Best Online Master’s Degrees in 1 Year or Less

Want to earn a high-quality master's degree in one year or less? Check out our resources on the best one-year master's programs with online formats.
By
portrait of Genevieve Carlton, Ph.D.
Genevieve Carlton, Ph.D.
Read Full Bio

Writer

An award-winning historian and writer, Genevieve Carlton, Ph.D., has published multiple scholarly articles and a book with the University of Chicago Press. She currently works as a writer and consultant. She holds a Ph.D. in history from Northwestern...
Updated on October 4, 2023
Edited by
portrait of Daniella Ramirez
Daniella Ramirez
Read Full Bio

Editor

Daniella Ramirez is an associate editor for BestColleges, where she focuses on core content. She is passionate about college accessibility and helping students succeed. She previously worked as an associate editor on The Points Guy (a blog that produ...
Learn more about our editorial process

www.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.

Turn Your Dreams Into Reality

Take our quiz and we'll do the homework for you! Compare your school matches and apply to your top choice today.

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:

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):

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):

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):

  • Medical and Health Services Manager: $101,340
  • Healthcare Financial Manager: $131,710

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):

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

Rankings compiled by the BestColleges Ranking Team

How We Rank Schools

At BestColleges, we believe a college education is one of the most important investments you can make. We want to help you navigate the college selection process by offering transparent, inclusive, and relevant school rankings.

Our rankings are grounded in a few guiding principles and use the latest statistical data available from trusted sources. Read our ranking methodology. We hope our approach helps you find the school that is best for you.

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.

  • Browse programs
  • Discover matches
  • Request info
#1 Best Online Master’s Degrees in 1 Year or Less

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.

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$15,417
Out-of-state
$15,417
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$7,980
Out-of-state
$7,980
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
81%
Admission Rate
51%
Students Enrolled
85,586
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
92% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
#2 Best Online Master’s Degrees in 1 Year or Less

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.

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$50,684
Out-of-state
$50,684
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$33,408
Out-of-state
$33,408
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
94%
Admission Rate
16%
Students Enrolled
52,885
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
10% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Middle States Commission on Higher Education
#3 Best Online Master’s Degrees in 1 Year or Less

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.

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$55,340
Out-of-state
$55,340
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$51,940
Out-of-state
$51,940
ROI Score

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.

Our Methodology
Low
Retention Rate
93%
Admission Rate
30%
Students Enrolled
5,825
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
7% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes New England Commission on Higher Education
#4 Best Online Master’s Degrees in 1 Year or Less

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.

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$56,232
Out-of-state
$56,232
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$56,067
Out-of-state
$56,067
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
98%
Admission Rate
9%
Students Enrolled
22,448
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
2% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Higher Learning Commission
#5 Best Online Master’s Degrees in 1 Year or Less

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.

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$10,745
Out-of-state
$15,290
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$10,014
Out-of-state
$17,134
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
74%
Admission Rate
94%
Students Enrolled
15,433
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
37% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Higher Learning Commission
#6 Best Online Master’s Degrees in 1 Year or Less

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.

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$44,100
Out-of-state
$44,100
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$17,190
Out-of-state
$17,190
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
89%
Admission Rate
72%
Students Enrolled
11,473
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
15% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Higher Learning Commission
#7 Best Online Master’s Degrees in 1 Year or Less Best Value

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.

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$4,721
Out-of-state
$16,529
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$8,912
Out-of-state
$21,393
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
58%
Students Enrolled
58,711
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
68% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
#8 Best Online Master’s Degrees in 1 Year or Less

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.

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$38,190
Out-of-state
$38,190
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$9,270
Out-of-state
$9,270
ROI Score

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.

Our Methodology
Low
Retention Rate
70%
Admission Rate
50%
Students Enrolled
1,290
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
21% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
#9 Best Online Master’s Degrees in 1 Year or Less

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.

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$30,756
Out-of-state
$30,756
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$18,810
Out-of-state
$18,810
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
65%
Admission Rate
88%
Students Enrolled
113,514
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
94% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes New England Commission on Higher Education
#10 Best Online Master’s Degrees in 1 Year or Less Best Value

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.

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
Not provided
Out-of-state
Not provided
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$27,876
Out-of-state
$27,876
ROI Score (Estimated)

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
Not provided
Admission Rate
Not provided
Students Enrolled
828
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
7% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Middle States Commission on Higher Education

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.

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.

Compare Your School Options

View the most relevant schools for your interests and compare them by tuition, programs, acceptance rate, and other factors important to finding your college home.