Most Affordable Online Master’s Programs

Earning your degree online can be a convenient way to save money while you study. Read on to learn about affordable online master's programs in your field.
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Updated on November 16, 2023
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Looking to earn your master's in a way that's not only convenient but can save you money? Online master's degree programs are growing more popular every year, with major increases in online graduate program enrollments.

If you're considering joining their numbers, read on to learn about some of the best and most affordable online master's programs.

Featured Online Master's Programs

Learn about start dates, transferring credits, availability of financial aid, and more by contacting the universities below.

What Are the Most Affordable Online Master's Programs of 2024?

  1. University of Florida
  2. California State University-Dominguez Hills
  3. The University of Texas Rio Grande Valley
  4. CUNY John Jay College of Criminal Justice
  5. University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill
  6. California State University-Fresno
  7. Stanford University
  8. California State University-Fullerton
  9. California State University-Northridge
  10. University of South Florida-Sarasota-Manatee

Most Affordable Accredited Online Master's Programs

These rankings were compiled by our BestColleges Ranking Team and include BestColleges.com is an advertising-supported site. Featured or trusted partner programs and all school search, finder, or match results are for schools that compensate us. This compensation does not influence our school rankings, resource guides, or other editorially-independent information published on this site. from our partners. We use publicly available provisional datasets from Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System (IPEDS) to inform the data for these schools. All data is current as of the date this article was published. Program-specific information may vary.

BestColleges.com is an advertising-supported site. Featured or trusted partner programs and all school search, finder, or match results are for schools that compensate us. This compensation does not influence our school rankings, resource guides, or other editorially-independent information published on this site.
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#1 Most Affordable Online Master’s Programs Best Value

University of Florida

  • Gainesville, FL
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Distance Learning at UF includes affordable master's degrees in fields such as business, education, and engineering. More than half of students who enroll at Distance Learning at UF graduate with no student debt. Online enrollees take proctored exams remotely.

Applicants submit transcripts, GRE or GMAT scores, personal statements, and recommendation letters. Some departments post additional requirements.

100% Online | Self-Paced Classes 

Avg. Cost per Credit
In State | $129
Out of State | $553

Credits to Graduate
30-50 for online master's programs

Program Information
Program Accreditation | Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges 


Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$4,477
Out-of-state
$25,694
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$10,770
Out-of-state
$27,335
ROI Score

ROI Value Score: High

We’ve reviewed hundreds of schools to find the ones that give you the best bang for your buck.

We compared how much you could earn in 10 years with a degree from this school versus only having a high school diploma. Then we compared that amount against school costs and financial aid opportunities. A higher return for your investment results in a higher score for this school.

Our Methodology
High
Retention Rate
97%
Admission Rate
37%
Students Enrolled
52,407
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
46% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
#2 Most Affordable Online Master’s Programs

California State University-Dominguez Hills

  • Carson, CA
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Part of the 23-campus California State University system, CSUDH prepares students for globally focused and multicultural workplaces. The school offers fully online and hybrid master's programs. Learners can pursue degrees in areas such as business administration, nursing, and engineering. Most online programs run asynchronously.

Applicants need a bachelor's degree from an accredited program and a 2.5 GPA. Prospective enrollees should check with their specific program for additional requirements.

100% Online and Hybrid | Self-Paced and Scheduled Classes

Avg. Cost per Credit
In State | $2,082 per semester for 0-6 credits; $3,588 for 6.1 credits or more
Out of State | $2,478 per semester for 0-6 credits; $3,984 for 6.1 credits or more

Credits to Graduate
30-50 for online master's programs

Program Information
Program Accreditation | WASC Senior College and University Commission


Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$5,742
Out-of-state
$17,622
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$7,176
Out-of-state
$16,680
ROI Score

ROI Value Score: Medium

We’ve reviewed hundreds of schools to find the ones that give you the best bang for your buck.

We compared how much you could earn in 10 years with a degree from this school versus only having a high school diploma. Then we compared that amount against school costs and financial aid opportunities. A higher return for your investment results in a higher score for this school.

Our Methodology
Medium
Retention Rate
77%
Admission Rate
77%
Students Enrolled
17,977
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
51% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Western Association of Schools and Colleges Senior Colleges and University Commission
#3 Most Affordable Online Master’s Programs

The University of Texas Rio Grande Valley

  • Edinburg, TX
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

UTRGV offers graduate degrees in two formats. Students can attend fully online, 16-week semesters or enroll in partially online, seven-week accelerated terms. UTRGV's master's programs include business and management, education, and liberal and fine arts. 

Applicants submit official transcripts, GRE or GMAT scores, and proof of Texas residency. Individual programs may list additional admission criteria.

100% Online and Hybrid | Self-Paced and Scheduled Classes

Avg. Cost per Credit
In State | $528 per credit for a 16-week program; $444-$472 per credit for a seven-week program
Out of State | $936 per credit for a 16-week program; $444-$472 per credit for a seven-week program

Credits to Graduate
30-50 for online master's programs 

Program Information
Program Accreditation | Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges


Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$6,664
Out-of-state
$16,792
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$5,959
Out-of-state
$13,555
ROI Score

ROI Value Score: Medium

We’ve reviewed hundreds of schools to find the ones that give you the best bang for your buck.

We compared how much you could earn in 10 years with a degree from this school versus only having a high school diploma. Then we compared that amount against school costs and financial aid opportunities. A higher return for your investment results in a higher score for this school.

Our Methodology
Medium
Retention Rate
76%
Admission Rate
80%
Students Enrolled
29,113
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
51% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
#4 Most Affordable Online Master’s Programs

CUNY John Jay College of Criminal Justice

  • New York, NY
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

John Jay's online master's in public administration features three specialties. Enrollees can choose inspection and oversight, healthcare specialization, or public policy and administration. Online learners can also pursue master of science degrees in security management or emergency management. Additional options include master of arts degrees in criminal justice, international crime and justice, and human rights.

Applicants submit transcripts, GRE or GMAT scores, and recommendations. Some programs require personal statements or writing samples.

100% Online | Self-Paced Classes 

Avg. Cost per Credit
In State | $470-$545
Out of State | $545-$1,010

Credits to Graduate
36-42 for online master's programs

Program Information
Program Accreditation | Middle States Commission on Higher Education


Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$6,930
Out-of-state
$14,880
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$11,090
Out-of-state
$20,520
ROI Score

ROI Value Score: Medium

We’ve reviewed hundreds of schools to find the ones that give you the best bang for your buck.

We compared how much you could earn in 10 years with a degree from this school versus only having a high school diploma. Then we compared that amount against school costs and financial aid opportunities. A higher return for your investment results in a higher score for this school.

Our Methodology
Medium
Retention Rate
80%
Admission Rate
41%
Students Enrolled
15,880
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
35% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Middle States Commission on Higher Education
#5 Most Affordable Online Master’s Programs Best Value

University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill

  • Chapel Hill, NC
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

UNC-Chapel Hill offers online master's programs in areas like business, government, and journalism. Learners can also pursue master's degrees in healthcare fields like pharmacy and public health.

Some programs require in-person exams. Students may also take proctored exams online. Online enrollees should plan for in-person clinical rotations and other experiential learning components. Each program lists its own admission requirements. However, all applicants submit transcripts, recommendations, and GRE or GMAT scores.

100% Online and Hybrid | Self-Paced and Scheduled Classes

Avg. Cost per Credit
In State | $237-$1,997
Out of State | $1,155-$1,997

Credits to Graduate
30-50 for online master's programs

Program Information
Program Accreditation | Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges


Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$7,019
Out-of-state
$34,198
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$10,552
Out-of-state
$28,278
ROI Score

ROI Value Score: High

We’ve reviewed hundreds of schools to find the ones that give you the best bang for your buck.

We compared how much you could earn in 10 years with a degree from this school versus only having a high school diploma. Then we compared that amount against school costs and financial aid opportunities. A higher return for your investment results in a higher score for this school.

Our Methodology
High
Retention Rate
96%
Admission Rate
23%
Students Enrolled
29,877
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
12% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
#6 Most Affordable Online Master’s Programs

California State University-Fresno

  • Fresno, CA
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Fresno State offers two online master's programs. Students can pursue a master of arts in education or a master of science in water resources management. 

Master's in education students can choose to culminate their programs with a project, thesis, or comprehensive exam. Applicants need a 2.75 GPA and writing competency exam scores or coursework.

Master's in water resources management enrollees complete an onsite internship. Applicants need a bachelor's degree, a 3.0 GPA, and GIS proficiency. Prospective students submit GRE scores.

100% Online | Self-Paced and Scheduled Classes

Avg. Cost per Credit
In State | $2,082 per semester for 0-6 credits; $3,588 per semester for 6.1 credits or more; $551 per credit, water resources management
Out of State | $396 per credit

Credits to Graduate
30

Program Information
Program Accreditation | WASC Senior College and University Commission


Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$5,742
Out-of-state
$17,622
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$7,176
Out-of-state
$16,680
ROI Score

ROI Value Score: Medium

We’ve reviewed hundreds of schools to find the ones that give you the best bang for your buck.

We compared how much you could earn in 10 years with a degree from this school versus only having a high school diploma. Then we compared that amount against school costs and financial aid opportunities. A higher return for your investment results in a higher score for this school.

Our Methodology
Medium
Retention Rate
83%
Admission Rate
58%
Students Enrolled
24,298
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
31% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Western Association of Schools and Colleges Senior Colleges and University Commission
#7 Most Affordable Online Master’s Programs Best Value

Stanford University

  • Stanford, CA
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Stanford offers master's degrees in several areas, including engineering, computer science, and statistics. The school's master's in chemical engineering program runs fully online. Other programs blend online classes with on-campus experiences. Students should check with their prospective program for details. 

Applicants need a bachelor's degree from a regionally accredited college or university or international equivalent. Program admission requirements vary. However, all applicants submit transcripts, personal statements, and recommendation letters.

100% Online and Hybrid | Self-Paced and Scheduled Classes

Avg. Cost per Credit
In State | $1,352
Out of State | $1,352

Credits to Graduate
45

Program Information
Program Accreditation | WASC Senior College and University Commission


Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$52,857
Out-of-state
$52,857
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$52,479
Out-of-state
$52,479
ROI Score

ROI Value Score: High

We’ve reviewed hundreds of schools to find the ones that give you the best bang for your buck.

We compared how much you could earn in 10 years with a degree from this school versus only having a high school diploma. Then we compared that amount against school costs and financial aid opportunities. A higher return for your investment results in a higher score for this school.

Our Methodology
High
Retention Rate
99%
Admission Rate
4%
Students Enrolled
17,249
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
5% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Western Association of Schools and Colleges Senior Colleges and University Commission
#8 Most Affordable Online Master’s Programs Best Value

California State University-Fullerton

  • Fullerton, CA
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

CSUF offers online master's programs in fields such as education, environmental engineering, and instructional design and technology. Hybrid degree options include an MBA in human resources, a master's in nursing, and a master's in statistics. 

Applicants need a bachelor's degree and a 2.5 GPA. Prospective students submit official transcripts. Programs may ask for work experience or GRE or GMAT scores.  

100% Online and Hybrid | Self-Paced and Scheduled Classes

Avg. Cost per Credit
In State | $2,082 per semester for 0-6 credits; $3,588 for 6.1 credits or more
Out of State | $396 per credit

Credits to Graduate
30-45

Program Information
Program Accreditation | WASC Senior College and University Commission


Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$5,742
Out-of-state
$17,622
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$7,176
Out-of-state
$16,680
ROI Score

ROI Value Score: High

We’ve reviewed hundreds of schools to find the ones that give you the best bang for your buck.

We compared how much you could earn in 10 years with a degree from this school versus only having a high school diploma. Then we compared that amount against school costs and financial aid opportunities. A higher return for your investment results in a higher score for this school.

Our Methodology
High
Retention Rate
89%
Admission Rate
53%
Students Enrolled
40,445
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
38% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Western Association of Schools and Colleges Senior Colleges and University Commission
#9 Most Affordable Online Master’s Programs Best Value

California State University-Northridge

  • Northridge, CA
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

CSUN offers online and hybrid master's programs in fields such as nursing and engineering. The school also offers the nation's first master's in music industry administration. Many programs follow a cohort model. Some require students to complete internships, practicums, or capstone projects. Curriculums accommodate working students.

Applicants need a bachelor's degree and a 2.5 GPA. Prospective students submit a personal statement and resume. Programs may require test scores or specific prerequisites.

100% Online and Hybrid | Self-Paced and Scheduled Classes

Avg. Cost per Credit
In State | $752-$1,095 per credit
Out of State | $1,148-$1,491 per credit

Credits to Graduate
30-63

Program Information
Program Accreditation | WASC Senior College and University Commission


Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$5,742
Out-of-state
$17,622
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$7,176
Out-of-state
$16,680
ROI Score

ROI Value Score: High

We’ve reviewed hundreds of schools to find the ones that give you the best bang for your buck.

We compared how much you could earn in 10 years with a degree from this school versus only having a high school diploma. Then we compared that amount against school costs and financial aid opportunities. A higher return for your investment results in a higher score for this school.

Our Methodology
High
Retention Rate
81%
Admission Rate
59%
Students Enrolled
39,910
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
55% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Western Association of Schools and Colleges Senior Colleges and University Commission
#10 Most Affordable Online Master’s Programs

University of South Florida-Sarasota-Manatee

  • Sarasota, FL
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

USFSM offers several online master's programs. Learners can pursue degrees in the arts and sciences, business and education, or medicine. One program awards a master's in global sustainability. Some programs run fully online. Others include in-person clinical experiences, internships, and practicums.

Applicants need a bachelor's degree and a 3.0 GPA. Programs may require GRE or GMAT test scores, personal statements, and resumes.

100% Online and Hybrid | Self-Paced and Scheduled Classes

Avg. Cost per Credit
In State | $436
Out of State | $881

Credits to Graduate
30-50 for online master's programs

Program Information
Program Accreditation | Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges


Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$4,206
Out-of-state
$15,121
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$8,350
Out-of-state
$19,048
ROI Score (Estimated)

ROI Value Score: Medium

We’ve reviewed hundreds of schools to find the ones that give you the best bang for your buck.

We compared how much you could earn in 10 years with a degree from this school versus only having a high school diploma. Then we compared that amount against school costs and financial aid opportunities. A higher return for your investment results in a higher score for this school.

Our Methodology
Medium
Retention Rate
81%
Admission Rate
24%
Students Enrolled
2,207
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
69% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

How We Rank Schools

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At BestColleges, we know it's important that you get the education you deserve. Because, let's face it, it pays to have a degree. But you don't have to break the bank to find a program that works for you. That's why we've compiled a list that takes into account more than just the basics.

When creating our ranking, we made sure all of the schools on the list met the high standards we set in our methodology. These colleges tick the box for high academic quality, a wide breadth of online offerings, and — of course — affordability.

Finding an Online Master's Degree That's Right for You

As you begin your online master's journey, there are a few different things to consider when deciding if a program is right for you. Here are some key factors to bear in mind:

Accreditation

Online college accreditation provides students, employers, and schools with quality assurance. The Council for Higher Education Accreditation recognizes various organizations that accredit the colleges and universities that meet or exceed the highest educational standards in their area. Employment, federal financial aid, licensure, and your ability to transfer credits all depend on regional accreditation.

Similarly, programmatic accreditation may be required for licensure in certain fields while being preferred or recommended in others.

When dealing with for-profit schools, you may encounter national accreditation as well. This type of recognition can help you determine quality, but credits may not transfer between nationally accredited and regionally accredited institutions.

Types of Online Master's Degree Programs

Online learning continues to change the look of colleges and universities, and you can enjoy an array of affordable online master's programs to choose from. The following lists highlight some of the options available, and the corresponding pages offer program details, guides, and rankings.

Art and Design

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Business and Management

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Computers and Technology

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Criminal Justice and Legal

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Education and Teaching

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Liberal Arts and Humanities

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Nursing and Healthcare

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Psychology and Counseling

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Science and Engineering

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What Is the Cost of an Online Master's Degree?

It's no secret that even the most affordable graduate programs can come with a high price tag. According to the National Center for Education Statistics, the average annual graduate student tuition and fees for an in-state program totaled $11,554 in 2022-23. And that's before considering living expenses and relocation costs.

Online master's programs can save you money on living expenses and transportation costs, but make sure you have a plan in place for how you're going to fund your online graduate education.

Funding Your Online Master's Program

Even students pursuing the most affordable online master's degrees need assistance to fund their education. The following list explores some of the major types of financial aid, the differences between them, and eligibility requirements.

  • Loans: College loans may come from federal financial aid packages or banking institutions. If you demonstrate financial need or strong financial responsibility, you may qualify. Loans typically feature minimal or no interest rates.
  • Scholarships & Grants: Scholarships and grants recognize students with financial need and academic excellence. You do not need to repay these financial rewards, and they can be renewable.
  • Fellowships: Fellowship programs offer graduate students a stipend in return for work or research. Fellowships provide high-achieving learners with professional development, funding, and possible career opportunities.
  • Work-Study: Federal work-study jobs offer funding in return for part-time work on or nearby the campus. Most positions allow you to work around your study schedules. These assignments typically go to learners who demonstrate financial need.

How Affordable Is an Online Master's Degree?

An online master's degree program can be an affordable grad school option, especially compared to an in-person degree. As an online master's student, you'll be spared the hidden costs of relocating to campus. Plus, the flexible nature of online classes makes it easier to keep a job while you study.

As you're considering the cost of your online graduate degree, you should also ask yourself if you plan to study full or part time and what kind of master's you want (MS, MA, MBA, etc.), as these factors can impact costs.

Is Getting an Online Master's Degree Worth It?

You need to determine the value of an affordable online master's degree for yourself, but several factors can help you figure that out. Graduate degrees can lead to more lucrative jobs, along with better advancement opportunities.

When weighing the pros and cons of online and on-campus programs —or simply deciding if you should pursue a master's degree at all — you should consider the following factors.

Program Length

Most affordable online master's degrees take students between 1-2 years to complete. However, many online programs offer accelerated, asynchronous, or part-time scheduling options, which can make them more accessible for some learners. Accelerated degrees launch you into your desired career more quickly, and asynchronous and part-time schedules allow you to work while you study.

Cost

The cost of your online master's program can be best measured by calculating your return on investment, or ROI. That is, an affordable online master's program can lead to a greater return on your investment, as you sacrifice less money for the same degree that helps boost your earnings after graduation.

Future Earning Potential

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the average master's degree holder in 2022 made over $200 more per week compared to someone with only a bachelor's. Depending on your field, the "master's increase" can be even higher.

Which Master's Degrees Are Most In Demand?

Looking for a master's degree that will have employers excited to hire you? Check out these highly in-demand fields to consider:

Nurse Practitioner

Nurse practitioners provide primary, advanced, and specialized patient care. A master's degree in this discipline covers assessments, diagnostics, and treatment plans and may focus on specific demographics. The incredible demand for professionals results from an aging population and the increasing scope of practice for nurse practitioners in an array of healthcare settings.

Median Annual Salary
$125,900

Job Growth
38% increase from 2022-2032

Mathematician and Statistician

These professionals use their mathematical and statistical analysis expertise to support and solve problems for various organizations and industries. At the graduate level, mathematics programs may focus on different types of modeling, analyses, and research groups, such as financial and discrete mathematics.

Median Annual Salary
$99,960

Job Growth
30% increase from 2022-2032

Physician Assistant

Physician assistants support healthcare teams by providing patient examinations and completing minor procedures. Master's programs in this discipline feature advanced research and medicine training in various departments and specialties, plus extensive clinical rotations.

Median Annual Salary
$126,010

Job Growth
27% increase from 2022-2032

Information Security Analyst

Information security analysts help organizations protect their data and computer systems from a growing number of cyber threats. Master's degrees in cybersecurity delve into advanced threat analysis, prevention, and protection software design. As cyberattacks continue to increase in frequency and intelligence, the demand for information security analysts will also increase.

Median Annual Salary
$112,000

Job Growth
32% increase from 2022-2032

Speech-Language Pathologist

Speech-language pathologists help people manage, overcome, and prevent various communication disorders. In speech-language pathology master's programs, students engage in advanced research in speech science and clinical applications of developmental and acquired language disorders. The increased demand results from increasing health conditions that lead to communication issues and better detection and treatment methods.

Median Annual Salary
$84,140

Job Growth
19% increase from 2022-2032

Frequently Asked Questions About Cheap Online Master's Programs

What’s the cheapest master's degree online?

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Generally speaking, an online master's degree from a state school where you qualify for in-state tuition will be one of your most affordable options. However, many schools offer tuition reductions for groups like veterans, scholarship opportunities, and more. This means that the most affordable option for you will depend on your personal circumstances.

Are online master’s degrees expensive?

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Online master's degrees can vary significantly in terms of cost. Factors such as whether you're attending a public or private school, if you're eligible for in-state tuition, and scholarship availability can greatly affect how much you pay. With that said, online master's programs are often cheaper than in-person programs, as you will save on relocation expenses.

What’s the easiest master's degree to get into?

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Which master's degree you'll find easiest to get into will depend on your academic record and personal strengths and weaknesses. Be sure to look out for online master's programs that offer rolling admissions, multiple start dates, and no-GRE admissions, as you may find these easier to apply for and be accepted to.

How to afford an online master’s degree?

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There are many different ways you can fund your online master's program. Saving money towards your tuition can be extremely helpful, as can applying for scholarships and other forms of financial aid. Be sure to fill out your FAFSA to see if you qualify for any government-subsidized loans or grants.

Are there any free master's degrees online?

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You may find tuition-free master's programs at certain schools across the country. These degrees typically require work or military service in return for tuition waivers. Some schools may offer tuition waivers for county residents or students in specific disciplines who demonstrate critical financial need.

Note: The insights on this page — excluding school descriptions — were reviewed by an independent third party compensated for their time by BestColleges. Page last reviewed November 15, 2023.

BestColleges.com is an advertising-supported site. Featured or trusted partner programs and all school search, finder, or match results are for schools that compensate us. This compensation does not influence our school rankings, resource guides, or other editorially-independent information published on this site.

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