Master’s degrees are becoming more and more common. According to data from the National Center for Education Statistics, there was a 19% rise in master’s degree awards between 2010 and 2021. Furthermore, the US Bureau of Labor Statistics projects a notable increase in master’s degree-requiring jobs over the next ten years.
Can You Get Your Masters Degree Online
Yes, it is very possible to earn a master’s degree entirely online these days. Many universities and colleges offer online master’s programs that allow students to complete their coursework remotely without having to attend in-person classes on campus.
A graduate degree that can be obtained online is an online master’s degree. You can complete this from an entirely online institution that doesn’t provide any in-person instruction, or from a conventionally on-site university that provides particular online degrees. You will complete your coursework at home, either by attending virtual sessions at a predetermined time or by doing asynchronous classes on your schedule, instead of moving to attend an in-person program.
Students are choosing more and more to complete their master’s degrees online. According to an Urban Institute survey from 2018, 31% of students who enrolled in master’s programs in 2016 completed their degrees online. This is because students pursuing master’s degrees are typically older, have full-time jobs, and need more flexibility.
What Types of Master’s Degrees Are Available Online?
The majority of students graduated with master’s degrees in business, education, and health professions during the 2020–2021 academic year. Master’s degrees in engineering and public administration/social services were also in demand.
Many students choose to register in master’s programs like the ones mentioned above to further their interest in a specific industry or job. With courses covering both core subjects and more specialized areas of study, students can acquire advanced knowledge and abilities that will enable them to pursue certain careers after graduation.
Some popular online master’s degrees include:
- Master of Computer Science
- Master of Business Administration (MBA)
- Master of Public Health (MPH)
- Master of Science in Nursing (MSN)
- Master of Engineering (MEng)
- Master of Science in Finance
- Master of Arts in Psychology
- Master of Science in Marketing
- Master of Arts in International Relations
- Master of Arts in Communication
Online Master of Science and Master of Arts programs covering the social sciences, natural sciences, and humanities are also readily accessible. These include biology, arithmetic, marketing, psychology, history, English, and foreign languages.
Like a humanities major, an MA or MS degree can help you prepare for a particular professional path, like that of an economist or historian, but they also encourage the development of broader abilities that will enable you to consider a variety of employment options after graduation.
What can you do with an online master’s degree?
The method of earning a master’s degree differs significantly between an online and in-person program. The curriculum and skill development offered by your online master’s program should be identical to that of a master’s degree obtained through on-campus enrollment. You can seek more advanced roles with an online master’s degree.
Those with master’s degrees typically earn more money as well. The BLS reports that the median annual wage for a master’s degree holder was $86,372, while that of a bachelor’s degree holder was $74,464.
Costs Of An Online Master’s Program
The cost of an on-campus master’s degree varies from $30,000 to $120,000 based on the public or private university you attend [6]. Still, the cost of many online master’s degrees is typically lower. For instance, the $21,440 Master of Computer Science program from the University of Illinois is offered through Coursera.
Your program’s duration will be determined by the courses you take and the location in which you enrol, but a full-time master’s degree program can be completed in as little as 18 months to two years.
Benefits of earning your master’s degree online
Obtaining your master’s degree online has several advantages beyond only being more affordable and allowing you to learn at your speed.
- Work while going to school: Since online master’s programs frequently provide flexible scheduling, it could be simpler to work a full-time job and get your degree at the same time. That not only means you won’t put off developing professionally while concentrating on your school, but it can also assist defray some of the costs associated with earning your degree.
- More school choice: You won’t need to move to enrol in a fully online master’s program, but you will need to apply to every online master’s program you’re thinking about. That means you’ll have more access to some of the top-rated schools in the country—and around the world.
- Network with your peers: You no longer have to give up the advantages of networking and mingling with your peers to pursue an online master’s degree. By employing a variety of online resources, an increasing number of master’s degree programs encourage these kinds of interactions.
- Develop critical employment skills: Because online learning is flexible and self-paced, completing a bachelor’s degree demands self-discipline and time management. These are critical job skills, and obtaining an online master’s degree can help you hone your capabilities in each.
How To Apply To An Online Master’s Program
The application process for an online master’s degree is comparatively comparable to that of an on-campus school. Make sure you have all of your resources together in time by keeping an eye on the deadlines of the programs that most interest you as you narrow them down.
Although the prerequisites for each institution or university may vary, you should plan to provide the following materials in addition to the application you’ll need to complete for each program:
- Standardized test scores (GRE or GMAT)
- Transcripts for undergraduates
- Personal statement
- Sample writing (depending on the program)
- Letters of recommendation
Conclusion
The ability to acquire a master’s degree online has become a priceless chance for driven people looking to better their careers, as the need for advanced skills and specialized knowledge grows across a range of industries. Students can now pursue their educational objectives without abandoning the obligations and duties of their daily lives by taking advantage of the flexibility and convenience that come with online learning.
The emergence of online master’s programs has fundamentally changed the way we think about higher education by enabling students from all backgrounds and places to enrol in authorized, high-quality programs that suit their professional goals. The online master’s degree has become popular among those who want to get deeper knowledge, progress in their existing positions, or enter a new sector a transformative pathway to personal and professional success.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the benefits of earning a master’s degree online?
- Key benefits of online master’s programs include scheduling flexibility, the ability to continue working while studying, reduced commuting and relocation costs, and access to a broader range of program options beyond local institutions. Online learning also allows for more self-paced study and the convenience of accessing course materials anytime, anywhere.
How do online master’s programs compare to traditional on-campus programs?
- While the curriculum and academic rigour are typically equivalent, online master’s programs offer a different learning experience. Online students engage through virtual classrooms, discussion boards, recorded lectures, and collaborative projects, rather than face-to-face instruction. However, many programs still incorporate opportunities for in-person residencies or immersions.
Are online master’s degrees respected by employers?
- Yes, reputable online master’s degrees from accredited universities are generally viewed as equivalent to traditional on-campus programs by employers, provided the curriculum and learning outcomes are comparable. Employers tend to focus more on the prestige of the institution and the relevance of the degree to the job role.
How do I choose the right online master’s program?
- When selecting an online master’s program, consider factors such as the university’s reputation, program rankings, accreditation status, course delivery methods, faculty qualifications, student support services, and alignment with your career goals. It’s also important to ensure the program is a good fit for your learning style and schedule.
What is the cost of an online master’s degree?
- The cost of online master’s programs can vary significantly depending on the institution, program, and residency requirements. Generally, online master’s degrees tend to be more affordable than their on-campus counterparts due to the elimination of certain expenses like housing and transportation. However, it’s crucial to research the total cost, including tuition, fees, and any additional expenses.