20 Schools Offering 1 Year Master’s Programs Online

A master’s degree program typically takes 2-5 years to complete, depending on whether you’re a full-time or part-time student. But there’s greater flexibility in online master’s programs nowadays, with one-year programs being more popular among working professionals.

With online education becoming more popular, particularly among adult and non-traditional learners, these accelerated programs have truly established a firm footing! 

Like their traditional counterparts with longer time-to-completion, one-year online master’s programs also require baccalaureate-level education, among other credentials. Students are also expected to apply higher cognitive skills, including:

• critical thinking,
• analytical thinking,
• problem-solving skills,
• and excellent communication skills.

Graduates leave the program with specialist knowledge and skills in their field of study and the ability to think independently and rigorously.

Quick audio summary:

Overview

Earning a one-year master’s degree is as challenging as earning a two-year master’s degree because the academic and research demands are similar. The former may even be more selective in terms of admission requirements and more rigorous in its program of study due to its accelerated format. But, the wide range of benefits, from increased earning potential and career advancement opportunities to awesome personal growth, are the same for both types. 

How are one-year online master’s programs possible? 

These programs are usually designed with a single calendar year or three terms in mind; the latter divided into the regular fall and spring terms plus one summer term. This is the typical program of study for accelerated programs with unique characteristics like lower credit requirements, higher course load per semester, and less flexibility in the choice of electives. 

Most accelerated programs also require a minimum of years of work experience before applicants are accepted for matriculation. The work experience may or may not be evaluated for credits, but it’s a must-have prerequisite to demonstrate professional competence in a specialist discipline.

Many programs also accept micro-credentials, such as professional-level certificates, which can be stacked toward the master’s degree. 

20 Best Schools With 1-year Online Master’s Programs

University of North Carolina at Pembroke

UNC’s 12-month online Master of Business Administration program isn’t just an affordable and flexible program, but it’s also among the best online master’s programs in the country. Students complete 36 credit hours and can choose from several specializations, namely:

• Supply Chain Management 
• Financial Services 
• Business Analytics 
• Healthcare Administration 
• Forensic Accounting 
• Finance 

The core coursework covers: 

• Managerial finance
• Accounting 
• Marketing
• International business

The Finance concentration courses tackle advanced concepts of: 

• Portfolio diversification
• Optimal capital structure
• Modern investment theory 

The online Supply Chain Management concentration is also a 36-credit, 12-month program suitable for professionals interested in effectively and efficiently managing goods from production to consumption. The AACSB-accredited program features faculty members who also teach the on-campus MBA programs. As such, the online program has the same excellent quality of instruction.

University of Texas at Austin 

UT Austin’s Master of Science in Technology Commercialization program is unique because it’s at the intersection of business and technology! Students learn the best principles and practices in launching their business, including their innovative products and services. The intensive training enables them to become better competitors.

The curriculum emphasizes the best practices in: 

• Technology market research
• Technology creation
• Technology entrepreneurship 

Candidates gain the confidence and become empowered to bring their unique ideas successfully into the market. 

The program features a robust business curriculum that enables students to gain practical skill sets in business. Candidates develop the skills to lead their business from their development to their maturity. 

Students showcase their skill sets by presenting their final business plans to a panel of experts. Faculty members, venture capitalists, and business leaders ask relevant questions about their business plans, too. 

Candidates can secure business funding, too, from capitalists. This is a testament to the excellent quality of education at McCombs School of Business! 

Online students complete their graduate studies through online web conferencing but follow the rigorous on-campus curriculum.

Lamar University

The 30-credit online Master of Science in Criminal Justice program can be completed in 12 months. This is intended for current criminal justice professionals and law enforcement officers seeking career advancement opportunities. 

Applicants must have: 

• A bachelor’s degree in criminal justice, criminology, or sociology. Special approval and/or completion of prerequisite courses for applicants who don’t meet said requirement may be required. 
• At least 3.0 GPA for unconditional acceptance. Provisional acceptance for lower GPA may be granted. 

Candidates gain specialist knowledge and skills in the US criminal justice system. Courses include: 

• Theoretical Foundations of Crime Control
• Quantitative Methods in Criminology
• Criminal Justice System and Policy

Candidates complete a Criminal Justice Capstone course, too.

Louisiana State University

Offered by LSU’s College of Business, the 30-credit Master of Business Administration program can be completed in 10 months. Candidates, most of whom are working professionals, benefit from the flexibility of online courses, multiple start dates, and accelerated coursework.

The fast-paced, intensive coursework means candidates must be on their toes. The program requires full-time matriculation to complete the seven core courses and three electives on time. 

Candidates gain advanced knowledge and skills in core courses including: 

• Managerial Use of Accounting Data
• Economic Analysis for Management
• Financial Management
• Management Information Systems
• Organizational Behavior

The coursework emphasizes comprehensive real-world applications. Graduates build successful careers in diverse industries from government to retail. 

University of Missouri St. Louis

The Master of Education in Elementary Education Early Childhood Emphasis program is a fully online program. This is  intended for educators, researchers, and curriculum developers with career advancement aspirations. 

Candidates can complete the 33-credit program within 12 months of full-time studies. The program offers five specializations, namely: 

• Curriculum and Instruction
• Early Childhood Education
• Interdisciplinary Studies
• Reading
• Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages (TESOL)

Candidates complete five core courses before tackling concentration courses. In the Early Childhood Education emphasis, these courses include: 

• Foundations of Early Childhood Education
• Organization and Development of Early Childhood Programs
• Psychology of Early Childhood Development

Candidates gain the knowledge and skills to tackle the complex issues of early childhood learning processes. 

There’s a strong emphasis on action research as crucial in the improvement of elementary education practice. These include the development of technology for learning purposes. Students are encouraged to become advocates for social justice in their communities, broaden their horizons, and explore global opportunities. 

Texas A&M University-Corpus Christi

TAMU’s online Master of Business Administration 30-credit program features 20 courses divided into: 

• 10 core courses 
• 8 advanced business administration courses (e.g., Software-Based Business Solutions, Accounting Topics, and Managerial Finance) 
• 2 elective courses (e.g., Investment & Portfolio Theory) 

Candidates then receive the full depth and breadth of a world-class MBA education. Cutting-edge research is another program feature. Here, candidates work with their peers and professors in adding to the body of business knowledge. 

The MBA program empowers students to provide effective leadership for diverse teams, particularly collaborative problem-solving scenarios. Their ability to use decision-making tools based on analysis and logic is their edge among fellow MBA holders, while their communication skills are at par with the best.  Ethics and governance are also emphasized as must-have skills. 

Southern New Hampshire University

Southern New Hampshire University’s online Master of Business Administration program has a one-year time-to-completion. This program attracts professionals from diverse fields due to its outstanding quality of instruction.

Students at SNHU enjoy the flexibility of asynchronous classes while enjoying the benefits of networking with peers and professors. The intensive program of study puts their technical and transferable skills to the test. The learning outcomes include: 

• Effective analysis and interpretation of data in business decisions 
• Development and implementation of effective organizational strategies
• Gain data analysis, ethical leadership, and cultural awareness skills 

Students don’t just earn an MBA but also earn recognized business credentials through certificates. The MBAS program offers 17 concentrations including: 

• Business Analytics
• Accounting
• Engineering Management
• Information Technology Management
• Operations & Supply Chain Management

Every concentration’s curriculum emphasizes scenario-based learning that enables students to apply business principles to practice. 

The broad focus means the advanced principles and practices learned can be applied across diverse industries. Graduates have successful careers in government, consulting, biotech, retail, and manufacturing. 

Colorado State University-Global Campus

CSU’s online Master of Science in Organizational Leadership has a short completion time of about 12 months. Every course has a six-week time-to-completion for faster degree completion. Candidates are well-advised to prepare for the fast-paced, rigorous coursework. 

This is a cohort-based program that enables candidates to learn as a group. The core courses include: 

• Effective Organizations: Theory and Practice
• Business Ethics and Corporate Social Responsibility
• Leading Diverse Teams

Candidates choose from several specializations with corresponding concentration courses, too. The specializations include: 

• Project Management
• Strategic Innovation and Change Management
• Human Resource Management
• Finance
• Applied Business Management

The learning outcomes include: 

• Developing strategies to enhance organizational capacity
• Adapting technology to their organization’s changing needs 

Admission requirements include: 

• At least five years relevant professional leadership experience
• Bachelor’s degree with at least 3.25 GPA
• Statement of intent
• Recommendation letters
• Resume 

Lessons learned in the online classroom have immediate workplace applications. Indeed, there’s real value in CSU’s education. 

Auburn University

Auburn’s Harbert College of Business offers among the best online Master of Accountancy programs that welcomes applicants from diverse backgrounds. Applicants with and without an undergraduate accounting degree are welcome to apply. 

Auburn two options in its MAcc program, too: 

• The 30-hour traditional MAcc program is for candidates with a bachelor’s degree in accounting.  
• The 42-hour expanded MAcc Program is for candidates with a non-accounting bachelor’s degree. Candidates must complete eight business foundation courses. 

The AACSB-accredited online program features the same on-campus professors. Online candidates then receive excellent quality of instruction, as well as effective student support services. The program prepares candidates for success in the CPA exam and their future careers. 

Full-time candidates can earn the MAcc degree in 12 months. Their core courses include: 

• Intermediate Accounting 
• Advanced Accounting Topics
• Auditing and Assurance Services
• Income Tax 
• Accounting Information Systems

Students must attend one 3-day on-campus residency.

Liberty University

Candidates in the Master of Arts in Medical Sciences – Public Health program can complete it in one year, on average. The 34-credit program has a fully online format, too. Each course has an eight-week completion time that allows candidates to focus their time on a few courses each term. 

Candidates can request for transfer of credits from previous graduate work and other sources. Up to 50% of the total required credits can be transferred. 

Candidates satisfy their keen interest in medical research and its applications in public health through intensive coursework. The courses include: 

• Principles of Community Health
• Politics and Health Policy
• Biostatistics

Candidates develop their technical skills in these areas. Transferable skills  developed include critical thinking, analytical thinking and communication skills. 

Liberty University is a Christian institution. As such, its programs are designed with a biblical worldview that emphasizes ethical leadership. 

Saint Leo University

Candidates in SLU’s Master of Social Work program must be enrolled full-time and in advanced standing to earn the degree in 12 months. The four-semester program can be started during the summer term, with students earning 62 credit hours during its entirety.

Advanced standing means the student must have a Bachelor of Social Work degree from a CSWE-accredited program, among other admission requirements. 

Students progress as a cohort since the curriculum has a sequential design. While most courses are conducted online, there’s an on-campus weekend seminar.

Students learn about the best social work practices in diverse settings including the: 

• Military
• Couples and family clinical practices
• Ethics and leadership in social work 

There’s also an emphasis on psychopathology, research and social and economic justice. 

Marist College

Marist’s Master of Science in Information Systems program offers three concentrations. Every option features a 36-credit program of study. Candidates complete the same core courses before tackling specific concentration courses. There are also elective courses to expand their education. 

The three concentrations are in: 

• The  Computer Networks and Security concentration strengthens the students’ capabilities in designing, investigating, and implementing network and security technologies. Their skills are developed in the virtual classroom and networking labs.
• The Business Analytics track prepares students for successful careers as data architects, business analysts, business analytics managers, and Chief Data Officers. Students learn about advanced tools and techniques in data access, manipulation, and analysis. 
• The Information Systems Management (ISM) track has practical business and workplace applications that lead toward successful careers as project managers, systems analysts, and information systems managers. Many students have become Chief Information Officers, too. 

Marist has a long-standing, exclusive partnership with IBM that provides students with direct access to state-of-the-art facilities. These include the IBM LinuxONE III and Security Operations Center (SOC).

Admission is highly selective, with applicants evaluated on their academic performance and potential, research interests, and community involvement. Applicants must submit a current resume and 750-word personal statement. 

Alvernia University

Full-time students of the online Master of Business Administration program complete it in one year. Candidates earn between 32 and 42 credits.  The number of credits depend on their choice in one of four badges, namely: 

• General MBA
• Management
• Marketing and Communication
• Finance and Economics

Each course is designed for completion in seven weeks (i.e., accelerated format). The sequence of courses and quality of instruction are the same as the on-campus MBA program. The coursework includes business, interdisciplinary, and capstone courses including: 

• Advanced Managerial Accounting
• Business Analytics and Forecasting
• Strategic Formulation and Implementation

The ACBSP-accredited program features credentialed professors committed to their student’s academic success. Alvernia ensures that graduate students receive dedicated counseling and advising services, too. Candidates also enjoy valuable industry connections that pave the way for career advancement.

Students also benefit from the collaborative learning environment and practice-based experiences. Graduates become proficient in business administration in both for-profit and nonprofit organizations. 

Texas State University

The interdisciplinary Master of Science Major in Dementia and Aging Studies with a concentration in Dementia and Long Term Care program combines coursework from four different schools within Texas State.

• Department of Sociology (mother unit) 
• School of Social Work
• School of Health Administration
• Department of Communication Studies

Full-time candidates can earn the 36-semester hour degree in a little over a year. Candidates learn the best practices in adopting the social model of care approach to become leaders in extended living environments and other workplaces. 

The intensive curriculum features courses in: 

• Augmentative & Alternative Communication
• Introduction to Research in Communication Disorders
• Neuroanatomy for Communication Disorders

Candidates undergo rigorous evaluations through standard assessment tools. There’s a written comprehensive exam that highlights their mastery of content.  

California Baptist University

The online Master of Public Administration Program is a sought-after degree in public service. Candidates prepare for leadership positions in public administration at the local, state and federal levels, and non-profit organizations. 

Full-time candidates can earn the MPA degree in 16 months or less. This is a 36-credit program with featured courses in: 

• Public Policy Analysis
• Public Finance and Budgeting
• Organizational Theory for Public Administration 

Technical and transferable skills development have equal emphasis. Candidates are encouraged to develop soft skills like team development, decision-making and critical thinking. Classroom-to-workplace applications are encouraged, too. 

Applicants must meet these admission requirements to be considered: 

• A bachelor’s degree in any relevant field with a 2.75 minimum GPA
• At least five years of leadership experience

CBU also offers online master’s degree programs in accounting, communication, and counseling technology, among others. 

Arkansas State University

AState’s Master of Science in Engineering Management program attracts engineers in leadership positions with career advancement aspirations. Engineering professionals in states that require 30 credits of graduate courses for licensure purposes are also welcome. 

Offered at the College of Engineering and Computer Science, the fully online master’s degree program consists of 10 courses. Most courses have a seven-week duration due to the accelerated format. 

• Engineering Statistics
• Quality Control and Improvement
• Advanced Project Management and Practice
• Advanced Engineering Economy

Candidates must submit an approved engineering capstone. This is a research project that candidates must present and defend in front of a panel. 

Central Washington University

Professionals with the Master of Science in Information Technology Management degree agree that it gave them a competitive edge. Candidates complete a 28-credit core curriculum and then tackle their 20-credit concentration courses. 

Core courses include: 

• Global Managerial Communications 
• Financial Analysis in IT Management 
• Research and Statistical Analysis of Data 

There are four concentrations to choose from: 

• Administrative Management
• Information Technology
• Cybersecurity Management
• Structures of Data Analytics for IT Managers

CWU ensures its students’ academic success through Learning Supporters. These professionals provide useful information and academic guidance. Financial aid options make it an affordable online master’s degree. 

Fontbonne University

Fontbonne’s Master of Arts in Education online program features a 33-credit curriculum with concentrations in: 

• Curriculum and Instruction
• Diverse Learners 
• Early Childhood 
• Reading 
• Special Education 

The NCATE-accredited program is intended for practicing educators and leaders in the education industry. The flexible online format enables them to maintain a good work-life balance. In addition to financial aid options, there’s also a 15% discount to eligible educators. 

Candidates must also complete an action research in their area of concentration. 

Stetson University

Stetson’s Master of Accountancy program is a short-term one-year program that prepares students for long-term success as CPAs and other related occupations. The AACSB-accredited program features 10 courses including: 

• Governmental and Not-For-Profit Accounting
• Advanced Auditing
• Data Analytics for Accountants 

These courses have a five-week duration. Candidates are encouraged to undertake full-time studies to earn the degree in one year. 

The program features asynchronous coursework and live online faculty lectures, among other interactions. There are no on-campus residency requirements. 

Students may acquire specialist skills by enrolling in the Data Analytics track. There are three concentration courses in addition to the core and elective coursework. 

Castleton University

The online Master of Science in Athletic Leadership targets current and aspiring coaches and athletic leaders. Many students are already in supervisory positions in secondary and post-secondary athletic departments and similar organizations. However, their jobs require advanced applied training in athletic leadership, thus their participation in the graduate program. 

Candidates complete the 30-credit hour program that consists of: 

• 6 core courses
• 2 elective courses
• Choice between a special project or an internship

Core courses include: 

• Leadership and Management of Athletic Programs 
• Financial Administration of Athletics 
• Athletics Advancement

Admission requirements include a: 

• Bachelor’s degree
• Personal essay
• Current résumé
• Two letters of recommendation 

The average time-to-completion is one year, but students can also take their time. 

Enjoy the Benefits of a Master’s Degree

Whether you earn a master’s degree in one year or five years is less important than the specialist knowledge and skills you learned and how you leveraged them in your life! Earning a one-year online master’s degree brings the same benefits as a two-year degree.

Many employers may even appreciate that you earned a one-year advanced degree because it demonstrates your extraordinary drive, skill, and intelligence!                                         

Among these benefits are: 

• Increased earning potential 
• Improved career advancement opportunities 
• Gain specialist knowledge and skills, including research skillsets
• Satisfy your passion for lifelong learning (before the next itch for another master’s degree or a doctorate comes) 
• Build your personal and professional networks 
• Change careers or jobs 

But you must also be aware of the disadvantages of one-year online master’s degree programs to set realistic expectations. These programs are likely to have a more rigorous program of study.

This is not only due to their accelerated format but also because of the expectation that students have ample work and life experiences. You must then have strong time management skills and a higher drive and determination to survive. 

Great Reasons To Pursue A 1-year Online Master’s Degree

Despite the pandemic challenges, there has been an increase in graduate enrollment in the United States in the Fall 2019-2020 period! It’s safe to conclude that the benefits of 1-year online master’s programs contributed to it, perhaps even among its strongest drivers.  

Earn Your Graduate Degree Sooner 

Undoubtedly, the most compelling reason individuals choose one-year online master’s programs is their quick time to completion. You will only spend 12 months in a rigorous program that will challenge your physical and mental stamina and strain your finances.

You may find an accelerated 12-month program more rigorous than a 24-month or 36-month program, but going through the wringer will be worth it. 

Furthermore, a shorter time to completion means leveraging your master’s degree sooner! You can start a business, apply for management positions, or conduct your research immediately after earning your master’s degree. You will also have more quality time spent with your family instead of waiting for another 1-2 years. 

Enjoy Flexible Learning

Like the typical two-year online master’s degree programs, one-year online programs also offer asynchronous learning options that provide greater flexibility. You can log in to your student account, browse the learning materials and assignments, and watch the recorded lectures in your own space, time, and pace.

You must submit assignments based on set deadlines, but you can work on them at your convenience. 

Such flexibility makes online learning attractive to working professionals, adult learners, and non-traditional students whose daily schedules don’t allow for set log-in times. But it doesn’t mean that you can be complacent, lazy and lenient in your studies either! The best one-year master’s degree programs have high academic standards that students must comply with to maintain their good standing. 

But there are also synchronous aspects to these programs! You may be required to participate in live classes and discussion forums with scheduled log-in times. An online accelerated master’s program also may have on-campus components, such as a day-long orientation, in-person thesis oral presentation and defense, and meetings with professors. 

Even with these in-person components, you still have the opportunity to enjoy a better work-life-studies balance than in an on-campus program! The trick is to adopt effective time management techniques, such as setting a daily schedule and organizing your study periods. 

Spend Less on Tuition and Other Fees 

While the actual cost of attendance will vary depending on the school, program and specialization, the average cost for a two-year master’s degree is $62,820. This means students in one-year online master’s programs may spend $33,000+ on average if they earn their degrees within the allotted time.

Regardless of your cost of attendance, it’s undeniable that being a student in these programs can mean a lesser financial burden. 

You may not have to take out graduate loans from the federal government and private lenders! You can save money for the tuition and other fees before enrolling in one of these programs. Search and apply for scholarships for graduate students, meaning you may be able to finance your education nearly for free.

You must also ask your employer about tuition support and, if you’re an active military personnel or veteran or an eligible spouse/dependent, ask about military discounts. 

Since you’re in an online program, there’s also the matter of less spending on transportation to and from school, separate room and board, and even books and supplies. The dollars can add up and be used to pay for your fees and other incidental and emergency expenses. 

Learn With Experienced and Credentialed Faculty Members 

The best online master’s degree programs have similar, if not the same, curriculum and learning outcomes as their on-campus counterparts.

These online programs also have high academic standards and quality of instruction adopted by their faculty members, who have impressive resumes. Their credentials usually include a doctorate and several years of relevant work experience, including advanced instruction and research in their field. 

Since the main difference between online and on-campus one-year master’s degree programs are in their delivery, the diplomas issued to their graduates are the same. There are no indications of online education, such as the term “online” or “distance learning,” on the diplomas and, thus, prospective employers won’t know the difference. 

What To Expect From A 1-year Online Master’s Degree Program

Among the best things about these accelerated online master’s programs is the newness of the learning experience, particularly if you’ve only experienced in-person classes. But there’s more to online programs, too, which cements their position in graduate education. 

Productive Peer-to-Peer Interactions

Online programs may or may not have in-person sessions, but it’s also proven that students enjoy meaningful, plentiful, and productive interactions with each other through technology! Their interactions occur through video conferences, real-time chats and emails, and synchronous classes.

Their frequency and type of collaborations vary widely depending on the program requirements, but it must also be said that these interactions are maximized. 

Group work is of particular importance among online graduate students for many reasons. Not only are these crucial for meeting degree requirements, such as combined research work and coursework, but these are opportunities for socialization and networking. The interactions may be entirely online or virtual and in-person meetings, but the results are the same. 

Group work will also take many forms, each intended to promote collaborative learning. For example, you and a classmate may create opposing arguments about a specific topic and then write a joint paper. Other examples include investigative projects and the design and development of prototypes. 

However, students must remember that group work can swing either way – be a success or be a failure, depending on each student’s willingness to contribute. Be sure to have a purpose for the group work before making plans and setting goals. 

Extensive Instructor Interaction

The best online graduate degree programs allow students to communicate and interact with their professors. Many even allow online students to make on-campus visits, usually by appointment, making in-person interactions in an otherwise completely online program possible. 

Online class lectures through live streaming are the typical method of student-professor interactions. These lectures can be conducted over Zoom/Google Meet or live recordings of on-campus lectures in real time. The latter is proof that online programs have the same quality of instruction and faculty as their on-campus counterparts. 

Discussion boards are also common venues for student-professor interactions, although the extent to which professors and programs use these varies. These are social network forums where students and professors generate and exchange information, express their opinions about issues presented, and even implement ideas.

Since a discussion board can be set up around a specific topic, it can be used for varying periods, from a couple of weeks to an entire semester. 

Wide Range of Assessments 

Graduate school is more about the ideas generated and exchanged and less about grades. This is highlighted by the core importance of your master’s thesis, an original research paper in your field of study. You can’t earn your master’s degree until you have satisfied its rigorous requirements, from the proposal to the oral defense before a panel. 

However, a graduate degree is still a formal education, and thus, there’s a wide range of familiar assessment tools. Assignments and homework are common in graduate school, too, which enables students to stay on track with their studies and allows professors to determine their progress. These are also designed to provide students with peer-to-peer interactions and opportunities for practical applications. 

Online tests and exams are used for assessing the students’ progress in their independent studies. However, these tend to be less frequent, shorter in length, and more about open-ended questions than their on-campus counterparts. Multiple-choice questions are less common since graduate students are expected to possess advanced-level thinking skills that transcend these tests. 

Don’t even think about cheating, not only because it can result in dismissal from the program but also because online exams can be proctored. Online proctored exams are timed and combined with proctoring software to monitor your computer’s activities. A webcam with audio capabilities is also used for this purpose. 

Online presentations can be as nerve-wracking as in-person presentations, but these are crucial in polishing your communication skills. These may be presented in real-time or pre-recorded, but the standards of excellence are the same, meaning ample preparation and practice are a must. 

Of course, all online master’s degree programs are characterized by self-paced learning. Many programs combine asynchronous and synchronous formats, usually 80-20 in ratio, meaning you have to set your learning schedule. 

Laboratory work is also required in many programs, particularly in STEM fields. You may be required to perform on-campus lab work, but it’s also possible to perform virtual lab work. 

However, internship and practicum requirements require in-person interactions and physical presence on-site. But graduate students are usually allowed to find companies and organizations closer to home, thus, lessening the time and money commitments. 

Making the Right Choice

Due to the significant investments in time, effort and money, you must be careful about choosing the best one-year online master’s degree program! You can’t afford to pursue a master’s degree because of its benefits, but you cannot afford to choose a scam program, either.

Here are five crucial factors when considering accelerated master’s degree programs and making your final choice. 

Accreditation and Credibility

Accreditation is the first aspect you should look for in a post-secondary institution offering online graduate programs. Regional accreditation is preferred over national accreditation for colleges and universities, while programmatic accreditation for specific fields of study is also recommended.

You can check for accreditation via the school’s official website and then verify with the specific regional accreditation agency’s roster of schools. 

But be sure to look beyond the accreditation, too, since the quality of your graduate education will also depend on other factors. You should pay attention to the school’s rankings, awards and overall reputation in terms of academic excellence, student support services and faculty credentials.

With the Internet, it’s an easier task since reviews and rankings are available and accessible, not to mention that you can ask your network about their experiences with online graduate programs. 

Faculty Credentials and Support

While graduate school emphasizes independent study, the level of faculty support also matters in students’ academic success.

Faculty members should ideally optimize learning experiences and opportunities for their students, from delivering exceptional lectures and challenging exams to providing mentorship services. The best professors know that their primary duty lies in providing students with excellent learning materials and letting them discover without spoon-feeding them. 

While the online format has its limitations, it has its possibilities, too, that on-campus learning doesn’t offer for both students and professors. Students, for example, can leave messages on their professors’ emails without disturbing their sleep or reply to discussion boards on their own time. 

Faculty credentials are just as important as professors sharing their knowledge and skills with students. Most, if not all, professors should have terminal degrees (e.g., doctorates) and professional certifications and years of teaching experience. Check the research outputs of professors if you’re planning on making your master’s degree a stepping stone toward a research-centric doctorate. 

Student-Centric Learning Experiences 

Online education students benefit from independent study and flexibility. You may, for example, struggle with learning the subject matter because you’re a hands-on learner with a preference for on-campus experiences. You may also have difficulties staying focused because of the absence of structured daily or weekly schedules. 

Fortunately, the best programs offer students exceptional student-centric learning opportunities that overcome these unique challenges. The wide range of excellent student support services is among the opportunities you should look for when considering online graduate programs.

These should include the following:

• library services,
• tutorial and writing services,
• mental health and counseling services,
• academic advising and mentoring,
• and tech support services. 

Flexible Format of Online Programs

The flexibility of scheduling is among your primary reasons for choosing online graduate education, so choosing a program that offers maximum flexibility makes sense.

Even with synchronous classes, you should still maintain a good work-life-studies balance since most of the program has an asynchronous format. You will then be able to complete assignments, watch recorded lectures, and perform other study-related tasks at a time and pace that is convenient for you. 

Networking Opportunities

The best online graduate degree programs should provide students with depth and breadth of networking opportunities like their on-campus counterparts! You and your peers must be able to establish personal connections and professional networks not just with each other but with faculty and alumni.

You should also make the effort of socializing with your peers and professors since it comes with many benefits, not to mention that isolation can mean missing out on beautiful experiences. 

Look for resources that the program provides for socialization and networking. These can be group chats, social media groups, and in-person meetings. 

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes accelerated online Master’s programs flexible?

These are designed to quickly complete a series of courses each term, usually between five and eight weeks only. In contrast, traditional online master’s degree programs have 16-week semesters. With students allowed to take 2-3 courses each term, including the summer session, the one-year program of study makes sense. 

But with the accelerated format comes the more intense academic demands! You may have to lessen your workload or find creative ways to fit more hours into your day. You need to complete a minimum number of courses, but you should ask for specific rules about the required course load for every term. 

What are the typical admission requirements of online programs? 

The admission requirements for one-year online master’s degree programs are similar to those of their traditional on-campus and online counterparts, with 2-3 years of time to completion. These include: 

• Bachelor’s degree (from a regionally accredited school)
• Standardized test scores GRE, GMAT, or LSAT with minimum scores for specific sections (Note that many graduate programs have suspended test scores or made them optional) 
• Letters of recommendation from various sources, such as their current and past employers, professors and academic advisors, and community leaders 
• Official transcripts from all schools attended
• Professional certificates and other types of micro-credentials since these can be converted into transferable credits 
• Resume with current information about education and work 
• Personal Statement of Purpose and other essays 

As previously mentioned, accelerated programs typically have additional work requirements for admission purposes. MBA programs, for example, require applicants to possess between four and five years of post-undergraduate work experience. Executive MBA programs, designed for senior executives, require more than ten years in a management position. 

Are accelerated online Master’s degree programs cheaper? 

Yes, but the real money-savers are the less time you will spend commuting to and from classes and the more time you can spend with your family, work, and hobbies. You will also save time in your professional career, with the time spent on your graduate studies cut in half. These are savings that will add over time, too. 

What are the funding sources for your online education? 

Online graduate students can apply for the same funding opportunities as their on-campus counterparts! While there may be specific scholarships for on-campus students, most scholarship programs are designed for online and on-campus students. 

Filing the FAFSA for federal aid opportunities, including grants, work-study, and loans, has to be your first step. Many universities use the FAFSA, too, to determine eligibility for need-based scholarships. Merit-based scholarships and fellowships are also available, but these can be extremely selective due to their limited number of awards. 

Check out employer tuition support payments and military benefits, too. When combined with federal, state and institutional aid, the free money adds up, and you may earn your degree with little to zero debt! 

Are online Master’s degrees acceptable to employers? 

Yes, of course, these are accepted and recognized by employers, but the importance of accreditation and the overall reputation of the university matters! 

Key Takeaways

• One-year online master’s programs/degrees are now widely accepted and recognized by educational institutions, industries, and the government. 
• Flexibility, affordability, and excellent quality of instruction in online programs are among the great features that ensure these programs are here to stay and will encourage your success!  

Additional Resources:

• Most Prestigious Graduate Schools in The World
• Schools That Offer Free Master’s Degrees Online
• Easiest Online Master’s Degrees