The 7 Easiest Master’s Degrees to Get in 2025

No master’s program is “easy.” Each requires a commitment to learning advanced material. However, some are more manageable than others.

The most manageable master’s programs offer flexible learning options — such as part-time, online, and self-paced learning formats. They’re affordable for smaller budgets. Students in these programs may focus more on applying practical skills than writing theses or carrying out extensive research projects. And of course, being truly passionate about the subject can help make your degree easier.

Read on to learn about the easiest master’s degrees.

The following master’s degrees meet our criteria for programs that are easy to start and finish and offer advantages in the job market.

This practical degree can position you for senior leadership roles in human resources, especially at large or international corporations. Many master’s programs in human resources are designed for working professionals. So, you can earn your degree while you continue working and gain experience as an HR professional.

If you’re interested in organizing message campaigns, skilled in crafting marketing language, and keen on working in advertising, media, or public relations, a master’s in communication might be a good fit for you.

What makes a master’s degree in healthcare administration (MHA) programs easier than others is that they are designed for healthcare professionals and focus on practical management skills. By earning this degree, you can prepare for a management position in a booming industry without working in direct patient care.

Due to its emphasis on practical business knowledge, a master’s in business administration (MBA) program can be a natural fit for those with a background in or aptitude for business. Many MBA programs offer flexibility through part-time and online options, which can be less expensive. Programs designed for working professionals should build on your experience and help you network with peers.

Nursing is not an easy profession. It takes excellent interpersonal and organizational skills and strong attention to detail to be successful. But, master of science in nursing (MSN) programs can be an easy way for people who already have a bachelor’s in nursing to boost their career prospects. MSN programs build on concepts you’ve already learned on the job or in a BSN program, so you won’t be starting from scratch.

Criminal justice master’s programs focus on applied practice rather than theory. You’ll engage in real-world scenarios, examine public policy, and learn law enforcement practices. Graduates enter the workforce as police captains, intelligence analysts, and fraud investigators, among other roles.

You may find this degree program even easier with a background related to criminal justice or law enforcement.

Master’s in organizational leadership programs help you gain valuable management and leadership skills in corporate or non-governmental environments. This interdisciplinary degree applies psychology to leadership, sales, marketing, human resources, and other teams within an organization — making it a fascinating field for people with a variety of interests.

Choosing the easiest master’s degree depends on your skills, interests, and learning style. The following steps can help you narrow down your master’s degree program search.

While your personal and professional interests should always be at the forefront when deciding on a master’s degree program, there are other considerations, too. Answer or journal about the questions below:

You should also consider your strengths and weaknesses. Perhaps you want to play to your strengths to ensure your master’s program is as easy — and enjoyable — as possible.

When you research the easiest master’s programs and make a list of your favorites, consider the following factors:

Networking isn’t just for job-seekers. While you’re researching programs, it’s helpful to contact a program coordinator or academic advisor to determine whether a program is a good fit for you.

Faculty members can tell you about their teaching styles and materials. You might get to read a course syllabus to better understand what the classes are like, what topics they cover, and how much work they require.

You can also use LinkedIn to ask current students and alumni about their experiences in their programs.

Make sure you fill out the FAFSA to qualify for federal student aid. You can also seek out other funding opportunities such as grants and scholarships from your school or other institutions.

Many graduate programs offer paid fellowships, assistantships, and Work-Study opportunities. You may also find master’s programs that are fully-funded, given you teach or carry out research projects while you study.

Look for lesser-known funding resources. You might have access to tax benefits like the lifetime learning credit and employer-provided educational assistance.

If you serve or have served in the military, you may be eligible for the GI Bill® or military-specific scholarships.

If, after all your research, you find that even the easiest master’s degree programs don’t match your needs, you have other options. A better fit for your professional needs may be a shorter, cheaper route like a certificate program or a professional development course.

You can find these programs and courses at higher education institutions and several popular online learning platforms.