Online Masters Degrees Explained: Benefits, Options, and How to Choose
Updated on Jan 06, 2025 | 9 min read | 1.5k views
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Updated on Jan 06, 2025 | 9 min read | 1.5k views
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Master’s degrees have always been a great way to grow your education and career. Over the past decade, more people have been earning them, with a 16% increase in master’s degrees awarded from 2011 to 2022, according to the National Center for Education Statistics.
Online master’s programs are becoming more popular because they offer flexibility and convenience. Whether you want to change careers, learn more in your field, or improve your job prospects, an online degree can help you juggle work, life, and study.
In this blog, we’ll cover everything you need to know about online master’s degrees—
You can pursue a Master of Arts (MA) or Master of Science (MS) in areas like history, English, marketing, biology, psychology, and foreign languages. Other degrees like the Master of Fine Arts (MFA) or Master of Business Administration (MBA) are also offered online.
In the 2021-2022 school year, most students earned their master’s degrees in business, education, and health fields. Engineering and public administration/social services were also popular choices. These online programs make it easier to continue your education while managing your other responsibilities.
Here’s a closer look at some of the most popular online master’s degrees:
An MBA is one of the most popular master’s degrees, particularly for those looking to move into higher-level business management or leadership roles. This degree gives you the skills needed to manage and lead organizations across various industries.
Eligibility: Typically, you need a bachelor’s degree. Some schools also prefer a few years of work experience in business.
This degree is designed for those interested in analyzing data to uncover insights and support decision-making in organizations. The demand for data professionals has surged in recent years, making this a highly sought-after qualification.
Eligibility: A background in mathematics, computer science, or a related field is often required.
A Master’s in Computer Science provides deep technical knowledge in software development, programming, and technology management. It’s perfect for those who want to work in tech fields such as software engineering, artificial intelligence, or cybersecurity.
Eligibility:
A bachelor’s degree in computer science or a similar field is usually needed.
If you’re passionate about improving healthcare systems, a Master’s in Healthcare Administration can prepare you for leadership roles in hospitals, clinics, and other healthcare organizations. This program focuses on both the business and ethical aspects of healthcare management.
Eligibility: A bachelor’s degree in healthcare, business, or a related field is typically required.
If you are passionate about education and want to move into a leadership or specialized teaching role, a Master’s in Education and Teaching is an excellent option. It equips you with advanced teaching methods and educational management skills.
Eligibility: You typically need a bachelor’s degree in education or a related field.
For those with a creative flair and an interest in business, a Master’s in Marketing and Communications gives you the tools to shape brands, develop marketing strategies, and engage customers.
Eligibility: A background in marketing, communications, or business is often preferred.
According to a report,
If you’re ready to step up your career or explore new fields, an online master’s degree can help you get there.
Here’s a look at the key fields of study, some of the roles you can take on:
Field of Study |
Popular Roles |
Average Salary (India) |
MBA |
- Business Manager - Operations Consultant - Marketing Manager - HR Manager - Financial Analyst |
₹8-15 Lakhs per year |
Data Science |
- Data Scientist - Analytics Manager - Business Intelligence Analyst - Machine Learning Engineer - Data Engineer |
₹7-20 Lakhs per year |
Healthcare Administration |
- Hospital Administrator - Health IT Specialist - Medical Services Manager - Healthcare Consultant - Health Systems Analyst |
₹6-12 Lakhs per year |
Computer Science |
- Software Engineer - IT Manager - Systems Architect - Cybersecurity Specialist - Database Administrator |
₹6-18 Lakhs per year |
Education |
- School Administrator - Curriculum Developer - Education Consultant - Instructional Coordinator - Teacher (Higher Education) |
₹5-10 Lakhs per year |
Marketing & Communications |
- Marketing Manager - Brand Strategist - Digital Marketing Manager - PR Specialist - Social Media Manager |
₹6-14 Lakhs per year |
Thinking about getting an online master’s degree? Here's what you need to know about the costs and how long it will take.
An online master’s program may fit around work or family without uprooting your daily routine. Below are a few reasons why it might be a good option.
1. Work-Life Balance
An online master’s degree helps you study when it suits your schedule. You don’t have to rush from work to a classroom, and you can plan lessons around family time. This setup often reduces stress and keeps you focused on the most important parts of your life.
2. Cost Advantages
Online learning usually costs less because you avoid travel or housing expenses. Some schools offer lower tuition rates for internet-based courses, and you might still qualify for financial aid. This approach can be easier on your wallet while you move toward your degree.
3. Diverse Program Options
Online programs allow you to join classes offered by universities around the world. You can pick a subject not offered in your local schools and explore specialized fields from your home. That choice might lead you to new goals you hadn’t considered before.
4. Skill Development Beyond Academics
Online courses often require self-discipline and good time management. You also learn to use digital tools for group projects and remote collaboration. These abilities are valuable in many workplaces and can help you stand out among other candidates.
Do online master’s programs require special preparation? That question is common, and a clear plan can help you feel ready for the challenge. Here are practical steps you might want to follow.
Ever wondered if there’s a simple way to find the right online master’s degree? That question comes up a lot because the world of online education can feel overwhelming. A 2023 survey found that more than 30% of graduate students in the United States choose online programs for better flexibility, which means there are plenty of options out there.
Ready to decide? That step may open new doors without disrupting your daily routine.
There’s a simpler route to an online master’s degree. upGrad can show you a path that lines up with your goals and schedule. We offer specialized courses for real-world challenges, so you can keep a job or family commitments while moving toward your degree.
Explore programs in business, data science, and IT that focus on practical skills. Pick from these options:
Ready to start exploring? upGrad’s team can help you pick the right course and move closer to your career dreams. Reach out to upGrad, ask questions, and find a program that suits your ambitions.
Enhance your expertise with our Popular MBA Courses. Explore the programs below to find your ideal fit.
Expand your knowledge with our Popular Articles Related to MBA. Browse the programs below to discover your ideal match.
Source:
https://nces.ed.gov/programs/coe/indicator/ctb/graduate-degree-fields
https://nces.ed.gov/programs/coe/indicator/ctb/graduate-degree-fields
https://www.gmac.com/-/media/files/gmac/research/employment-outlook/2023_gmac_corporaterecruiters_report.pdf
https://hbr.org/2022/02/skills-based-hiring-is-on-the-rise
https://www.glassdoor.co.in/Salaries/mba-salary-SRCH_KO0,3.htm
https://www.glassdoor.co.in/Salaries/data-science-salary-SRCH_KO0,12.htm
https://www.glassdoor.co.in/Salaries/healthcare-administration-salary-SRCH_KO0,25.htm
https://www.glassdoor.co.in/Salaries/computer-science-engineer-salary-SRCH_KO0,25.htm
https://www.payscale.com/research/IN/Industry=Education/Salary
https://www.glassdoor.co.in/Salaries/communications-and-marketing-salary-SRCH_KO0,28.htm
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