Top 50 Online Master’s Degrees for 2025

Online Vs On-Campus

It's not only bachelor’s degrees, but also master’s degrees which have moved into the online arena. Since most higher-level degrees are more academic than hands-on, they are perfect for completing in a 100% online format. However, you should think hard about whether or not you will do well in an online master's degree before starting the master's program in this format.

While online master's degrees allow for flexibility, virtual master's programs require a lot of time management and negate the possibility of face-to-face interaction and most chances for networking that you might have in an on-campus class. If you need to keep your job or care for family members, then this will give you the freedom to do so, but you’re going to have to work extra hard to hold yourself accountable to the schedule that is expected of you. It may also still take you more than two years to complete any of these programs depending on the time you have available to put towards your schooling.

If you have problems focusing on academic study, you may want to opt for a traditional experience or take a few classes on campus to give you a cohort for the more difficult courses of your master's degree.

How long does it take?

The time it will take to complete an online master’s degree will vary based on the type of master's degree and whether or not you complete it online or on-campus. Most people who take an online master's degree will do so for the flexibility to be able to continue to work as a full-time employee. This will limit the number of classes one can take during the academic year. Most graduate degrees take one year or two years to complete as a full-time student for both online and on-campus programs. Fewer programs take six semesters as a full-time student to complete. The fewer number of courses you complete each academic semester, the longer it will take for you to complete your degree, whether on-campus or online.

How much does a Master’s degree cost?

The cost of a master’s degree is dependent partially upon the type of university or higher learning institution you choose to attend. Students who select a private college or university could end up paying more than double the rate they would pay if they were to attend a public college or university. In 2017, the average master’s degree cost nearly $25,000 for one year of schooling. It is important to note that over the past decade, the cost of a master’s degree has increased by roughly 45% at public colleges and universities; whereas, the cost at a private college or university has only increased by 16%.

With the growing popularity of advanced degrees, the trend of increasing costs of master’s degrees is projected to continue. And now, some traditional higher learning institutions are beginning to charge more for online master’s degrees as well, claiming it is for the convenience of learning at home. Other reputable institutions will establish a price for online master's degrees to be reflective of the actual operating costs which is a tremendous savings to online master’s degree students over a traditional classroom.

Does the school have the college major(s) you’re considering?

When selecting the right higher learning institute for your needs, it's imperative that you consider the types of degrees and majors offered at the college or university. The master’s degree you choose should be directly related to the career path you wish to take. While the degree does not have to be the exact niche which you wish to pursue, it must be in the same field.

It is also important to consider your long-term career plans. If you wish to become an administrator at a hospital, it is a good idea to specialize in hospital administration so that you can learn both business and healthcare skills that are essential to successfully manage such a unique industry. You should only enroll in a higher learning institution that offers whatever master’s degree is directly beneficial to your immediate and future career paths.

How many students graduate “on time,” in four years?

The on-time graduation rate is a highly important factor to consider. Colleges and universities with low on-time graduation rates might have them for a number of reasons. It could equate to the fact the program is overly difficult, with few students capable of completing the degree program. It is possible that the program is not living up to its promises or that the professors are not excelling in their teaching efforts.

A low on-time graduation rate in four-years is generally not considered a positive selling point. If a school as a high on-time graduation rate, this is usually beneficial to all parties. This means the college or university is working with both professors and students to create the most optimal curriculum for all parties involved. A high on-time graduation rate also results in lower education expenses related to your degree program outside of tuition.