Best Online Master’s Degrees in 1 Year or Less
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A master's degree can mean higher salaries, the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) reports, and more job opportunities. And if you want to finish grad school quickly, consider one-year master's programs.
These programs offer the fastest route to an accredited, high-quality graduate degree — and some take even less than one year.
What fields offer one-year master's programs? Whether you're interested in tech, business, education, or healthcare, you can earn a master's degree in one year.
Featured Online Master's Degrees
Fully Online 1 Year Master's Programs
An accelerated program can help you earn a master's degree faster than a traditional program. Some of the most common one-year master's programs include:
- Master of Accounting
- Master of Business Administration
- Master of Education
- Master of Social Work
- Master of Health Administration
- MS in Information Technology or Computer Science
- Master's in Management
- Master of Marketing
- Master of Nursing
- Master of Finance
- MS or MA in Psychology
- Master's in Public Health
- MS in Criminal Justice
Online programs often design their curriculum with the needs of working students in mind. Some schools also offer hybrid accelerated programs.
Before you apply to an accelerated program, you should ensure you're prepared for grad school.
1. Master of Accounting
You can earn an accounting master's degree in as little as one year. Prepare for the CPA exam or gain advanced accounting skills in these one-year master's programs.
Common Career Paths and Median Salary (May 2021):
Featured Online Master's in Accounting Programs
Want to specialize in areas like financial accounting, auditing, or managerial accounting? A focused accounting master's program is a great way to shift your career focus.
2. Master of Business Administration (MBA)
An MBA is one of the most popular master's degrees — and it's easy to see why. With many flexible, one-year master's programs, you can earn an online MBA and launch a high-paying career.
Common Career Paths and Median Salary (May 2021):
- Financial Manager: $131,710
- General or Operations Manager: $97,970
- Human Resources Manager: $126,230
- Marketing Manager: $135,030
Featured Online Master's in Business Administration Programs
Considering an MBA? Look for concentrations that match your interests and career goals. Many business schools offer concentrations in finance, marketing, entrepreneurship, and other in-demand fields.
3. Master's in Computer Science
Tech careers are in high demand. And with a master's in computer science, you'll qualify for high-paying roles. You can study software development, data science, and master's in project management in one-year programs.
Common Career Paths and Median Salary (May 2021):
- Computer and Information Systems Manager: $159,010
- Computer and Information Research Scientist: $131,490
Featured Online Computer Science Master's Programs
Looking for management roles in tech? Consider a program that incorporates management classes. You can also earn an MBA in technology management.
4. Master's in Criminal Justice
In as little as one year, you can earn a master's in criminal justice. In this program, you can take classes in criminal justice administration, homeland security, or emergency management. These programs can help you move into high-paying roles.
Common Career Paths and Median Salary (May 2021):
Featured Online Criminal Justice Master's Programs
Balancing work and school? You can enroll in one-year master's programs online to complete coursework on your schedule.
5. Master of Education (M.Ed.)
For many teachers, a master's degree means a step up on the salary scale. And one-year master's programs in education also prepare educators for higher-paying administrative roles.
You'll learn about instructional methods and gain leadership skills in an M.Ed. program.
Common Career Paths and Median Salary (May 2021):
- School Principal: $98,420
- Instructional Coordinator: $63,740
- Higher Education Administrator: $96,910
Featured Online Education Master's Programs
Online M.Ed. programs use flexible schedules designed for working educators, including summer term classes, so you can put your degree to work sooner.
6. Master of Finance
Want to work in the fast-paced, lucrative financial sector? A master's in finance can prepare you for the field in just one year. You'll take classes in financial management, investment strategy, and portfolio management. Then, you can pursue careers as a finance director, risk manager, or controller.
Common Career Paths and Median Salary (May 2021):
Featured Online Finance Master's Programs
Did you know that financial managers are in high demand? The BLS projects much faster than average growth from 2021-2031 for this career. That growth rate translates to over 71,000 job openings annually.
7. Master of Health Administration
The healthcare industry continues to grow. And that means health administrators are in high demand. In a master of health administration program, you'll take classes in health policy, healthcare finance, and health services delivery. You can earn a master's degree in one year to launch your career.
Common Career Paths and Median Salary (May 2021):
Featured Online Health Administration Master's Programs
Want to work on the administrative side of healthcare? You can also look at programs in healthcare management or earn a healthcare MBA.
8. Master's in Information Technology
If you're looking for a blend of tech and business, a master's in information technology can lead you to a high-paying career. You will study app development, data management, and IT project management. You'll also gain hands-on experience to stand out in the job market.
Common Career Paths and Median Salary (May 2021):
Featured Online Information Technology Master's Programs
Can't wait to launch your tech career? Check out one-year IT master's programs online to earn your degree quickly and flexibly.
9. Master's in Management
It's no secret that managers make high salaries. In fact, management jobs report a higher median wage than any other occupation group, as per the BLS.
With a master's in management, you'll learn the analytical and leadership skills necessary for high-paying careers.
Common Career Paths and Median Salary (May 2021):
- General or Operations Manager: $97,970
- Compensation and Benefits Manager: $127,530
- Sales Manager: $127,490
Featured Online Management Master's Programs
Working in management? An online format is a great option for working students. You can take courses around your work schedule while earning a master's degree in one year or less.
10. Master of Marketing
Study market trends, data analytics, and consumer research while earning a marketing bachelor's degree.
With a master's in marketing, you'll have the leadership knowledge and skills to direct marketing campaigns and assess their results.
Common Career Paths and Median Salary (May 2021):
- Marketing Manager: $135,030
- Advertising Manager: $127,150
Featured Online Marketing Master's Programs
Looking at one-year marketing programs? Consider an MBA in marketing to add core business classes to the marketing curriculum.
11. Master of Nursing
Nurses can boost their earning potential with a master's in nursing. You'll study nursing education, nursing administration, or advanced practice nursing.
With a master's, the highest-paying roles include nurse practitioner, nurse midwife, or nurse anesthetist.
Common Career Paths and Median Salary (May 2021):
Featured Online Nursing Master's Programs
One-year MSN programs often focus on advanced nursing skills and nursing leadership for roles like a lead nurse or nurse educator. Advanced practice programs may require more time.
12. Master's in Psychology
You can study human behavior and earn a master's degree in psychology in one year or less. You'll take human development, forensic psychology, and cognitive psychology courses.
Common Career Paths and Median Salary (May 2021):
- Industrial Organizational Psychologist: $105,310
- School Counselor: $60,510
- Marriage and Family Therapist: $49,880
Featured Online Psychology Master's Programs
While clinical psychologists need a doctorate, you can work as an industrial-organizational psychologist, counselor, or therapist with a master's in psychology.
13. Master's in Public Health
Public health is a growing field. With a master's in public health, you can educate communities about health risks, investigate infectious diseases, and manage public health initiatives.
Common Career Paths and Median Salary (May 2021):
- Epidemiologist: $78,830
- Health Education Specialist: $60,600
- Social and Community Service Managers: $74,000
Featured Online Public Health Master's Programs
Considering med school? A public health master's program is a great way to gain experience for med school by earning a one-year master's degree.
14. Master's in Social Work
Clinical social workers need a master's degree. And you can earn your MSW in as little as one year. The best MSW programs include practicum experience to launch your career in social work or any social services field.
Common Career Paths and Median Salary (May 2021):
- Social Worker: $50,390
- Marriage and Family Therapists: $49,880
- Social and Community Service Managers: $74,000
Featured Online Social Work Master's Programs
Curious about policy and management roles in social services? An MSW can put you on the right track.
What Are the Admission Requirements for a 1 Year Online Master's Program?
Before applying to one-year master's programs online, degree-seekers need to check the graduate admission requirements. Fortunately, one-year programs tend to set similar admission requirements as traditional programs.
But look out for prerequisites. Some fields only admit students to accelerated programs if they complete undergrad prerequisite courses or hold a major in the field. This section introduces the most common admission requirements for one-year programs.
Application
Most master's programs require an online application that lists students' educational background, work history, and qualifications for graduate study. Graduate schools often use one application for all of their programs.
So, students considering accelerated programs generally complete the same application as those interested in traditional programs.
Test Scores
Depending on the program, learners may need to submit test scores. The most common graduate test requirements include the GRE and the GMAT. Many MA, MS, or M.Ed. programs require GRE scores.
Business programs often require the GMAT. You should make sure to research each program's requirements and invest time in test preparation.
Letters of Recommendation
Master's programs typically ask for 1-3 recommendation letters from former professors or supervisors. Make sure to ask for letters of recommendation at least three weeks before the deadline.
You can also provide your letter writers with a current resume, a description of the program, and your admission essays.
Resume
While some graduate programs include a work history in the application, many also require a resume or CV. Some programs, including MBA and educational leadership programs, even set minimum work history requirements.
You can create your resume with graduate school in mind, listing relevant work experience and linking your skills to your graduate program when possible.
Essays
Most graduate programs ask for a statement of purpose, grad school essay, or writing sample. Some programs look for evidence of graduate-level writing skills, while others want a description of your preparation and goals with a master's degree.
You can ask a friend or family member to provide feedback.
Official Transcripts
Programs typically ask for official transcripts from either every school you attended or your degree-granting school. Generally, you can request official transcripts online.
Those with graduate credits can ask their program of interest about its transfer credit policy. Transfer credits can save you time and money on a master's degree.
How Do I Choose a 1 Year Online Master's Degree?
A one-year master's program offers the fastest route to graduate education. But before applying to graduate school, consider the return on investment. An affordable, accelerated online program can improve your ROI.
Cost
Earning an accelerated master's degree online can save you money compared to a traditional master's program. However, you should make sure to compare program costs and research the true program cost.
Many colleges and universities charge by credit, so a one-year master's program may not cost less than a two-year program.
Program Format
You can learn more about the program format during your research. Accelerated programs may offer a synchronous or asynchronous delivery method. Asynchronous classes offer the greatest flexibility because they do not require set meeting times.
You can also research full-time and part-time options — though accelerated programs often require a full-time commitment.
Location
Does location matter with an online program? Yes, location matters whether you're enrolling in person or online. Some online programs include on-campus requirements. Local programs may also maintain relationships with local companies that hire graduates.
Weigh these benefits against the advantages of attending a top-ranked program in another state.
Accreditation
Accredited schools meet high standards for academic excellence. And programmatic accreditation can affect your ability to find jobs in many fields. Make sure to look for a master's program at an accredited institution.
Attending an unaccredited school can impact your education quality and job prospects. If a discipline has programmatic accrediting agencies, consider prioritizing accredited programs.
Student Support
Online graduate programs should offer various student support services. Prospective students can research a school's student services, like academic advising, online tutoring, and career services.
A strong alumni network, mentorship opportunities, and a program for graduate internships can also impact your education and job prospects.
Best Accredited One Year Online Master's Programs
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Liberty University
Lynchburg, VA - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Program Format: 100% Online | Course Format: Self-Paced Classes
Avg. Cost per Credit
$565
Credits to Graduate
30
Program Information
Program Accreditation | N/A
Liberty University's 100% online master's in aeronautics allows graduate students the chance to complete the program in just one year. In addition to core classes like aviation law and ethics in aerospace decision-making, degree-seekers choose from academic concentrations including aviation education, leadership, and safety.
Prospective students must hold a bachelor's degree from an accredited institution with a minimum 3.0 cumulative GPA. Applicants must submit an online application along with application fees and official transcripts.
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.
New York University
New York, NY - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Program Format: Hybrid | Course Format: Self-Paced Classes and Scheduled Classes
Avg. Cost per Semester
$28,170-$29,170
Credits to Graduate
30
Program Information
Program Accreditation | N/A
Established in 1831, New York University is home to a master's in health law and strategy that experienced health professionals can complete in just one year. This program takes an interdisciplinary approach to a mix of complex healthcare issues. Core classes include topics like healthcare economics, health law and regulation, and healthcare innovation.
Before graduation, graduate students complete a group-based capstone project. NYU applicants typically have eight years of relevant healthcare experience and submit an online application with two essays, a resume, and two letters of recommendation.
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.
Brandeis University
Waltham, MA - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Program Format: 100% Online | Course Format: Self-Paced Classes
Avg. Cost per Credit
$1,837
Credits to Graduate
48
Program Information
Program Accreditation | Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business
Brandeis University is a Massachusetts-based private research institution that offers an accelerated MBA program. Full-time students can complete this program in just one year and typically complete an academic concentration in areas such as data analytics, finance, marketing, and real estate.
Alongside their academic concentration, graduate students complete core classes such as financial management, fundamentals of organizational behavior, and marketing management. Applicants must submit an online application along with both a written and video essay. The average applicant has about six years of professional business experience.
ROI Value Score: Low
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.
Northwestern University
Evanston, IL - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Program Format: Hybrid | Course Format: Self-Paced Classes and Scheduled Classes
Avg. Cost per Quarter
$12,351
Credits to Graduate
39
Program Information
Program Accreditation | N/A
Chicago's Northwestern University is home to an accelerated, full-time master's in public policy and administration that students can complete in one year. Throughout this one-year program, students complete three courses per semester — two in person and one online. Core classes include topics such as fundamentals of public administration, statistics for research, and public organization theory and management.
Prospective students must hold a bachelor's degree from an accredited institution. Applicants must submit a resume, two letters of recommendation, official transcripts, and a writing sample. Applicants also submit a statement of purpose outlining their academic and career goals.
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.
Cleveland State University
Cleveland, OH - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Program Format: 100% Online | Course Format: Self-Paced Classes
Avg. Cost per Credit
$1,123
Credits to Graduate
32
Program Information
Program Accreditation | Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business
Ohio's Cleveland State University offers a 100% online accelerated MBA program that students can complete in just 12 months. Throughout this asynchronous program students tackle core business classes that include topics like management of innovation, human resources management, and IT for competitive advantage.
Prospective MBA students must submit an online application along with official transcripts from all prior undergraduate and graduate coursework. Applicants also submit GMAT or GRE scores.
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.
University of Dayton
Dayton, OH - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Program Format: 100% Online | Course Format: Self-Paced Classes and Scheduled Classes
Avg. Cost per Credit
$1,400
Credits to Graduate
30-31.5
Program Information
Program Accreditation | Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business
For working professionals with at least eight years of experience, the University of Dayton offers an accelerated MBA that students complete in just 12 months. MBA degree-seekers complete a foundational curriculum of business classes that includes topics like business analytics, organizational behavior, and operational effectiveness. Before graduating, students also complete a degree-culminating project.
Throughout this degree, students complete a mix of synchronous and asynchronous classes and also attend two in-person experiences on campus. The University of Dayton's accelerated MBA program does not consider GMAT or GRE scores when making admission decisions.
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.
Florida International University
Miami, FL - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Program Format: 100% Online | Course Format: Self-Paced and Scheduled Classes
Avg. Cost per Credit
$455
Credits to Graduate
30
Program Information
Program Accreditation | N/A
Florida International University is home to a fully online M.A. in African and African diaspora studies that learners can complete in one year. This program uses a cohort model and only accepts students during the fall semester.
Master's degree-seekers spend three semesters completing the 30 required credits. Course examples include health issues in the African world, music of the Caribbean, and theology and liberation movements. In addition to possessing a 3.0 or higher GPA, applicants must also provide three recommendation letters and writing samples.
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.
Spring Hill College
Mobile, AL - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Program Format: 100% Online | Course Format: Self-Paced Classes
Avg. Cost per Credit
$540
Credits to Graduate
30
Program Information
Program Accreditation | N/A
Spring Hill College offers a fully online accelerated MBA program that takes 10 months to complete. In addition to general MBA studies, learners can choose from concentrations in project management, leadership, logistics and supply chain management, and business analytics.
This online program does not require GRE or GMAT scores and does not have an application fee. Spring Hill College's online MBA program is currently seeking accreditation from the Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs (ACBSP). Newly admitted students can select from six different start dates each year.
ROI Value Score: Low
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.
Southern New Hampshire University
Manchester, NH - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Program Format: 100% Online | Course Format: Self-Paced Classes
Avg. Cost per Credit
$627
Credits to Graduate
30-36
Program Information
Program Accreditation | Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs
Southern New Hampshire University revamped its curriculum in 2021, creating a fresh and innovative plan of study that addresses current business challenges and opportunities. Students can choose from 15 different concentrations, including innovative options such as engineering management, healthcare management, and music business. Other options are sport management and sustainability and environmental compliance.
Whether a local or long-distance student, degree-seekers pay the same low tuition rate, regardless of location. SNHU offers a self-paced curriculum, but full-time learners typically graduate in about one year.
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.
Albany Medical College
Albany, NY - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Program Format: Hybrid | Course Format: Scheduled Classes
Avg. Cost per Credit
$1,423
Credits to Graduate
32
Program Information
Program Accreditation | N/A
Albany Medical College offers a 32-credit accelerated interdisciplinary basic medical sciences program that takes two semesters to complete. Students looking to enter medical school take pre-clinical courses alongside first-year medical students to help improve their chances of getting accepted to a medical school program.
Example courses include biomedical ethics, mammalian physiology, and medical neuroscience. Applicants must possess a 3.1 or higher GPA and an MCAT score in the 70th percentile range. They must also demonstrate clinical or research experience.
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.
Frequently Asked Questions About 1 Year Online Master's Programs
Is a one year master's degree valid?
Yes, one-year master's programs at accredited universities offer high-quality degrees. These programs condense the credit requirements into a shorter timeframe by offering accelerated terms or summer classes.
Many one-year master's programs use the same coursework and graduation requirements as two-year programs. Students on the one-year track finish the program faster so they can take advantage of their advanced degree sooner.
When researching one-year master's programs, make sure to check for accreditation.
What is the easiest master's degree to get online?
Earning a master's degree in business, education, or criminal justice online can be an easy route to a graduate degree. Many universities offer one-year master's programs online, which makes it easier for students to complete graduation requirements.
Programs that require in-person experiences work with distance learners to meet requirements locally.
Keep in mind that earning a master's degree requires commitment and dedication. Finding the right program can make it easier to complete the degree.
Why are some master's degrees 1 year and some 2 years?
Master's degrees often require a minimum of 30 credits. Traditionally, master's students spent two years completing the credit requirement. However, one-year master's programs offer a faster route to the degree.
By completing classes on an accelerated term and taking courses year round rather than only in the fall and spring semesters, graduate students can earn 30 credits in one year instead of two.
Some programs require a higher credit load. For example, MSN programs for nurse practitioners may require 40-60 credits, which typically takes 2-3 years.
