

Master of Business Administration

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

#4. University of North Texas

Master of Business Administration

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

#5. University of the Cumberlands

Master of Business Administration

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

#6. William Woods University

Master of Business Administration

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

#7. West Texas A & M University

Master of Business Administration

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

#8. SUNY College at Oswego

Master of Business Administration

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

#9. Fayetteville State University

Master of Business Administration

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

#10. Southeastern Oklahoma State University

Master of Business Administration

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

OTHER NOTABLE PROGRAMS 

#11. Fitchburg State University

Location: Fitchburg, MA

Degree: Master of Business Administration

Net Price: $3,828

Website

#12. Tarleton State University

Location: Stephenville, TX

Degree: Master of Business Administration

Net Price: $7,024

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#13. University of South Dakota

Location: Vermillion, SD

Degree: Master of Business Administration

Net Price: $6,835

Website

#14. Western Illinois University

Location: Macomb, IL

Degree: Master of Business Administration

Net Price: $11,604

Website

#15. University of Hartford

Location: West Hartford, CT

Degree: Master of Business Administration

Net Price: $13,055

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#16. University of Texas of the Permian Basin

Location: Odessa, TX

Degree: Master of Business Administration

Net Price: $5,085

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#17. Fort Hays State University

Location: Hays, KS

Degree: Master of Business Administration

Net Price: $4,266

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#18. Louisiana Tech University

Location: Ruston, LA

Degree: Master of Business Administration

Net Price: $9,603

Website

#19. Texas A & M University-Commerce

Location: Commerce, TX

Degree: Master of Business Administration

Net Price: $6,424

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#20. Midwestern State University

Location: Wichita Falls, TX

Degree: Master of Business Administration

Net Price: $5,634

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#21. West Liberty University

Location: West Liberty, WV

Degree: Master of Business Administration

Net Price: $5,920

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#22. Prairie View A & M University

Location: Prairie View, TX

Degree: Master of Business Administration

Net Price: $6,968

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#23. University of Maine

Location: Orono, ME

Degree: Master of Business Administration

Net Price: $9,106

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#24. Southern Arkansas University

Location: Magnolia, AR

Degree: Master of Business Administration

Net Price: $6,234

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#25. Arkansas State University

Location: Jonesboro, AR

Degree: Master of Business Administration

Net Price: $6,210

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#26. Frostburg State University

Location: Frostburg, MD

Degree: Master of Business Administration

Net Price: $10,324

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#27. Mississippi State University

Location: Mississippi State, MS

Degree: Master of Business Administration

Net Price: $8,650

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#28. Missouri State University

Location: Springfield, MO

Degree: Master of Business Administration

Net Price: $6,038

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#29. Henderson State University

Location: Arkadelphia, AR

Degree: Master of Business Administration

Net Price: $6,126

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#30. Texas A & M University-Corpus Christi

Location: Corpus Christi, TX

Degree: Master of Business Administration

Net Price: $7,328

Website

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