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Do spreadsheets and numbers make you smile? Do you find the sound of calculator keys tapping away both melodic and soothing?

If so, a master’s degree in accounting might be the right choice for you. And if you think accounting is just about balancing books and counting back money, think again. Accountants work in a variety of fields. 

As an accountant, you could work in the U.S. healthcare reform. You could work for the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) to help solve white-collar crime. You could even become a chief financial officer of a major company. 

The word “accountant” is one that generally conjures up yawn-worthy images of suited-up professionals sitting behind their desks, counting out bills. But as an accountant, your job will be so much more. When you get a master’s degree in accounting, you will become a problem solver, a communicator, a thinker, and a skilled, savvy professional with the characteristics necessary to work in any field.

As an accountant, you’ll be anything but conventional.

How do you become an accountant? There are multiple pathways you can choose from, and while earning a bachelor’s degree is the first step, a master’s is generally advised. In fact, in order to sit for the CPA (Certified Public Accountant) exam, you’ll be expected to have no less than a master’s degree. The two years of program coursework often suffices as the two years of experience required to sit for the examination. 

Rest assured that just as no two careers in accounting are alike, neither are two master’s degrees. You’ll have several options available. You could apply to a Master of Accountancy program or a Master of Science in accounting program, both of which tend to admit students who have earned undergraduate degrees in accounting or related fields. 

You could also apply to a Master of Business Administration in accounting or a Master of Professional Accounting. This is a good option if you do not have an undergraduate background in accounting or even anything related to business. In fact, these programs often admit students with humanities-based majors. 

Some universities offer both on-campus and online programs for master’s in accounting degrees. You may also be able to choose a hybrid program. Online programs offer convenience in that you will be able to take classes when it’s most convenient for you—a vital characteristic if you’re already working in the industry. 

You’ll need to be organized and motivated to complete an online master’s, but as long as your program is accredited (as a bulk of online degrees are), you’ll get the skills necessary to succeed. Another benefit of online degrees? They also tend to be more affordable. 

Why should you earn a master’s in accounting? The real answer should be—why not? Most employers prefer to hire accountants who have earned master’s degrees. Not only does graduate-level education give students the credit hours necessary to pursue licensure as CPAs, but it also gives them skills related to core areas of accounting, like forensic accounting, government accounting, tax accounting, public accounting, and more. 

The jobs in accounting span a variety of industries—explore all of your options by earning an affordable online master’s in accounting. You won’t regret it in the slightest. 

Common Application and Admission Questions

Finding the right affordable online master’s in accounting can be a challenge. If you’ve already settled on an online program—whether because it’s more convenient for your schedule, you need the affordability, or you just like the freedom of studying online—you’re in luck. You’ve already narrowed down your search quite a bit. 

However, there are several other considerations you need to make before filling out your college applications. It’s important to narrow down your choices before you apply to schools. While it might be tempting to apply to dozens of schools with abandon, the fees can add up—after all, most schools charge application fees. Although these are minimal, they can be quite costly if you apply to multiple programs.

To help you narrow down your search, consider a few personal traits that will give you more insight into the best program for you. For example, does the program meet the CPA curriculum requirements in your state? Is there an option to pursue concentrations that interest you—or that will better prepare you for the career of your dreams?

What about other factors—for example, career placement services and the strength of the university’s alumni network? Does the degree give you the option to maintain or pursue full-time or part-time work? Is financial aid available? Will the degree allow you to work independently, or as part of a cohort?

All of these considerations matter in helping you find the perfect program. 

In general, you’ll be expected to earn between 30 and 60 credit hours before graduating from your master’s degree in accounting. You may also need to complete an internship or work experience, which will give you the work hours necessary to pursue licensure or certification. You’ll take classes that cover broader topics of accounting but you’ll also get the opportunity to pursue electives in areas of interest. 

Keep in mind that, while many master’s in accounting admit students with no prior experience, you may be required to take more classes to make up for that deficit. Some programs will have prerequisites that you’ll need to satisfy before beginning your major coursework. 

Either way, look for a degree that is accredited. This will give you a good idea of the program’s quality. An accredited program is essential if you plan on transferring credits, receiving financial aid, or applying for licensure or certification. 

Application requirements vary depending on the institution. Usually, you will be expected to submit evidence of an undergraduate degree in a relevant area, like accounting, business, or finance (although some programs may accept students with backgrounds in other fields, too). You will likely need to sit for the GRE (Graduate Record Examinations), too. 

When you apply, you will be expected to submit evidence of both of these qualifications—usually through transcripts from any colleges you’ve attended and official test scores. Requirements vary by institution, but usually, colleges will look for high scores on the GRE and a GPA of at least 3.0. You may also be asked to submit letters of recommendation, a resume or curriculum vitae, evidence of work experience, and a personal essay, too. 

What About Financial Aid & Scholarships?

When you apply for your online master’s in accounting, you will likely be able to do so online. Make sure you research the specific deadlines associated with your college and the accounting program to make sure you have all of your application materials in on time. Usually, programs admit students twice per year, although this can vary.

Once your application has been safely filed away, you can start thinking about the financial aid process. Earning a degree, after all, is a significant financial investment—especially if you’ve already spent loads of money on your undergraduate degree. Rest assured, as long as you attend an accredited program, you will likely be able to apply for state and federal financial aid, regardless of whether you are studying full- or part-time. 

The costs associated with an accounting degree can vary. Don’t assume that private colleges are off-limits just because their “sticker prices” are a bit higher than public colleges. Often, private colleges are able to offer significant amounts of institutional financial aid to students, too, which can offset most of these additional expenses. 

Remember to factor in all associated costs of attendance, including books, learning resources, and technology (such as computers). Attending an online program is almost always more affordable than attending an on-campus program. This is because you won’t have to worry about additional fees for things like parking, transportation, room and board, and student activities. 

Federal student aid is the first place you should look when you are seeking financial aid. The federal government provides billions of dollars in grants, work-study funds, and loans each year. The first step in obtaining federal financial aid is to fill out the FAFSA – the Free Application for Federal Student Aid. 

In order to be eligible, you must be seeking admission to a degree-awarding program. You should have a high school diploma or GED and a clean criminal record. The application process opens on January 1 of each year. You will need to have your tax information from the prior year ready, including federal income tax returns and W-2s. In some cases, you might also need to submit bank statements and other ancillary documents. 

The FAFSA will determine your eligibility for any federal grants, loans, and work-study, as well as state programs, if they are available to graduate students where you live. However, your options aren’t exhausted after completing the FAFSA, either. Many universities offer scholarships and assistantship programs to help you bridge the financial gap. 

To help make you the most desirable candidate for these opportunities, dust off your resume, and make sure your grades are as high as they can be when you apply. Having high GRE test scores and a solid work experience record can also help to make you the most eligible person for these awards.

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

Earning a master’s degree in accounting will help you get ahead in the field. You’ll not only have broad analytical skills that will help you rise to higher-level positions in taxation, banking, insurance, or any other area of finance, but it will also make you eligible for certification as a public accountant, or CPA. 

The CPA exam is the best-known and most prestigious designation in accounting. It’s an intense exam, but it’s worth taking. Once you obtain this licensure, you’ll be much more marketable for higher-level jobs. 

Average salaries vary, but some of the best-paying jobs are in finance and insurance. Financial specialists earn the most, bringing in an average salary of $71,950 per year, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. Become an auditor or accountant, and you’ll make an average salary of $71,550 each year. Management is also another popular choice—you could earn upwards of $74,000 per year. The highest 10% of all earners made more than $124,450 in 2019. 

Wages vary depending on where you live, with the highest earners located in major metropolitan areas. As an accountant, you can expect to have steady work throughout the year, with some seasons (like tax time) a bit busier than others. 

Most students go on to work in accounting, bookkeeping, tax preparation, or payroll services upon graduation. Of the 1.4 million jobs in accounting as of 2018, nearly a quarter were held in these areas. However, you could also go on to work in government, management of various enterprises and companies, government, insurance, and finance. You could even be self-employed!

Your opportunities will be limitless once you earn an affordable online master’s in accounting. You could work in an office, but this job is flexible enough that you could also work from home. Many accountants work alone, but just as many work in teams with other auditors, accountants, and other professionals. 

Remember, while you can obtain a high-paying job as an accountant with just a bachelor’s degree, earning a graduate degree will open up countless doors for you. Not only will it make you qualified to sit for salary-boosting credentialing examinations, but it will also make you eligible for top-ranking leadership positions, too. 

One of the best parts about becoming an accountant is that these jobs are in high demand. Because the economy continues to grow and become more globalized at a nearly exponential rate, there is a strong demand for auditors and accountants of all kinds. As the economy improves, more workers will be needed to prepare financial records. 

The average anticipated growth for accountants, auditors, and financial specialists is expected to grow by 6% before 2028. This is higher than the national average. It’s yet another indicator that earning an affordable online masters in accounting might be the right—and smartest!—choice for you.

What Are the Best Online Master’s in Accounting 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. Liberty University

Master of Science in Accounting

As one of the largest evangelical Christian universities in the world, Liberty University offers some of the best, most affordable, and most forward-thinking online programs in the country. Enroll at Liberty University, and you’ll be expected to follow the university’s conservative Christian honor code—but you’ll benefit from a world-class education that is second to none.

The Master of Science in accounting at Liberty University consists of 30 credit hours. When studying full-time, most learners can learn their degrees in as little as one year. The program will help you combine your passion for data analysis with the technical skills necessary to come up with finely-attuned solutions that businesses are seeking. 

This program comes with seven different accounting tracks that can provide you with the skills you need for a marketable career. You will get the 150 hours of formal education necessary to sit for the CPA exam. Most importantly, you’ll learn how to apply your analytical skills in a creative way to open up the door to a rewarding career in accounting.

Specializations in this program include audit and financial reporting, financial services, forensic accounting, taxation, leadership, and business. If you’re undecided as to your desired career path, you can also pursue a  general track. You’ll take applicable classes in topics like managerial finance, international business, entrepreneurship, and strategic leadership and management, just to name a few.

The degree is accredited by ACBSP, the Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs, and is ranked as one of the best schools in the country. It will give you the credentials necessary for many managerial positions, too. Liberty University is ranked in the top percent of more than 2,100 online colleges and universities and ranked as the second-best online school in the country by Niche.com. 

With Liberty University’s master’s in accounting, you’ll pay just $565 per credit hour. Classes are offered 100% online with flexible courses lasting only eight weeks each. Since there are no set log-in times, you can study when it makes the most sense to you. If you’re already working, that’s a feature that will be vital for your success. 

Discounts are available for graduate students in the form of scholarships, loans, and other financial aid. Plus, as a military-friendly school (it’s ranked “Best for Vets” by Military Times) the school offers tuition discounts with rates starting at just $275 per credit hour for graduate courses. 

Another unique feature that helps to make Liberty’s online master’s in accounting more affordable? The school, in its commitment to affordable online academics, has frozen it’s tuition rates for all graduate, undergraduate, and doctoral programs for the last five years and counting. 

To apply to this program, you’ll need an accredited bachelor’s degree with a 3.0 or higher GPA. You will need to submit official college transcripts and an application fee of $50, too.

#2. Southern New Hampshire University

Master of Science in Accounting

If you’re looking for a degree that represents more than just a piece of paper, Southern New Hampshire University is the place to look. This school has been nationally recognized as paving the way toward more affordable and career-relevant education. 

This school has some deep roots in business and accounting. In fact, at its inception, Southern New Hampshire was simply a two-room business school in downtown Manchester, NH. It was originally referred to as the New Hampshire Accounting and Secretarial School and enrolled just 10 day students and 35 evening students in secretarial, bookkeeping, and accounting courses. 

Need proof? The school provides learners with access to a network of more than 200,000 students, staff, and alumni—all of whom work hard to support students both before, during, and after their time at Southern New Hampshire. Instructors are skilled practitioners with relevant real-world experiences. Guided by these alumni and instructors, you’ll be able to tap into a global network of career and internship opportunities.

Enrolling accounting students since 1932, the Master of Science in accounting program at Southern New Hampshire University is perfect for budding bankers, tax specialists, insurance professionals, or generalized accountants. The degree satisfied the educational requirements necessary to sit for the CPA certification examination in most states. 

It’s aligned to rigorous AICPA (CSOs/SSOs) standards. AICPA, or the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants, is one of the strictest governing bodies when it comes to accounting curricula—this designation proves the high quality of Southern New Hampshire’s program in accounting.

This program will teach you how to generate detailed and complex financial statements and to minimize the tax liability of both organizations and individuals. You’ll even learn how to assess audit plans and appraise the limitations and effectiveness of financial accounting practices. You can choose from four industry-relevant concentrations in this degree, too, including management accounting, taxation, forensic accounting, and auditing.

Regardless of these specializations you choose, you will take classes in key areas like accounting principles, professional auditing methods, and quantitative analysis. You’ll also demonstrate competence in core areas like cost management and corporate finance. 

With tuition rates starting at just $627 per credit hour, Southern New Hampshire University has an affordable “sticker price” that can be further lowered with some of the university’s extensive financial aid opportunities. 

Even better, you can transfer in up to 12 graduate credits, helping to make this degree even more affordable than its counterparts. The degree is highly flexible, allowing you to complete your courses on your own terms. You’ll be able to access course materials 24/7. 

With some of the lowest tuition rates in the country, Southern New Hampshire University is also ranked as one of the Most Innovative Regional Universities by the U.S. News & World Report. The school has also been recognized as a 2017 Digital Learning Innovator by the Online Learning Consortium and received a million-dollar grant from Google for exploring soft skills development for youth in high-needs areas. 

You can apply online. To do so, you will need to submit a personal statement and a transcript evincing a GPA of 2.75 or higher. You do not need to submit GMAT or GRE test scores, which can help remove some of the barriers that stand between you and a college education.

#3. Culver-Stockton College

Master of Business Administration with a Specialization in Accounting

Originally founded as Christian University in 1853, Culver-Stockton College has a storied history as the first university west of the Mississippi River chartered specifically for both men and women. It’s a small school, with enrollment rarely creeping over 1000 students—but don’t let that fool you into thinking this private Christian liberal arts college doesn’t have anything to offer.

The school offers bachelor’s and master’s degrees in dozens of areas of study. What sets this school apart is its unique curriculum that splits up the typical 15-week semester into separate 12- and 3- week terms to give learners more hands-on experience. 

The Master of Business Administration at Culver-Stockton College is a unique, highly varied program that provides distance learners with one of the best and most hands-on learning experiences. You’ll build mastery-level skills as you further your understanding of the field of business. 

Taught by experienced, dedicated faculty, the program offers learners the flexibility to continue their education without stopping their careers. It includes multiple specializations—including a combination with the MSN program from the College of Nursing as well as specializations in management, healthcare management, accounting, and accounting and finance. 

The degree helps students develop the analytical skills they need to excel in any career. You’ll be able to make solid business decisions, communicate recommendations and results, and evaluate both quantitative and qualitative data. The curriculum is one of the best at preparing students for leadership roles. 

If you haven’t yet completed an undergraduate degree, you might want to consider the 3+2 MBA program at Culver-Stockton. This program is designed to be completed in an accelerated format, allowing you to earn both a bachelor’s and a master’s degree in just five years. You can apply if you are in your junior year of an accounting program at Culver-Stockton and can choose from the same specializations (with the exception of the nursing specialization). 

While you are enrolled, you will benefit from a myriad of resources designed to help you succeed. Not only can you enroll in academic and career counseling, but you’ll get full access to all of Culver-Stockton’s many online library resources, including online bibliographic databases with full-text capabilities. 

Courses are available entirely online with zero obligation to meet on campus. You’ll enjoy convenient eight-week terms with a year-round start date along with career planning and placement services to help you land a job. Faculty also have significant access to corporate partnerships and alumni discounts to help students stay connected. 

Ranked the best school in Missouri for employment outcomes by Zippia, Inc. (and one of the Top 10 Best Value Institutes in the Midwest by U.S. News & World Report),  this school also offers some of the most affordable online master’s degrees. There’s no application fee to worry about and tuition starts at just $500 per credit hour. Financial aid is available, as are interest-free payment options.

#4. University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign

Master of Science in Accountancy 

With more than 16 schools and colleges and 100 graduate programs of study, it might seem like the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign is too big to truly care about the success of each and every one of its students.

That’s far from the case, though. This school, which is classified as an R1 Doctoral Research University under the Carnegie Classification of Institutions of Higher Education, not only has a high academic caliber but also pays attention to student needs. It’s ranked as one of the best in the country by U.S. News & World Report, in fact. 

If you’re ready to earn a fully accredited accounting degree—but on your own terms and schedule—it’s time you give the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign your consideration.

Not only will this program help you gain the competencies in business and accountancy that will set you apart from the competition, but you’ll also be able to learn from faculty who are experts in the accounting field. This CPA-ready curriculum is available 100% online and helps candidates develop strong foundations in accounting fundamentals and leading analytics methods.

Each course is delivered in two separate segments. First, you’ll complete a series of self-paced video lectures that provide you with the core material you need to know. Then, you will engage in practice-oriented live sessions alongside faculty and other fellow students to hone your skills. 

You will learn with a cohort of like-minded students as you move through your courses. Because of this, you’ll gain valuable career connections that will endure long after you sign off from your last course. Students are supported by a powerful alumni network, as the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign is one of the largest producers of leaders in the accountancy profession. 

Past graduates are current entrepreneurs, accounting firm partners, CFOs, and more. In fact, entry-level salaries average $60K per year! You have a good chance of finding a job, too. The program has a 98% career placement rate, which is leaps and bounds beyond the national average for college programs. 

This is likely due in part to the university’s 75% first-time CPA pass rate for accountancy master’s program graduates. Faculty help students succeed on this challenging exam by developing a curriculum that builds students’ expertise in financial reporting, US federal taxation, audit and control, and leading analytics methods—all of which are topics that are essential to acing the CPA examination. 

The degree is affordable, too, so you don’t have to take out a second mortgage just to be able to afford higher education. Tuition and fees for the entire program start at just $20,6000, which is a fraction of the cost of comparable degrees. You can earn a degree in as little as 18 months or take as long as 36 months to complete your studies. 

To apply, you will need to submit transcripts from any college you have attended along with an official online application. You should also supply a professional resume, personal statement, and three letters of recommendation. GMAT or GRE score reports are also required of all master’s program applicants.

#5. University of South Dakota

Online Master of Professional Accountancy

Located in Vermillion, SD, the University of South Dakota is home to the state’s only law and medical schools. It’s also home to the National Music Museum, which houses more than 15,000 instruments from all around the world.

But you don’t have to be a budding performing artist or lawyer in order to benefit from everything this large institution has to offer. The school is divided into seven colleges, offering a total of 205 undergraduate and 75 graduate programs among them. 

The Master of Professional Accountancy at the University of South Dakota is housed within the Beacom School of Business. This school has continuously been accredited by the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business and was established in 1927. In fact, it’s one of just 5% of the top business schools in the country that have earned this prestigious accreditation.

As a result, you can rest assured that the master of professional accountancy at the University of South Dakota is one of the best. It provides learners with specialized training in accounting and related fields, helping all candidates meet the 150 hour requirement to sit for the Certified Public Accountant examination. 

This degree includes a curriculum that is rich in core topics like finance, graduate accounting, and related subjects. When you graduate, you’ll have an enhanced understanding of how to produce and use accounting information, as well as how to assist organizations in developing professional competencies. 

The degree comes with an optional specialization in accounting analytics. Not only does this specialization meet the growing market demand for skilled accountants, but it also goes beyond advanced accounting coursework to include accounting principles and theories that are more data-centric. Requiring 30 credit hours of study, this program can be completed 100% online in as little as two years. 

In this program as well as all the other distance programs offered by the University of South Dakota, learners will have access to extensive disability and library services, computing resources, writing centers, veterans resources, and more. You won’t pay out the nose for an education here, either—in fact, tuition starts at just $465 per credit hour. 

To apply, you will need to complete an online application and submit a fee of $35. You will also need to supply official transcripts, a resume, and a statement of purpose.

The University of South Dakota is well-worth your consideration. Not only is it ranked as one of the top schools in the U.S. News & World Report, Washington Monthly, and Forbes, but it’s also highly-ranked by the Wall Street Journal, too. You can graduate with your masters in accounting quickly—and without having to sacrifice any of your other commitments. 

#6. Texas A&M University Commerce

Master of Science in Accounting 

Originally established as a private teachers’ college in Commerce, TX, Texas A&M University-Commerce is now one of the top public research universities in the country. It’s the third-largest school in the Texas A&M University System and is just 65 miles from downtown Dallas.

Ready to take your skills in business and accounting to the next level? If so, you’ve got to consider the Master of Science in accounting at Texas A&M University Commerce. This program is accredited by AACSB (one of only 800 schools with this accreditation in the entire world) and prepares graduates for rewarding careers in government, corporate settings, or public accounting. 

This program encompasses more than just Pro Forma and tax forms. Instead, you’ll learn vital skills that will help you assist organizations as they discover and implement trends to improve their profitability. Offered both in a face-to-face format in University Commerce and downtown Dallas as well as totally online, the program consists of 36 credit hours. 

This program’s curriculum is rooted in reality and is incredibly practical and hands-on. It prepares learners with these skills they need for the rigorous demands of the global business world, and also gives you the skills necessary for a variety of certification examinations.

You’ll be able to learn more about federal income tax for corporations and individuals and gain an in-depth understanding of cost management. You will also be able to uncover information systems that can make your work as an accountant more efficient and more effective. The program can be accompanied by various minors, including financial planning, marketing, and entrepreneurship.

Foundational courses include Auditing, Research and Communications, government and Not-For-Profit, and Financial Statement Analysis. Once you move past the foundational courses, you can take more advanced classes, such as Fraud Examination and Sales, Franchise, and Other Taxes.

All courses are designed to be flexible, helping to meet the needs of busy working professionals who desire the convenience of a fully online degree. You will also be able to join a number of campus activities and organizations, like the National Association for Black Accountants and Beta Alpha Psi. 

There are very few prerequisites for this program—not only do you not need any foreign language credits to be admitted (a common requirement for graduate programs across the country) but you also won’t have to complete a thesis before you graduate, either. Most students can finish their programs in just two years of study.

You’ll have access to a variety of career resources when you enroll in this program, too. Not only will you be able to access the in-house Career Services Center, where you can receive guidance on internships and employment, but you’ll also have access to writing and other academic services as well.

Ready to apply? You will just need official transcripts from any regionally accredited universities you have attended, along with GMAT or GRE test scores and a letter of recommendation. You’ll be expected to have an overall GPA of at least 3.0 in order to qualify for admission.

#7. Saint Leo University

Master of Accounting 

Saint Leo University is associated with the Holy Name Monastery and Saint Leo Abbey. As a private Roman Catholic liberal arts university, the school has a reputation as the first Roman Catholic college in Florida and enrolls students at its traditional campus in Saint Leo, FL as well as more than 40 centers around the state. 

If you want to benefit from the high caliber of education offered at this university, though, you don’t have to commit to studying on campus. Saint Leo was one of the first schools in the country to offer distance learning opportunities to students. This endeavor started with a mission to educate military men and women in 1973, during the Vietnam war. Today, the school has more than 40 different programs available entirely online.

The school remains a leading provider of education to active duty military members and their families. It is home to more than 219 full-time faculty and more than a thousand adjunct faculty members. You’ll enjoy a small student-to-faculty ratio and a close, caring learning environment when you choose to study at this dynamic private university. 

The Master of Accounting at Saint Leo University is flexible and convenient, offering the perfect pathway for success for aspiring accountants. The program includes core classes like Auditing, Cost Accounting, Financial Statement Analysis, and Accounting Information Systems. 

Not only that, but this program can help you pass both the CPA and CMA (Certified Management Accounting) examinations, too. Graduates also have good pass rates on the Certified Fraud Examiner test. You’ll get the 150 hours you need for licensure in most states and be able to master difficult concepts that are vital for a successful career, such as cost accounting, financial statement analysis, auditing, and forecasting. 

This rewarding program will also provide you with the skills you need to resolve major financial reporting issues of multinational and American business entities. You’ll be able to apply your knowledge of tax laws and to evaluate professional standards as they relate to complex accounting issues. The curriculum is also heavy in ethics-related concepts, too. Thirty credit hours are required. 

Tuition for this program is offered at an affordable rate. In fact, this is one of the biggest reasons why the school has been consistently ranked as one of the Best Regional Universities for the South by U.S. News & World Report. The school has tuition that is significantly lower than the average private college tuition.

Rates start at just $720 per credit hour. Plus, most students are eligible for some form of financial aid—much of which does not have to be paid back and comes in the form of grants and work-study opportunities. If you’re a past or present military member, you’ll pay even less. 

To apply for admission, you will need to submit transcripts for any colleges you’ve attended. You may also need to submit letters of recommendation and a personal statement. Transfer credits are accepted in many cases, too.

#8. DePaul University

Master of Science in Accountancy

A private, Roman Catholic university in Chicago, IL, DePaul University was founded in 1898 by the Vincentians. The school is unique in that it places a special emphasis on enrolling first-generation college students as well as those from disadvantaged backgrounds. 

With campuses all around Chicago (five total in the city), the school focuses on obtaining hands-on education. The university has multiple industry partnerships and has schools that cater specifically to adult learners, too. Plus, DePaul has more than 300 student organizations to check out—many of which are also available to online learners.

The Master of Science in accountancy at DePaul University is offered by the Kellstadt Graduate School of Business and Driehaus College of Business. These two schools are home to top-tier faculty members who have extensive expertise and academic rigor, bringing these extensive benefits to students from the heart of Chicago’s financial district. The Driehaus College of Business was one of the first business schools in the United States and is highly ranked by the TFE Times. 

In this program, faculty have extensive industry experience. Many have won prestigious awards from various “Big Four” firms, in fact. In this program, you’ll get free access to online CPA exam prep courses. Most graduates are able to pass the examination as first-time test takers. The curriculum of the program aligns with the rigorous standards set forth by the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business-International, too. 

Class sizes are small, so you don’t have to worry about being just one in a large crowd. In fact, the student-to-faculty ratio is just 15:1. Many classes have fewer than 20 students. As a result, student satisfaction with the university is very high—the average freshman retention rate is 85%. This is often used as an indicator of student success and happiness.

The program was designed with input from the top leaders in the industry. Therefore, graduates leave with the hands-on skills they need for industry success. It’s a perfect degree for students from a range of professional backgrounds, including those who are experienced accounting professionals as well as those who are new to the field and want to advance in their careers. 

You’ll take 12 courses in accountancy that cover both foundational principles and accounting theory. Classes cover topics including the costs, principles, and ethics of accounting, along with auditing and reporting. 

Due to this program’s hands-on nature, graduates are highly successful upon graduation. Ninety-five percent of alumni are employed full-time in roles that fully relate to their degrees. The school is ranked as a top college for veterans as well as one of the best National Universities by the U.S. News & World Report. 

An affordable university, DePaul University awards nearly 70% of all students some form of financial aid. Much of this doesn’t need to be paid back and some is based on financial need, too. All online learners have access to the same resources as on-campus learners, too, including placement services and career advising, nonremedial tutoring, and more.

#9. Maryville University of Saint Louis

Master’s in Accounting

A private university in Town and Country, MS, Maryville University was founded in 1872. Although the university began as the Maryville Academy of the Sacred Heart, designed to serve young women and underprivileged youth, the school has today expanded its reach to include programs for online learning. 

However, it still maintains its commitment to reaching students in underserved areas and populations. The university offers more than 90 degree programs at the undergraduate, graduate, and doctoral level. It is divided into six different colleges and schools, including the John E. Simon School of Business. 

This school offers programs in marketing, accounting, business administration, and more. There is even an accelerated online MBA program for distance learners! Plus, the School of Adult and Online Education offers adult education opportunities for distance learners, too.

Getting a master’s degree is more about just staying up to date with industry developments. It’s about developing practical skills in accounting and business strategies along with financial savvy that you need to get ahead. 

With this program, you’ll gain the skills you need without ever having to visit campus. There are no campus visits required and the programs are available 100% online. You can complete your studies in as little as ten months. You don’t have to have a background in accounting to apply, either. There is a separate “bridge program” component that is designed specifically for learners who do not have a background in this field.

The degree requires no GMAT or GRE for admission, a common barrier for applicants. It contains the right curriculum to help prepare students for the certified public accountant exam with Becker CPA exam preparation courses. You’ll be able to prepare for the test by learning from subject matter experts. 

The curriculum is industry-relevant and includes core classes like Tax Planning and Decision Making, Data Analytics, and Survey of Business. It consists of 60 credit hours of study (just 30 for students who have an undergraduate background in accounting). 

The degree is perfect for both non-accounting and accounting professionals alike. You’ll get the advanced skills you need to succeed and can combine your ambition with new and advanced opportunities. You will take classes that will cover topics like business law, financial reporting, statistics, auditing, and more. You can save up to $600 by completing the Becker CPA preparation for-credit courses, too. 

Tuition is affordable, with rates starting at just $765 per credit hour.  Not only has the university issued an undergraduate tuition freeze for the 2020-2021 academic year, preventing costs from going up unnecessarily, but it also offers a number of financial aid opportunities for incoming and current students. These include federal grants, loans, student employment opportunities, and employer assistance programs. 

Maryville University is ranked as one of the top National Universities by the U.S. News & World Report. 

#10. New England College

Master of Science in Accounting

Residing in the small village of Henniker, NH, New England College was founded in 1946 and offers more than 30 bachelor’s degrees and 13 master’s degrees. Thes school may be relatively young, but it’s known for its commitment to providing exceptional experiential learning programs. The degrees are designed to produce graduates who have advanced expertise in their specialties as well as global competencies like civic responsibility as well.

With multiple delivery models available, the school is a leader in flexible graduate programs. The online programs at New England College help students open new doors that can lead to personal and professional enrichment. 

What is your professional goal? Do you want to make your mark on an established company—or start one of your own? Do you want to work for a nonprofit company or the government? No matter what you choose, New England College has the program just for you. With more than 30 business programs to choose from and several accounting-related specializations, this school is one of the best for students seeking a flexible education.

Offered exclusively online, the Master of Science in accounting at New England College offers learners everything they need to make their professional goals come true. You’ll enjoy six separate start dates per year for maximum convenience, too. It’s one of more than 100 different master’s degrees offered online by the university.

At New England College, you’ll learn by doing. You won’t just be sitting in front of your computer all the time but instead, you’ll be able to explore the field of accounting up close and personal by engaging in fieldwork, internships, and activities with expert professionals in your chosen field.

This program is 100% online and fully-accredited. It’s also highly affordable. One of the best for busy professionals, it prepares you for the CPA examination by meeting the 150 credit hours required to sit for the test.

It consists of 40 credit hours and builds your knowledge in financial reporting, auditing, taxation, cost accounting, and more. You’ll learn all kinds of soft skills necessary for a lucrative career, too, including strategic thinking, leadership, and problem-solving. You will build your competencies in major accounting practices and principles in areas like risk management, analysis, taxation, and financial reporting, too.

The degree not only prepares you for the CPA examination but also for formal certification as a fraud examiner, internal auditor, and management accountant.

You will benefit from rolling admissions that lets you enter every seven weeks throughout the year, so you won’t have to wait very long in order to start your journey toward a successful career. The program has no residency requirements and instead allows you to access your classes and coursework 24/7. The program is accredited by the New England Association of Schools and Colleges and doesn’t require GRE or GMAT test scores for admission, either. 

OTHER NOTABLE PROGRAMS 

#11. Edgewood College

Location: Madison, WI

Degree:   Master’s in Accountancy

Net Price:  $26,398

Website

#12. California Baptist University

Location: Riverside, CA

Degree:   Master of Accounting

Net Price:  $24,170

Website

#13. Clarion University of Pennsylvania

Location: Clarion, PA

Degree:   Master of Science in Accounting

Net Price:  $19,297

Website

#14. University of Alabama at Birmingham

Location: Birmingham, AL

Degree:   Master of Accounting (MAcc)

Net Price:  $16,636

Website

#15. George Mason University

Location: Fairfax, VA

Degree:   MS in Accounting

Net Price:  $19,064

Website

#16. Boise State University

Location: Boise, ID

Degree:   Master’s Degree Program in Accountancy

Net Price:  $12,558

Website

#17. Regis University

Location: Denver, CO

Degree:   Master’s in Accounting

Net Price:  $26,273

Website

#18. Post University

Location: Waterbury, CT

Degree:   Master of Science in Accounting

Net Price:  $9,395

Website

#19. Brenau University

Location: Gainesville, GA

Degree:   MBA in Accounting

Net Price:  $22,011

Website

#20. Saint Joseph’s College

Location: Standish, ME

Degree:   Master of Accountancy

Net Price:  $27,221

Website

#21. Western New England University

Location: Springfield, MA

Degree:   Master’s in Accounting

Net Price:  $30,319

Website

#22. University of Massachusetts-Amherst

Location: Amherst, MA

Degree:   Master of Science in Accounting

Net Price:  $21,740

Website

#23. Bay Path University

Location: Longmeadow, MA

Degree: Master in Accounting  

Net Price:  $21,100

Website

#24. University of Connecticut

Location: Mansfield, CT

Degree:   Master of Science in Accounting

Net Price:  $19,650

Website

#25. SUNY Polytechnic Institute

Location: Utica, NY

Degree:   Master of Science in Accountancy

Net Price:  $12,784

Website

#26. Emporia State University

Location: Emporia, KS

Degree:   Master of Accountancy

Net Price:  $13,670

Website

#27. Auburn University

Location: Auburn, AL

Degree:   Master of Accountancy

Net Price:  $23,205

Website

#28. Florida Atlantic University

Location: Boca Raton, FL

Degree:   Executive Master of Accounting

Net Price:  $9,486

Website

#29. Western Governors University

Location: Salt Lake City, UT

Degree:   Master of Science in Accounting

Net Price:  $16,720

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#30. Shorter University

Location: Rome, GA

Degree:   Master of Accountancy

Net Price:  $19,395

Website

#31. University of Southern Indiana

Location: Evansville, IN

Degree: Master of Professional Accountancy  

Net Price:  $12,587

Website

#32. Concordia University-Wisconsin

Location: Mequon, WI

Degree:  MBA in Accounting

Net Price:  $24,803

Website

#33. Baker College – Flint

Location: Flint, MI

Degree:   MBA in Accounting

Net Price:  $20,850

Website

#34. Champlain College

Location: Burlington, VT

Degree:   Master in Accounting

Net Price:  $38,577

Website

#35. California State University-San Bernardino

Location: San Bernardino, CA

Degree:   Master of Science in Accountancy

Net Price:  $8,586

Website

IF YOU ENJOYED THAT THEN CHECK OUT OUR ARTICLES ON THE TOP 10 REASONS TO EARN YOUR MASTER’S DEGREE & 40 FASTEST ONLINE MASTER’S DEGREE PROGRAMS!

Are you interested in learning how you can solve problems that exist at the intersection of technology and business? If so, you may want to consider a degree in management information systems. 

This unique field explores the many technology-based processes. These can be used to help organizations and businesses operate. This is both to be more efficient and to serve customers and staff in a more effective way.

You’ll build skills in problem-solving, analysis, critical thinking, and time management. These are skills that can serve you well. And no matter what kind of career you decide to pursue! 

MIS if often confused with related fields like computer science and information assurance. But it is, in fact, its own unique discipline. It is sometimes offered as a subset of master’s in business administration (MBA) degrees. It focuses on the connections between businesses, people, and information.

Is management and business information systems the right career path for you? 

If you enjoy technology and have an interest in business, it probably is. A career in this field will allow you to develop ways to make people and businesses’ lives better. You’ll also find ways to improve the bottom line. Are you a natural problem solver who enjoys exploring novel solutions to common problems? Then this is the perfect degree for you.

A degree in management information systems will allow you to explore a wide variety of career paths. You could work in all kinds of industries. From real estate to finance, information technology to accounting, marketing, and more.

Some of the most common jobs for graduates include:

• application developer
• social media consultant
• business analyst and business analytics
• computer systems analyst
• web developer
• information technology expert
• computer and information systems manager. 

Of course, you may be able to pursue a full MBA or an advanced degree in your specialized area too. Examples include cybersecurity and business analytics. Many degrees offer the option to pursue additional industry-relevant certificates. These are often in things like business intelligence and enterprise security. 

The bad news?

Masters MIS degrees, especially MBA degrees, are expensive. You should already know that if you’re considering a business degree. Or a master’s in management information systems.

There are ways to make earning a graduate degree not only possible, but practical. That’s from both a financial and logistical standpoint.

If you’re reading this article, you’re on the right track toward a more affordable degree. We’ll tell you all about the most affordable programs out there. We’ll also tell you about the many ways you can make earning a master’s more budget-friendly. Examples? Scholarships, grants, and other forms of financial aid. 

Of course, we’ll also tell you about the best MIS programs in USA.

And let’s not forget this tidbit. Careers in management information systems have higher than average starting salaries and job growth over the next ten years. That’s according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. You’ll enjoy a better return on investment. You can pay off the cost of your education faster. And you’ll be able to enjoy a rewarding, satisfying career at the same time.

See Also: 10 Best MBA in Entrepreneurship

Common Application and Admission Questions

As a student in a management information systems program, you’ll take classes that give you in-depth insight. This is insight into the many ways in which information can be stored, used, analyzed, and shared. You might take classes in things like:

• Data analytics
• The social, legal, and ethical issues surrounding technology
• Enterprise IT architecture
• Business intelligence
• Information systems management
• Computer science
• Information technology and information technology management
• Human computer interaction
• Technology management
• Cloud computing
• Information system management (or management of information systems)
• Enterprise systems
• Advanced systems analysis
• Digital innovation
• Computer and information systems
• Information studies
• Advanced database management
• Data analytics and data analysis
• Cyber security
• Advanced database processing
• Design and implementation of data management systems
• Information architecture
• System design
• Big data management
• Software development

Because this degree is also a business discipline offered at major business schools, you’ll likely take classes in business-related fields like:

• Accounting
• Business administration
• Business information systems
• Solving key business challenges
• Business analytics and information (or just business information analysis)
• Statistics
• Information management
• Enterprise systems
• Decision making
• Statistical models
• Business operations management
• Marketing and organizational context
• Business processes
• Enterprise resource planning
• Business communications

You may even be able to pursue electives in topics like:

• Social media analytics
• Healthcare information systems
• Software development
• Mathematical sciences
• Supply chains and logistics

This will allow you to further customize your degree. You can pursue the career of your dreams. 

You’ll be expected to have some background knowledge in business and technology before you apply. You might need to take prerequisite classes in other program areas before you apply.

These include:

• computer science (computer science is a key component of most management information system programs, hence this requirement)
• calculus
• statistics
• engineering 
• business administration
• technology management
• management skills
• information technology and data analytics
• business intelligence
• information systems management

An undergraduate degree in a related field isn’t always necessary. Other application requirements include: 

• GRE scores or GMAT scores (though there are some programs with no GRE required)
• A baccalaureate degree in a related field or comparable educational experience
• Letters of recommendation
• Statement of purpose
• Two years work experience full time may be required (this also varies)

Most MIS programs take two academic years of work with around 15 credits per year.

Looking for a degree that is affordable? Don’t be afraid to explore both private and public school options. An online degree may be the most affordable and flexible. 

Choose just three or four programs that you think would be a good fit and focus your efforts on those applications only.

See Also: Best Affordable Master’s Degree Programs

What About Financial Aid & Scholarships?

Earning a master’s degree is one of the best ways to improve your potential to earn more money. According to data from 2018 published by the United States Department of Labor, American workers with bachelor’s degrees earned an average weekly salary of $1,198. Those with master’s degrees earned $1,434. Earning a master’s degree is a smart financial decision.

It might not seem that way, though, when you’re faced with a hefty bill for tuition and fees. The average cost of a master’s degree is around $30,000 to $40,000. That’s for a public school. Some of the most high-end, prestigious schools cost far more than that. They cost more than $100,000 for a two-year degree.

The figures show that earning a master’s degree is worth it. But is it worth taking on all that debt? The good news is that there are ways to have your cake and eat it, too. You don’t have to take on ridiculous amounts of student loan debt in order to earn a master’s degree.

Start by looking at a school’s tuition and fees. Keep in mind that these figures are far from concrete. That’s especially true for private schools. These often publish far higher tuition rates than what most students pay. Your net price at a private school might be the same as what you would pay at a public school with much lower tuition. This is due to financial aid such as grants, scholarships, and work-study.

Your next step will be to fill out the FAFSA, or the Free Application for Federal Student Aid. Completing the FAFSA often has excellent outcomes for most graduate students.

The state and federal government, along with the financial aid office at the school you attend, will use the information from your FAFSA to determine how much financial aid they can award you. There are several select grants available for master’s students. These can be tough to come by. Most national universities will also consider your eligibility for federal student loans and work study with the information aggregated from the FAFSA. Make sure you take the time to fill it out.

See Also: Best Online Cybersecurity Master’s Degree

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

Earn a degree in management information systems. You’ll have countless career opportunities to choose from. Because of this, your salary will also vary.

Some of the most common position spur used by professionals with these degrees are those as:

• computer systems analysts and administrators
• search engine optimization specialists
• systems analyst
• information studies professor
• management analysts
• information security analysts
• digital innovation specialist
• operations management
• information system business analyst
• database administrator
• information management or information technology management (information systems managers)
• information security manager
• business systems analyst
• software development professional
• database administrators
• data scientists

Let’s take a closer look at the career opportunities the best colleges for MIS offer. As a computer systems analyst, you will study the existing computer systems of an organization and work. Your goal will be to find a solution that is more efficient and cost-effective.

The average professional in this field, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, brings in more than $90,920 per year. You’ll have good odds of finding a job, too. There is an expected growth of 7% by 2029.

As a network or computer system administrator, you’ll be responsible for the day-to-day operation and troubleshooting of computer networks. These jobs are necessary for a wide variety of industries. You shouldn’t have any trouble finding a job. In fact, the Bureau of Labor Statistics anticipates a growth of 4% by 2029. The average salary isn’t too shabby, either. You could earn a wage of up to $83,510 per year!

Another career opportunity is as a database administrator. As a database administrator, you will use specialized software to organize, store, and utilize data. Database administrators often work for large firms that offer computer design service. 

You could earn around $93,750. That’s according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. You’ll enjoy a growth rate of 10%. You’ll have no trouble finding a job in this field either. More organizations look to improve the ways they organize data. The goal is to present it to users and other stakeholders in an accessible way. 

A final career opportunity to consider is as a data scientist. A data scientist is also referred to as a computer and information research scientist. You will create and design new approaches to various forms of computing technology. You’ll also seek out new uses for existing technology. 

Again, a bachelor’s degree is the minimum requirement. If you want to work in a leadership role or receive better-paying opportunities, a master’s degree will be essential. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, professionals who pursue this line of work could receive salaries of around $122,840 per year. 

Don’t assume that you’re limited to just the national universities that are on this list of the best graduate programs for information systems management, either. Other top universities for MIS in USA include:

• Georgia State University
• Arizona State University
• Carnegie Mellon University
• New York University
• Georgia Institute of Technology
• University of Maryland College Park
• Massachusetts Institute of Technology
• University of Arizona
• Penn State Wharton School of Business
• University of California Berkeley
• University of Texas
• Georgia Tech
• Drexel University
• University of Washington
• University of Pennsylvania
• University of California
• University of Illinois at Urbana Champaign
• Purdue University
• University of Minnesota Twin Cities

What Are the Best Master’s in Management Information Systems Degrees?

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

#1. Colorado State University

Master of Computer Information Systems

The first best MIS program on our list? Colorado State University.

Colorado State University is a large public land-grant university in Fort Collins, CO. It is the flagship university of the Colorado State University system. This school is known for its high level of research activity. It spent more than $375 million on research and development in 2018 alone!).

This university offers 150 programs of study. These are across 55 departments and eight colleges

The school has a small student-to-faculty ratio of just 17:1. 

The Master of Science at Colorado State is one of the best online graduate IT programs among public national universities. This ranking is by  U.S. News & World Report. It’s available on-campus, too. Both options have 33 credit hours of study. It is great for computer experts as well as those who are new to the field.

It has a 99% job placement rate. Graduates work in fields like cybersecurity, blockchain, data privacy, and research. This school of business has an excellent return on investment. The average graduate brings in a salary of six figures! 

You’ll take core courses that are common at business schools like this, such as:

• Information Technology Management of Projects
• Business Database Systems
• Business Analytics and Information
• Advanced Systems Analysis
• Enterprise Computing and Systems Integration
• Computer Science and Business Administration
• Navigating Digital Platforms
• Database Systems
• Information Management
• Information Architecture
• Technology and Business
• Business Information and Technology
• Information Technology Management
• Agile Management and Product Development
• Advanced IT Project Management. 

You will have complete 15 core and 18 elective credit hours. You can participate in self-paced courses and related class assignments to grow your technical skills. You’ll also build key information system and business knowledge. As a student in the on campus program, you can choose to travel to campus as often as five days a week or as few as two days a week. The program prepares students for a wide variety of careers in information technology and business processes.

The degree will train you in best practices in programs like SAP, Java, and Linux. You’ll also develop strong communication skills. You will receive foundational training in business, programming, and IT management. The IT faculty  are the best in their field with vital domain knowledge. The curriculum is accredited by the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business. 

The degree is offered by the College of Business in collaboration with other colleges at the national university. It often adds new courses and pathways for students to pursue. The College has a cybersecurity center that will provide hands-on education for students centered around data encryption and cybersecurity issues. There is also an in-depth cybersecurity data analysis course. 

 Unlike many other popular graduate programs in management information systems, this degree at Colorado State does not require a background in technology. More than 50% of admitted students here have limited technology backgrounds. You just need an undergraduate degree in any field with a GPA of 3.0 or higher. You’ll also need GMAT or GRE scores, a personal essay, a resume, and letters of recommendation. 

#2. University of Maryland University College

MS in Information Systems

You’ll find another best MIS at one of the multiple schools in the University of Maryland System. The University of Maryland University College is a public university located in Adelphia, MD. It focuses on online education. There are courses in Adelphi as well as many other satellite campuses. These are around the Baltimore-Washington Metropolitan area. 

The University of Maryland serves more than 90,000 students around the world. It is one of the largest distance-learning institutions. It is also known for its affordable tuition and fees. It is one of the country’s top 10 recipients of federal G.I. Bill benefits. It’s not just a great option for military members, though. This school has an excellent value and return on investment for students of all kinds. It has more than 120 majors.

This one of the best MIS universities in USA is accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education. The University of Maryland University College offers one of the country’s best and most affordable Master of Science in information systems degrees. This top MIS program is cutting-edge program. The management information systems MIS will give you the skills you need to help companies make informed decisions.

You’ll learn top data management strategies at this school of business. You’ll work with the most modern and effective analytics tools. You will be able to complete simulation exercises and participate in case competitions that will be similar to the issues you’ll face in real life. As you move through your core courses, you’ll also be able to build relationships with talented students and expert faculty.. 

This management information system degree is a STEM-eligible program. The business administration program can be completed in as little as just two or three semesters of coursework. It consists of 30 credit hours. It is even available as a combined bachelor’s and master’s degree. This is helpful if you want to earn two degrees at once.

You’ll have access to advanced courses in topics like:

• Data Mining and Predictive Analytics
• Strategic and Transformational IT
• Human Computer Interaction
• Data Science
• Information Management
• Project Management.

The degree is ranked within the top ten in the country by U.S. News & World Report. 

You’ll need to submit an online application and a $75 application fee. Write an essay stating your interests in the program. Be sure to submit a current professional resume and a letter of recommendation. You will also need official transcripts and GMAT or GRE test scores. 

This school has low tuition and fees. There are plenty of financial aid opportunities (including grants and loans) available.

#3. Florida State University

Master of Science in Management Information Systems (MS-MIS)

Another best MIS program can be found at Florida State University. It is a public research university. Florida State University is in Tallahassee, FL. There are 16 different colleges and over 110 centers, institutes, labs, and facilities. You will gain extensive hands-on experience. The school offers more than 360 areas of study. It is ranked as one of the best public universities in the nation by the U.S. News & World Report.

The Master of Science in management information systems here is one of the best in the country. In fact, U.S. News & World Report has recognized it as one of the Best Online Graduate Programs for 2021. It combines the fields of management and technology. You will improve your analytical, technical, and managerial skills. You will learn from world class faculty who are industry experts. 

The degree at this school of business consists of 11 core courses. These cover topics like:

• project management
• knowledge management and business intelligence
• technology management
• electronic business
• legal, social, and organizational issues related to information systems

Most students can complete their degrees in less than two years, taking just two classes online each semester. 

This master’s degree can also be completed with a bachelor’s degree. You can earn two degrees at once. Apply for the combined information management degree pathway. 

You’ll take core classes such as:

• Systems Analysis and Design
• Information Management
• Corporate Information Security
• Data Science
• Project Management
• Management of Information Technology. 

You can customize your degree by taking electives such as the Global Business Seminar. This seminar consists of an international study abroad trip to an overseas destination. You will explore the best business practices of multinational firms in a destination city. You can study abroad multiple times if you choose!

This degree features tuition and fees that start at just $750 per credit hour. This is regardless of whether you live in state or out of state. Financial aid is available.

Admissions to this degree is competitive. It is based on a portfolio of your accomplishments. The admissions team will look at your past academic performance, your work experience, GRE or GMAT scores, and letters of recommendation. Two years of work experience is required. You should have some background in specialized technologies like analytical systems and ERP systems too.

#4. Georgia College & State University

MS in Information Systems

Another one of the best MIS schools can be found at Georgia College & State University. This is a  public liberal arts university in Milledgeville, GA. It is not to be confused with Georgia State University. Georgia College & State University has a reputation for the best academic programs. The school is ranked as Georgia’s Public Liberal Arts University by the Georgia Board of Regents.

Again, this school is not to be confused with Georgia State University. It’s just as awesome though! As a student here, you can pursue a variety of majors and graduate programs through the four colleges at the school:

• the J. Whitney Bunting College of Business
• the College of Arts and Sciences
• the College of Health Sciences
• the John H. Lounsbury College of Education.

The Master of Science in information systems is in the J. Whitney Bunting College of Business. This business school is one of the best in the country. 

The graduate program at this school of business is an online hybrid degree. It is offered in an asynchronous fashion.  The unique format of these courses means that you will be able to enjoy all the benefits of online learning. Yet you can still interact with your classmates and professors. 

You’ll take core courses in information systems such as:

• Information Analysis/Process Innovation
• IT Infrastructure
• Information Management
• Database Management
• Emerging Trends in Management Information Systems.

A total of 30 credit hours of study is required. 

This program requires no background in technology to apply. Your courses will provide you with the contextual framework and training you need. 

You’ll pay just $294 per credit hour as an in-state student. You’ll also have access to generous financial aid, such as graduate assistantships. 

#5. Kennesaw State University

Master of Science in Information Systems

Another one of the best MIS program options is at Kennesaw State University. It is a public research university in Georgia. Kennesaw State University has two campuses in Marietta and of course, in Kennesaw.

It opened in 1963 as a federal space-grant institution. It was meant to boost local development and economic expansion following World War II. This one of the best MIS schools has more than 41,000 students. Kennesaw State is the second-largest university in the state of Georgia.

You’ll find all kinds of academic programs here. The list includes those in:

• business
• engineering
• education
• nursing
• information technology

The school is divided into 13 colleges. There are 52 bachelor’s degrees and 21 master’s degrees. It is ranked a top national university by U.S. News & World Report. 

The Master of Science in information systems at Kennesaw State is a professional graduate degree. It includes training in core areas like:

• data mining for business intelligence
• IT ethics
• data-driven business decision making
• project portfolio management
• policy and strategy
• the end to end security of information systems.

It is a business and technology-focused degree. It will provide you with training in the many practical applications of both industries. An example? Data-driven CRM solutions. 

You’ll take 33 credit hours of coursework. There are ten core courses required in addition to a handful of electives. You will also be required to complete three credit hours of capstone courses. You can carve out a niche of professional interest and special topics. You can even choose to add on a certificate in information security and assurance to customize your degree!

For the stand-alone master’s at this school of business, you will take core classes such as:

• Informatics
• Database Application Design and Implementation
• Legal and Ethical Issues in Information Systems
• Global IS management
• Data Science
• Advanced IT Project Management.

You can choose nine credit hours of concentration courses, too. There are options for concentrations including:

• emerging technologies and skills
• information systems
• information security and assurance.

You’ll also be required to choose a capstone experience. This capstone experience doesn’t have to just take the form of a traditional thesis paper. You might choose to complete a:

• cooperative education placement
• an internship
• a research course in information systems policy and strategy
• a special project in information systems

This affordable degree costs just $18,000. There are financial aid opportunities such as scholarships and graduate research assistantships. 

Submit official transcripts from your undergraduate coursework. Submit a one to two-page statement of interest, your GMAT score report, and a resume. You can be exempted from the GMAT requirement if you have five years of professional, full-time work experience. Or three years with the addition of a 3.25 cumulative undergraduate GPA!

#6. Minot State University

Master of Science in Information Systems (MSIS)

Minot State University is a public university located in Minot, ND. It opened as a teaching college. This business school is now recognized as the third-largest school in North Dakota with both graduate and undergraduate degrees for students to choose from. It also offers one of the best MIS program options you can imagine!

You’ll choose from more than 60 courses of study and graduate degrees in ten different areas. These programs are top ranked by the PayScale College Salary Report and U.S. News & World Report alike. 

The Master of Science in information systems will help you develop skills to assist businesses with information systems management. 

This program is offered at in-state tuition rates for all students. That is regardless of residency. It is an interdisciplinary degree that is valued by many employers. The curriculum is flexible and accelerated. It will allow you to complete your classes from wherever you happen to live.

It includes core classes at the school of business such as:

• Project Management
• Database Management and Administration
• Knowledge Management. 
• Professional Consulting in IS

The latter is a capstone course that allows you to consult with a business. You can integrate the techniques, tools, and concepts you learned.

This one of the best MIS schools features affordable tuition and fees and financial aid. The online curriculum is taught by faculty members who all hold doctoral degrees in their fields. It offers affordability without comprising value. You can finish the program in as little as two semesters. This can help you save both time and money. There are even graduate student research assistantships. These are available to give your experience and help you cut tuition costs all at the same time.

You will need to complete an MSU Graduate School Admission Application and submit a one-time, non-refundable application fee of $35. You’ll need a 500-word statement of purpose. You will need to provide a resume and three recommendations. 

Official transcripts and GRE test scores are required. There is no minimum GPA or GRE test score listed for entry into this program. Try to score in the upper 50th percentile on the exam and have a minimum GPA of higher than 3.0 for this business school.

#7. Mississippi State University

Master of Science in Information Systems

Another one of the best MIS schools is at Mississippi State University. It is also known as Mississippi State University for Agriculture and Applied Science. This school is a public land-grant research university near Starkville, MS. It is best known for its contributions to research and development

It is organized into a dozen schools and colleges. There are more than 200 different graduate, undergraduate, and professional degree programs.

The Master of Science in information systems at MSU will prepare you to become an information system professional. You’ll learn how to develop and integrate information technology across a wide variety of global business settings.

You will take  18 hours of required courses. You’ll also take two free elective courses and two in business. It is available online as well as on-campus. All courses are taught by the same innovative, award-winning faculty who teach on-campus. 

It is accredited by the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business. It prepares students for elite careers as:

• computer programmers
• computer and information systems managers
• IT consultants
• software developers

You’ll take core courses in the school of business such as:

• Survey of Management
• Leadership Skills for Managerial Behavior
• Seminar in Human Resource Management
• Micro Computers and Networks
• Business Programming with COBOL

You will work with industry partners and in state-of-the-art facilities. This will enhance your understanding of the discipline. 

It features low tuition rates starting at $489 for online graduate students. Online students pay the same flat rate regardless of residency. Financial aid is available. There are a variety of scholarships, assistantships, and other funding options offered to graduate students. 

Even as an online student, you’ll have access to all kinds of resources and support services.  You will be able to tap into services offered by the:

• Career Center
• the Financial Matters department
• Information Technology Services
• the Learning Center.

Tutoring, writing help, and other academic supports are in place. You can graduate on time without having to spend any extra money to get help!

Prepare your application materials for admission in the summer, fall, or spring semester. You will need to have a minimum GPA of 3.0 or higher on a 4.0 scale. Provide undergraduate transcripts. GRE and GMAT test scores are no longer required for this business school..  

#8. Auburn University

Master of Science in Information Systems Management

Auburn University is one of the best MIS colleges in the south. It opened in 1856 as East Alabama Male College. Auburn University is now a coeducational institution. It is the second-largest university in the entire state of Alabama. It is home to nearly 25,000 undergraduate students and more than 5,000 graduates.

Auburn University is recognized by the U.S. News & World Report as one of the best national universities. It is also a Best Value School. It’s also recognized as a top school by publications such as Washington Monthly, The Wall Street Journal, and Forbes.

Auburn University is also where you will find one of the most affordable master’s in management information systems. The Master of Science in information systems management will provide you with the technical knowledge you need to lead. It’s the perfect stepping stone to a career in all technical and business-oriented fields.

It will allow you to engage in hands-on work in the management of information system. You’ll also receive extensive leadership training. You can even enjoy international travel! It’s a great program  for seasoned industry professionals. It’s also great for those with zero experience in the field.

You’ll be able to take classes in the school of business such as:

• Advanced Database Management Systems Projects
• Information Systems Analysis and Design
• Communicating Quantitative Results in Business.

You’ll complete 31 credit hours. You’ll take a total of ten courses of three credit hours each. There is also one global business experience.

This degree is customizable. You can pursue courses either online or on-campus. You might also choose to add on a dual degree. You can add an MBA with just a few hours of additional coursework. You can also add a graduate certificate. You can add an extra certificate without having to extend your program at all. Many of the required courses count twice.

There are ample opportunities for professional development. You can participate in iLEAD Workshops. These are faculty-led workshops. They are focused on the development of interpersonal and leadership skills. You can tap into the many resources offered by the career services department. 

In your international experience, you’ll be able to visit companies and participate in service-learning projects. You can even participate in cultural activities while studying abroad in places like South Africa, Peru, Italy, and South Korea.

This degree costs just $30,242 in total for Alabama residents for this business school. 

#9. Missouri State University

MBA with specialization in Computer Information Systems

Another one of the best MIS programs is at Missouri State University. It is a public university in Springfield, MS. Missouri State University opened as a normal school to educate aspiring teachers. 

Students at Missouri State can pursue a variety of hands-on learning opportunities through their extracurriculars. There are research opportunities at campus facilities like the Department of Defense and Strategic Studies program. 

The management information systems program here is a specialization within the Master of Business Administration degree. The MBA requires 18 hours of foundational courses in subjects like:

• managerial finance
• statistical methods in business research
• the legal environment for business managers. 

You’ll also be able to choose from a wide variety of graduate certificates to complement your degree. Many do not require additional coursework outside the 33 hours you will need to complete for your MBA. Some popular options include certificates in the school of business in:

• data analytics
• cybersecurity
• entrepreneurship
• finance
• forensic accounting

This degree takes most students about two years to complete. There is an accelerated master’s if you are still an undergraduate in the College of Business. You’ll be able to complete both a master’s and a bachelor’s in just five years of study.

You will need to submit official transcripts with a GPA of 3.25 or higher. If your GPA meets or exceeds this threshold, you do not need to submit GMAT or GRE scores. You’ll also need to submit a resume as part of your application package for this business school.

#10. Metropolitan State University

Master of Science in Management Information Systems (MS in MIS)

Last but not least on our list of the top MIS universities is Metro State. A public university, Metropolitan State University is in the Minneapolis-St. Paul metropolitan area of Minnesota. This school opened in 1971 to educate nontraditional students.

Many of the programs here exist in a competency-based model. This lets students earn course credit for prior learning experiences. The Master of Science in management information systems here is one of the best in the country.

The Master of Science in management information systems at Metropolitan State is a state-of-the-art graduate degree. It is perfect both for those with technical backgrounds as well as those from other fields who wish  to work in the management of information systems. It is the ideal program for the working adult. It will prepare you for a wide variety of leadership roles.

The curriculum of this program is broken down into three phases. The first phase focuses on the functional disciplines of businesses as they relate to modern information systems. You’ll learn about marketing theories. You’ll also learn the skills and processes that managers need to master in a changing business environment. 

The second phase gives you a choice of six different concentration areas. You can choose electives to meet your own educational and career needs. Last, you’ll synthesize everything you have learned in your core business and information systems courses and electives. This is done in a final capstone project. 

Concentration choices for your second phase of study in the school of business include:

• database administration
• business analytics
• systems analysis and design
• information management.

Regardless of the concentration you choose, you’ll take 44 credit hours of core courses such as:

• Management Information Systems
• Marketing Management
• Problem Formulation and Data Presentation
• Programming with Objects
• Applications Development. 

Metro State offers learners an affordable, high-quality education. It’s one of the state’s most affordable institutions. It has low tuition and fees starting at just $420.25 per credit hour. There are plenty of financial aid opportunities you can apply for.

You’ll need to have an undergraduate degree in an IT- or management-related major. You should also have earned some sort of industry certification in one of these areas. You need at least one year of work experience. Prerequisite courses like college algebra, statistics, and visual programming language are also required. You will have to submit a $20 application fee, official baccalaureate transcripts, a current resume, and two professional reference letters. An admissions essay is also required for this business school.

OTHER NOTABLE PROGRAMS 

#11. Friends University

Location: Wichita, KS

Degree: Master of Management Information Systems (MMIS)

Net Price: $10,638

Website

#12. Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University

Location: Daytona Beach, FL

Degree: Master of Science in Management Information Systems (MS in MIS)

Net Price: $18,458

Website

#13. Concordia University-Wisconsin

Location: Mequon, WI

Degree: MBA in Management Information Systems

Net Price: $10,848

Website

#14. Muskingum University

Location: New Concord, OH

Degree: Master of Information Strategy, Systems & Technology

Net Price: $10,080

Website

#15. Wilmington University

Location: New Castle, DE

Degree: MS in Information Systems Technology

Net Price: $8,636

Website           

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

As the world becomes increasingly digital, opportunistic criminals find new ways to exploit our data and wreak havoc on business and daily living in the online space. 

How can these criminals be stopped? It isn’t easy, but it starts with staying ahead of them at all times, knowing exactly what their next moves might be—and how to intervene before they make those moves. 

When you earn a master’s degree in information assurance, you’ll learn exactly what it takes to protect the integrity and confidentiality of our most important asset—data. Companies in just about every industry rely on computer networks, the internet, and digital systems. While these systems can be a godsend, allowing companies to conduct business with other corporations all over the world, they also put sensitive information at risk. 

As an information assurance professional, your job will be to create a safe environment for businesses and individuals to access information. You’ll help companies learn how they can leverage their data without exposing themselves to unreasonable amounts of risk. 

Information assurance refers to protecting both digital and nondigital data, records, and information. It is incredibly broad, allowing you to work with organizations of all kinds to help them assess their security risks and potential solutions so they can safeguard their information from potential attacks.

A truly one-of-a-kind field, information assurance didn’t really exist as a discipline until recent years. The growth of computer hackers and cyber threats has dramatically increased the demand for information assurance and security professionals among government agencies and companies. 

When you earn a master’s in information assurance, you’ll not only gain the education and credentials you need to intervene, but you’ll also develop strong leadership skills that will enable you to pursue the best-paying and most top-ranked positions. 

Information assurance is often confused with cybersecurity. While the two fields are incredibly similar, there are a few differences. While both involve data and data security, information assurance is a broader program that involves the creation of large-scale strategies (while cybersecurity usually focuses on the installation of protective systems).

The good news? Earning a degree doesn’t have to be expensive, especially not when you choose to enroll in one of the 20 Best Affordable Master’s in Information Assurance. These degrees pair affordable tuition with generous financial aid opportunities, making it possible for students of all backgrounds to gain the credentials they need to get ahead in the fast-paced world of information assurance.

Most master’s degrees in information assurance take around two years to complete, although some offer accelerated pathways that make it possible for you to finish up in as little as 12 to 18 months. There are even part-time options you can pursue, helping to make your degree not only more affordable, since you can continue to work, but also more convenient. 

Ready to get started? We’ll walk you through everything you need to know about the best information assurance degrees, from how to apply to how much money you might expect to make. 

See Also: 30 Best Online MBA in Information Systems

Common Application and Admission Questions

The courses you might take as part of your affordable master’s in information assurance will vary depending on where you choose to go to school and which (if any) concentrations you decide to pursue. You might take classes in things like network security, cybersecurity, computer forensics, database management, and legal and ethical issues in information assurance.

You’ll want to carefully consider the courses you might want to take, along with how long it will take you to earn your degree, as you begin narrowing down the list of schools to which you’d like to apply. Most master’s degrees require between 30 and 40 credit hours of coursework, with some available on both a full- and part-time basis. There are accelerated programs available, too, so most programs make it possible for you to complete your degree in as little as one year or to take up to six years to finish your degree, if you choose. 

You will also want to look for a program that offers plenty of opportunities for hands-on learning. An internship is often the best way to do this. Even if you decide to pursue an online master’s in information assurance, look for a degree that includes an internship so you can gain some real-world experience. 

When you’ve narrowed down the list of schools to just a handful that you’d like to apply to, it’s time to dust off that resume and begin working on your applications. Admissions requirements vary between schools, but in general, you’ll need to have a bachelor’s degree in a field related to information assurance in order to apply.

For example, you might be asked to have complete coursework in things like cybersecurity, data security, or computer programming. All of these classes will help provide you with the foundational skills you need to be successful in information assurance. Similarly, you may be asked to have completed undergraduate coursework in statistics, calculus, and algebra.

You will need to provide transcripts from any undergraduate coursework you have completed, often meeting certain minimum GPA requirements. Usually, the minimum GPA required is a 3.0 on a 4.0 scale, but this can vary depending on the competitiveness of the university to which you choose to apply. 

In addition to transcripts, you will also need to submit GMAT or GRE scores, in most cases. Though some universities no longer require these examinations, they serve as a good gauge of a student’s readiness to attend a graduate-level program.

These documents show your academic readiness, but the list of requirements typically does not end there. You will likely also need to submit things like a resume or CV, letters of recommendation, and a personal statement. Sometimes an interview with the admissions department is required as well. All of these documents showcase your professional readiness as well as how much work experience you have, two criteria that can be helpful as you complete your studies in information assurance.

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

What About Financial Aid & Scholarships?

Earning a degree is no small task—but that doesn’t mean your student loan debt has to be astronomical. Instead, look and apply for all the financial aid and scholarships you can find.

When searching for the best affordable master’s in information assurance, look for a degree that couples low tuition rates with generous financial aid. Don’t panic if a school’s “sticker price” seems high. Often, private schools have higher tuition and fees but wind up being much more affordable for students to attend because they offer more extensive financial aid packages. 

Closely compare the costs and financial aid offered by each school to which you are accepted. Read the fine print! 

Of course, your first step in receiving financial aid is completing the Free Application for Federal Student Aid, or the FAFSA. This form can be completed in the year in which you plan to attend school and takes a close look at your financial standing to determine your financial aid eligibility. You may be asked to submit documents like your W2s, tax returns, and other proof of your financial background. 

Both the federal and state government will use this information to determine whether you might qualify for grants, loans, and work-study. Even if you don’t think you will be eligible for any financial aid, it’s important that you take the time to complete this document. That’s because many universities use the information provided therein to determine your institutional aid eligibility. 

Most universities offer financial aid to graduate students in the form of grants and assistantships. Assistantships, in particular, can be extremely valuable. Not only do these awards provide you with a generous stipend and tuition reimbursement (often the full cost of the program) but they also will grant you access to work experience in your field. As a graduate assistant, you may work in a research or teaching capacity, lending you a new level of expertise that will serve you well as you begin to search for jobs.

Of course, you don’t have to rely solely on the college you wind up attending in order to receive financial aid. There are many outside scholarships you can apply for, too. These don’t require repayment and are typically awarded by third-party entities such as charitable organizations, employers, and religious affiliations. 

There is a misconception that earning a graduate degree is more expensive than pursuing an undergraduate degree. That is simply not the case. While graduate tuition is generally pricier than undergraduate tuition, there are plenty of ways to lower your cost of attendance. If you already maxed out your budget while earning a bachelor’s, don’t assume that earning a master’s is out of reach financially. 

By exploring some of the options listed and described above, you may be able to earn a master’s degree for a fraction of the cost of what an undergraduate degree cost you. 

See Also: 25 Best Affordable Online MBA in Information Systems

How Much Can I Make With an Affordable Master’s in Information Assurance? 

Earn a degree in information assurance, and you’ll open up the door to a wide variety of careers. Some of the most common include those as chief information assurance officer, chief risk manager, chief technology officer, information security analyst, and IT security manager. 

Become a chief technology officer and you could earn an average wage of up to $146,360 per year, depending on where you live and for whom you work. In this kind of job, you’ll plan and direct all technology and computer-related activities in an organization, typically working full time to lead a team of fellow professionals. The growth rate for this career field is high, with anticipated growth in job creation by 10% before 2029. 

What’s interesting about the salary potential for this career is that the wages vary widely, with the lowest 10% bringing in around $87,480 (still a figure that’s nothing short of impressive!) and the best-paid professionals earning well over $208,000. 

As an information security analyst, you will be tasked with planning and carrying out security measures to safeguard an organization’s computer systems and networks. Although you’ll only technically need a bachelor’s degree in order to pursue one of these positions, you’ll have much better luck finding a high-paying job if you have a master’s degree and a bit of work experience. 

You’ll likely find work for a consulting firm, financial or business company, or a computer company. The average worker in this industry earns around $99,730 per year, or an impressive $47.95 per hour, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. The growth rate for this career is also high, with an estimated 31% growth by 2029—or roughly 40,900 new jobs created in that time period. 

While earning a master’s degree in information assurance is one of the smartest ways to boost your potential career earnings, there are other ways you can improve your success when it comes to finding a job, too. 

For example, in addition to earning a master’s, you might pursue an additional certificate in a related area, such as cybersecurity. You should also take any and all opportunities you can find to participate in hands-on learning opportunities, such as research, internships, and cooperative learning experiences. 

Last but not least, don’t be afraid to join a few professional organizations, both before and after you complete your degree, too. Some of the most important organizations for information assurance professionals include the Information Systems Security Association International and the EC-Council. Joining one or both of these organizations will allow you to network with other professionals and stay on top of developments in the field—both of which can be incredibly valuable when it comes to finding and keeping a job.

See Also: 50 Best Online Cybersecurity Degree Masters

What Are the Best Information Assurance Degrees?

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

#1. Sam Houston State University

Master of Science in Information Assurance and Security

Founded in 1879, Sam Houston State University is one of the oldest universities west of the Mississippi River. Named after Sam Houston the barrier-shattering politician, himself, this school continues to set records and make a solid impression even many years after its inception.

Here, the school has a motto of, “the measure of a life is its service,” something that rings true among the school’s more than 21,500 students. As an SHSU student, you’ll be able to explore all kinds of hands-on learning opportunities as you develop your skills and build your future career. 

First founded as a teacher’s college, Sam Houston State now offers bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral degrees in well over 100 different disciplines. Many of these are even offered exclusively online, helping students attend school in a more convenient and affordable manner without ever stepping foot on campus. 

Among these is the award-winning Master of Science in information assurance and security. This degree is one of the many top-ranked graduate degrees here—Sam Houston State is top-ranked by Forbes, Washington Monthly, and U.S. News & World Report.

This degree is perfect for graduates of computer science who are interested in increasing their earning potential and building their career networks. It consists of 36 credit hours of study and enrolls new groups of students in the fall, spring, and summer semesters alike. 

In this program, you will take core classes such as Operating System Security, Network and Cyber Security, Business Continuity Management, and Principle and Policy of Information Assurance. It is available both on-campus and online, with both programs fully accredited by The Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges. You can transfer in credits from other institutions to make your degree more affordable—but you’ll appreciate the low tuition rates and generous financial aid offered by this school regardless.

The degree is offered by the Department of Computer Science, a division that is known for offering a variety of scholarships and other financial aid. You will be automatically considered for some awards while applications are available online for others. 

Best yet, when you graduate from Sam Houston State, you’ll join an extensive alumni network of thousands of other graduates who know exactly what it means to be an SHSU grad. You’ll have access to ample job opportunities, regardless of whether you choose to earn your master’s in information assurance online or on campus.

To apply, you must submit a graduate application and an application fee. You will need to submit transcripts, an updated resume, official GRE scores, and two letters of recommendation. Although this program doesn’t technically have a minimum GPA cut-off, students with undergraduate GPAs of 3.0 or higher will be given preference. Furthermore, you may qualify for a GRE requirement waiver if you already have another master’s degree or at least five years of work experience. 

#2. Iowa State University

Master of Science in Information Assurance 

A public land-grant research university, Iowa State University is located in Ames, IA. The largest university in the state, Iowa State is part of the Big 12 athletic conference, one of its most prominent claims to fame. The Cyclones complete Division I and have won numerous NCAA national championships. 

Chances are, though, that as an aspiring information assurance professional, you’re probably more interested in the winning nature of the school’s graduate degrees. You’re sure to find what you’re looking for in that regard, here, too. Iowa State offers graduate degrees within eight different colleges, including the Graduate College, with more than 112 different master’s degrees to choose from. 

The Master of Science in information assurance at Iowa State University is a multidisciplinary program that will provide you with the opportunity to become a professional in the field of information assurance. Uniquely offered by the Department of Political Science, the degree can be completed by itself or as a co-degree with a master’s degree in political science. 

You’ll take courses built around the electrical and computer engineering, mathematics, and computer science frameworks, allowing you to explore both the software and hardware aspects of computer security and cryptography. 

All in all, you’ll complete 30 credit hours of study including core and supplemental courses such as Computer Network Architectures, Business Process and Systems, Computer Security, Ethical and Legal Issues in Computer Security, and Fundamentals of Computer Programming. You may also choose to pursue a minor in a related field, such as cybersecurity. 

As a student in this program, you will learn how to design the next generation of cybersecurity protection devices and procedures as well as how to both prevent and solve cybercrimes. You’ll work closely with industry partners to help them develop solutions to ensure the safety and privacy of their data online. 

Before graduation, you will have the option of choosing between a thesis research project or a creative component that will allow you to bring together everything you have learned in one final project. The faculty who teach in this program are some of the best in the world, both nationally and internationally recognized for their teaching and research. 

You don’t have to pay a premium for that kind of quality, either. Iowa State is one of the most affordable universities in the country. Tuition is affordable, billed at a rate of $10,990 per year, not including books and supplies, personal expenses, or room and board. There are plenty of financial aid opportunities available, too.

To apply, you will need to have an undergraduate degree in a related field. You’ll submit official GRE scores, but this requirement is waived if you have at least five years’ worth of work experience. You’ll also need to submit three letters of recommendation and a personal statement. 

#3. Nova Southeastern University

Master of Science in Information Assurance and Cybersecurity 

Nova Southeastern University is a private research university with a main campus in Fort Lauderdale-Davie, FL. with more than 18 different colleges, schools, and centers with 150 programs of study, this school is known as being one of the most accessible and affordable in the country. With more than 170,000 living alumni, the school offers full degrees, courses, and certificate programs that couple convenience with cost savings—many programs are available entirely online.

With hundreds of majors to choose from, this school is ranked by Washington Monthly as a top national university. It’s also highly regarded by the U.S. News & World Report for its diversity.  As a student in the Master of Science in information assurance and cybersecurity, you’re sure to find everything you’re looking for—and more.

This 30-credit hour degree is offered online as well as on-campus in South Florida. Designed for individuals who want to focus on the field of network security engineering, the program is certified by the National Security Agency and the Department of Homeland Security. The university offers a related program in cybersecurity management as well as in security policy development and compliance.

You can complete this program in as little as 12-14 months as a full-time student, or take as many as 24 months if you want to continue to work while you earn your degree. It consists of 30 credit hours of study, or ten core courses. You will learn from instructors who are all educated at the top levels of their field. All hold Ph.D.s and are considered experts in their fields of research. 

The courses you will take will vary depending on your interests and career goals. However, most students will take classes such as Database Systems, Fundamentals of Cybersecurity, Applied Cryptography, Computer Networks, and Operating Systems. Before you start your core courses, you will need to complete prerequisite classes in subjects like data structures and algorithms and computer organization and architecture.

By the time you graduate from this program, you will have the skills you need to pursue work in cybersecurity research, security policy development, and network security engineering, along with other related fields. An affordable program, it will prepare you for future opportunities as an information systems security officer,a cyber defense analyst, and much more. Tuition is incredibly low, with inclusive annual rates starting around $32,000. Of course, there are plenty of financial aid opportunities available, too, including grants and student loans. 

To apply, you’ll need to submit an online application and a $50 application fee. You’ll provide transcripts evidencing that you earned a bachelor’s degree with a GPA of at least 2.5 and submit official transcripts from all institutions you have attended. You should also provide a resume. In some cases, an interview with a member of the faculty or admissions team may be required. 

#4. Norwich University

Master of Science in Information Security and Assurance

Located in quiet Northfield, VT, Norwich University is the oldest private military college in the United States. You don’t need to be interested in military service in order to attend this top-ranked school, of course—but it does offer pathways for students interested in ROTC (Reserve Officers’ Training Corps).

Norwich is a small university of around 4000 students, nearly half of which study in online programs. It offers just 29 majors spread out among six academic divisions. Unsurprisingly, the most popular major here is criminal justice, but the school’s other academic programs are also highly ranked (many of which receive top marks by U.S. News & World Report). 

The Master of Science in information security and assurance is one such degree. It has a concentration in computer forensics investigation as well as one in information assurance management that makes it stand out among its peers as a truly groundbreaking degree. It will help you develop the skills you need to obtain leadership in the competitive information assurance industry. You’ll take coursework covering everything from governance to business to policy decisions so that you can become the professional you’ve always dreamed of being. 

Offered by the Cybersecurity, Data Science, and Computing Department within the College of Professional Schools, Norwich University is within the top 7% in its return on investment, according to a Georgetown University study. With a 16:1 student-to-faculty ratio, it’s easy to understand why that’s the case. You’ll have access to a rigorous academic environment, interactive classes, close mentoring relationships with your faculty, and plenty of opportunities for hands-on learning. 

Available online as well as on-campus, this program provides students with access to the Center for Cybersecurity and Forensics Education and Research. This specialist learning environment fosters research and offers all kinds of outreach activities to help you develop in-demand skills. 

You’ll take core classes in the liberal arts, sciences, management, mathematics, and more, choosing a concentration in either information assurance management or forensics in your second year of study. Your classes will cover topics like counterterrorism, cybercrime infestation, malware analysis, penetration testing, threat analysis, and more. You will even be able to participate in a practicum that will give you practical skills in the concepts you learned in your courses, too.

From day one of your studies, you’ll work with a dedicated faculty advisor who will help you develop an individualized program based on your career goals. You’ll work in the classroom, the computer labs, and in the real world to build your skills. An affordable degree, it has an average net price of just $25,581 for most students. There are plenty of scholarships and other kinds of financial aid available.

When you are ready to apply, you can do so online by using the Common Application or the Norwich App, the university’s in-house form. You’ll need to send in supplemental items like your transcripts, an admissions essay, letters of recommendation, and a resume. Test scores are optional and there is no application fee required. 

#5. Regis University

Master of Science in Information Assurance

Regis University is a private Roman Catholic university located in Weston, MA. Originally founded as a women’s college in 1927, the school is now coeducational. A small university, Regis is home to just 3000 graduate and undergraduate students. 

Since it is so small, you’ll enjoy a small, close-knit learning environment here, with a student-to-faculty ratio of just 9:1. You’ll enjoy access to degrees within four schools along with numerous on-campus projects, centers, and programs to enhance your degree. Because of these hands-on learning opportunities, you’ll likely have no problem finding and securing a job after graduation. Regis has an employment rate of 97% within just six months of graduation!

The Master of Science in information assurance is a classic program at Regis that is ABET-accredited and offered both online and on-campus. It’s designated as a National Center of Excellence in Information Assurance Education by the National Security Agency and the U.S. Department of Homeland Security since 2007. 

Because of this, as a student here, you’ll have unparalleled access to some of the best opportunities for hands-on learning and you’ll benefit from a more experiential approach to the discipline, too. Regis has partnerships with some of the top industries and agencies so you’ll be able to engage in all kinds of internships and cooperative learning experiences.

This program will teach you how to help keep technology and information safe and secure for organizations of all types and sizes. You can choose from multiple specializations to complete your degree. It consists of 36 credit hours in fields such as risk management, information systems management, security consulting, network forensic analysis, and more. 

Each class is taught in a convenient eight-week format with classes offered online and on-campus during the evenings. Most students take just one or two years to complete their degrees with start dates in January, March, May, July, August, and October. If you want to take classes exclusively on campus, you’ll start with the rest of the cohort in August.

Core classes include things like Information Technology Concepts, Computer Forensics, Network Forensics, and Legal Basis in Cyber and Information Security. You can choose from a specialization in information assurance policy management or cybersecurity. In addition, you can choose to add an additional graduate certificate in one of these two topics as well.

With this program, you’ll pay just $845 per credit hour, making it one of the most affordable ways to earn your degree. Regis also offers a variety of scholarships, grants, and other programs to help you pay for school. 

To apply, you will need to submit a completed online application, a transcript, resume, and personal essay. You may qualify for prior learning credit for other life experiences, such as military service and previously earned course credit, too. Before starting your core courses, you will need to complete two prerequisite courses in Statistical Computing and Systems Analysis and Design. 

#6. Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University

Master of Science in Information Security and Assurance

A private university located in Daytona Beach, FL (with additional campuses in places like Prescott, AZ), Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University is the largest accredited university system in aviation and aerospace in the United States. You don’t have to be interested in aeronautics to study here, though. The school also has programs in related fields like technology and engineering as well. 

Of course, Embry-Riddle is also well-regarded in terms of its affordability. With all course content taught by industry experts, this university offers numerous programs online as well as those offered at satellite campuses. In most cases, you don’t have to come to Embry-Riddle—Embry-Riddle will come to you.

The Master of Science in information security and assurance is available online, making it a convenient option for students with other commitments to attend to. You’ll enjoy its unique focus on business and organizational life in the Information Age. Not only will this degree allow you to strengthen your grasp of modern information systems, but you’ll also learn the risks that faulty design, bad data, improper use, and hostile forces can pose to these organizations.

You’ll learn from experienced instructors who hold terminal degrees along with fellow classmates who can relate firsthand professional experiences, enhancing the learning environment for everyone involved. You’ll work and learn in a large network of peers and be able to tap into unparalleled resources. 

With an additional specialization area in information systems security, this broad program is relevant for just about any career. You’ll take classes such as Assured Business Systems: Managing and Protecting the Information Systems Enterprise; Informatics: Security Implications of Cross-Disciplinary Computing; and Cyber Law, Cyber Compliance, and Information Assurance.

With this degree, which consists of 30 credit hours, you can customize your degree with relevant specializations such as information assurance in a global context, information systems security, and protecting business intelligence. An interdisciplinary degree, it will prepare you to excel as a decisionmaker and grants you the flexibility to study at any time and from any location. 

An affordable program, it features low tuition starting at just $2192 per course. Most classes are just nine weeks long, allowing you to move quickly through the curriculum. There are significant financial aid opportunities available, too, including grants and student loans. Embry Riddle is ranked as one of the top universities in the country by the U.S. News & World Report, which has named it a Top Regional University in the South as well as one of the Best Colleges for Veterans. 

When you are ready to apply, you can do so online via Embry Riddle’s website. You will need to have a minimum 2.5 GPA on a 4.0 scale (or a 3.0 if you already hold a master’s degree or have completed some graduate-level coursework). Plan to provide your official transcripts along with any evidence of work experience, like your resume or CV. Test scores are not required.

#7. Western Governors University

Master of Science in Information Security and Assurance

A private university located in Millcreek, UT, Western Governors University has a unique learning model that makes it a great choice for aspiring graduate students seeking an affordable, convenient way to earn a degree. The school offers a majority of its courses online in a competency-based learning model. 

Rather than the traditional learning model you’ll find at most colleges, in which you’ll move with a cohort of other students as you move through the same course material, Western Governors allows you to work at your own pace so that you only move on to the next chunk of instruction once you’ve mastered the current content. Because of this, you can complete your courses as quickly or as slowly as you like.

This is the ideal method of course delivery for students who want to learn at a slower pace, have other life commitments (like a job or a family to care for), or who want to save a little bit of money. The Master of Science in information security and assurance is one of more than 30 master’s degrees that is offered in this format here.

The master’s in cybersecurity and information security at Western Governors is designed for industry professionals who are ready to take their careers to the next level. It is an easy degree to complete if you are interested in being able to work full-time. Plus, you’ll be able to learn all kinds of valuable industry certifications as you complete your degree.

Available online, this program can be completed in as little as 24 months. Tuition is affordable, starting at just $3895 per term. Since tuition is billed per term rather than per credit hour, you’ll be able to control the ultimate cost of your degree. By finishing your studies faster, you will pay less for the overall cost of your degree. Plus, you’ll be able to earn those valuable industry citations we mentioned at no extra cost to you. 

Some examples? You can earn top certifications such as EC-Council certified ethical hacker, EC-Council computer hacking forensic investigator, and more. Information assurance is just one potential area of specialization within the cybersecurity degree, with other areas of study including secure software design, cybersecurity architecture and engineering, cybersecurity management, ethical hacking, and more. 

Of course, all students will complete a final capstone project as part of their studies here, too. In your capstone, you’ll demonstrate your abilities to create a project that deals with a major real-world problem in cybersecurity. 

You’ll build your skills in relevant, up-to-date concepts as you learn best practices in networking and security, systems and service, data management, the business of IT, scripting and programming, and more. There are no set class meeting times so you can learn at your own convenience.

There are multiple start dates each year so you can apply whenever you are ready. In fact, you can start as soon as the 1st of any month. You will need to submit an online application along with official transcripts. That’s all there is to it! 

#8. National University 

Master of Science in Information Security and Assurance

With a main campus in La Jolla, CA, National University was founded in 1971 and is one of the country’s top providers of distance education programs. Although you can opt to take classes on campus or at one of the school’s many satellite campuses, many students will instead complete courses online or in a blended format. 

Take classes online at National, and you’ll be able to access material in both asynchronous and real-time settings. The hybrid format of online and on-campus instruction lends itself nicely to students who are seeking a degree program that is both convenient and affordable. 

The Master of Science in information security and assurance at National is a cybersecurity program that is meant to serve as a terminal professional degree for students interested in technical or managerial fields. It has required core and required specialization, which has plenty of room for customization depending on your interests and skillsets. 

It is available both on-campus as well as online and will allow you to explore the many threats to computer infrastructures and digital assets. You can pursue specializations in Ethical Hacking and Pen Testing as well as in Enterprise Cybersecurity Management. The program is offered by a department that is designated a National Security Agency and Department of Homeland Security Center of Academic Excellence in Cyber Defense Education.

With monthly starts and accelerated courses, this program is one of the most convenient (and affordable!) for students who have other life commitments to attend to. You’ll take a total of 58.5 graduate credit hours including core courses such as Cybersecurity Technology, Wireless and Mobile Security, and Cloud Security. There are several project-based courses required as part of this degree’s curriculum as well. 

For example, you’ll be able to conduct in-depth research into a cybersecurity topic of your choice and practice your critical thinking skills in team-based projects and oral presentations. You will also be able to do things like produce a pen test authorization and prepare and process specifications of a Blue Team defense for a Red Team attack.

Each class lasts just four weeks so that you can focus on just one subject at a time, one month at a time, allowing you to complete your degree much faster. You can enroll at any time and you’ll have access to generous financial aid. National offers courses online as well as on more than 20 campus locations around Nevada and California and is also designated as a Yellow Ribbon school, with steep tuition discounts to servicemembers and their dependents. 

Tuition is priced low, with rates starting at just $442 per credit hour. Financial aid is available for most students as well, with options including scholarships, grants, work-study, and student loans.

Ready to apply? You will need to submit an online application and have a cumulative undergraduate GPA of at least 2.0 or higher. You’ll submit transcripts and that’s all—it’s as easy as that.

#9. Davenport University

Master of Science in Information Security and Assurance

A private university located in Grand Rapids, MI, Davenport University was founded in 1866 and has grown to offer dozens of programs both in Grand Rapids as well as in countless other locations around the state. You can pursue all kinds of degrees here, from associate to master’s, post-graduate certification programs and more.

The Master of Science in information security and assurance at Davenport is available online through the innovative Global Campus as well as on-campus in Detroit and in Grand Rapids. You do not have to have a background in technical fields or in cybersecurity in order to apply. Most students can finish their degrees in two years or less.

The program will walk you through the most pressing ethical and legal issues in cybersecurity, like data protection, on both the domestic and international levels. You’ll explore the art of protecting devices, data, and networks from unlawful or criminal use while also helping organizations identify their risks.

The curriculum of this program is nicely aligned with industry certification tests and exams so that you will be prepared for success in a wide variety of jobs in cybersecurity. A 34-credit hour program, it includes industry-specific electives like banking and financial security and healthcare security. 

You’ll take core classes in things like Applied Cryptography, Legal/Ethical Security Topics, Project Management and Risk Mitigation, and more. The program includes hands-on case studies in high-tech labs and provides you with extensive opportunities to practice what you’ve learned in the classroom in a real-world setting. The degree blends management and technology so that you will be poised for any kind of career in this in-demand industry. 

This program is also remarkably budget-friendly, too. You might qualify for full-tuition Department of Defense or National Science Foundation scholarships when you choose to complete this program. In fact, CyberCorps and other organizations offer multiple full-tuition scholarships to Davenport students. 

It’s registered as a Cisco Networking Academy. Not only that, but Davenport is one of only 13 schools in Michigan that is designated a National Center of Academic Excellence in Cyber Defense Education by the Department of Homeland Security and the National Security Agency, meaning your degree will have a higher return on investment, too. 

This results-oriented degree has a curriculum that is based on employer input and includes multiple opportunities for formal and self-assessment. Of course, you’ll also complete a master’s thesis (or capstone project) prior to completing your degree, too.

Ready to apply? The admissions process for Davenport is relatively straightforward. You will need to submit an online application as well as transcripts and a resume. No GMAT or GRE scores are required. Be sure to submit evidence of past work experience and earned professional certificates, as these might reduce your cost and the overall number of courses you need to take. 

OTHER NOTABLE PROGRAMS 

#10. Dakota State University 

Location: Madison, SD

Degree: Master of Science in Information Assurance and Computer Security 

Net Price: $16,863

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#11. Wilmington University

Location: New Castle, DE

Degree: Master of Science in Information Systems Technologies

Net Price: $13,814

Website

#12. Colorado Technical University

Location: Colorado Springs, CO

Degree: Master of Science in Management (MSIM) degree with a concentration in Information Systems Security online

Net Price: $15,478

Website

#13. University of Alabama at Birmingham

Location: Birmingham, AL

Degree: Master of Science in Management (MSIM) in Information Systems

Net Price: $16,636

Website

#14. DePaul University 

Location: Chicago, IL

Degree: Master of Science in Computer, Information, and Network Security

Net Price: $30,584

Website

#15. Penn State World Campus

Location: University Park, PA

Degree: Masters of Science in Cyber-security and Information Assurance

Net Price: $23,428

Website

#16. Northeastern University

Location: Boston, MA

Degree: MS Degree in Information Assurance

Net Price: $53,506

Website

#17. Stratford University

Location: Falls Church, VA

Degree: Master’s Degree in Information Assurance and Security 

Net Price: $21,436

Website

#18. Liberty University

Location: Lynchburg, VA

Degree: Master of Science in Cyber Security Online

Net Price: $27,432

Website

#19. University of Maryland

Location: College Park, MD

Degree: Master of Science in Cybersecurity Technology

Net Price: $13,672

Website

IF YOU ENJOYED THAT THEN CHECK OUT OUR ARTICLES ON THE 50 BEST ONLINE MASTER’S PROGRAMS AND THE 50 BEST ONLINE MASTER’S IN HEALTHCARE ADMINISTRATION!

Do you love collecting rocks? Examining the sand as it sifts through your fingers? Traveling to destinations far away to examine the beauty of their mountains, volcanoes, and other geological structures?

If so, a master’s degree in geology might be the right choice for you. 

However, geology is a discipline that’s about so much more than just marveling at rocks and volcanoes. It involves conducting research on all of Earth’s substances and natural processes to discover all the ways in which people and the environment, both living and nonliving, work together in harmony.

According to the American Geosciences Institute, the number of students pursuing degrees in geology and related fields has steadily increased since 2015. As companies and governments look for ways to improve energy conservation and utilization, to protect the environment, and to find new ways to manage lands and resources, the time has never been better to pursue a master’s degree in geology.

As a geologist, you can expect to work in the scientific, technical, and professional realms. You could work for an ancillary field like the oil and gas extraction industry or in mining, or you might work to develop sites for alternative energies like wind and geothermal. 

Although earning a bachelor’s degree is the first step you will need to take toward this kind of rewarding career, most geoscientists go on to earn master’s or even Ph.D. degrees. You’ll take courses in things like mineralogy, structural geology, and petrology as well as in supporting disciplines like engineering, physical science, computer science, and mathematics. 

In some states, you may even be able to work toward licensure. While licensure is not required in most cases and in most states, some geologists offer public services like civil engineering, environmental protection, and regulatory compliance that require licensure—for which a master’s degree is almost always necessary. 

Acquiring a master’s degree in geology can open the door to a vast array of career opportunities. These opportunities are rewarding both in a tangible and abstract sense. You’ll enjoy a salary that’s higher than most, and you’ll be able to work, in most cases, independently and outdoors. Your work will likely bring you to some of the most breathtakingly beautiful environments in the world.

However, you might be wondering what kind of investment is necessary to enjoy such a fulfilling career. You’ll have a significant investment of time in earning your degree—in most cases, completing a master’s takes around two years, though it can sometimes take less if you are fully committed to your studies.

There’s the financial investment to be considered, too. With the increased attention on the national student loan debt crisis, you might be wondering whether earning a master’s is worth it in the first place.

The short answer—it absolutely is. Earning a master’s can dramatically improve your lifetime career earnings, with a 2015 study from Georgetown University demonstrating that candidates with master’s degrees earn more than $17,000 more per year, on average, than those with just bachelor’s degrees.

If you want to earn a master’s degree without all the debt, you’ve stumbled upon the perfect resource. We’ll tell you everything you need to know to find the best affordable master’s in geology so that you can take steps toward a career you are passionate about—without the extra expense.

See Also: 10 Best Master’s in Industrial Engineering

Common Application and Admission Questions

When you have your heart set on a career in geology, it might not matter much to you where or how you earn your degree. You just want to get to work already! 

However, it’s important to take the time to thoroughly research all of the colleges and degree options that are out there. Don’t apply to dozens of programs. This can be time-consuming and expensive, since most universities charge steep application fees as part of their admissions process. 

Most of the time, it’s best to narrow down your list to just three or four schools you like the most. Then, research the requirements of each, since admissions requirements and deadlines can vary significantly between institutions (and even among departments within the same university).

A few admission requirements remain universal, however. You’ll need to have completed a bachelor’s degree from an accredited university. This doesn’t always have to be in geology, though majoring in geology as an undergraduate can give you a significant leg up. Often, schools will require a background in related disciplines, like chemistry, biology, or physics. Even if a related major isn’t required, you’ll likely need to have a strong background in mathematics and sciences to demonstrate that you will be able to handle the rigors of a graduate-level geology degree.

Not all schools have minimum GPA requirements, though some do. Often, the cut-off sits right around a 3.0 on a 4.0 scale. If your GPA is lower than the listed requirement, don’t assume you aren’t eligible for admission. Sometimes, you’ll just be asked to submit supporting documents, like research or work experience or GRE scores to show that you have what it takes to handle a master’s degree.

The GRE, or Graduate Record Exam, is administered by Education Testing Services, Inc. and can be taken at any time (though it’s best to take the test no sooner than five years before you plan on applying to graduate school). Give yourself plenty of time to prepare for and take this exam, including time for retakes, if necessary. You’ll be assessed on your writing, verbal, and quantitative abilities in three separate sections. Most schools list their requirements for scores on each section on their websites, though some do not have strict cut-off scores.

You may have to submit a medley of supporting materials for your application, too, so start gathering these as soon as you decide you want to attend graduate school. Letters of recommendation are standard—generally, two or three of these are required. They should be from professors, employers, advisors, or other individuals who can speak to your academic ability and work ethic.

A personal statement or essay is also a basic requirement. The individuals who are making a decision on your application want to see that you have strong writing skills, a good work ethic, and research experience. If you’re a strong writer—or can show that you have completed significant undergraduate research in geology—your odds of admission will be much higher.

Of course, there are other documents you might need to submit as part of your overall application package, too. Prepare a resume or CV, a detailed list of awards and research projects, and interview responses to be on the safe side. Be sure you’ve noted each school’s application deadlines and check with the admissions departments to ensure that you’ve checked off all of the boxes before you send in your packet.

See Also: Best Master of Environmental Science

What About Financial Aid & Scholarships?

With all the recent press given to national student loan debt, it’s no surprise that a growing number of students are concerned about how they’ll make ends meet both during and after the period in which they earn their degrees.

It’s true that college can be expensive. In fact, the average cost of an accredited master’s degree starts at around $30,000 to $40,000—and those costs rise when you start looking at schools that are more prestigious. 

However, there are plenty of ways to offset the costs of tuition and living expenses when it comes to earning a degree. Choosing a more flexible online program is one way to put a dent in the costs. An online program will allow you to earn your master’s in geology without having to leave your current job or relocate to a new city. Since you can take classes from home, you can cross out many of the expenses that are required for attending school, such as paying for room and board or transportation.

Of course, you can also cut costs while attending school at a traditional, brick-and-mortar type program as well. You will want to consider all financial aid and scholarship opportunities that might be available to you.

Start by completing the FAFSA, or Free Application for Federal Student Aid. This document will determine your eligibility for need-based financial aid, such as grants, which do not need to be paid back. Earning a grant is an ideal way to pay for your education since it requires no work commitment on your part—plus, a grant does not accrue any kind of interest. 

You might also consider aid based on academic achievement, such as scholarships. These are less common for graduate students, with most universities reserving merit-based scholarships for undergraduates. Occasionally, you can find scholarship opportunities by checking with local community and civic organizations, as well as your employer. Many employers offer tuition remission programs, too, often in exchange for an agreement to continue working there for a set number of years after you graduate.

Another opportunity only available to graduate students is a fellowship or assistantship. There are several kinds of assistantships to pursue, including research and teaching assistantships. In a research assistantship, you’ll have the opportunity to work closely with faculty members in your department. As the name implies, you’ll assist faculty members with their research. 

Often, you can apply to work on a project (and with the faculty member) of your choosing. If you receive a teaching assistantship, your work will often require you to be a teaching assistant (TA) for a course or set of courses.

The beauty of an assistantship is that it will provide you with many hours of relevant, real-world work experience before you even complete your degree. You’ll graduate with the knowledge and maturity you need to get the job of your dreams. Of course, most assistantships also come with hefty financial aid packages, sometimes paying for the full cost of your graduate degree in exchange for 10-20 hours of work each week.

Expanded career opportunities and a free degree? Sounds like a great deal!

See Also: Best Affordable Master’s Degree Programs

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

The big question lingering in many graduate applicants’ minds is whether earning a master’s degree is worth it—especially in regard to finances. What happens after you finish your degree? Will the salary boost justify the extra expenses and time spent in school?

A master’s degree in geology can lead to a career in all kinds of high-paying careers. You might find a job as a geoscientist, working to study the physical aspects of the Earth, like its structure, composition, and processes. The term “geoscientist” is used to describe a laundry list of careers, such as a geologist, geophysicist, geochemist, seismologist, oceanographer, petroleum geologist, and paleontologist. 

Because of this variety, your actual job title and duties will vary, as will your potential salary. However, you’ll enjoy a lucrative salary. The average wage for geoscientists in 2020 was around $93,580, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. The best-paid workers have jobs that fall into categories such as mining, quarrying, and oil and gas extraction as well as in the federal government.

Of course, you could also find work within the state government, in architectural and engineering services, or for schools and universities. No matter where you choose to look for work, you shouldn’t have a hard time finding a job, particularly if you are willing to explore opportunities working in alternative energies. Employment of geoscientists is estimated to grow by about 5% by 2029, a rate that is faster than the national average for all other occupations.

Another job title you could pursue is as a geological and hydrological technician. Though this field isn’t quite as lucrative or as common for a student with a graduate degree to pursue, it’s an excellent option for someone with limited work experience who is still trying to get his feet wet. You’ll support engineers in their work to explore, extract, and monitor natural resources and enjoy an average salary of more than $50,630 per year.

Don’t forget about working as a mining or geological engineer, either. In this kind of job, you’ll learn how to design mines safely so that minerals can be used in utilities and manufacturing. You’ll earn a high salary of around $93,800 per year, with the highest salaries found in oil and gas extraction (though individuals who work for the government or for coal and metal ore mining industries also earn enviable wages). 

Of course, you could leverage your master’s degree to get yourself a job with more responsibilities and leadership opportunities. Some geology majors go on to become natural sciences managers, using their experience to supervise the work of other scientists in a laboratory setting. You could work in research and development, manufacturing, or in scientific or technical consulting services. 

No matter what environment you choose, you’ll enjoy a high median wage, with the top earners bringing in more than $208,000 (and the lowest 10% still bringing in around $71,400). Again, the employment outlook for this field is excellent, with jobs projected to grow by about 5% by 2029. 

See Also: Best Petroleum Engineering Schools

What Are the Best Geology Degrees?

We know that you have educational goals that you’re itching to pursue, but you may not know where to start. The editors of 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. Colorado State University-Fort Collins

Geosciences (M.S.)

Founded as the Colorado Agricultural College, Colorado State University-Fort Collins is the flagship institution of the Colorado State University System. A large university, the school enrolls more than 34,000 students in over 100 different fields of undergraduate and graduate study. 

If you’re looking for a geology degree that will prepare you for a career in research and development, look no further than Colorado State. This school has graduated countless Pulitzer Prize winners, CEOs, astronauts, and more, and spends over $375 million per year, on average, on research projects and efforts.

The College of Natural Science is one of the best in the nation. You’ll be able to work in a number of institutes and centers meant to build your understanding of and involvement in the discipline, such as the Energy Institute, the Public Lands History Center (which works in close collaboration with public agencies such as the National Park Service), and the Cooperative Institute for Research in the Atmosphere. 

All said, this school is highly ranked by publications like The Princeton Review, Business Week, Washington Monthly, and U.S. News & World Report. 

The Department of Geosciences at Colorado State University offers two graduate degrees in geoscience—a master of science and a doctor of philosophy. Either can prepare you well for a career in teaching, research, government, or private industry. You’ll be able to develop a custom-tailored program of research and coursework to help you meet your professional goals.

You can choose from a variety of scientific specializations, with areas of study including applied geophysics, environmental geology and aqueous geochemistry, petroleum geology, sedimentology, tectonics, structural geology, and many more. You can participate in the school’s unique, interdisciplinary approach to prepare you professionally while also exploring global research interests.

All of this work takes place in facilities that are cutting-edge and some of the best in the country. You’ll work closely with other students and faculty, enjoying a small and close-knit student-to-faculty ratio. The degree has an excellent, nearly 100% placement rate and an extensive alumni network.

For the master’s, you’ll complete an average of 30 semester credit hours. You’ll complete a thesis with an original research project and complete courses like Advanced Petrology, Microtectonics, Petrophysics and Well Logging, Geostatistics, and Shale Sedimentology. You will even have the opportunity to work on a professional development project for geoscientists that will enable you to hone your skills for a future career.

You don’t have to spend a fortune to earn a degree here, either. Tuition and fees are low, with rates starting at $584.40 per credit hour for resident students. You can apply for different types of financial assistance, too, such as grants, scholarships, and assistantships. Graduate assistants receive monthly stipends along with access to some of the best research opportunities on campus.

Thinking about applying? Each application here is evaluated based on its worthiness as a whole, rather than on individual components. However, you’ll have the best odds of being accepted if you have a GPA that is higher than 3.3. The GRE is required, with competitive applicants scoring in the 70th percentile. You’ll need three letters of recommendation and need to meet a September 1 application deadline for spring admission. 

#2. University of Houston

Master’s Degree Program – M.S. in Geology with a Specialization in Petroleum Geology

A public research university located in Houston, TX, the University of Houston is the third-largest school in the state of Texas, home to more than 46,000 students. It has more than 282 programs for students to choose from, including those in law, optometry, architecture, pharmacy, and more. Of course, the science programs here are some of the best in the nation.

The Carnegie Foundation has classified this school as an institution with “highest research activity,” making it one of only nine schools in the state to have that distinction. There are more than 40 research institutes and centers on campus. Plus, the school maintains active partnerships with countless healthcare, government, and private organizations. 

It is ranked as the 31st top college in the United States by PayScale, and U.S. News & World Report has given the University of Houston top marks as a leading public university. Even The Princeton Review ranks this school highly, listing it as one of the country’s best colleges. 

The Master of Science in geology has a specialization in petroleum geology that is perfect for graduate students looking for work in an in-demand field. Operated in cohorts, this program allows students to move through the curriculum with the same group of students throughout. You’ll be able to forge strong connections with your peers as you take classes three days per week. Many classes are offered during the weekend, making it a convenient option for busy working adults.

You’ll take in-depth courses in interdisciplinary topics like Petroleum Geology, 3D Seismic Exploration, Petrophysics and Formation Evaluation, and Terrigenous Depositional Systems. A final capstone project is also required that will enable you to bring together everything you have learned throughout the duration of your program. 

In total, you’ll complete 12 formal courses, or 36 credit hours, along with the aforementioned capstone. The program is a great option for students with undergraduate degrees in geology or geophysics.  

Another unique feature of this program is that it can be completed with corporate or national oil company sponsorships. You’ll be able to receive the same high-quality education you might receive on-campus but be able to learn in a more remote setting, upon approval of your employer and the geology department at the University of Houston. 

This affordable degree offers low tuition rates paired with generous financial aid. You’ll pay around $412.74 per credit hour as a resident student and have access to financial aid opportunities like graduate assistantships, fellowships, and scholarships. As a graduate assistant, you’ll be able to gain valuable teaching experience while also receiving a generous stipend of up to $2500 per month!

Is the master’s in geology at the University of Houston the right choice for you? If so, you’ll want to consider applying. This cohort-based program has three start dates per year, in the fall, spring, and summer months. Official undergraduate transcripts, GRE test scores, letters of recommendation, and a personal statement are required. You may also need to submit a resume or curriculum vitae.

#3. University of South Florida

Geology, M.S.

Why attend the University of South Florida, or USF? The real question is, why not?

This school is one of the top public research universities in the country, with campuses in Tampa, Sarasota, and St. Petersburg. One of the dozen members of the state’s university system, it’s home to 14 colleges with a whopping 180+ majors. 

U.S. News & World Report has ranked this school as one of the top national universities as well as one of the best among public schools. The university has also received top nods from Washington Monthly, QS, Forbes, and many other ranking publications. 

You’ll enjoy a close-knit learning environment with a student-to-faculty ratio of just 21:1. While completing your degree, you’ll have access to countless facilities and resources at this fast-growing institution, including multiple libraries, tutoring and writing services, a career resource center, laptops, and more. 

The Master of Science in geology here is ideal for students who are looking for advanced geoscience education that will provide a solid platform for eventual Ph.D. work or for joining the professional workforce. You will complete 30 credit hours of study, an impressive 18 of which can be composed of electives.

You will be required to take six credit hours covering research design in geology and geography, but you can then move on to taking courses such as Tracer Geochemistry, Principles of Applied Geophysics, Ecohydrology, Coastal Sedimentation, and Selected Topics in Geology. From there, you can choose between completing a thesis option, an internship, or a comprehensive exam as your culminating experience. 

This degree is extremely affordable, charging the same tuition rate for graduate students regardless of your residency status. You’ll pay just $347.91 per credit hour and enjoy access to generous financial aid. Many of these financial aid opportunities are similar to what you would experience if you were a student at any other university. You can apply for departmental or program scholarships or apply for scholarships and fellowships directly through the USF Office of Graduate Studies. 

Many of these awards are available by departmental nomination while others you must apply directly for. There are additional research awards for students to apply for, too, such as the Kreplick Graduate Fellowship and the Graduate Student Success Fellowship. What do all of these awards have in common? 

You’ll be provided with outstanding opportunities to work on research and teaching projects in your field of study while also receiving a generous financial award to go toward the cost of your tuition and fees. 

Ready to apply? You do not need to submit GRE scores in order to be eligible for admission, though competition for this program is heavy. You can apply for admission in the fall, spring, or summer semesters, depending on your goals, and will need to have a minimum undergraduate GPA of 3.0 on a 4.0 scale. You’ll also need to submit additional documents such as letters of recommendation, a statement of purpose, and a resume. 

#4. University of Wyoming

Masters of Science (Geology)

With a mascot named Cowboy Joe, you might think that studying at the University of Wyoming is all fun and games—not meant to be taken seriously. 

Although there’s a lot to love about the laid-back, easygoing feel of this western campus, the reality is that the University of Wyoming has a reputation for being one of the country’s top space-grant research universities. 

You can choose from more than 120 different degree programs (many of which are offered online or in a certificate format) to help you meet your goals. The university is ranked as a top school by publications like the U.S. News & World Report, Washington Monthly, Forbes, and more.

The Master of Science in geology will require you to complete 26 credit hours of coursework and four hours of thesis credit for a total of 30 hours. It’s an in-residence program that includes core courses in topics like Metamorphic Petrology, Geologic Remote Sensing, Paleobotany, Mechanics of Sediment Transport, and Environmental Data Analysis.

There are lots of benefits associated with studying geology at the University of Wyoming. You’ll be able to work with a top-notch faculty, enjoying numerous interdisciplinary collaborations within a collegial atmosphere. The department is large, meaning you’ll be able to interact closely with around two dozen faculty numbers as you explore exciting research opportunities.

Speaking of research opportunities, the University of Wyoming offers plenty of them! Wyoming itself is a hotbed for unique geological activity, and the faculty at the university regularly conduct research in diverse fields like marine seismology and surface chemistry, doing so locally as well as traveling to study in locations like Greenland and Argentina.

You’ll concentrate your research and coursework in nine different areas: structural geology and tectonics, petroleum geology, surface processes, sedimentology, petrology, paleo-science, isotope geology, geohydrology, geochemistry, geophysics and seismology, and more. 

What’s even better is that as a student in this program, you’ll be able to custom-design your program, choosing classes that best meet your goals by working with your advisory committee and your professors. You’ll have access o a challenging, yet supportive, environment that will help you learn through collaboration in state-of-the-art facilities.

Whether you’re working in one of the department’s cutting-edge computer rooms or conducting research in the aqueous geochemistry and isotope chemistry laboratories, you’ll find everything you need here—and more.

Believe it or not, you can tap into all of these resources without having to tap too deeply into your savings. This program is incredibly affordable with low tuition rates and generous financial aid. Almost all graduate students are supported via teaching or research assistantships as well as through endowed or honorary fellowships. The average student pays just $6860 per term, and that’s before financial aid. 

Once you’ve decided that the University of Wyoming is the right choice for you, you’ll want to gather your application materials. You will need to submit an online application as well as a fee of $50. You will also need to supply official transcripts, letters of recommendation, and a personal statement. It’s best to apply for admission by September 15 for spring enrollment or January 15 for summer or fall admission.

#5. University of Arizona

Economic Geology (PSM)

A public land-grant research university, the University of Arizona is located in Tucson, AZ. Founded in 1885, this school was the first school to open its doors in the Arizona Territory. 

If you’re looking for a master’s degree in geology that goes outside the box, you may want to consider the professional science master’s in economic geology at the University of Arizona. This program will provide you with the leadership and technical skills you might need to work at a mineral industry anywhere in the world. 

It’s the perfect program for individuals who have already completed their undergraduate study in geosciences as well as those who already work in the minerals industry. It’s a career-track program that will get your resume to the top of the pile when it comes time to apply for a management position.

Whether you’re interested in technical mining-related activities like production, discovery, and mine closure or you’d rather cover the business and management side of things, this program will prepare adequately for both. Required courses can be finished in just two semesters if you choose to study on a full-time basis. However, it can also be completed part-time. 

You will be able to choose from four emphasis areas in mining geology, development geology, exploration geology, or environmental geology. Your courses will cover three of these four study areas, depending on the options you choose, and include course titles like Geometallurgy, Surface Mine Planning and Design, Foundations of Business for Scientists, Basic Concepts in Mineral Economics, Thrust Belts, Volcanology: Physical Processes and Petrologic Applications, and Field Hydrology Methods. 

Naturally, you will also complete a master’s thesis before leaving campus. For this, you’ll have to complete a research project and thesis and then present this research in a public meeting.

This affordable program is well within reach for both resident students as well as students from out of state. As a resident student, you’ll pay a base tuition rate of just $853 per credit hour, regardless of where you live. There are plenty of financial aid opportunities available, including graduate assistantships that practically cut that tuition rate in half!

You can get help finding funding by contacting the Office of Fellowships and Community Engagement at the University of Arizona. Here, you can get more information on how you can seek out and apply for various fellowships, grants, and other awards to help you finance your research or your studies. 

Applying to the University of Arizona’s geology program is not complicated, either. The admissions department here is friendly and ready to help answer any questions you might have. As one of the strongest graduate programs in the nation, it looks for students who are enthusiastic, diverse, creative, and hardworking. You’ll need to have a minimum GPA of 3.0 and submit letters of recommendation, a personal statement, and your transcripts. A resume or CV is also recommended, as is a brief summary of your research interests. 

#6. Massachusetts Institute of Technology

S.M. in Program in Geology, Geochemistry, & Geobiology

When you think of Massachusetts Institute of Technology, you likely think of its programs in things like engineering and computer science. However, you’ll also find a number of other highly-ranked and highly engaging graduate programs—including the one in geology. 

A private land-grant research university, Massachusetts Institute of Technology was established in 1861 in Cambridge, MA. Since its inception, this school has played an integral role in modern science and technology, ranking among one of the most elite academic institutions in the entire world. 

There’s no better place to study a major in the sciences than at Massachusetts Institute of Technology. This school has affiliations with nearly 100 Nobel laureates and 58 National Medal of Science recipients. It has strong connections with research facilities, affiliated laboratories, and observatories like the Bates Center, the MIT Lincoln Laboratory, the Broad Institute, the White Institute, and the Haystack Laboratory.

All in all, there are few places better to study as a science major of any kind than at Massachusetts Institute of Technology!

The geology, geochemistry, and geobiology program at Massachusetts Institute of Technology, or MIT, explores the evolutionary relationships between the atmosphere, oceans, and continent, combining three essential earth sciences to help learners become more well-rounded scientists.

You’ll be able to explore overlapping interests as a result, with research broken down into five core categories: tectonics, geochemistry and petrology, sedimentary geology, geobiology, and surface processes. 

The program is available as a stand-alone master’s but can also be completed as a fifth-year program that will enable you to earn both an undergraduate and graduate degree at the same time. 

You will be able to take a wide array of diverse courses covering all areas of the atmospheric, planetary, and earth sciences. Some unique course titles include Geological, Geophysical, and Chemical Oceanography; Atmosphere, Oceans, and Climate; Seminar in Geophysics: Advanced Methods in Earthquake Location; and Meteorite from Mars Kills Dog: the Inside Story on Planets.

Courses here are highly interdisciplinary and allow you to focus intensely on just one area of study or to pursue a broader path that incorporates multiple fields. 

This affordable program has tuition rates that are somewhat higher than what you might find at other universities on this list. On average, you will pay around $26,725 per term. However, what makes this program so affordable is its generous financial aid options. You can tap into funding opportunities from a variety of resources and in a multitude of forms, including scholarships, fellowships, teaching and research assistantships, federal loans, traineeships, work-study, and more.

In fact, part of what makes MIT so affordable is its commitment to offering external and internal fellowships to students. These cover full or partial tuition, often with a stipend to offset living expenses. Each year, more than 1300 students participate in teaching assistantships alone here. 

To apply, you will need to submit an online application with several supporting documents. Admission is extremely competitive. You will need to submit all of your admissions materials online, including transcripts and letters of recommendation. Most applicants should submit their materials in the fall, as spring admission is limited. You will need to submit GRE scores and, in some cases, a personal essay. 

#7. University of California-Los Angeles

Master of Science in Geology

The University of California-Los Angeles is a public land-grant research university located in Los Angeles, CA. It’s one of the most prestigious (and the second-oldest!) schools in the vast ten-campus University of California system.

With more than 330 different graduate and undergraduate degrees to choose from, UCLA is often referred to as a Public Ivy. It’s ranked among the top public universities in the country and is home to a whopping 55 faculty members who have been elected to the National Academy of Sciences. 

The school is classified among R1: Doctoral Universities-Very High Research Activity. It is ranked as one of the best schools in the world by Times Higher Education World University Rankings, U.S. News & World Report, and SCImago Institutions Rankings, among others. It’s also nationally ranked for the excellence of its research publications. 

The Master of Science in geology is offered by the College of Physical Sciences in the Earth, Planetary, and Space Sciences department. It’s one of three related degrees in this area, with other options including geochemistry and geophysics and space physics. 

As a full-time student, you will complete around 12 units per quarter for a total of 36 quarter units of credit. You’ll be able to take a broad variety of electives as well as core classes such as Seminar: Petrology, Current Research in Tectonics, Seismology and Earth’s Interior and Geologic Maps. On average, you’ll take about two years to complete your degree when studying on a full-time basis, although you can take longer, if necessary, to complete your degree as well. 

Before you graduate, you must take a final written and oral preliminary examination. This exam must be taken no later than the spring of your second year. It’s a pass/fail examination that will determine your eligibility for graduation. You will also complete two written research proposals to cover a potential dissertation topic. 

The geology major is a small, close-knit major that awards about 10-12 diplomas each year. You’ll join a diverse group of students, with a student body that is equally broken down between men and women. 

This affordable program costs just $17,486 per year for California residents (and since most students can complete their studies in just a year or two, that’s quite the bargain!). Very few students pay the ticket price for tuition, however, since there is generous financial aid available. Tuition and fee remission is available from some employers and you may be able to apply for fellowships, assistantships, and grants as well.

When you’re ready to apply to the University of California-Los Angeles, you’ll need to start by gathering your required documents. There is no minimum GPA and GRE scores are optional. You can apply in the fall, winter, or spring semester and you must have a bachelor’s degree in geology, chemistry, biology, physics, or a related science. You should submit letters of recommendation and official transcripts in addition to your online application. 

#8. Mississippi State University

Master of Science Degree in Geoscience – Geology Concentration (Thesis)

Located in Starkville, MS, Mississippi State University is a public research university that first opened its doors in 1878. This school offers nearly 200 different programs to choose from, spread out among 12 schools and colleges. 

The Master of Science degree in geoscience at Mississippi State University is one of several different concentrations offered by the Department of Geoscience. You can pursue concentrations in things like professional meteorology/climatology, geography, broadcast meteorology, geospatial sciences, and environmental geosciences as well.

Of course, you’ll want to look into the many minors offered by the department, too. One of the most popular is the geospatial and remote sensing minor, a cross-disciplinary program that will allow you to enhance and develop your geospatial skills. 

You will take around 30 credit hours of study. Core courses include Applied Geophysics, Subsurface Methods, Structural Geology, Coastal Environments, Geographic Literature, and Resources and the Environment. You will also complete a final thesis research project. 

Don’t want to study on campus? No problem! There are numerous online programs you can pursue, too. Most concentrations listed above are also offered online, in addition to teachers in geosciences, an emphasis that is perfect for aspiring educators.

There are both thesis and non-thesis options to choose from as part of this program. The non-thesis programs, considered terminal degrees, will provide you with a more practical education that includes coursework in your discipline of choice. You can even pursue this degree almost entirely online by taking advantage of the distance learning program. When studying online, you may choose from tracks in environmental geosciences, applied meteorology, and teachers in geosciences.

An affordable program, this degree is highly respected for its return on investment. This is due in part of the quality of academics, but also to the broad availability of service, teaching, and research assistantships. You’ll be able to work about 20 hours per week toward various academic goals while also receiving a stipend, which is at least $600 per month (typically much more than that). 

Both full- and part-time teaching assistantships are offered to graduate students, allowing you to teach two or three lab sections per week in return for a tuition waiver. As a research assistant, you’ll be able to teach labs and work on a research project in a topic of your own choosing. 

The Master of Science degree in geoscience at Mississippi State is competitive, but easy to apply to. The department looks for students who are both diverse and academically strong. You will need to submit an online application and a fee of $60. You’ll need to submit transcripts along with contact information for three recommenders. You should write a statement of purpose and submit a writing sample, resume or curriculum vitae, and GRE test score as well. 

#9. Louisiana State University and Agricultural & Mechanical College

Master of Science in Geology & Geophysics

Often referred to simply as LSU, Louisiana State University and Agricultural and Mechanical College is a large public land-grant university located in Baton Rouge, LA. It was first founded as the Louisiana State Seminary of Learning and Military Academy, but today it offers so much more to prospective students.

Enrolling nearly 30,000 students, the school is the most comprehensive in the state and has hundreds of programs to choose from among 14 distinct, award-winning colleges. It’s also known for its commitment to scientific research, housing extensive research facilities and operating nearly 800 different sponsored research projects. These projects are funded by national agencies like the National Science Foundation, the National Aeronautics and Space Administration, and more.

If you’re looking for a master’s in geology that will really allow you to get your hands dirty—both in the lab and in the field—you should look no further than the Master of Science in geology and geophysics at Louisiana State University. This program consists of 30 credit hours of study and requires an independent research project or thesis. You’ll complete your thesis under the guidance of a faculty member and from various members of the thesis committee.

Most students are able to complete their studies in just two academic years, with most completing internships during the summer in industries like oil and gas or environmental sciences. You will take classes such as Principles of Geology, Statistics and Graphics with MATLAB, and Igneous and Metamorphic Petrology, just to name a few. 

You can customize your degree even further by adding on a tailored graduate certificate in applied depositional geosystems. This highly specific, in-depth certificate will provide you with the preparation you need for a career in the oil and gas industry. 

You’ll enjoy a myriad of support services as a graduate student at LSU. From the writing center to free tutoring, you’ll have plenty of helpful resources to tap into. Among these is the Handshake at LSU. This unique service is a modern career platform that exists entirely online. You’ll be connected, both as a student and alumnus, to job opportunities, career events, and other resources.

This affordable program has low tuition rates and plenty of financial aid available for students who qualify. For some opportunities, you will be automatically considered. For others, you will need to submit an application. Consider applying for graduate assistantships here, most of which are offered at the time of enrollment.

You can also pursue tuition-savings programs such as Academic Common Market, which will allow you to enroll at LSU as an out-of-state student without having to pay out-of-state rates. 

Ready to apply? You will need to submit an online application along with a statement of purpose and a resume or CV. You’ll also need to submit a writing sample and official transcripts. Three letters of recommendation are also required. It’s recommended that you contact a department faculty member to become your advisor prior to admission. 

That way, you can identify potential areas of research that you might want to investigate while you are a student here. There are two admissions deadlines you can apply for each year, one in the fall and one in the spring. 

#10. Texas A & M University-College Station

Master of Science in Geology

Texas A&M University-College Station, sometimes referred to as just TAMU, was founded in 1876 and is the flagship institution of the Texas A&M University System. This school has the second largest student body in the United States and is designated as a land, space, and sea-grant university. In fact, it’s the only school in all of Texas to hold all three designations.

This distinction is a testament to the wide range and depth of research that occurs at this university. Ongoing projects here are funded by organizations like the National Science Foundation and many others. As a result of this academic prestige, the school is ranked as one of the country’s top universities by ranking publications like Times Higher Education Supplement, U.S. News & World Report, Washington Monthly, and more. 

The Department of Geology and Geophysics at Texas A&M University is a balanced program that includes plenty of opportunities for outreach and service, graduate teaching, and research. You’ll be able to explore the core concepts of geology and focus specifically on research investigation into topics of your choosing. 

The Master of Science In geology is granted as a thesis option only, allowing you to explore research in topics like sedimentology and stratigraphy, deep crust and mantle dynamics, petroleum geology, tectonophysics, structural geology, and isotope geochemistry, just to name a few. 

All in all, you’ll complete around 32 credit hours of study. If you want a more customized, focused program of study, you might choose to complete the online certificate in petroleum geoscience as a complement to your degree. It requires just an 18 semester course of study, along with lectures, workshops, and field trips that will help you learn about pressing issues in petroleum exploration. 

In many cases, when studying online, you can complete your study in as few as 18 months. Courses start five times a year with enrollment dates in the spring, summer, and fall months. 

Tapping into all of these Royces—and receiving a world-class education—doesn’t have to be expensive. At Texas A&M, you’ll be met with a low overall cost of attendance. The average student pays just $27,840 for all tuition and fees in a given year. You will also have access to countless types of financial aid, from grants and scholarships to student loans. 

In addition to the typical types of financial aid offered by major universities, Texas A&M also offers awards like the Texas Aggie Graduate Grant and graduate assistantships and fellowships. For these, you will typically need to work an average of 20 hours per week in teaching and research positions. 

If Texas A&M University’s Master of Science in geology checks off all the boxes on your list, you’ll want to gather up your list of application materials in advance. You’ll need to submit official transcripts from your undergraduate education along with GRE test scores, letters of recommendation, a statement of intent, and a resume or CV. 

OTHER NOTABLE PROGRAMS 

#11. University of Wisconsin-Madison

Location: Madison, WI 

Degree: Master’s Degree in Geoscience

Net Price: $12,010

Website

#12. Massachusetts Institute of Technology

Location: Cambridge, MA

Degree: S.M. in Program in Geology, Geochemistry, & Geobiology

Net Price: $54,976

Website

#13. University of Pennsylvania

Location: Philadelphia, PA

Degree: Applied Geosciences, MSAG

Net Price: $38,630

Website

#14. Cornell University

Location: Ithaca, NY

Degree: Geological Sciences M.S. (Ithaca)

Net Price: $29,584

Website

#15. University of California-Los Angeles

Location: Los Angeles, CA

Degree: Master of Science in Geology 

Net Price: $12,946

Website

#16. University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill

Location: Chapel Hill, NC

Degree: M.S. Degree in Geological Sciences

Net Price: $12,212

Website   

#17. Boston College

Location: Chestnut Hill, MA

Degree: Master of Science Graduate Program in Earth and Environmental Sciences

Net Price: $29,512

Website

#18. Case Western Reserve University

Location: Cleveland, OH

Degree: M.S. Degree in Geological Sciences

Net Price: $45,204

Website

#19. University of Georgia

Location: Athens, GA

Degree: Graduate Programs in Geology (M.S.)

Net Price: $10,982

Website

#20. University of Rochester

Location: Rochester, NY

Degree: MS in Geosciences Program

Net Price: $40,328

Website

#21. University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign

Location: Champaign, IL

Degree: Geology, MS

Net Price: $18,126

Website

#22. Texas A & M University-College Station

Location: College Station, TX

Degree: Master of Science Geology

Net Price: $9,812

Website

#23. Southern Methodist University

Location: Dallas, TX 

Degree: Geology, M.S.

Net Price: $47,024

Website

#24. Brigham Young University-Provo

Location: Provo, UT

Degree: Geology, M.S.

Net Price: $7,080

Website    

#25. Florida State University

Location: Tallahassee, FL 

Degree: Geology Graduate Degree M.S.

Net Price: $11,553

Website   

IF YOU ENJOYED THAT THEN CHECK OUT OUR ARTICLES ON THE 50 HIGHEST-PAYING MASTER’S DEGREES & THE 29 BEST ONLINE MASTERS IN HISTORY PROGRAMS!

You already have the big ideas—but do you have the skills you need to bring those ideas to life?

By earning one of the best affordable master’s in entrepreneurship, you can acquire the skills in development, business management, and innovation that you need to get your ideas out of your brain and into the limelight. 

It might seem like all you need to start a new business is to have a good head on your shoulders. However, to be successful, you’ll need to learn much more about developing and launching major ideas. 

The business world has become increasingly focused on technology and it’s more important than ever to be able to use social media and other platforms to create and advertise your business.

While you can certainly start your own business by earning a master’s in business administration (MBA), pursuing a more specialized program is a great way to get the skills you need to launch your new endeavor. You’ll be able to test out your ideas and practice core business competencies through the process of trial and error in a more controlled setting (the classroom!) while also building the network you need for long-term career success.

It can be tough to find the right program. Although there are thousands of graduate programs out there for you to choose from, finding the right one is a completely different animal. There are all kinds of factors you will want to take into consideration. 

How long is the program? Can you complete in just one year of full-time study or will you need to commit to two (or more) years of coursework? Are there any components that can be completed on a part-time basis? What sorts of classes will you complete for your degree? Will you work online at all or will you need to complete all aspects strictly on campus?

In addition to these logistical concerns, you might also be wondering whether earning a master’s in entrepreneurship is feasible in one other way—its affordability. 

Make no bones about it, earning a degree of any kind can be expensive. As the news continues to chirp the latest updates regarding the sharp increase in college costs (and relates the panic over the national student loan debt crisis) you probably want to find any way you can to lower the cost of a college education.

Fortunately, you’ve come to the right place. Consider earning one of the best affordable master’s in entrepreneurship. Our list of the top schools should help narrow things down for you. Earning a degree doesn’t have to be expensive, especially if you pursue a program that offers affordable tuition and generous financial aid opportunities. 

Get those pencils sharpened and the college applications ready. Once you’ve learned all about the best affordable master’s in entrepreneurship that you can pursue, there’s nothing stopping you from bringing your ideas to light. 

See Also: 10 Best MBA in Entrepreneurship

Common Application and Admission Questions

Applying to a master’s in entrepreneurship can be a daunting endeavor. However, if you’re interested in starting your own business, there’s a good chance that you already have a can-do attitude and an indomitable spirit. Therefore, all it takes is a bit of know-how to help you get through the process of applying for grad school.

To start, make sure you’ve narrowed down your list of options to just three or four top schools. You might feel the urge to apply to multiple business schools, but this can actually backfire in several ways. For one, it’s likely going to cost a ton of money. Most universities charge hefty application fees—and these can really add up over time! 

In addition, applying to dozens of schools will be a drain on your mental reserves as well as your financial ones. If you choose to apply to tons of different universities, you’re likely going to have less time to devote to each individual application. You may find yourself cutting corners when you start sending in form after form after form.

Instead, just pick a few schools you are passionate about. That way, you can dedicate the time and resources (both financial, mental, and emotional!) to getting your work done effectively.

Be sure to research the admissions requirements for each school to which you plan to apply. Most business schools have similar application requirements but these can vary depending on the competitiveness and nature of the program.

Your academic background will likely be the most important variable. While each university posts different cut-offs, in general, you’ll need to have a GPA of around 3.0 on a 4.0 scale, at the very least. An undergraduate degree in business isn’t always required, but you may need to have some experience in topics like statistics, calculus, or marketing.

GRE (Graduate Record Examination) scores are sometimes required, but the more common test for business school applicants is the GMAT. Take your test well ahead of time, but not too far ahead—most schools won’t accept scores that are more than five years old. Try to plan on taking this test about six to eight months before you plan on starting your applications. 

There are other supplemental documents you’ll want to prepare for your application, too. Most universities request a resume. It can be challenging to create a resume for business school, especially if you’re an entrepreneur with more eclectic work experience. You will want to be as detailed and as clear as possible when writing up your resume for business school. Include quantified results that show exactly what you do in your job on a daily basis and clarify any professional accomplishments you might have.

You’ll also want to think carefully about your recommenders. It can be hard to choose a recommender if you have never had a direct supervisor—something that is frequently the case for business school applicants. Therefore, you will want to consider other recommenders like professors, senior colleagues from volunteer activities, board members, or clients, to give you a glowing review for your business school applications. 

Besides that, you may also be asked to participate in an interview (be sure to start practicing right away!) or submit a personal statement or similar written portfolio of work. Don’t wait until the last minute to start putting things together!

See Also: 20 Best Online MBA in Strategy

What About Financial Aid & Scholarships?

Landing financial aid and scholarships at top business schools can be highly competitive. Often, gift aid like grants and scholarships is reserved for the very top academics. However, that is certainly not always the case—so don’t assume that you’ve exhausted all of your opportunities for “free money” as an undergraduate!

In fact, searching for financial aid is one of the best ways to make earning a master’s in entrepreneurship more affordable. Many graduate students assume that they won’t qualify for any aid, perhaps because they have full-time, decent-paying jobs or because they are older students that received lots of financial aid as undergraduates.

That is rarely the case. It’s true that some forms of financial aid are reserved for undergraduates, but certainly not all.

You will want to get started in your search by completing the FAFSA—the Free Application for Federal Student Aid. This form is available to all students to complete and pulls together financial information from documents like your W2s and tax returns. It uses this information to determine your eligibility for state and federal aid like loans, grants, and work-study. The universities you apply to will also use your FAFSA details to figure out whether you might be eligible for need-based institutional aid.

Many graduate students qualify for Pell grants as well as for Unsubsidized Direct Stafford Loans. Of course, fellowships, assistantships, and work-study aren’t out of the question, either. These kinds of work-based programs are highly beneficial for graduate students, especially graduate students who aren’t already employed and working full-time, because they will allow you to gain work experience while also receiving a generous stipend that can be used to pay for your tuition and fees.

Don’t forget that many business specialists will also benefit from career-specific financial aid that is offered by professional organizations and industry associations. In particular, women and members of various minority groups enjoy access to more targeted aid from advocacy organizations. Many business schools offer scholarships for academically gifted applicants, too. 

Tenacity is key when it comes to applying for financial aid. Assume nothing—many scholarships and grants go unawarded each year simply because zero students apply for them. You might think you’re not the best candidate for an award, but you never know! 

Another thing you should never assume? That a university is too expensive for you (at least, not until you’ve received your financial aid package). Too many students assume that private universities will be too pricey, looking only at the “sticker price” advertised for tuition and fees on the school’s website. However, private schools often offer generous financial aid that can make them the same price—or even less expensive—than public universities. 

Just make sure any schools you apply to are accredited. As a student at an accredited university, you’ll be eligible for both federal and state financial aid. Accreditation also points to the overall quality and marketability of a program, so it’s important to be on the lookout for schools that fall into this category.

See Also: Best Master’s in Entrepreneurship

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

If you are thinking about earning a master’s in entrepreneurship, you might be wondering whether you’ll still find yourself saddled down with a typical 9-to-5 job. The good news about pursuing one of these degrees is that you’ll be able to tailor your career path to meet your unique needs and goals—there is no cookie-cutter formula to being successful as a master’s in entrepreneurship graduate.

Some people are born entrepreneurs, wanting to work tirelessly to see their goals through—and to see their business ventures succeed. Many of these professionals are born with the skills they need to be successful. For other people, though, earning a master’s in entrepreneurship is necessary to help them beat the odds and create a successful company. 

Because of this level of diversity, you’ll be just as varied in the career you ultimately select. Some innovators start a business right away while others go on to additional education beyond the MBA (or choose to work for other employers or companies first). 

Some of the most common job titles associated with a master’s in entrepreneurship are as senior product managers and management consultants. 

As a product manager, you might find yourself working in a manufacturing, technology, or science industry. You’ll oversee the daily operations of some kind of production facility and need a bachelor’s degree, at the bare minimum, to break into this field. Earning a master’s in leadership is smart, since it will equip you with the skills in leadership and creative thinking that you need to be a strong manager.

The salaries for this field are highly competitive, with professionals bringing in an average of $108,790 per year. Though the growth rate is slower than average—about 1%—you’ll find that this is a rewarding career to dive into if that’s where your passions lie!  

As a management consultant, you’ll recommend ways to improve an organization’s efficiency. You may gather information about the problems that a company needs to be solved or conduct informal observations and experiments to figure out what kind of data or systems are needed for improvement. 

Again, this field is highly lucrative. You’ll earn an average salary of around $87,660 per year and you may find yourself working in fields like professional, scientific, and technical services or even in more specialized areas like finance and insurance. The growth rate for jobs in this field also has a positive outlook. Employment of management analysts, in fact, is expected to grow by 11% by 2029. This is significantly faster than the national average! 

The list of potential job opportunities—and their impressive salaries—certainly does not end there. As an entrepreneur, you’re free to start your own business or start-up, but you’ll also have the skills necessary to pursue work as an accountant, budget analyst, financial analyst, training specialist, purchasing manager, and much, much more. Of course, the sky’s the limit in terms of how much money you can make, too! 

See Also: Online MBA Programs That Don’t Require GMAT

What Are the Best Master’s in Entrepreneurship 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. Texas A&M University-College Station

MS Entrepreneurial Leadership

You’ll be hard-pressed to find a ranking of the top master’s in entrepreneurship that doesn’t include Texas A&M University-College Station as a cornerstone. Founded in 1871, Texas A&M University was created by the state legislature as an agricultural and technical college. As the first public university in the state of Texas, it is now a public research university that serves the largest number of students in the state (and the second in the entire country!).

A member of the Association of American Universities (a hallmark of this school’s commitment to excellence in research and innovation), Texas A&M is also recognized as a land, sea, and space-grant institution. It’s also the founding member of the Texas A&M system and ranked highly by the U.S. News & World Report as a top public school and a best value school, too.

Here, you’ll find a Master of Science in entrepreneurial leadership that has emphasis areas in both Tax and Audit. You’ll be able to take classes like Negotiations, Creativity and Innovation, Technology Commercialization, Leadership, and more. All in all, you’ll complete at least 36 credit hours of coursework. Although you’ll be able to hone your skills in research and creativity, this program is unique in that it does not require a master’s thesis. 

There are plenty of student organizations you can join to help you gain more experience. Some of the most popular include the Aggie Women MBAs, the Consulting Club, and the Mays MBA International Student Organization.

Also, you can participate in a co-op program that will allow you to complete a joint degree with other offerings at Texas A&M, such as a JD/MBA, a DVM/MBA, an MD/MBA or an MS in biomedical engineering/MBA.

Tuition is remarkably affordable at Texas A&M University, with rates starting at just $21,440 per semester for resident students. You’ll need two to three years to complete your degree, but it’s important to note that the cost you’ll pay to attend this school is worth the investment. The average graduate goes on to earn an average salary of $101,878 per year! 

Of course, there are plenty of financial aid opportunities to consider, too. You can apply for various forms of financial aid like military benefits, student loans, grants, scholarships, waivers, and more. There are also student employment opportunities you can pursue that will allow you to gain work experience in addition to paying for the cost of your degree. 

You can apply in the spring or fall for fall admission but if you want your application to be competitive, do so sooner rather than later. You’ll need to have around ten years of work experience, or at least seven years of work experience with significant managerial experience. Of course, you will also need to have an undergraduate degree. The GMAT or GRE may also be required. 

#2.  University of Florida

Master of Science in Entrepreneurship

With 16 academic colleges and more than 150 different research institutes and centers, the University of Florida offers a wide variety of graduate professional programs, including those in pharmacy, law, engineering, dentistry, veterinary medicine, and of course, business administration. All of this (and more!) can be found on just one contiguous campus in Gainesville, FL. 

A member of the State University System of Florida, this school has been around since 1906. It is ranked as one of the top public universities in the country by the U.S. News & World Report and is frequently commended for its high levels of research activity and strong academics. 

The Thomas S. Johnson Master of Science in Entrepreneurship program at the University of Florida combines both practice and principle via transformational experiential learning opportunities and a rigorous hands-on curriculum. 

You will be able to choose between one of two roles in this program—that of the launcher or that of the innovator. As a launcher, you’ll be able to take classes that will teach you the skills you need to launch a company. As an innovator, you’ll take classes that prepare you for work in a startup or a more mature company that’s looking to grow as quickly as possible.  

In just a single year of study, you’ll gain the experience you need to launch your own business. Your studies will provide you with valuable insight from seasoned entrepreneurs along with access to a global entrepreneurial perspective through global study abroad experiences. You can even connect to a professional network with the Startup Ecosystem in Gainesville. 

Although most students can complete their studies in just one year, others choose to extend their learning experiences to more than that to accommodate other aspects of their busy lives. You can choose from courses offered both online as well as on-campus. 

As a student at the University of Florida, you’ll have access to a variety of facilities and resources like the Entrepreneurship and Innovation Center, JumpstART, the Big Idea Gator Business Plan Competition, and TEDxUF. 

This degree is perfect for any student who wants to do something extraordinary with their degrees. It’s also extraordinary. As long as you live in the southeast United States, you might qualify for in-state tuition. The department also hires a limited number of student assistants to work in the center each year so you can gain hands-on experience while also paying for the cost of your education. There are lots of scholarship opportunities, too.

A final unique feature of this top program is its participation in the Employee Education Program. Though not available for students who wish to study online, it is a great way to fund your education if you choose to study on campus. 

To apply for the Master of Science, you will need to have a bachelor’s degree with a 3.0 GPA or higher. In addition to a graduate application, you will also need to submit a statement of purpose, two letters of recommendation, a resume, and official transcripts. GMAT or GRE scores are also required.  

#3.  The University of Texas at Dallas

Master of Science in Innovation and Entrepreneurship

The University of Texas at Dallas is a public university located in Richardson, TX. The largest public school in Dallas, it was initially founded as a private research institution affiliated with Texas Instruments. It was created with the goal of educating qualified personnel to work at Texas Instruments, educating students in topics like physical science and engineering.

At the time of its founding, the school only offered graduate programs but today offers a wide variety of undergraduate degrees as well. Its entrepreneurial nature and its historic roots, which are deeply entrenched in science, technology, and business, makes the University of Texas at Dallas the prime spot for students seeking a master’s degree in innovation and entrepreneurship.

This program is a 36-credit hour degree that’s offered by the Naveen Jindal School of Management. It will prepare you for a variety of careers in things like angel or venture capital investment, new venture development, or entrepreneurial finance. You can also pursue an innovation-related role in an established organization, like business development or strategic marketing. 

The degree is ranked as one of Princeton Review’s Top Schools for Entrepreneurship in 2017 as well as a National Model Master’s Program by the United States Association for Small Business and Entrepreneurship. 

You will be able to choose between two focus areas: one in new venture or one in innovation within the corporation. Whichever you choose, you’ll emphasize technology-based innovation that is consistent with the school’s strengths in computer science, management, science, or engineering. 

When you choose to study in this program, you’ll have access to multiple field experiences, including an immersive opportunity in Silicon Valley. You’ll learn from seasoned entrepreneurs and first-class faculty who are thought leaders in their niches. The curriculum is meaningful and will enable you to earn marketable skills that will improve your ability to build your empire. Of course, you’ll have access to Business Career Services, a thriving startup community in Gainesville, and plenty of global connections to boot. 

A highly student-centric program, it will enable you to consult for small businesses and learn how to commercialize technology for the greater good. You’ll be exposed to cutting-edge theory and practice in this 32-credit hour degree. 

This program is one of the most affordable of its kind. Nearly 70% of students here receive some form of financial aid, be it need-based or merit-based. Tuition rates are low, too, offering an excellent return on investment for the vast majority of students.  

To be eligible for admission, you will need to have competitive GMAT or GRE scores from within the last five years. You must maintain a 3.0 GPA in your core courses to qualify for this degree and of course, have a bachelor’s degree in a related field. You’ll also need to have at least one letter of recommendation, a resume, and an admissions essay. 

#4.  University of South Florida

Entrepreneurship in Applied Technologies, M.S.

Founded only in 1956, the University of South Florida is far from the oldest school on this list—yet it’s one of the best. It is one of the largest public universities in the state of Florida by enrollment and is home to the former site of a WWII airstrip. This school is considered one of the country’s fastest-growing universities, conducting significant amounts of research in areas like sustainability, urban transportation, and healthcare. 

The first independent state university, USF offers an interdisciplinary degree in entrepreneurship so that you can pursue fresh ideas, commercialize your products, and learn how to access and assess burgeoning markets and technologies.

With an emphasis on social responsibility and sustainability, this degree includes 15 credits of core courses, allowing you to study areas like team leadership and technology commercialization. Of course, you can also take electives in fields like intellectual property, biotechnology, and global entrepreneurship, too.

When you decide to take classes on an accelerated basis, you can complete this degree in as little as 12 months! Offered by the Center for Entrepreneurship in conjunction with the College of Business and Engineering, this novel and unique major is highly interdisciplinary and will prepare you for a career in technology and market assessment, new venture formation, and much, much more. 

A 30-credit hour program, it includes six credit hours of core classes in addition to the fifteen credit hours of electives. The rest of your course requirements will be filled in with required courses that will expose you to other areas of the business world.

You will take classes like Strategies in Technology Entrepreneurship, Business Plan Development, New Product Development, Creativity and Design, and Intellectual Property. A non-thesis program, it will require you to complete a major project within the Business Plan Development class in order to graduate. 

It can be completed on its own or concurrently with degrees like the information systems master’s, the global sustainability master’s, the MD, or the biomedical engineering degree.

To apply, you will need to submit two letters of recommendation and a letter of interest. A personal interview is required, as are GMAT or GRE test scores. You must demonstrate competencies in accounting, finance, and statistics but you do not have to have a degree specifically in business in order to qualify.

However, if you need to make up some foundational courses in order to be prepared for this degree, you can do so here before completing the rest of your degree. Without these foundational courses, the starting cost of tuition is extremely low. You’ll pay just around $17,000 for the entire program as an in-state student. 

Of course, financial aid is available for qualifying students, too. Ninety-eight percent of all students here receive some form of financial aid, be it scholarships, loans, grants, or assistantships, making it one of the most affordable programs of its kind. 

#5.  University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill

Entrepreneurship (MBA)

Founded in 1789, the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill is the flagship campus of the massive University of North Carolina system—this system is home to a whopping 16 other schools, in fact! Along with North Carolina State University and Duke University, the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill forms one corner of the region’s famed Research Triangle.

Consider pursuing the Master of Business Administration in entrepreneurship here—you won’t regret it. Graduates of this degree have gone on to pursue entrepreneurial roles at companies like IBM and Goldman Sachs. You’ll be able to pursue all kinds of professional development and experiential learning opportunities within his program as you take core courses such as Entrepreneurs Lab, Strategic Innovation, Sales, and Innovation and Design Thinking. 

As a student in this program, you will be able to choose between concentrations like Funder, Founder, or Growth Executive/Intrapreneur. That way, you can tailor your courses to whichever pathway makes the most sense for you. You’ll build a solid entrepreneurial mindset via your courses along with the professional network you need to make a serious impact. 

You will have access to all kinds of resources like the UNC Kenan-Flagler Private Equity Fund and the UNC-Kenan Flager alumni network. You’ll be able to join a globally active network of nearly 1,200 entrepreneurship alumni who work as entrepreneurs, private equity investors, venture capitalists, and more. You can connect with the broad alumni network at UNC by participating in the Eship Center, a resource on campus that operates programs like Coaches Corner and Ask an Innovator. 

The Kenan-Flagler Private Equity Fund, on the other hand, is another unique opportunity that is the only student-run fund that is associated with a top-tier business school. Here, you’ll be able to provide real returns to limited partners with more than $4.4 million of committed capital across two funds. You’ll be able to mentor and coach other students as you leverage your industry expertise and network. This will provide you with real-world experience that will prove to be valuable to you regardless of whether you choose to pursue your own business ventures or work for an outside employer. 

An affordable degree, the entrepreneurship MBA at UNC offers competitive tuition rates. You’ll pay around $51,152 for the entire program as a state resident. Plus, about half of all students there receive merit-based fellowships along with reduced-rate tuition, student loans, private scholarships, and other opportunities. 

Is the MBA at Kenan-Flagler right for you? If so, you’ll want to start your application right away—admissions is competitive! You don’t have to have a background in business, but you should have a working knowledge of statistics, calculus, economics, and financial accounting. You will need around five years of work experience. 

In addition to a formal application, you will also need to submit several essays, a resume, transcripts, test scores, and letters of recommendation. An interview is also a required portion of the application that you will want to prepare for! 

#6.  University of Virginia

MBA Entrepreneurship Concentration

The flagship university of the state of Virginia, the University of Virginia was founded in 1819 by founding father Thomas Jefferson himself. Located in Charlottesville, VA, the University of Virginia is cloaked in mystique, noted for its many secret societies, its rich and diverse history, and its student-run honor code. 

It’s one of the top schools in the country, hosting top accolades by U.S. News & World Report and more. In fact, this publication ranks the Darden School of Business as being one of the best business schools in the nation. 

The Master of Business Administration at the University of Virginia has a concentration in entrepreneurship that is second to none. Offered by the Darden School of Business, this program will help you build your confidence and grow core entrepreneurial skills as you launch your new business venture. 

You’ll be able to choose many of your own classes, designing your own schedule as you take courses such as Management Communication, Business Ethics, Strategic Thinking and Action, and Decisions Analysis. 

Of course, you’ll be able to branch out by taking courses at the one-of-a-kind Batten Institute for Entrepreneurship and Innovation, too, taking courses here like Venture Velocity, Artificial Intelligence and the Future of Work, Software Design, and Digital Marketing. You can even engage in experiential learning experiences by working in a state-of-the-art business incubator, in a venture capital boot camp workshop, or a startup academy program. There are even venture fellowships and internship programs you can pursue. 

The Darden MBA has long been recognized as a leading program in general management, ranked best in the country by Financial Times. It has an integrated core curriculum and a unique case study method that will show you just how all areas of a business can work together and impact each other. You will learn from expert instructors as you complete 12 credits from a select group of electives in your entrepreneurship specialization.

Another unique feature of this program. It is STEM-designated, meaning that international students in F-1 status who meet certain requirements can have the possibility of three years of work authorization in the United States after they graduate. 

Earning a master’s degree at the University of Virginia doesn’t have to be expensive, either. The school offers significant cost savings through low tuition rates along with partial and full-tuition scholarships, end-based scholarships, corporate sponsorship, federal and private loans, the GI bill, and more. There are plenty of ways to cover the cost of attending the full-time MBA with an entrepreneurship concentration at Darden. 

Is Darden your future home? If so, you will want to start by selecting your deadline. This business school has five separate deadlines for you to choose from throughout the year, with courses starting in the fall. You will need to send in official transcripts along with GMAT test scores. Other supporting documents you will need to supply are letters of recommendation, answers to short answer questions, and a detailed resume. 

#7.  Temple University

Innovation Management and Entrepreneurship MS

Founded in 1884 in Philadelphia, PA, Temple University was created by Baptist minister Russell Conwell. The school was founded with a unique mission—to cater to students who had to work late at night to accommodate their busy schedules. Since the school’s first students were those studying in the Baptist Temple as “night owls,” the nickname and mascot of Temple is, fittingly, the owl! 

Study at Temple University today, and you’ll find the same kind of commitment to educating students from all backgrounds echoed throughout every aspect of this unique program. This public state-related research university is an international university with nearly a dozen campuses throughout the state as well as in global destinations like Tokyo and Rome. 

The Master of Science in innovation management and entrepreneurship is offered by the award-winning Fox School of Business. It’s a program rooted firmly in innovation, allowing you to build your skills in organization, creative thinking, strategy, and management. You can specialize in tracks like technology and innovation management, innovation strategy, or entrepreneurship. There are separate graduate certificates for each of these areas, too, if you want to make yourself even more marketable by earning extra skills.

A 30-credit hour program, it includes just three more courses:  Creativity Unleashed, Principles of Strategy and Management, and Business Model Innovation. Besides that, everything else can be completed via electives—and on your own terms.

Available online, in-person, or in a hybrid fashion, you can choose whether you want to complete your classes on a full- or part-time basis, too. No matter which format you choose, you’ll have plenty of opportunities to get involved. Temple is home to multiple student clubs and organizations. For example, you might join the LEague for Entrepreneurial Women if you want to become an advocate for career-minded women in the Philadelphia Region.

You could also join the Innovate and Create LLC or the Entrepreneurial Students Association. There are more than two dozen options for you to choose from, too, all of which will allow you to enhance your academic experience. Many of these experiences are uniquely tailored to students in the internship track while others are available to all students in the Fox School of Business. 

Don’t forget about the global immersions, either. The global immersions at Fox are destination-focused experiences that will allow you to engage with the culture, business practices, and language of another country. Recent destinations include Latin America, South Africa, India, and China, with participating companies such a Black and Decker and Microsoft making the list. 

This affordable program has tuition that is the same for both in-state and out-of-state students, making it a viable option for students from anywhere in the country. You’ll have plenty of options for financial aid, too, including assistantships, loans, and more. 

When you’re ready to apply, you will need to submit an online application along with supporting materials like a resume, letters of recommendation, essays, GMAT scores, and transcripts. You should have a bachelor’s degree with a minimum 3.0 GPA. 

#8.  Fayetteville State University

MBA in Entrepreneurship

A public regional university in Fayetteville, NC, Fayetteville State University is part of the Thurgood Marshall College Fund and the University of North Carolina System. A historically black university, this school has a mission of providing high-quality education to students via a strong liberal arts foundation along with specific, highly professional graduate programs.

In addition to 23 master’s degrees and 43 bachelor’s degrees, Fayetteville State University also offers one of the best master’s in business administration with a concentration in entrepreneurship. It’s designed to give you the opportunity to create an innovative business plan and to have the tools necessary for a current business venture as well.

In total, you will complete around 39 credit hours of study. These credits are broken down into 27 credits of core classes along with two electives and a capstone project. The exact classes you take may vary depending on your preferences and career goals, but in general, you’ll be able to pursue concentration-specific electives like Management of Technology, International Business Management, Electronic Commerce, and New Ventures and Entrepreneurship. 

The internship track is not the only concentration offered as part of the MBA program at Fayetteville, either. You may also choose from concentrations in business intelligence and data analytics, finance, health informatics, marketing, management, project management, supply chain management, and more.

Because of this diversity of offerings, you will likely find that this program allows you to interact with students with varied career goals and backgrounds. This will only add to your professional network and to the opportunities you have to succeed as a student here. Graduates of the entrepreneurship track go on to careers as founders, growth marketers, venture capitalists, innovation consultants, and much more. 

As a student at Fayetteville State University, you’ll benefit from exceptional faculty support, small class sizes, and professors who have outstanding credentials. You will have access to industry-leading software tools, fully recorded and live lectures, and the best value in the UNC system.

In fact, this degree is the most budget-friendly MBA program in the entire UNC system, allowing you to pay a fraction of the cost of tuition you might have to pay at other UNC schools while still benefiting from the excellent program recognition and full AACSB accreditation boosted by the system. Of course, you’ll have ample access to financial aid and special funding options for veterans and military members, too. 

Tuition starts at just $12,127.94 for in-state students. Financial aid opportunities like graduate assistantships, loans, internships, employer assistance programs, and more are available as well.

Is Fayetteville State the right fit for you? If the answer to that question is young, “yes!” then all that’s left is to apply. There are four start dates each year. You will need to submit an online application along with transcripts evidencing that you completed a bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution. You will need to have an undergraduate GPA of 2.75 or higher along with a minimum GMAT score of 400. Letters of recommendation are also required.

#9.  Massachusetts Institute of Technology

MBA Entrepreneurship & Innovation Track

Located in Cambridge, MA, the Massachusetts Institute of Technology was first founded in 1861 the collegiate response to a national push toward industrialization. It was modeled after some of the country’s first polytechnic universities and offered degrees emphasizing engineering, applied science, and laboratory learning environments.

Today, MIT is a private research university that has a reputation for being one of the most prestigious in the country, joining the ranks of other top schools like Harvard University and Yale University. It has contributed countless hours of research to the fields of mathematics, engineering, science, innovation, and of course, business. The school has an urban campus just outside of Boston that makes it perfect for aspiring entrepreneurs.

Ranked as one of the top schools in the nation by U.S. News & World Report—it has received mentions as a Best Value School, a Most Innovative School, and a leading National University—MIT also ranks as one of the best in the country for its pathways in entrepreneurship. 

The Master of Business Administration has a concentration in entrepreneurship and innovation that’s offered by the university’s Martin Trust Center for MIT Entrepreneurship. It’s designed for students who are taking courses within the MIT Sloan School of Management’s MBA program. In this track, you’ll learn how to develop and launch your own company (typically, a company in the tech industry) by taking in-depth courses and pursuing real-world exercises and team activities.

You’ll take classes such as Managing in Adversity, Healthcare Ventures, Media Ventures, and Global Entrepreneurship Lab. As a student in this program, you’ll also be able to visit Silicon Valley so that you can network and learn in the nation’s innovation capital. You can even engage in the creation of a startup by working on problem-solving, team-building, and innovating exercises. 

Of course, you can compete in a variety of competitions, too. The MIT $100K Entrepreneurship Competition and the MIT Clean Energy Prize are great ways for you to earn money and create new ventures focusing on pitching, accelerating, and launching new ventures. 

This program is offered by one of the more expensive universities in the country, but that doesn’t mean it has to be expensive for you to attend. You can receive all kinds of financial assistance to be an MIT student. The Legatum Center Fellowship or Seed Grant is an example of one program that will allow you to pursue an entrepreneurial experience in the developing world while you are a student, while the Sandbox Innovation Fund will allow you to receive $10,000 or more to help fund your innovation-focused startup. 

A highly competitive program, the MBA in entrepreneurship and innovation at MIT features enrollment that is available on a first-come, first-served basis. You’ll need to submit a written application in the summer prior to entry. You’ll also need to complete an online survey of your background and interests. Though competitive, this program does have a waitlist. 

#10.  Ball State University

Master of Business Administration Concentration in Entrepreneurship

Located in Muncie, IN, Ball State University is a public research university with satellite campuses in Indianapolis and Fishers. It was founded by the Ball brothers, the founders of the famed Ball Corporation. This entrepreneurial spirit is at the heart of what makes Ball State such an impressive institution.

Composed of seven different colleges, Ball State University is home to more than 21,000 students, many of whom study at the graduate level. As a student here, you’ll be able to choose from more than 220 different programs of study and even 400 different organizations and clubs—but you may not find that you have too much time to spray on leisure as an MBA student here! It’s an incredibly in-depth program that will have you building professional connections and learning the ins and outs of business from day one of your studies.

The master’s in entrepreneurship is a concentration in the Master of Business Administration (MBA) program. It’s accredited by the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business. One of the most flexible programs on this list, it can be completed on a part- or full-time basis. You can start your courses in the spring, fall, or summer semester. 

Don’t have a business background? No problem. You’ll just need to complete 51 credits in foundational business classes before you start your degree. Once those are finished, you’ll take core classes covering topics like entrepreneurial planning and entrepreneurial innovation. 

This is just one of several different customizations that you can pursue as a student in the MBA. Other options include construction management, business analytics, and artificial intelligence, just to name a few. You’ll be able to complete class projects that build upon each other and you’ll be guided by faculty with a solid track record in entrepreneurship.

A customer-focused program, it will enable you to get feedback on assignments within 24 hours. You don’t have to have a business degree or a background in finance or economics to complete this program, so you’ll enjoy a highly customized curriculum as you study among a diverse group of classmates.

And if you’re looking for even more opportunities for customization, you can find it here, too. The program is flexible enough that you can earn credits toward an MBA by pursuing certificates in specialized fields like health economics and professional sales. 

This program is one of the most affordable you will find, with four out of every five students receiving merit-based and/or need-based financial aid. There are more than 500 scholarships for incoming students. Plus, it has an excellent return on investment, with hundreds of employers engaged in on-campus recruiting efforts each year. 

Ready to apply? You will need to submit all of your materials about two weeks prior to the start of the semester you wish to begin. You must have a bachelor’s degree with a minimum GPA of 2.75 GPA, but the good news is that no GMAT or GRE test scores are required. You just need to submit transcripts and an online application.

OTHER NOTABLE PROGRAMS 

#11. Brigham Young University-Provo

Location: Provo, UT

Degree: MBA Program Entrepreneurship Track

Net Price: $7,080

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#12. DePaul University

Location: Chicago, IL

Degree: Entrepreneurship (MS)

Net Price: $19,422

Website

#13. University of Southern California

Location: Los Angeles, CA

Degree: Master of Science in Entrepreneurship and Innovation

Net Price: $45,561

Website        

#14. Harvard University

Location: Cambridge, MA

Degree: MBA in Entrepreneurship

Net Price: $47,562

Website            

#15. University of Oklahoma-Norman Campus

Location: Norman, OK

Degree: Full-time MBA in Entrepreneurship (Electives)

Net Price: $8,577

Website           

#16. Indiana University-Bloomington

Location: Bloomington, IN

Degree: Entrepreneurship & Corporate Innovation – Master of Business Administration (MBA)

Net Price: $10,564

Website     

#17. University of Arizona

Location: Tucson, AZ

Degree: Entrepreneurship (MS)

Net Price: $11,932

Website

#18. University of Pennsylvania

Location: Philadelphia, PA

Degree: Entrepreneurship and Innovation, MBA

Net Price: $38,630

Website

#19. Northeastern University

Location: Boston, MA

Degree: Entrepreneurship MBA Concentration

Net Price: $24,309

Website      

#20. Lehigh University

Location: Bethlehem, PA

Degree: Master’s in Technical Entrepreneurship Program

Net Price: $27,130

Website          

#21. University of Washington-Seattle Campus

Location: Seattle, WA

Degree: Master of Science in Entrepreneurship

Net Price: $16,590

Website      

#22. Washington University in St Louis

Location: St. Louis, MO

Degree: MBA in Entrepreneurship

Net Price: $52,875

Website     

#23. Babson College

Location: Babson Park, MA

Degree: Master of Science in Management in Entrepreneurial Leadership

Net Price: $82,496

Website   

#24. University of Chicago

Location: Chicago, IL

Degree: MBA Entrepreneurship

Net Price:  $58,968

Website      

#25. Baylor University

Location: Waco, TX

Degree: Full-Time MBA in Entrepreneurship and Corporate Innovation

Net Price: $34,146

Website

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