[hen-ui-dynamic-experience placement=”aboveTheFold” /] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Pursuing a master’s degree is an important step in your educational and professional development. A master’s degree opens doors to new careers and increases earning potential.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Over [hen-ui-link href=”https://nces.ed.gov/fastfacts/display.asp?id=372#College_enrollment/”]three million students[/hen-ui-link] are currently enrolled in grad school. In 2023, [hen-ui-link href=”https://www.statista.com/statistics/238236/masters-degree-recipients-in-the-us/”]935,000 people[/hen-ui-link] earned master’s degrees. More than half of those graduates studied business, education, or healthcare. With so many job candidates entering the workforce with a master’s degree, it’s more important than ever to consider grad school.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″][hen-ui-link href=”/rankings/online-colleges/”]Online colleges[/hen-ui-link] make it easier than ever to earn a master’s degree online. Our resources help prospective students analyze the costs and benefits of earning master’s degrees. Individuals considering grad school often wonder about switching fields, where to study for their master’s degree, and who benefits from earning a graduate degree.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]We also offer detailed information on the options for flexible enrollment in master’s-level study. We list programs that provide related degree fields — including healthcare, the social sciences, business, [hen-ui-link href=”/rankings/bachelors/best-online-bachelors-computer-science/”]computer science[/hen-ui-link], and education.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Once you’ve set your sights on a master’s program, you can consider if you want to take a gap year to build up your professional resume. You can then check out the latest news for prospective and current students with our up-to-date resources.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-heading variant=”h2″]Selecting an Online Master’s Program[/hen-ui-heading] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]What is a [hen-ui-link href=”/rankings/masters/”]master’s degree[/hen-ui-link]? More importantly, do you need a master’s degree to accelerate your career? Professionals with master’s degrees earn [hen-ui-link href=”/careers/”]high salaries[/hen-ui-link] in many fields. They also qualify for decision-making roles.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Before selecting an online master’s program, the prospective enrollee must hold a bachelor’s degree. Many programs offer [hen-ui-link href=”/rankings/masters/accelerated/bachelors-to-masters/”]accelerated bachelor’s-to-master’s[/hen-ui-link] programs. Next, narrow down your options to a particular discipline or department. If your career goals span multiple fields, consider a [hen-ui-link href=”/rankings/masters/best-online-dual-masters/”]dual master’s degree[/hen-ui-link].[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Most importantly, think strategically about the right master’s degree program for your unique needs and circumstances. Check out the resources below for more on choosing a master’s program online.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″ class=”heading-3″][hen-ui-link href=”/careers/highest-paying/highest-paying-careers-masters-degree/”]The 10 Highest-Paying Master’s Degrees[/hen-ui-link][/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″ class=”heading-3″][hen-ui-link href=”/rankings/masters/accelerated/bachelors-to-masters/”]Accelerated Bachelor’s Degree Programs Online[/hen-ui-link][/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″ class=”heading-3″][hen-ui-link href=”/rankings/masters/best-online-dual-masters/”]Best Online Dual Master’s Degree Programs[/hen-ui-link][/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-heading variant=”h2″]Health Professions Master’s Degrees[/hen-ui-heading] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]The healthcare field will add more jobs than any other occupational group from 2023-2033, according to [hen-ui-link href=”https://www.bls.gov/ooh/healthcare/home.htm/”]Bureau of Labor Statistics[/hen-ui-link] (BLS) projections. Master’s degrees help health professionals advance their careers and specialize their training. A [hen-ui-link href=”/rankings/masters/best-online-masters-healthcare-administration/”]healthcare administration[/hen-ui-link] or [hen-ui-link href=”/rankings/masters/best-online-masters-public-health/”]public health[/hen-ui-link] degree opens the door to leadership roles in healthcare. Many universities offer [hen-ui-link href=”/rankings/masters/affordable/online-masters-healthcare-administration/”]affordable healthcare administration[/hen-ui-link] degrees.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Clinical practitioners can become [hen-ui-link href=”/rankings/masters/best-online-masters-nurse-practitioner/”]nurse practitioners[/hen-ui-link] or dieticians and nutritionists after earning specialized master’s degrees. Nurse administrators, nurse educators, and clinical nurse specialists also need master’s degrees. Other focused programs include [hen-ui-link href=”/rankings/masters/best-online-masters-healthcare-informatics/”]healthcare informatics[/hen-ui-link] and sports medicine.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-grid columns-md=”2″ gap=”md”] [/hen-ui-grid] [hen-ui-heading variant=”h2″]Social Sciences Master’s Degrees[/hen-ui-heading] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]The social sciences critically analyze human society. Social science fields like political science, economics, [hen-ui-link href=”/rankings/masters/best-online-masters-public-policy/”]public policy[/hen-ui-link], and legal studies strengthen analytical and research skills. At the master’s level, a student can also earn a history degree or a social studies degree to prepare for careers in education, museums and heritage, and public history.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]In addition to common liberal arts social science disciplines, the field encompasses career-focused programs in [hen-ui-link href=”/rankings/masters/best-online-masters-public-administration/”]public administration[/hen-ui-link] and professional coaching. An online master’s in criminal justice offers a flexible route to administrative roles in law enforcement and the legal system. Check out other social science master’s programs below.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-grid columns-md=”2″ gap=”md”] [/hen-ui-grid] [hen-ui-heading variant=”h2″]Business Management and Administration Master’s Degrees[/hen-ui-heading] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Graduates with a master’s in business can move into decision-making roles. Management occupations report the [hen-ui-link href=”https://www.bls.gov/ooh/management/home.htm/”]highest median wage[/hen-ui-link] of any occupational group, so graduate training in business management and administration can be a strategic investment. Students can pursue a [hen-ui-link href=”/degrees/mba/mba-specializations/mba-specializations/”]master’s in business administration[/hen-ui-link] (MBA) or graduate degrees in diverse fields.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]An accounting degree can lead to opportunities as a CPA or accounting manager. A [hen-ui-link href=”/rankings/masters/best-online-masters-finance/”]finance degree[/hen-ui-link] prepares graduates for careers in financial management. Other common business degrees include [hen-ui-link href=”/rankings/masters/best-online-masters-human-resources/”]human resources[/hen-ui-link], strategic management, entrepreneurship, and business intelligence. These degrees also provide focused training for [hen-ui-link href=”/rankings/masters/best-online-masters-organizational-leadership/”]organizational leadership[/hen-ui-link] positions.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-grid columns-md=”2″ gap=”md”] [/hen-ui-grid] [hen-ui-heading variant=”h2″]Computer Science and Information Technology Master’s Degrees[/hen-ui-heading] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Computer and information technology careers report [hen-ui-link href=”https://www.bls.gov/ooh/computer-and-information-technology/home.htm/”]much faster than average[/hen-ui-link] projected job growth and median salaries of more than double the national average. And a master’s degree helps tech professionals advance their careers to the top levels.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]A master’s in [hen-ui-link href=”/rankings/masters/best-online-masters-information-technology/”]information technology[/hen-ui-link] trains IT professionals in business decision-making, strategic technology management, and information management. With many industries prioritizing information security, a master’s in network security leads to in-demand careers.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]A master’s in [hen-ui-link href=”/rankings/masters/best-online-masters-data-science/”]data science[/hen-ui-link] leads to opportunities in diverse industries from business to healthcare. Learn more about computer science and information technology degrees with the following links.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-grid columns-md=”2″ gap=”md”] [/hen-ui-grid] [hen-ui-heading variant=”h2″]Marketing, Communication, and Journalism Master’s Degrees[/hen-ui-heading] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Graduate degrees in marketing, communication, and journalism build the research and writing skills needed for career advancement. With a [hen-ui-link href=”/rankings/masters/best-online-masters-marketing/”]master’s in marketing[/hen-ui-link], market research analysts can advance into management roles and increase their earning potential. Marketing managers earned a [hen-ui-link href=”https://www.bls.gov/ooh/management/advertising-promotions-and-marketing-managers.htm”]median annual salary[/hen-ui-link] of over $157,620 as of May 2023, according to the BLS.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]A master’s in communication or a master’s in journalism can also open doors to new careers. Students specialize their training by choosing focused programs like media communications, business communication, or public relations. At the graduate level, communication and journalism students strengthen their portfolios and increase their competitive edge in the job market.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-grid columns-md=”2″ gap=”md”] [/hen-ui-grid] [hen-ui-heading variant=”h2″]Psychology, Counseling, and Social Work Master’s Degrees[/hen-ui-heading] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Many psychology, counseling, and social work careers require candidates to possess master’s degrees. For example, graduates with a [hen-ui-link href=”/rankings/masters/best-online-masters-counseling/”]master’s in counseling online[/hen-ui-link] can work as marriage and family therapists or [hen-ui-link href=”/rankings/masters/best-online-masters-substance-abuse-counseling/”]substance abuse counselors[/hen-ui-link]. A clinical social worker must hold a [hen-ui-link href=”/rankings/masters/best-masters-social-work/”]master’s in social work[/hen-ui-link]. Master’s degrees can also help psychologists launch careers in industrial-organizational psychology or prepare for doctoral programs.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Social work students benefit from online master’s program options. An [hen-ui-link href=”/rankings/masters/best-online-masters-social-work/”]online master’s in social work[/hen-ui-link] can provide a flexible path to clinical social work careers. Online programs also make specialized graduate degrees more accessible. Online programs can help students earn degrees in unique fields like [hen-ui-link href=”/rankings/masters/best-online-masters-negotiation-conflict-management/”]conflict management[/hen-ui-link] without relocating.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-grid columns-md=”2″ gap=”md”] [/hen-ui-grid] [hen-ui-heading variant=”h2″]Theology and Religious Studies Master’s Degrees[/hen-ui-heading] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Graduate study in theology or religious studies deepens a student’s understanding of faith and can lead to diverse career paths in the church or secular settings. For example, learners in a [hen-ui-link href=”/degrees/theology-degree/”]theology master’s degree[/hen-ui-link] program gain the counseling and ministry skills needed for pastoral or nonprofit roles.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Within the broad field of theology and religious studies, graduate students can pursue diverse academic paths. Some choose [hen-ui-link href=”/rankings/masters/best-online-masters-divinity/”]master’s in divinity[/hen-ui-link] degrees to focus on biblical interpretation and pastoral care. A focused master’s in pastoral leadership emphasizes the ministry and leadership skills necessary to guide a congregation.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Some colleges also offer master’s in global ministry degrees to provide missionary training at the graduate level.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-grid columns-md=”2″ gap=”md”] [/hen-ui-grid] [hen-ui-heading variant=”h2″]Math and Engineering Master’s Degrees[/hen-ui-heading] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]A master’s in math or engineering provides focused, graduate-level training for in-demand fields. Students can earn master’s in engineering degrees online. With a graduate degree, engineers can work in supervisory and decision-making roles. For example, a master’s in electrical engineering trains engineers for advanced positions in research and development.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Other popular engineering graduate programs include biomedical engineering, civil engineering, and engineering management. An engineering management focus can lead to leadership roles and large pay increases. According to BLS data, the [hen-ui-link href=”https://www.bls.gov/ooh/management/architectural-and-engineering-managers.htm/”]median salary for engineering managers[/hen-ui-link] reached $165,370 in May 2023.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-grid columns-md=”2″ gap=”md”] [/hen-ui-grid] [hen-ui-heading variant=”h2″]Education, Fine Arts, and Humanities Master’s Degrees[/hen-ui-heading] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]A master’s in education, the fine arts, or the humanities can prepare graduates for leadership roles in these fields. A degree in [hen-ui-link href=”/rankings/masters/best-online-masters-educational-administration/”]educational administration[/hen-ui-link] or [hen-ui-link href=”/rankings/masters/best-online-masters-educational-leadership/”]educational leadership[/hen-ui-link] helps teachers advance to the administrative level to pursue roles as school principals and instructional coordinators. Educators often pursue master’s degrees in [hen-ui-link href=”/rankings/masters/best-online-masters-curriculum-instruction/”]curriculum and instruction[/hen-ui-link] to move into lead teacher roles or increase their earning potential.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]A master’s is commonly the terminal degree in the fine arts. Graduates can qualify for college professor roles or pursue fine arts careers. Earning a master’s degree in these fields doesn’t need to break the bank. Many programs offer [hen-ui-link href=”/rankings/masters/best-online-masters-early-childhood-education/”]affordable education degrees[/hen-ui-link].[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-grid columns-md=”2″ gap=”md”] [/hen-ui-grid] [hen-ui-heading variant=”h2″]Science Master’s Degrees[/hen-ui-heading] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]The natural sciences hone research and laboratory skills at the graduate level. During science master’s degrees, learners study advanced concepts in chemistry, biophysics, and earth science. Enrollees gain advanced knowledge and skills through a mix of classroom and laboratory coursework.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Cutting-edge master’s programs in biomedical engineering and genetics prepare graduates for specialized careers in the sciences. Learners can also earn master’s degrees in science education to become science teachers. Learn more about science master’s programs and career paths with a master’s in science below.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″ class=”heading-3″]Biomedical Engineering[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″ class=”heading-3″]Science Education[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-heading variant=”h2″]Pursuing an Online Master’s Degree[/hen-ui-heading] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Can you earn a master’s degree online? Many top-ranked universities maintain track records of success and offer online master’s programs with [hen-ui-link href=”/resources/synchronous-vs-asynchronous-programs-courses/”]flexible schedules[/hen-ui-link].[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Before enrolling in an online program, take some time to consider how to choose an online college. Next, walk through the online education checklist to make sure you’re prepared. Then, check out our essential tools for distance learners. These resources help prospective online students start their graduate education on the right foot.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-grid columns-md=”2″ gap=”md”] [/hen-ui-grid] [hen-ui-heading variant=”h2″]Paying for Your Master’s Degree[/hen-ui-heading] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]The cost of college continues to rise, and graduate programs generally charge higher tuition rates than undergraduate programs. When it comes to college finances, planning makes a major difference.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Before applying to grad school, research [hen-ui-link href=”/resources/college-finances/scholarships/”]scholarships[/hen-ui-link] and [hen-ui-link href=”/resources/college-finances/about-student-loans/”]student loans[/hen-ui-link]. Making strategic financial aid decisions can help you avoid high student loan payments after graduation. Check out our resource on [hen-ui-link href=”/resources/college-finances/paying-for-college/”]paying for online college[/hen-ui-link], which introduces multiple ways to pay for school and save money while pursuing your degree.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-grid columns-md=”2″ gap=”md”] [/hen-ui-grid] [hen-ui-heading variant=”h2″]Recent Publications for Prospective Master’s Students[/hen-ui-heading] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Are you considering grad school? Our recent publications cover how to make the most of an online program and what to know before pursuing a master’s degree. We also explore topics like maximizing a gap year before grad school and increasing your productivity in school. Check out some of our recent pieces below and bookmark TheBestSchools Magazine for the latest posts on grad school, student life, and transitioning into the workforce.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-grid columns-md=”2″ gap=”md”] [/hen-ui-grid] [hen-ui-heading variant=”h2″]Frequently Asked Questions About Pursuing a Master’s Degree[/hen-ui-heading] [hen-ui-accordion variant=”no-background”] [hen-ui-accordion-item title=”What’s the Purpose of a Master’s Degree?” expanded=”true”] [hen-ui-text-stack gap=”sm”] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″] [/hen-ui-text-stack] [/hen-ui-accordion-item] [hen-ui-accordion-item title=”How Many Years Is a Master’s Degree?” expanded=”true”] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Earning a master’s degree typically requires two years of full-time study. Some programs offer accelerated master’s degrees that take one year.[/hen-ui-text] [/hen-ui-accordion-item] [hen-ui-accordion-item title=”How Do You Get a Master’s Degree?” expanded=”true”] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]An applicant must possess a bachelor’s degree and meet any prerequisite requirements before entering graduate school to earn a master’s degree. During a master’s program, each graduate student completes 30-40 credits in their focus area, including any internship or practicum requirements. Many master’s programs require students to complete thesis projects or exams in order to graduate.[/hen-ui-text] [/hen-ui-accordion-item] [/hen-ui-accordion] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Featured Image Credit: Maskot | DigitalVision | Getty Images[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-section-header title=”Popular with our students.” /] [hen-ui-article-row variant=”2-col” ids=”970,1538,905″][/hen-ui-article-row]