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An online master's degree is a postgraduate qualification you can earn online. It allows you to study from home without the need to attend a physical university.
You have two options: enroll in an in-person university that offers online programs, or choose a fully online college without any in-person requirements.
It is a convenient and flexible way to pursue higher education without the need to relocate or attend strict schedules.
Here’s an overview of different online master’s degrees to exemplify:
Master of Business Administration
Online MBA degree programs have become increasingly popular among working professionals and students who cannot attend campus-based programs due to their flexible schedules and 24/7 access.
These distance learning programs offer a well-designed curriculum focusing on business theory and leadership, which can be immediately applied in the workplace. Some of the sought-after MBA specializations include health care, marketing, finance, accounting, project management, entrepreneurship, and human resources.
Online MBA schools provide various study options, including full-time, part-time, and executive programs. Distance learners enjoy round-the-clock access to courses and research libraries. Lectures are delivered through streaming multimedia, Skype, conference calls, Adobe Connect, or other communication tools.
Students can also engage with instructors and peers using digital chat rooms, threaded emails, and instant messaging, depending on the program.
Master of Public Health
An online master's in public health (MPH) program combines theory, research, and practical learning to give you a thorough understanding of public health issues. MPH offers various specialized areas to choose from, like epidemiology, global health, environmental and occupational health, and health services administration.
The faculty and curriculum in online MPH programs are generally the same as campus-based programs, with the main difference being the course delivery method. However, some online MPH programs may have residency requirements, requiring on-campus visits.
You can expect to graduate with valuable skills, including strategic assessment and planning to improve health outcomes, analyzing public health program services, using research tools to assess population health, managing resources based on public health policies, and effectively communicating between scientific and non-scientific audiences.
Master of Marketing
Getting an online master's in marketing is a great way to delve deeper into the marketing field. These programs offer intensive courses that prepare students for higher-level roles like leadership or management positions. Some may even use this degree to start a new career path. Whatever the goal, an online master's in marketing enhances career opportunities and opens doors to career growth.
In online master's degree programs for marketing, students typically have core classes that everyone must take. These classes cover important topics like strategic planning and leadership within the marketing field. The curriculum often includes courses on strategic marketing concepts, where students learn how to optimize marketing campaigns to achieve a company's overall goals.
For students with little prior experience, basic business and accounting classes may be required in the first year of the program. Another crucial aspect covered is management techniques. Students will learn leadership skills to effectively implement marketing plans and oversee their team's work.
Master of History
For those interested in advancing their knowledge in history, an online master's in history degree program is a great option. Online learning allows you to study and excel in the field while managing your work and family commitments.
The first year of the program builds on what you've learned during your undergraduate studies in history. It provides advanced knowledge necessary to meet program requirements and pursue your desired career.
During the program, you'll develop rhetorical techniques to create compelling arguments about historical topics and collect supporting evidence. Understanding historiography will help you write objectively and avoid bias in your research.
Master of Information Technology
With technology continually advancing, information technology (IT) jobs are in high demand. While some positions may be available to those with associate or bachelor's degrees, an online master's degree in IT opens up more career opportunities.
Most online IT master's programs take around two years to complete. However, part-time students may need three or more years, while accelerated courses can lead to graduation in less than two years.
Students get to choose their concentration, tailoring their education to their career goals. Options include business intelligence, cyber security management, IT consulting, and healthcare systems.
A significant part of the program, this project involves in-depth research and writing on an IT-related subject aligned with the student's career aspirations. Advisors help students select the best topic for their goals.
Admission Requirements for Online Master's Programs
To earn a master's degree, you typically need to complete a bachelor's degree first. If you're considering an online graduate program, keep in mind that they usually prefer your bachelor's degree to be relatively recent, within 5-10 years.
They also look for an undergraduate GPA between 2.5 and 3.0 (out of 4), though higher GPAs might be required for certain specialized courses.
When applying to an online graduate school, you'll need to provide:
- Official transcripts from all the colleges you attended.
- Standardized test scores (such as GRE or GMAT).
- A completed application along with the required fees.
- Three letters of recommendation.
- An essay explaining why you chose their program, what you hope to achieve, and highlighting your special talents.
- Other documents, as required by the respective universities.
Online Master’s Degree Career Prospects
| Degree | Job Title | Average Salary (Per Year) |
|---|---|---|
| Master’s in Business Administration | Financial Manager | $115,431 |
| Master’s in Public Health | Biostatistician | $112,306 |
| Master’s in Marketing | Public Relations Manager | $80,623 |
| Master’s in History | Historian | $72,719 |
| Master’s in Information Technology | Information Technology Manager | $134,000 |
*not an exhaustive list of job prospects.
Frequently Asked Questions
How Long Does It Typically Take To Complete an Online Master’s Program?
Master's programs are designed for full-time students to finish their core requirements in about two years or sometimes between 18 to 30 months.
Are Online Master’s Degrees as Reputable as Traditional On-Campus Degrees?
Pursuing an online Master's degree holds the same value as attending a traditional face-to-face course.
What Are the Advantages of Pursuing a Master’s Degree Online?
When pursuing a master's degree online, you can study from anywhere and set your own schedule, providing the flexibility to manage your studies. This saves you time and money on commuting, making it a convenient and cost-effective option compared to on-campus programs.
Can I Work Full-Time While Pursuing an Online Master’s Degree?
Yes, you can work full-time while earning a master's degree, and it's a smart way to finance your education. But, it does require careful planning and excellent multitasking skills.
How Do I Know if an Online Graduate School Is Accredited?
Students can easily check a school's accreditation status by quickly searching the U.S. Department of Education's accreditation database or contacting the school directly.