Guide to master's degrees online

By: Janice Mejías Avilés, Edited by: Gabriela Pérez Jordán

Published: January 22, 2025

Life isn't linear, and neither is professional growth. Pursuing an online master's degree may help you build new skills and access diverse job opportunities without pausing your career.

Use this guide to find an online master's degree that aligns with your goals and learn how to navigate the application process.

Online master's degree overview

Online master's programs may be an excellent alternative for working professionals. They offer flexible, self-paced schedules and industry-relevant curricula developed by experts at top universities.

These online graduate programs offer a broad range of specializations without geographic limitations and often have lower tuition costs than traditional on-campus options.

According to the National Center for Education Statistics, the median annual tuition and fees for an in-person master's program in 2020 were $9,880. In contrast, the median yearly cost for online master's programs was $7,920.

Types of online master's degrees you can pursue

There are different types of online master's degrees, varying by field of study and educational approach — whether they are more research or practice-oriented.

Some online master's degrees you may consider include:

• Master of arts (MA): MA programs are ideal for individuals looking to deepen their theoretical knowledge, research, and writing skills in the communications, marketing, humanities, social sciences, and creative disciplines.
• Master of business administration (MBA): For aspiring business leaders, an MBA program covers business analytics, business strategy, finance, and management. It prepares learners for C-suite and senior leadership roles across industries.
• Master of education (MEd): MEd programs offer advanced training in specialized areas of education, teaching methods, and educational leadership, preparing graduates for administrative or consulting roles outside the classroom.
• Master of legal studies (MSL): For professionals seeking legal expertise without becoming a lawyer, an MLS program provides legal foundations and compliance principles applicable to business, finance, healthcare, and the public sector.
• Master of public health (MPH): These programs prepare students for careers in public health, focusing on public policy, epidemiology, community health initiatives, and global health and its intersections with patient populations, climate change, and informatics.
• Master of science (MS or MSc): MS programs emphasize advanced research, analytical, and quantitative skills in scientific or technical fields. Common MS areas of study include computer science, data science, engineering, and information technology.
• Master of science in nursing (MSN): Tailored to nursing professionals, MSN programs offer advanced clinical knowledge and leadership training, routing graduates towards roles as advanced practice registered nurses (APRN), nurse informaticists, nurse educators, or healthcare administrators.
• Master of social work (MSW): This program offers advanced practical training, equipping graduates for social justice advocacy, clinical roles that serve specific populations, and leadership roles in community organizations.

What can you do with an online master's degree?

These careers — which may require or prefer a master's degree — are projected to grow over the next decade, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS):

How to choose the best online master's degree program for you

Selecting the right online master's degree program involves a thorough review of these considerations:

• Program vs. your professional goals: Evaluate the curriculum to ensure it aligns with your career aspirations. Look for programs offering specializations or electives that match your interests. Research the faculty's expertise, industry standing, and available resources for online learners.
• Part-time or full-time study: Consider your obligations, such as work or family, when deciding whether to pursue part-time or full-time study. Ensure the online master's program fits within your available time.
• Tuition cost and how to pay for it: Investigate the total tuition cost and fees, as well as financial aid options like scholarships, grants, and federal student loans, if needed.
• Accreditation status: Ensure the online master's program and school are accredited institutionally and by industry-specific accrediting bodies. This ensures that the program meets industry standards and licensure or certification eligibility for certain professions.
• Placement rates after graduation: Research job placement rates for graduates of each online master's program. Consider your chosen field's earning potential and job outlook to ensure you invest in a program that may lead to careers in your industry.

How to apply to an online master's program

The application process for an online master's program varies but typically includes these steps:

• Submit official transcripts
• Have a minimum of a 3.0 GPA
• Provide a tailored résumé or curriculum vitae
• Procure letters of recommendation from professors or supervisors
• Write a statement of purpose
• Submit standardized test scores, if required (GRE, GMAT, LSAT, or TOEFL)
• Interview with admissions panels (if needed)

Specialized programs may have additional admissions requirements, such as licensure or prior professional experience.

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