15 Fastest Online Master’s Degree | Cost, Schools & Requirements

The fastest online master’s degree programs in 2024 allow you to fast-track your master’s education within the shortest time possible. With the continuous growth and expansion of the internet as a global community, many schools now allow students to earn their master’s degree online for half the duration.

In addition to spending much less time to complete a master’s degree, students also save on study costs. Generally, the fastest online master’s degree allows credit transfers that significantly decrease the master’s credit requirements.

It is also very flexible and may not require your physical presence in school sometimes. In other words, you can study from the comfort of your home. You can work, manage your family, and still learn. All you need is discipline and readiness to get started.

Hence, to improve your earning potential, this article will show you the fastest master’s degrees online in 2024.

What is Online Master’s Degree?

A 2013 study revealed that master’s degree holders earn an average salary of $68,000 annually. However, workers with bachelor’s degrees earn around $56,000. Therefore, a master’s degree can be a step in the right direction for career growth and better earning opportunity.  

In a nutshell, online education is an invention by accredited schools to allow full-time employees, disabled students, stay-at-home parents, or even those living abroad to earn a certificate. Hence, for an online master’s degree, educational enterprises bring the curriculum of a master’s degree program online.

 Notwitstanding the learning approach, the difference between a master’s degree online and on campus is the physical presence of students. Online education aims to provide the fastest degree online (Bachelor’s and Master’s) for students with busy schedules.

Nevertheless, ensure to confirm the accreditation of the online master’s degree program before enrolling. Also, it is essential to ascertain the relevance of a certificate in your country or any country where you intend to use it. In addition, consider the significance of the certificate to your field of study.

Doing so will help you save time, effort, and money on a certificate that will add little or no value to your career and personal growth.

See also: 20 Master’s Scholarships for Egyptian Students to Study Abroad in 2024.

Does an Online Master’s Degree Have Value?

An online master’s degrees have as much value as a traditional master’s degree. However, this depends on accreditation and certificate relevance to your field.

Hence, an online master’s degree is worth it, especially if you are a stay-at-home parent, full-time employee, or have any reason that may deter you from pursuing one on campus. Most employers consider an online degree the same as a master’s degree obtained by regular students.

Moreover, many universities do not indicate whether they are online or have regular degrees on your certificate. You receive the same degree that a student who chose to take classes on campus would receive because you meet the exact requirements.

Hence, an online master’s degree is worth and carries as much value as a regularly obtained degree. However, it must be from an accredited school to maintain or reflect its worth.

Is an Online Master’s Degree More Difficult?

The curriculum for online master’s and master’s degrees obtained as regular students are the same, however, the learning experience differs. So, an Online master’s degree may appear more complex.It is important to note that this is dependent on the student.

To excel in an online program, you must be a swift learner and be able to decode information as soon as possible. Nonetheless, there are lots of opportunities to ask as many questions as related to your course.

However, you may still need more physical presence to express your confusion and where you need clarity accurately as an online student, especially in science courses that require apt attention and equations to make a point.

So, the extra effort you may employ to decode all you didn’t understand in a lecture may seem to you that an online master’s degree is more complicated.

Check out 10 Best Master’s Scholarships For Marketing Students 2024.

How Long Is the Typical Master’s Degree Program?

On average, it takes two years to get a master’s degree. Therefore, if you’re considering improving your degree, consider the learning time.

Nonetheless, depending on your field of study, you can complete credit requirements in approximately 30-60 semester hours.

Also, adult students that want to return to school without giving up your job or career must complete approximately 45 credit hours.

You might also be interested in the Best Online Master’s Degree in Counseling Psychology in 2024.

What Are the Criteria for Determining Admission to A Master’s Degree Program?

Some tests are necessary before entering the master’s degree program. For instance, a Graduate Record Examination (GRE) is a typical graduate acceptance test. The Miller Analogies Test (MAT) is also another essenial test. The test consists of verbal analogy questions and lasts for an hour.

To obtain an MBA, you must also pass the Graduate Management Admission Test (GMAT). The Law School Admission Test (LSAT) is also another necessary entrance exam for law students. It helps to test the reasoning, reading comprehension, and logic of incoming master’s in law students.

In addition, transcripts are essential for previous learning credits for accelerated online master’s degree programs. You are also most likely to be asked to present letters of recommendation. 

You will also provide a personal statement or essay before admission to the online master’s degree program. Some programs may also require students to submit a sample of academic writing from their undergraduate years.

The university will use these documents and other submitted information to assess your experience and preparedness for a graduate-level program.

How Much Does an Online Master’s Degree Cost?

The essential expenses for a master’s degree are tuition and fees. One of the critical factors affecting tuition and fees is the program duration. Other Factors like the type of program can also affect your tuition and fees.

It is often common to find online universities charging more per credit hour than regular universities. Also, some online universities may charge more per credit hour while allowing students to enjoy some discount when taking several courses simultaneously. Hence, students can reduce their credit rates by enrolling in more credit hours each semester.

Consequently, out of the 25 most affordable universities online that offer a master’s degree, each credit hour costs $500 to $625. Therefore, the annual tuition average for these universities is approximately $5,362 per year. Nonetheless, tuition fees are usually different for in-state and out-of-state students.

Besides the tuition, other fees may affect your total cost, depending on your credit load for the semester. They include:

• Assessments for Course-Level Placement Fees
• Counseling Fees
• Criminal Background Checks
• Exam Proctoring
• Graduation Fee
• Laboratory Fees
• Official Transcript Fee
• Per Credit Fees
• Research Courses
• Technology / Tech Support Fees
• Trusted Partner Programs Fee

How Does an Online Master’s Degree Program Benefit Me?

The specialized knowledge in your chosen field as a master’s degree holder gives you an edge over those without it. A master’s degree gives you career security and job security.

People with advanced educational degrees are more employable and have a better-earning potential, as employers generally find them more trustworthy and loyal to their craft. The master’s also allows you to acquire new skills for a more robust career in your field of study.

Related: 10 Cheapest Online Master’s Degrees in Early Childhood Special Education.

What is the Fastest Online Master’s Degree in 2024?

Schools in this list appear randomly due to the variety of topics and programs they offer. They were each considered base on the following:

• 100% Online Studies or Hybrid Format
• Number of Accelerated Master’s Degree Programs that are available
• Duration of each Fast-Track Program
• Accreditation
• Quality of the school’s Accelerated Master’s Degree Programs
• Financial Aid and Student Support programs
• Positive reviews from students and official resources responsible for rating college and university statistics
• Online Learning Management Systems and Student Resources
• Encourages success  in career via job placement

Below are the 15 Fastest Online Master’s Degrees in 2024:

• University of Miami’s Fastest Online Master’s Degree Programs
• Benedictine University’s Fastest Online MBA
• California Baptist University’s Online Accelerated MS of Accounting Degree Program
• Indiana Wesleyan University’s Online Fastest M.Ed. in Special Education Degree
• University of North Texas’ Fastest Online Master of Education Degree Program in Educational Leadership
• University of North Texas’ Fastest Online Master of Education Degree Program in Educational Leadership
• Ball State University’s Online Accelerated MA in Educational Psychology Degree
• Northeastern University Masters of Applied Nutrition
• Mercy College’s Fastest Online Master’s Degree Programs
• Western Governor University’s Fastest Online Master’s Degree Programs
• Limestone College’s Online Accelerated Master of Business Administration
• Florida State College’s Online Fastest Master’s Degree Programs
• Lamar University’s Accelerated MS in Nursing Online
• Charter Oak State College’s Online Fastest Master’s Degrees
• East Coast Polytechnic University’s Accelerated Online Master’s Degree Programs

#1. University of Miami’s Fastest Online Master’s Degree Programs

The University of Miami holds various online programs and degrees. The University currently offers more than 180 undergraduate majors and programs. Hence, students planning to take on sped-up learning programs can earn certification and MBAs within ten months to two years.

The university’s most unique accelerated programs are MBA in Real Estate (40 credits), Master of Science in Finance (35 credits), and BSN programs (55 class credits). Also, accelerated completion is possible if you earned credits from a previous learning experience.

These types of programs answer the current needs of the growing global necessities for brokers or businesses planning to get into real estate, local and international investments and trade, and healthcare providers.

For more about University of Miami’s online master’s degree, click the link.

#2. Benedictine University’s Fastest Online MBA

Benedictine University has campuses in Lisle, Illinois (Lisle Main Campus) and E. Main Street, Mesa, Arizona (Mesa Branch Campus).

The university has a network of colleges and departments, including the Goodwin College of Business, College of Education and Health Services, College of Liberal Arts, College of Science, and School of Graduate, Adult, and Professional Education.

Students who wish to take advantage of their Master’s in Business Administration online program can complete this program as fast as 12 months if they attend two classes each session.

However, if you opt for the traditional one-time class, you can earn the master’s degree in 22 months. The same applies to students who have yet to complete a prior related degree.

You can also opt for the MBA program, where students must take two classes for each session as long as they already hold a related degree.

In this fast-track master’s program, not only will you be taught the foundation courses for businesses, but you will also learn critical analysis and essential decision-making processes.

Read more about the program and sign up for your master’s degree online by following the link.

#3. California Baptist University’s Online Accelerated MS of Accounting Degree Program

CBU is a private-owned University in Magnolia Avenue, Riverside, California. It offers undergraduate and graduate courses in academic fields.

The Masters of Science in Accounting (MSA) program is for students who want to advance in their accounting profession. Therefore, students with existing major credits can finish this accelerated course within a year. It’s a step above the undergraduate degrees that will take you closer to your dream of being a Certified Public Accountant (CPA).

Students will need 30 major units before they can proceed with attending CBU for an accelerated master’s degree program.

Click here to read more about the program and begin your enrollment process.

#4. Indiana Wesleyan University’s Online Fastest M.Ed. in Special Education Degree

Considered one of the largest private institutions in Marion, Indiana, Indiana Wesleyan University offers over 90 degrees, many of which hold online.

You can get a Master of Education (M.Ed.) in Special Education online, earning you 33 credits, specifically designed for teachers looking into specialized fields of educating students with mild to moderate learning disabilities.

Students can accomplish this certification in under two years or more by either passing at least one of the four CORE exams or completing a 3-hour credit in phonics. M.Ed. in Special Education teachers find themselves lucrative jobs with an average of $46,158 and potential career growth.

Follow the link to Visit the School.

You might also find this helpful: How Can I Get a Master’s Degree in Communications Online? Schools, Programs, Cost.

#5. University of North Texas Fastest Online, Master of Education Degree Program in Educational Leadership

Located in Denton, Texas, the University of North Texas holds 106 bachelor’s, 88 master’s, and 37 doctoral degrees.

Accelerated programs such as the Master of Education degree in Educational Leadership are duly recognized by the National Council of Accreditation of Teacher Education (NCATE).

Hence, the graduate program at the University of North Texas aims to train students who want to take on leadership roles in the educational system in schools or school districts.

The program is a 30-hour M.Ed. education that will require students to finish 10 Education Admin courses online. For students to complete this course within a year, they can take two courses for each session.

Visit the University of North Texas for more information about this program.

#6. Southern New Hampshire University’s Online Fastest MBA in Accounting

Southern New Hampshire University is in Manchester, New Hampshire. The university offers a fast-track program for CPAs looking to enhance their accounting skills in a real-world setup.

In addition, to real-world expereince, the MBA in Accounting will help students get a leg-up in capital budgeting, portfolio management, and other aspects of the financial market.

Students can complete this MBA program within 15 months, with two courses every 10-week term. Also, you can learn at your own pace on this platform and be accessible online. SNHU also offers one of the lowest online rates for this program.

For more information, click the link to visit the school.

#7. Ball State University’s Online Accelerated MA in Educational Psychology Degree

Ball State University in Indiana offers accelerated learning programs online in Learning and Human Development. The Master of Arts in Educational Psychology is also one of Ball State University’s online programs for students of any academic background wanting to add education to their career.

You can complete your MA in Educational Psychology at BSU within 18 months and less than a year if you will take a full load for each term.

You also earn 30 credits from this short course, 18 credits from core courses, and 12 credits for any chosen specialization (Gifted and Talented specialization, Human Development, Statistical, Research Methods, and Neuropsychology).

It is also likely to land a career opportunity in teaching after your course.

To learn more about this program and your eligibility, click here to visit the school.

#8. Northeastern University, Online Masters of Applied Nutrition

Northeastern University in Boston offers online MA degree program in Applied Nutrition. They also focus on four key areas which are, Business and Entrepreneurship in Nutrition, Obesity and Nutritional Health, Nutrition Education and Nutrition and Fitness.

Hence, students who wish to enhance their skill and knowledge in Nutrition can leverage this online MA opportunity from Northeastern University. Some of the benefits of the course includes the promotion of quality health and good clinical behavior, disease prevention and metabolism.

The Average duration for completing an MA in Applied Nutrition from Northeastern University is two years. However, students can also complete this program in less that two years. In addition to studying at your pace, you will have registered dieticians, fitness specialists and nutrition experts as your instructors.

Due to the increased awareness in disease prevention, the role of nutrition experts is becoming more relevant in hospitals, fitness centers, nursing homes and other significant areas today. Therefore, adding an MA of Applied Nutrition to your portfolio can be an advantage to your career.

Follow the link for more information regarding Northeastern University’s online MA of Applied Nutrition.

#9. The Mercy College’s Fastest Online Master’s Degree Programs

Mercy College is in Dobbs Ferry, New York. It offers over 90 academic programs for graduates and undergraduates in five categories: Business, Health, Liberal Arts, Education, Natural Sciences, and Behavioral Sciences. Mercy College is also notable for its Master of Science in Cybersecurity online program.

The National Security Agency and the Department of Homeland Security recognize the program. Also, as part of a dual degree program, Mercy College’s fast-track online master’s degree in Cybersecurity, which students can complete in 18 months.

Click the link to sign up for Mercy College’s fastest Online master’s degree.

#10. Western Governor University’s Fastest Online Master’s Degree Programs

Based in Salt Lake City, Utah, this university provides online platforms suitable for those who want flexibility and others who don’t have sufficient resources to fund their studies.

Under the school’s College of Business Online, Teachers College Online, College of Information Technology Online, and College of Health Professions Online, Western Governors University offers up to 37 accelerated online master’s degree programs.

In these competency-based programs, students work with a Faculty Mentor to optimize their schedules and work through their course materials. Students can transfer their previous learning credits to their desired online master’s program.

For additional information and enrollment, visit the school’s official website.

#11. Limestone College’s Online Accelerated Master of Business Administration

In Gaffney, South Carolina, Limestone College offers an accelerated online Master in Business Administration program.

The school takes pride in its online courses, characterized by a simple admission process, quality professors, and networking opportunities for future career growth.

To be eligible for the fast-track MBA program at Limestone College, your current GPA should be 3.5, and you must have completed 90 undergraduate hours, half of which you must complete at Limestone.

Follow the link to visit the school.

#12. Florida State College’s Online Fastest Master’s Degree Programs

This institution in Jacksonville, Florida, offers online programs for students seeking accelerated master’s degrees.

They can opt for the +1Planning, where they can add one course every semester and attend school all year to fast-track their learning.

They can take a Prior Learning Assessment (PLA), and Accelerated Curriculums focused on obtaining a certain degree the fastest way possible. Students may choose from 150+ programs, including fast-track master’s degrees, that they can complete online.

Visit the school by clicking the following link.

#13. Lamar University’s Accelerated MS in Nursing Online

Situated in Beaumont, Texas, Lamar University offers graduate and undergraduate programs on online platforms. They have an 8-week undergraduate accelerated program to earn a degree for those taking it online.

Traditional 15-week formats are also available for those who would want to have a more personal interaction with fellow students. Students can choose from academic studies in Business, Engineering, Arts, Sciences, and Fine Arts Communication.

Students in the healthcare sector may want to take advantage of their accelerated Master of Science in Nursing online program offered in an 8-week format.

Enroll for Lamar University Accelerated MS in Nursing online program by clicking here.

See also: Where Can I Study Actuarial Science Master’s Degree Online?

#14. Charter Oak State College’s Online Fastest Master’s Degrees

Charter Oak State College is in New Britain, Connecticut. It offers accelerated degree programs, including a fast-track online master’s, to those with Prior Learning Assessment (PLA).

Students with PLA can use previous credits from college, military experience, and certifications to earn an online master’s degree fast, depending on the number of credits earned and transferred.

Students at Charter Oak State College are pursuing their accelerated online master’s degrees in various academic disciplines in the field of Business, Psychology, Health Information, Cyber Security, and General Studies, to name a few.

To learn more about Charter Oak State College’s online master’s program, follow the link.

#15. East Coast Polytechnic University’s Accelerated Online Master’s Degree Programs

East Coast Polytechnic University has several campuses in North Carolina, Florida, South Carolina, Virginian and Texas.

In addition to providing career-oriented programs, the school also offers accelerated online master’s degree programs for those who wish to improve and become more valuable in their career.

The academic programs at East Coast Polytechnic University include accelerated master’s degree in nursing, technology, business, criminal justice and health science.

Students can earn their MA from ECPI within two years. In addition, all the programs are job-oriented and prepares students for employment after their education.

Follow the link to begin your enrollment process at East Coast Polytechnic.

FAQs

Conclusion

Unlike on-campus master’s degree programs, an online master’s program offers students flexibility and time to study at their own pace while working. Hence, it is the best option for those hoping to balance work-study life.

Recommendation

• 20 Master’s Scholarships for Egyptian Students to Study Abroad in 2024
• 10 Best Master’s Scholarships for Marketing Students 2024
• Best Online Master’s Degree in Counseling Psychology in 2024
• 10 Cheapest Online Master’s Degrees in Early Childhood Special Education
• How Can I Get a Master’s Degree in Communications Online? Schools, Programs, Cost
• Where Can I Study Actuarial Science Master’s Degree Online?

References

• Online School Center—Fastest Online Master’s Degree Program
• Wikipedia—Online Degree
• Online Masters Colleges—How Much Does a Master’s Degree Cost?

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