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    Fastest Masters Degree in 2024 (Online & On-Campus)

    January 26, 2024 | Admin

    Fastest Masters Degree
    Fastest master's degree badge

    Earning a fastest masters degree online allows professionals to advance their career opportunities, and to have greater financial security as they increase their earnings. Students that enroll in a fastest master’s degree program sometimes do so to change careers or to gain new knowledge in their preferred area of interest. Whatever the reason that a student enrolls in a particular program, including an online master’s degree, they likely do not want to spend five or six years in school to complete the program.

    Enrolling in a master’s degree program has several benefits that possibly helps the graduate excel in their profession.

    Why Should I Earn a Master’s Degree?

    The benefits of completing a master’s degree program are well documented from several sources. The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) published its Projections of Occupational Employment in 2017, part of which looked at the growth in occupations for the years 2016 – 2026 by the level of education typically required in a particular profession. The information revealed was stunning when considering workers with graduate degrees, including workers with a master’s degree. Occupations that required a graduate degree that were also expected to add the most jobs over the designated time period had median annual wages that were higher than the median annual wages for all occupations. A discovery that was even more stunning was the fact that workers in these occupations that held a graduate degree, including a master’s degree, had wages that were at least double the median annual wages for all occupations.

    The BLS provides data that further proves the importance of earning a master’s degree for workers that want to increase their career opportunities and earnings. The data, published in May 2020, reveals that the median usual weekly earnings for a person that has a master’s degree was $1,497. The median usual weekly earnings for an individual with an associate’s degree was $887, while the median usual weekly earnings for a worker with a bachelor’s degree was $1,248 for the same time period.

    Completing a fastest masters degree is not only about money for many people. The rewarding satisfaction of having more job security is one reason to earn a master’s degree. Learning new skills and knowledge that allows a person to excel in their chosen field and to become a leader today to face the challenges of tomorrow often leads to the desire to complete an online master’s degree. The BLS points out that anticipated fast job growth ‘may signal strong prospects for long-term career planning.’

    Rank School Location
    1University of the CumberlandsWilliamsburg, Kentucky
    2Georgia Southwestern State UniversityAmericus, Georgia
    3Lamar UniversityBeaumont, Texas
    4Western Governors UniversitySalt Lake City, Utah
    5Fitchburg State UniversityFitchburg, Massachusetts

    Here are the Fastest Master’s Degrees!

    1

    University of the Cumberlands

    • Williamsburg, Kentucky
    • Graduation Rate: 78%

    The University of the Cumberlands offers online master’s degree programs that incorporate the latest developments and research into the program and that are modern and practical for today’s in-demand career fields. Some program options include the Master’s in Project Management, the Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) Family Nurse Practitioner program, and the Master of Arts in Education degree. Most programs have several concentration options available for students.

    School Overview

    Program length: est. 15 months
    Tuition: $315 per credit hour
    Visit School Website
    2

    Georgia Southwestern State University

    • Americus, Georgia
    • Graduation Rate: 31%

    Students that enroll at Georgia Southwestern State University enjoy flexibility and affordability as they progress through their chosen online master’s degree program. Students gain the knowledge and skills necessary to compete in the workplace today and to become leaders in their chosen career in the future. The school offers several tracks within business administration, education, nursing, or computer science.

    Students that pursue their degree online enjoy a significantly lower tuition rate, compared to the traditional tuition rate for students completing their degree in the classroom.

    School Overview

    Program length: 18 months
    Tuition: $257 per credit hour
    Visit School Website
    3

    Lamar University

    • Beaumont, Texas
    • Graduation Rate: 32%

    Lamar University structures its online master’s degree programs in a pay-by-the-course format. The affordable programs include eight concentrations within the Master of Business Administration degree option, 11 Master of Education program concentrations, two Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) concentrations. There are several options in criminal justice, political science and health sciences.

    The accelerated format allows students to complete their program in less time than many other schools.

    School Overview

    Program length: 16 months
    Tuition: $300 per credit hour
    Visit School Website
    4

    Western Governors University

    • Salt Lake City, Utah
    • Graduation Rate: 42%

    Western Governors University offers a variety of programs, including master’s degree programs in healthcare, business, education or information technology. Choose a Master of Science in Management and Leadership, Master of Education (M.Ed.) in Learning and technology, or the Master of Science in Information Technology Management.

    The school offers one-on-one faculty support, with 97 percent of the employers that hire graduates from the school expressing satisfaction.

    School Overview

    Program length: 18-24 months
    Tuition: est. $270 per credit hour
    Visit School Website
    5

    Fitchburg State University

    • Fitchburg, Massachusetts
    • Graduation Rate: 53%

    Students that pursue an online master’s degree at Fitchburg State University have the benefit of receiving the same high-quality instruction and support services as students that attend classes on-campus. The school offers 13 online fastest master’s degree program options, including the Master of Science in Applied Communication with a Social Media concentration, and the Master of Business Administration in Healthcare Management program.

    School Overview

    Program length: 18 months
    Tuition: est. $334 per credit hour
    Visit School Website
    6

    Weber State University

    • Ogden, Utah
    • Graduation Rate: 39%

    Weber State University formats their online master degree programs with a focus on graduating students that are working professionals that are looking towards the future. Expand on self-development, critical thinking, designing and implementing new strategies and the opportunity to advance into leadership in your current career or in a new profession.

    Some program options include the Executive Master of health Administration, the Master of Criminal Justice, the Master of Radiologic Sciences and the Master of Taxation.

    School Overview

    Program length: 12-18 months
    Tuition: $504 per credit hour
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    7

    University of Southern Mississippi

    • Hattiesburg, Mississippi
    • Graduation Rate: 57%

    The University of Southern Mississippi offers more than two-dozen master’s degree programs that are presented in a 100 percent online format. Gain new knowledge or expand your current skills in areas such as business administration, education, nursing leadership, human capital development, or criminal justice.

    School Overview

    Program length: 15 months
    Tuition: $488 per credit hour
    Visit School Website
    8

    University of North Texas

    • Denton, Texas
    • Graduation Rate: 64%

    The University of North Texas offers more than 30 online master’s degree programs. Prospective students that want to complete a fastest masters degree program choose from options such as the Master of Science in Applied Anthropology program, the Master of Science in Digital Communication Analytics, or the Master of Arts in Applied Behavior Analysis. The university offers several concentrations in the Master of Business Administration program and several concentrations in Master of Education programs. The school is a proud partner of the Dallas Cowboys and offers a Master of Business Administration in Sport Entertainment Management.

    School Overview

    Program length: 18-24 months
    Tuition: $277.79 per credit hour
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    9

    Fort Hays State University

    • Hays, Kansas
    • Graduation Rate: 71%

    Fort Hays State University challenges prospective students to take charge of their future as they pursue an online master’s degree at the school. The online degree options include master’s programs in business administration, nursing, education, professional studies, liberal studies, and counseling.

    School Overview

    Program length: 18 months
    Tuition: $298.55 per credit hour
    Visit School Website
    10

    Graceland University

    • Lamoni, Iowa
    • Graduation Rate: 44%

    Graceland University offers five master’s degree options for students that enroll in an online program. Choose your degree from the Master of Science in Nursing RN-MSN option, or the Master of Science in Nursing with specializations in the Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP), Adult Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner (AGACNP) or the Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) concentration. There are three other options, including the Master of Science in Data Science and Analytics.

    School Overview

    Program length: 16 months
    Tuition: est. $592.50 per credit hour
    Visit School Website
    11

    Campbellsville University

    • Campbellsville, Kentucky
    • Graduation Rate: 34%

    Campbellsville University offers 29 master degree programs that allows students to learn when and where they choose to complete the requirements for their degree. Choose your preferred fastest masters degree from programs in nursing, education, business, social work, nursing, and other options.

    The school offers a tuition discount for members of the military, veterans, members of the National Guard or Reserves.

    School Overview

    Program length: 18-24 months
    Tuition: est. $392.33 per credit hour
    Visit School Website
    12

    Logan University

    • Chesterfield, Missouri
    • Graduation Rate: 59%
    Logan University sign at campus

    Logan University currently offers four online master’s degree options in Sports Science & Rehabilitation, Nutrition & Human Performance, Applied Nutrition & Dietetics, and Health Informatics, and will be adding online master’s degrees in Strength & Conditioning and Integrative Pediatrics, along with the in-person Master’s in Athletic Training, in 2022. Logan’s master’s degrees are designed for the working professional, providing flexibility in how courses are delivered and offering multiple start dates throughout the year.

    School Overview

    Program length: est. 18 months
    Tuition: $450 per credit hour
    Visit School Website
    13

    Columbus State University

    • Columbus, Georgia
    • Graduation Rate: 29%

    Columbus State University understands the challenges of trying to balance a career and family with the desire to advance your education. The school offers 24-hour access to its online platform, allowing students to complete their coursework when and where they choose to do so.

    The Georgia school features an outstanding list of master’s degree programs in education, computer sciences, business, nursing, and public administration.

    School Overview

    Program length: 18-24 months
    Tuition: est. $483 per credit hour
    Visit School Website
    14

    Louisiana State University

    • Baton Rouge, Louisiana
    • Graduation Rate: 68%

    Louisiana State University offers 15 online master’s degree programs that offer a flexible pathway to a new career or expansion of current career opportunities. The school offers several options in business administration and education, along with other programs such as the Master of Library and Information Science with a specialization in Archival Studies.

    The school recently reduced the length of some programs, allowing students to complete their degree requirements earlier than the previous requirements.

    School Overview

    Program length: 18 months
    Tuition: est. $495 per credit hour
    Visit School Website
    15

    Florida International University

    • Miami, Florida
    • Graduation Rate: 72%

    Students that enroll in a master’s degree program at Florida International University have their choice of more than 40 program options. Many programs are unique, such as the Master of Arts in Latin American and Caribbean Studies, the Master of Science in Hospitality Management with Specialization in Revenue Management, and the Master of Arts in African and African Diaspora Studies. Consider other unique programs such as the Master of Science in Special Education with Autism Endorsement Specialization or several other education programs. Some students earn their degree in programs such as the many STEM programs, healthcare or nursing program options, or the Master of Arts in Global Affairs: Cybersecurity and Technology Policy.

    Gain personal insight or begin an entirely new career with the program options available at the school.

    School Overview

    Program length: est. 18 months
    Tuition: est. $600 per credit hour
    Visit School Website
    16

    University of Colorado

    • Boulder, Colorado
    • Graduation Rate: 70%

    The University of Colorado offers graduate students the opportunity to excel in the future when they earn an online master’s degree from the school. Enhance your current career opportunities, start a path in a new career or increase your earnings potential after completing one of the programs, which includes 25 program options. Some unique programs include the Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) with a Veteran and Military Healthcare concentration, and the Master of Science in Finance and Risk Management. There are several other education, STEM, healthcare and business programs offered online.

    School Overview

    Program length: est. 18 months
    Tuition: est. $626 per credit hour
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    17

    Benedictine University

    • Lisle, Illinois
    • Graduation Rate: 63%

    Benedictine University features four online dual degree programs that provides students with the opportunity to earn a master’s degree in both programs. One example is the Dual Master of Science in Nursing/Master of Business Administration (MSN/MBA) program. Students earn the MSN degree first and within three years, the student holds both master’s degrees.

    Students that enroll in a typical master’s degree program have six program options to choose from, including the Master of Public Health (MPH) or the Master of Science in Management and Organizational Behavior.

    School Overview

    Program length: 18-24 months
    Tuition: est. $665 per credit hour
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    18

    Albertus Magnus College

    • New Haven, Connecticut
    • Graduation Rate: 58%

    Some students in the fastest master’s degree programs at Albertus Magnus College choose to complete their coursework in a face-to-face format so that they benefit from an accelerated learning format. Other students that want to earn a master’s degree choose to earn their degree in an entirely online format, enjoying the flexibility along with the accelerated course format.

    Choose your master’s degree program from options such as accounting, criminal justice, public administration, or other options.

    School Overview

    Program length: 15 months
    Tuition: est. $790 per credit hour
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    19

    University of Miami

    • Coral Gables, Florida
    • Graduation Rate: 81%

    The University of Miami offers eight online master’s degree options, including the Master of Science in Finance and the Master of Arts in Arts Presenting and Live Entertainment Management. Engage in experiential learning, increase your professional value and gain the skills to become a leader in your career when you earn your master’s degree.

    School Overview

    Program length: 16-20 months
    Tuition: $2,170 per credit hour
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    20

    Northeastern University

    • Boston, Massachusetts
    • Graduation Rate: 84%

    Choose your online master’s degree program from among nearly 50 options offered by Northeastern University. Choose from options such as the Master of Science in Applied Nutrition, the Master of Professional Studies in Applied Machine Intelligence, or the Master of Science in Respiratory Care Leadership. There are several concentration options within most degree programs, allowing students the opportunity to focus their degree on their personal interests or career focus.

    Most programs are designed to be completed within 18 months to 24 months of full-time study.

    School Overview

    Program length: 24 months
    Tuition: est. $718 per credit hour
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    21

    East Coast Polytechnic Institute

    • Virginia Beach, Virginia

    The East Coast Polytechnic Institute (ECPI) has delivered in-demand education in an online format for more than 15 years. Students receive top-notch support, including professional tutoring, technical support, and career services, along with instruction from faculty members that have industry-related experience in their field.

    School Overview

    Program length: x est. 18 months
    Tuition: $720 per credit hour
    Visit School Website
    22

    Fontbonne University

    • St. Louis, Missouri
    • Graduation Rate: 63%

    Fontbonne University recognizes that some students need the flexibility and affordability of completing their fastest master degree program online. The school offers high-quality programs that challenges students to think critically, act ethically, and assume responsibility as leaders in their chosen career field. The Master of Science in Cybersecurity, Master of Science in Instructional Design and Technology, and the Master of Arts in Education are examples of some programs.

    School Overview

    Program length: 18 months
    Tuition: $775 per credit hour
    Visit School Website
    23

    Wayne State University

    • Detroit, Michigan
    • Graduation Rate: 38%

    Wayne State University offers the convenience and flexibility of earning a master’s degree in an online format that features access to academic resources, cutting edge technologies, outstanding student support, and courses taught by faculty that are leaders in their field. Students that wish to earn an online master’s degree choose from options in education, information sciences, criminal justice, or the Master of Arts in Theatre and Dance program.

    School Overview

    Program length: 18-24 months
    Tuition: $787.55 per credit hour
    Visit School Website
    24

    Boston University

    • Boston, Massachusetts
    • Graduation Rate: 87%

    There are 18 master’s degree programs offered online at Boston University. Choose from programs such as the Master of Arts in Art Education, the Master of Science in Global Marketing Management or the Master of Science in Health Communication.

    The school is committed to delivering an ‘unparalleled distance learning experience’ for online students who have 24-hour access to online lectures, cutting-edge course materials, and interactive multimedia content.

    School Overview

    Program length: 18-24 months
    Tuition: est. $907 per credit hour
    Visit School Website

    Methodology

    We chose 25 accredited colleges and universities that offer some of the fastest online master’s degree programs. We assigned a unique score based on program length and then factored in the cost of tuition to arrive at our final rankings for the schools.

    It is important to note that the stated cost of tuition is based on resident tuition costs. Some schools charge a different tuition rate for students that reside out of state, or that enroll in online programs, while others base their online tuition rate on a variety of factors. We cannot guarantee the current rate of tuition since schools periodically change their tuition rate and other costs.

    No school is permitted to pay us for a higher ranking. Any sponsored school is listed separately and clearly designated as a SPONSORED school.

    Please contact us if you would like to have your school included in our rankings or if you would like to change the information for your school.

    Find the program that’s right for you

    Whether you’re trying to start your career or make a big change, we can help you find the perfect school to help you reach your goals.

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