Many careers in the healthcare field are rapidly expanding. This trend should continue for the foreseeable future. That makes this a critical time to become a medical assistant. Medical assisting is an excellent career with many jobs available in different medical settings, a relatively low educational threshold, and good pay. Fortunately, there are many medical assistant online colleges where you can get a quality degree without attending classes on campus.

The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) sees a future with an aging population in the country. Combined with expanding access to healthcare, the BLS predicts that jobs for trained medical assistants will be steadily available. What’s more, these jobs have good income potential.

Options for careers in the medical assisting and healthcare administration industries are diverse. You might work in physician offices or dental offices, a long-term care facility or hospital, or an insurance company or government agency. With an accredited medical assistant degree or certificate in hand, the job opportunities are virtually endless!

See Also: Strategies for Excelling in Your Online Medical Assistant Program

What Does a Medical Assistant Do?

There are many different jobs for trained medical assistants – jobs for which you can prepare at any number of online colleges for medical assistant programs. Your tasks might include managing patients’ records in doctors’ offices, working with healthcare professionals during examinations and simple procedures, or checking vital signs.

Moreover, medical assistants often administer medications and injections (under a physician’s direction) and collect and process lab samples. Other graduates with medical assistant degrees find jobs in healthcare facilities with little to no patient contact. For example, you might work in the insurance industry, a medical billing office, or a government agency related to healthcare.

Other common tasks for medical assistants include:

• Assisting doctors with patient exams
• Scheduling patient appointments
• Answering telephone calls
• Entering data, like patient records, into a computer

The exact job duties heavily depend on where you work and the specialty of the physicians with whom you work. For example, suppose you’re a medical assistant in a family medical practice. In that case, your duties will be much different than if you’re a medical assistant for an orthopedic surgeon at a major hospital.

Likewise, your area of expertise governs what you do on a daily basis at work. If you specialize in optometry, you’ll likely spend time with patients showing them how to insert contact lenses properly. However, if you specialize in administrative medical assisting, you’d spend most of your time greeting patients, answering the phone, and scheduling appointments. 

See Also: 10 Accredited Online Colleges for Diagnostic Medical Sonography

What is the Job Outlook for Medical Assistants?

As noted earlier, the job outlook for graduates with a healthcare administration and support degree is excellent. The Bureau of Labor Statistics anticipates that medical assistants will benefit from 16 percent growth across the various jobs in the industry through 2031. This is much faster than average growth.

Salaries in the industry are good. Entry-level positions for workers with a medical assistant AAS or similar credential pay about $37,190 per year. If you continue your education and get a bachelor’s degree in medical or health services management, you might earn more than $100,000 per year.

Again, much like your education and training affects the job duties you must perform, they also affect the income you might earn. The more education and experience you have, the higher the pay. Concentrating on a specialization will also help you increase your pay.

See Also: Best Online Schools for Medical Billing and Coding Programs

What are the Best Accredited Medical Assistant Programs Online?

It can take a lot of work to choose a school with so many great online colleges that offer medical assistant programs available. As you search, it’s essential to consider factors like cost per credit hour and the anticipated total cost of the program. The school’s reputation, the faculty, and the available degree programs should also factor into your decision.

But you can take it a step further than just searching “online colleges medical assistant” or “online medical assistant programs accredited.” Let us help!

Accredited Online College uses the most recent data from the Department of Education’s National Center for Education Statistics. Each program in our rankings is scored individually. Those rankings are compared to all other universities offering that degree. Doing so helps us determine the final score you see by each ranking.

Accredited Online College considers several factors for ranking these programs. These factors include the affordability of the program, the student-to-faculty ratio, and the number of programs offered on-campus and online. Visit our methodology page to learn more about how we derive these rankings. 

Let’s explore our list of the best colleges for medical assistant programs!

See Also: 26 Accredited Online Colleges For Respiratory Therapy Degree Programs

1. Liberty University

Ranking first on our list of medical assisting online colleges is Liberty University. Liberty is a respected Christian institution of higher learning and has been since 1971. The school is a leader in remote education, having started in 1985 with classes on videotapes for students to review at home. Now, degrees are accessible from anywhere with a computer and internet connection so that you can learn from the convenience of home.

The accredited online Associate Degree in Medical Office Assisting program at Liberty University has frequent start dates to help you adjust your school schedule around work and life. The program features eight-week courses that are fully online. You get access to digital resources like 750,000 electronic publications, books, peer-reviewed academic articles, and the Online Writing Center.

Your tuition includes free e-books, so you don’t have to worry about that expense. Instead, you can concentrate on your studies, including an optional externship, to get real-world experience.

This is a 64-credit program. It takes two years of full-time study to complete.

See Also: How to Land Your First Job in Medical Billing and Coding: A Step by Step Guide

2. Minnesota State Community and Technical College

The vision of Minnesota State Community and Technical College is to cultivate “[a] success story for every student.” Faculty and administrators work to make your success their top priority. This is true whether you study at one of the campuses in Detroit Lakes, Moorhead, Wadena, or Fergus Falls. It’s also true if you choose to learn online.

The Medical Office Assistant diploma from M State combines leading faculty and outstanding medical assistant courses into a program with the flexibility of online learning. In this accredited, online medical assistant program, you will gain valuable workplace skills in patient registration procedures, electronic health care record preparation and management, and health insurance and medical billing procedures.

This is a 44-credit diploma program. You’ll need about 1.5 years to complete the requirements for graduation.

A $2,500 workforce development scholarship is available for eligible students. You can learn more about potential financial aid by contacting M State’s financial aid office.

3. University of Cincinnati

The University of Cincinnati has a reputation for educational excellence and is a leading research and higher education institution. UC Online combines a thorough and challenging education from nationally-known faculty with an online schedule that is flexible for your busy life.

All levels of education are available from UC Online. You can pursue basic professional certificates and associate’s degrees that take less than two years to complete. If you already have this level of education, you can opt for a bachelor’s degree to get more advanced training. Furthermore, UC has master’s programs that give you the tools to advance further in a medical assistant and administration career.

Some of the degree options UC Online offers include:

• Certificate in Physician Practice Management
• Associate of Applied Business in Healthcare Management Technology
• Associate of Applied Science in Health Information Systems
• Bachelor of Science in Health Information Management
• Master of Health Administration

4. Minnesota West Community & Technical College

Minnesota West Community & Technical College takes pride in offering a higher education in which you develop habits and behaviors to “Learn with Purpose.” By pursuing degree programs from Minnesota West, you can get the tools and knowledge needed to thrive beyond graduation. You’ll receive a foundation upon which you can build a long-lasting career.

An accredited online medical assistant education at Minnesota West includes an Associate of Applied Science degree as a Healthcare Administrative Assistant. The AAS degree challenges you to learn and practice valuable skills in medical terminology, reimbursement and insurance in healthcare, and disease conditions. The program also features a job-seeking course to help you with career preparation.

This is a 60-credit program that requires about two years to complete.

5. Guilford Technical Community College

Guilford Technical Community College has served the community in Jamestown, NC, since 1958. Growing consistently over the years, GTCC is now among the largest educational institutions in the state’s community college system. GTCC serves more than 25,000 students every year at six campuses and online.

The GTCC medical assistant program includes a Medical Office Administration – General Option. This program prepares you for a career in the rapidly-growing healthcare industry. Job opportunities after completing the GTCC medical assisting program include work in clerical support for patient care units, patient registration, and many service positions in the healthcare field.

This is a 66-credit program that requires about two years to complete. GTCC offers shorter programs, including an 18-credit Medical Office Administration – Electronic Medical Records Certificate and a 36-credit Medical Office Administration – Patient Relations Diploma.

6. National University

National University is a large, nonprofit private school in beautiful San Diego, California. National is proud to have a role in the education of hundreds of thousands of students worldwide. With four-week classes available in a fully online format, higher education through NU comes to you, and gives you the ultimate flexibility for completing your degree. 

NU helps you prepare for a career in the medical field with relevant, hands-on courses within its Bachelor of Science in Healthcare Administration. Entry-level jobs within your reach include medical office management, administration, and supervisory roles in medical clinics or insurance agencies.

This 180-credit degree program includes courses in biomedical statistics, epidemiology, and healthcare management, to name a few. Moreover, you must complete a capstone project, an internship, or a global health experience before graduation.

7. Minnesota State College Southeast

With an average student-to-faculty ratio of 16:1, Minnesota State College Southeast takes pride in its student-centered and accessible approach to higher education. Serving the entire community of learners, from working adults increasing their career skills to first-time college students just out of high school, MSC Southeast provides dozens of programs in eight major fields.

MSC Southeast offers Medical Administrative Assistant degrees online for students who need to develop valuable workplace skills but can’t attend regular classes on campus. The Medical Administrative Assistant AAS degree allows you to gain a full two-year college education consisting of 15 general education credits and 45 technical education credits. These technical credits include coursework in:

• Medical Office Procedures
• Medical Terminology
• Word Processing
• Pharmacology
• Medical Insurance

The estimated cost for this program is around $14,300, making it an affordable option for your education.

8. Barton Community College

One of the benefits of studying at Barton Community College is that the faculty provide direct attention to you. They’re accessible for support throughout your degree program, even as an online student.

With a variety of flexible formats available, including hybrid, online, arranged-schedule, and classroom options, Barton College works with you to provide the education you need on a convenient schedule.

Barton Online offers the Medical Administrative Technologist program aimed at the rapidly expanding medical services field. Coursework in the program covers various topics, including:

• Records management
• Accounting
• Medical billing
• Insurance terminology and codes

These and other classes ensure that you can hit the ground running in your career as a medical administration worker.

This is a 64-credit program that culminates with an Associate of Applied Science degree. It takes about two years to complete this program.

9. Purdue University Global

With ten-week terms and multiple start dates throughout the year, Purdue University Global offers you an education that fits into your life. Combining medical assistant classes with direct experience in a clinical externship and clinicals at a site near you, Purdue allows you to put principles into practice.

The Medical Assistant Certificate at Purdue Global requires at least 15 hours of coursework per week. In the MA Certificate program, you will get hands-on training in medical assistant skills and clinical procedures, like:

• Administering injections
• Fielding phlebotomy procedures to draw blood and take laboratory samples
• Assisting in minor surgical procedures

You will also acquire essential office knowledge in areas such as accounting, medical billing, and coding tasks in this accredited program.

Just 58 credits are required to complete this certificate. You’ll need about 1.5 years to do so.

10. Dakota College at Bottineau

Dakota College at Bottineau has a proud history of education that stretches back almost as far as the beginning of North Dakota itself. The original state constitution in 1889 envisioned a forestry school to promote tree growth on the prairies. This led to the creation of the North Dakota School of Forestry in 1906. The school evolved over the years to become today’s community college. Now Dakota College at Bottineau reaches the world with online learning in many different fields.

At Dakota College at Bottineau, you can become a Medical Assistant in about a year. You’ll take the usual coursework in medical assisting, capped off with a 180-hour Cooperative Education opportunity at a medical facility.

You can choose to pursue either an Associate of Applied Science degree or a certificate, depending on your career goals and aspirations. The AAS track is 61 credits, while the certificate track is 38 credits.

11. Georgia Northwestern Technical College

Georgia Northwestern Technical College prepares students for career and life success at campuses in six locations throughout a nine-county area of northwest Georgia. Guided by a mission to deliver excellent technical education and career development opportunities in a student-centered learning environment, GNTC offers almost 200 study areas to prepare you for success in the modern workforce.
GNTC offers two technical certificates in the healthcare field that are available entirely online: one in Medical Coding and another in Medical Front Office Assistant.

The 24-credit Medical Coding certificate provides you with advanced coding skills that you can use to gain full-time employment in a medical setting. You’ll learn basic medical terminology, procedural skills, and become familiar with anatomy and physiology as well.

The 22-credit Medical Front Office Assistant certificate helps you build the base of education and experience that’s needed for a career as a receptionist or support staff in a medical clinic. In this program, you will learn medical terminology and healthcare administrative procedures. You’ll also gain computer literacy and English skills for improved proficiency in writing reports and correspondences.

12. Olney Central College

At Olney Central College, the staff and faculty are motivated by a mission to “deliver exceptional education and services to improve the lives of students and to strengthen our communities.” Olney extends these learning opportunities to students like you who are away from the area or are unable to fit typical class schedules into their lives.

The Medical Office Assistant (SMED) prepares you for jobs as a medical transcriptionist or medical office assistant. With this degree, the career potential is good for a job as support staff in insurance offices, government healthcare agencies, and medical facilities.

The first two semesters in the program include courses in general office skills like keyboarding, writing, and business computing systems. The last two semesters cover the principles and practices of medical offices. Additionally, the final semester includes a professional portfolio requirement. The portfolio gives your career preparation the attention it needs to get you ready for the field and to land a job.

13. Bellevue University

Bellevue University offers a Bachelor of Science in Health Science that you can finish in person or online. The degree integrates health and disease prevention studies with the sciences of psychology, human development, and leadership. This interdisciplinary approach prepares you for various career paths in the growing healthcare field.

A Health Science BS from Bellevue leads to clinical or non-clinical jobs in medical offices. Additionally, many graduates pursue a BS in Health Science as a start to a medical school program. Bellevue University also supports the med school application process with a Pre-Medical Certificate. You can get the certificate on your way to completing your BS in Health Science.

With transfer credits, you can complete this degree sooner. Depending on the number of credits you’ve already earned and transferred, you might only need a few semesters to finish your degree.

14. State Fair Community College

State Fair Community College has programs that prepare you for health professional work. You’ll learn versatile skills for either clinical or administrative jobs in medical offices or laboratories. With program options that include a Medical Assisting Professional Certificate or an Associate of Applied Science degree in Medical Assisting, you can get on the right path to employment. The skills you learn at State Fair Community College will help you be competitive in a field that anticipates rapid job growth and stability in the next decade.

Medical assistants can work in clinics, doctor’s or dentist’s offices, hospitals, or insurance billing agencies. In the programs at State Fair Community college, you will learn how to interact with clients, handle patient billing and bookkeeping tasks, and work with electronic medical records.

The Medical Assisting Certificate is a 34-credit program that you can complete in about one year. The AAS in Medical Assisting is a 61-credit program requiring about two years of full-time studies.

15. Keiser University

Keiser University began delivering quality adult education in 1977. Now with campuses in 21 of Florida’s major and mid-size communities, Keiser University has grown to serve tens of thousands of students. Thousands of alumni have used the education they earned at Keiser University to build solid careers.

Keiser University offers an AS in Medical Assisting Science at four Florida campuses. The program is also online to help you fit your education into your busy schedule.

This degree prepares you for the following:

• Clinical work in assessing and recording patient vital signs
• Assisting physicians with exams and simple procedures
• Following directions to administer injections and perform electrocardiograms
• Other practical skills in outpatient and inpatient settings

This is a 60-credit program requiring about two years to finish. Once you complete the degree, you will be eligible to take the Registered Medical Assistant (RMA) exam.

16. Weber State University

Weber State University serves the Ogden, Utah, community with higher education opportunities and has done so for over a hundred years. The university offers a Medical Laboratory Assistant certificate in both on-campus and online-learning formats. As a student in this program, you’ll learn to conduct medical lab tests to help doctors find, diagnose, and analyze illnesses.

The online MLA program requires that you have access to a clinical lab to complete the program’s competency checklist. Online students like you also work directly with a local laboratory professional who is a mentor and facilitates the hands-on experience required for certificate completion.

This is a short 15-week program that includes online coursework and 64 clinical hours in a lab setting.

17. Ferris State University

Based in Big Rapids, MI, Ferris State University offers dozens of degree programs. With a small student-to-faculty ratio, the school enables you to interact with classmates and faculty on a more personal level. This helps enhance your learning experience.

Beyond the Big Rapids area, Ferris State offers degrees and courses online for students with life schedules that don’t mesh with campus class times. There are many online programs, including those in the medical assisting field.

In fact, Ferris State University has a number of study options available in health administration and health information. You can pursue a certificate, an associate’s degree, or a bachelor’s degree that leads to an accredited online medical assistant degree. There’s even master’s programs available!

The Bachelor of Science in Health Information Management is an excellent option if you’ve already completed an associate’s degree from an accredited Health Information Technology program. You must also have a current RHIT certificate to apply to this degree-completion program. 

You’ll learn how to help medical professionals enhance patient care in an online learning environment built specifically for this and other healthcare programs. Wherever you choose to study, you can do so with the ability to take part in lectures, collaborate with classmates, and get real-world experience.

18. Northland Community and Technical College

At Northland Community and Technical College, you have the potential to gain the skills and knowledge needed to step into a job in a medical setting with one of the school’s two-year degree programs. Best of all, you have the option of earning the Associate of Applied Sciences – Medical Administrative Assistant degree entirely online.

In this program, you can look forward to taking courses in:

• medical office procedures
• pharmacology
• medical billing and insurance

These courses are part of the 60 credit hours required for the AAS degree.

Upon graduation, you’ll have the qualifications to seek employment in various areas, including, but not limited to:

• Health clinics
• Hospitals
• Home health
• Dental offices
• Long-term care facilities

Additionally, you might find employment with an insurance company, a government agency, or in public health.

19. Kirtland Community College

Kirtland Community College offers many degrees and certificates for all types of students, from high school graduates just starting in higher education to adults returning to college for career improvement or life enrichment. With three Michigan campuses and a robust online learning platform, Kirtland Community College has a broad reach.

Kirtland’s Medical Billing and Coding Certificate prepares you for a Medical Records and Health Information Technician career. You’ll learn about critical aspects of this job, including:

• How to use electronic health technology
• How to analyze and evaluate regulatory standards in the healthcare industry
• How to interpret policies that protect patient privacy

You’ll learn these and other skills in a self-paced format that’s affordable, whether you’re a Michigan resident or an out-of-state student.

20. Ultimate Medical Academy

With an associate’s degree from Ultimate Medical Academy, you’ll be prepared for the Certified Medical Administrative Assistant exam, which is a strong resume-building step toward the best jobs in the field. With 24/7 tech support and a fully online classroom environment, UMA lets you pursue your AAS – Medical Administrative Assistant on your schedule. This allows you to maintain current life and job responsibilities without losing out on an excellent education. 

The CMAA medical assistant exam is not a part of the curriculum at UMA, but experts at the school will help you focus your learning on the materials that are most relevant to the exam. You’ll also benefit from some extra guidance and assistance in the areas that you find most challenging.

The AAS program is 62 credits. You can complete these requirements in two years of full-time study. Alternatively, you can pursue a 38-credit Medical Administrative Assistant Diploma. The diploma can be completed in as little as 11 months.

21. Rochester Community and Technical College

Rochester Community and Technical College has a long history of providing the community with higher education and lifetime learning opportunities. As the oldest public two-year college in Minnesota, RCTC has grown to establish new learning centers and offers online learning, too.

RCTC’s 60-credit degree program for Healthcare Office Professionals focuses on medical terminology and the advanced skills needed for medical office procedures. Courses cover the fundamentals of diseases, how they affect the human body, and the treatments and medications to combat illness and disease. Other topics of study include:

• Business Communications
• Microsoft Word and Excel
• Keyboarding
• Anatomy and Physiology

Several programs are available in the Healthcare Office Professional Program. Likewise, many are offered entirely online for enhanced flexibility.

22. Illinois State University

The Department of Health Sciences at Illinois State University is respected for its history of offering a thorough and challenging education provided by knowledgeable and experienced faculty. The Health Information Management program at Illinois State is part of that tradition. This program trains you to collect, maintain, and analyze medical data.

While degrees in the four-year, on-campus program are highly respected paths to career potential in the growing field of health information management, many people can’t clear their schedules for regular weekly attendance. Fortunately, if you’re a professional in the field and already hold an RHIT certification, you can participate in an online program to further your skills. 

As a graduate of this program, you’ll have the necessary training to work in many aspects of the healthcare industry. You can assume a managerial position in finance or administration. You might even pursue a clinical position in data management. It’s all possible with the education you get at Illinois State University.

23. Community College of Vermont

Community College of Vermont delivers educational opportunities at CCV Academic Centers in a dozen cities throughout the state. With the CCV Center for Online Learning, higher education can come to you wherever you have a computer and internet access. 

Just because you are learning remotely doesn’t mean you will be all alone in your studies. You can connect with classmates through the CCV Center for Online Learning to work on small group projects.

CCV offers numerous online degree options in the healthcare field. For example, you can pursue a Medical Billing and Coding Certificate to enhance your skills and your resume. This 30-credit program includes courses like:

• Medical Coding I and II
• Human Biology
• Computer Applications
• Introduction Health Information Systems
• Health Insurance Reimbursement and Billing

You’ll be prepared to take the Certified Professional Coders exam upon graduation. The CPC credential requires real-world coding experience. If you don’t have that before the examination, you’ll have a CPC-Apprentice designation until you meet the coding requirement.

24. Park University

Park University offers a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration option in Healthcare Management that forms a strong foundation for graduate work in healthcare administration. This bachelor’s degree program is available both on-site at one of Park University’s facilities and online for maximum flexibility.

Whether you pursue the online or on-campus program, the 60 credit hours of major courses cover the fundamentals of office work. You’ll take classes like:

• Principles of Financial Accounting
• Applied Computer Technology for Business
• Financial Management
• Principles of Microeconomics
• Business Policy

The medical assistant training in the program also provides an education specific to the healthcare field. You’ll learn about:

• Third Party Reimbursement & Risk Management
• Health Care and the Political Process
• Basic Issues in Community Based Health Care Delivery

25. Dakota State University

With a BS in Health Informatics and Information Management from Dakota State University, you can pursue a career in health records administration in hospitals, insurance companies, and government agencies. Dakota State University takes pride in educating the highest quality professionals with skills that can be used in these and other healthcare settings.

This is a 120-credit program, with 77 credits in the health informatics and information management realm. You’ll take classes that focus on specific health-related topics, like:

• Legal Aspects of Health Information
• Digital Health Data Analytics
• Anatomy and Physiology
• Database Management Systems
• ICD Healthcare Coding Systems

Additionally, you’re required to complete multiple on-site supervisory experiences. These experiences are divided into three separate professional practice placements. The first two are 40 hours, and the third is 80 hours.

Dakota State also makes it easy to prepare for your master’s degree in this field. This program is part of a 4+1 FastTrack that allows you to take up to three courses in the graduate core to get a head start on your graduate education.

26. Umpqua Community College

Umpqua Community College features an AAS in Medical Office Administration program that is available completely online. During the admission process, Umpqua Community College will conduct placement testing to determine if you need additional courses in math, writing, computers, or reading before starting your coursework.

The steadily-growing medical industry requires support personnel trained to process patient information, maintain medical records, and uphold the highest legal and ethical standards to assist medical professionals. Umpqua Community College offers training in these skills so you can enter the medical field with a high degree of competence.

By graduation, you will be trained in transcribing medical documents, handling payroll, and medical coding. Moreover, you’ll learn how to understand insurance regulations and write reports and professional correspondences for medical offices.

With start dates throughout the year, Umpqua Community College makes it easy to start your education and get a quality education online.

27. Clarion University of Pennsylvania

Clarion University of Pennsylvania is in the rolling hills in the western part of the state. Clarion has been a leader in lifelong learning and higher education opportunities in the area since 1867. More recently, Clarion has extended the reach of its courses and degree programs by offering accredited online degrees for career advancement.

Clarion offers online Associate of Science in Allied Health for aspiring professionals like you. The 30-credit Allied Health concentration leads to an associate’s degree. This program is specifically for professionals with a formal healthcare education from an accredited school. For example, if you’re a medical assistant, medical lab technologist, or paramedic, this degree is for you!

Once you complete the requirements for this degree, you’ll be better prepared to continue your education. You can do so in Clarion’s Bachelor of Science in Allied Health Leadership. This program is designed for students that wish to become healthcare managers in a clinic, hospital, or another healthcare setting.

No matter which of these degrees you choose, you can complete your studies online and work around your busy work and life schedules.

28. Herzing University

Herzing University is an accredited private nonprofit institution of higher education that delivers challenging academic content. Helping students to create a path toward advanced academic pursuits, Herzing sees each learner as more than just a statistic in its records. If you’re a student in search of personal and career advancement, Herzing’s online programs might be for you.

Herzing Online offers healthcare programs made to meet the demands of a rapidly expanding career field. With an emphasis on direct patient care and healthcare administration, Herzing Online offers dynamic degree paths to prepare you for the next step.

For example, you can concentrate your studies in areas like:

• Medical Billing
• Health Information Management
• Healthcare Management

Additional pathways include Health Sciences, Sterile Processing, and Medical Office Administration.

29. Community Care College

You can earn a Medical Assistant Certification from Community Care College in as little as nine months. Offered in a hybrid format that features online and on-campus learning, this program is designed for busy adults who need flexibility in their school schedule. Here, you will learn critical administrative and clinical skills to enter the healthcare field in stride.

Medical assistant professionals perform a wide range of jobs in medical offices. For this reason, the certificate program at Community Care College prepares you to:

• Maintain patient medical history in Electronic Medical Records
• Assist medical professionals during examinations
• Perform EEGs
• Handle patient intake
• Administer medications as ordered by a doctor

Furthermore, you’ll learn the skills needed to undertake phlebotomy, autoclave usage, and assist with minor surgical procedures.

30. Davenport University

The final entry in our list of accredited medical assistant programs online is Davenport University. Davenport is a leading online provider of associate degree programs in health informatics and information technology. Offered at the campus in Grand Rapids and online, the Health Information Technology Associate of Applied Science program requires you to complete two years of full-time study.

In addition to coursework, you must complete 80 or more hours of professional practice experience. This hands-on, real-world supervised work is crucial in helping you develop the skills you need to be a competent health information technology associate.

Graduates of this accredited online program are eligible to sit for the Registered Health Information Technician exam. The American Health Information Management Association offers this exam. The RHIT exam is not a part of this degree’s curriculum. However, it will be vital for your resume in the competitive and growing job market of health information technologies.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Do I Need Before I Can Earn a Medical Assistant Degree?

In most cases, before earning a medical assistant degree, you need a high school diploma or GED. Also, whether you pursue an online certificate or an associate’s degree, you’ll need to complete the admission process at your chosen college.

The school you choose to apply to will probably require that you take a few tests before beginning the program. You will need basic learning skills like writing, reading, and mathematics. 

If you need help in any of these areas, most colleges offer classes that help you build skills and competencies for college-level coursework. Colleges and universities also have robust tutoring programs with fellow students and staff members that can assist you in your studies.

How Do I Choose Where to Earn My Medical Assistant Degree?

Selecting the right degree program and institution is an important choice for aspiring professionals. Your career goals, experience in the field, and budget for higher education are all factors that should go into your decision making.

Our list of 30 accredited online colleges for medical assistant degrees is a great place to start. Going over these rankings will help you evaluate some of the options you have. Moreover, it can help you determine the most important priorities for your education and the future you want to create.

Also, when looking at schools, consider their reputations in their communities and around the country. Read reviews from previous students and their evaluations of the faculty and administration. 

Furthermore, ask yourself questions like the following as you sift through online programs available:

• Is the program right for me and my unique needs? 
• Will I be able to pay for the total cost of education with the money I earn in the field afterward? 
• Will I be able to balance life and school duties once I’m registered for classes and have begun the program?

As discussed in more detail below, the program you choose should also have the appropriate accreditations from professional medical organizations.

When Will I Earn a Degree?

The time it takes to earn an online degree as a medical assistant or in a related healthcare field depends on the type of degree you’re seeking, the amount of time you have for your studies, and how long you’re willing to devote to the pursuit of a degree.

Some accredited online colleges have medical assistant degrees or certification programs that you can complete in a year or two of full-time studies. On the other hand, a bachelor’s or master’s degree will usually take at least four years and two years to complete, respectively. 

A college degree of any kind takes a lot of effort. It’s a huge commitment of time and resources as well. The results are worth the cost, though, if you use that education to build a strong future for you and your family.

Why Should I Pursue an Accredited Medical Assistant Degree?

People who enjoy work, have a clear sense of purpose, and serve the community often go into medical assisting. Also, people who want to participate in the critical work of providing healthcare to the community, but don’t want to be in charge of patient care, are likely to benefit from a medical assistant degree. 

As discussed earlier, the BLS predicts strong job growth in this field. With plenty of jobs available and the expectation that job growth will continue to be strong, you can exit your degree or certificate program and immediately find work. This isn’t the case for all jobs!

Additionally, starting salaries are good for medical assistants. There’s the potential for pay increases for each step you take up the academic ladder as well. So, if you pursue a medical assistant certificate or AAS now, you can ensure higher pay in your career by earning a bachelor’s degree, and even a master’s degree, in the future.

Likewise, pursuing a certification, like the Certified Medical Assistant from the American Association of Medical Assistants, Certified Clinical Medical Assistant (CCMA) from the National Healthcareer Association, or another medical assisting certificate program, can help you advance your career and earn more money.

However, to qualify for the CMA exam, you must graduate from a program accredited by the Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs (CAAHEP) or the Accrediting Bureau of Health Education Schools (ABHES). Before enrolling in a degree, ensure that it’s among the accredited online CMA programs.

If you are interested in higher education and want to know more, check out the Top 12 Accredited Online Colleges With Low Tuition and the Top 15 Accredited Schools Offering Online Bachelor Degrees!

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• To become a physical therapist, you need a Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) degree from a CAPTE-accredited program and must pass the National Physical Therapy Examination (NPTE) to obtain state licensure.
• An Associate’s in Physical Therapy typically refers to an Associate of Applied Science (AAS) in Physical Therapist Assisting (PTA), which prepares students to become Physical Therapist Assistants (PTAs) who work under licensed Physical Therapists (PTs) to help patients with rehabilitation exercises, mobility, and pain management.
• While no specific undergraduate major is required, most students pursue a degree in: Exercise Science, Kinesiology, Biology, Health Sciences.
• You can complete some coursework for a physical therapy degree online, though most programs will require on-campus classes as well.
• Baker College and University of South Dakota offer top online physical therapy degrees.

Best Online Physical Therapy Programs

Physical therapy is a fast-growing job. Our top 15 accredited online colleges in physical therapy give you a good start.

The Bureau of Labor Statistics predicts that jobs for physical therapists will grow by 14% by 2033. This is faster than the average growth rate for all jobs!

More than 72 million Americans are Baby Boomers. They were born between 1946 and 1964. This is the second-largest generation. It’s aging, too. This is causing growing demand for physical therapy.

If you become a physical therapist or physical therapist assistant, you’ll gain job security. It’s a rewarding career as well. As a physical therapist , you’ll help patients live healthier lives. They’ll also live lives free of pain. A physical therapy degree will set you up for a stable career in the physical therapy field.

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• Accredited Online Colleges in Speech Therapy
• Accredited College Programs: Radiation Therapy Online Schools
• Top Military Friendly Accredited Online Schools

What Do Physical Therapists Do?

What will you do with a degree in physical therapy? Simply put, physical therapists help patients improve their mobility. They help patients manage pain, too.

First, physical therapists diagnose a patient through observation and screening. Then, they develop a plan for recovery. That plan might include exercises or stretching. It might also include the use of specialized equipment. 

A physical therapist assistant helps put a patient’s care plan into action. They do treatments like stretching and massage. A PT assistant also often keeps track of a patient’s progress. They might make suggestions for improved patient care to the physical therapist. 

Physical therapists have a fulfilling career in a much-needed profession. A physical therapy degree prepares you to enjoy your career.

Can I Earn a Physical Therapy Degree Online?

Yes! There are fully online physical therapy degree programs. These tend to be Transitional Doctor of Physical Therapy programs. These are designed to help practicing physical therapists meet today’s educational standards for the industry. 

What if you’re just starting out and need a physical therapy bachelor degree online? You’ll likely need to attend an on-campus program for your physical therapy education.

On this list, you’ll find traditional programs offered by universities. They have respected online learning as well. At these schools, you can complete some of your coursework online for your physical therapy education.

See Also: 26 Accredited Online Colleges For Respiratory Therapy Degree Programs

What Are the Best Online Physical Therapy Programs?

So, you’re interested in the career of physical therapists? Accredited Online College can help with our list of the best physical therapy online programs.

We use the most recent data from the Department of Education’s National Center for Education Statistics. Each online program is scored individually. It’s then compared to other universities that offer the same degree. We then determine the final score you see by each ranking.

Accredited Online College considers many factors when ranking “physical therapy schools online accredited.” Among them are the affordability, student-to-faculty ratio, and the number of programs offered on-campus and online. To learn more about out online programs, visit our methodology page. 

See Also: Top Accredited Online Occupational Therapy Programs

Check out these Online Physical Therapy Degrees!

1. Baker College

Baker College is the largest not-for-profit, private college in Michigan. It is a top choice for physical therapy programs. It is also holds the top spot in our rankings of online schools for physical therapy.

Baker offers courses online and at several campuses across the state. This school caters to non-traditional students who need flexibility. With Baker Online, you can easily access your virtual classroom. You can do so at any time and from anywhere.

Baker College has an Associate of Applied Science program. It’s designed to train future physical therapist assistants. It’s a 78-credit-hour program. You are required to attend classes on campus. This can be done at:

• Baker’s Allen Park
• Auburn Hills
• Flint
• Muskegon

However, you can complete several of the 28 general education credit hours through Baker Online. This includes online classes in psychology, composition, and anatomy.

Fifty credit hours in Baker’s AAS program focus on the physical therapist assistant major. There are three clinical experiences. This gives you a total of 18 hours. The clinical ensure that you train in a real work setting for physical therapists. Graduates will be prepared to sit for the National Physical Therapy Assistants Examination exam. 

Learn more about Online Physical Therapy Programs at Baker College here.

2. University of South Dakota

The University of South Dakota is based in the town of Vermillion. It is the state’s main university. There are more than 10,000 students.

Become a Coyote by enrolling in USD’s Transitional Doctor of Physical Therapy (t-DPT) program. It is the first online doctoral program in the South Dakota university system.

USD’s online physical therapy degree program is for licensed physical therapists that want to advance their education. You can get a doctoral degree while you continue to practice.

Licensed physical therapists in this program take 25 credit hours over five semesters. This means you can finish the program in about two years.

All coursework aligns with the American Physical Therapy Association’s educational standards. To graduate, you must complete a clinical research project. You do so with help from a faculty mentor. 

This is an fast path to a doctoral degree. This means there is a lot of job experience required. For example, applicants with only a bachelor’s degree should have at least ten years of experience.

Learn more about these Online Physical Therapy Programs at University of South Dakota here.

3. Washburn University

Washburn University is located in Located in Topeka, KS. It offers an Associate of Science program for future physical therapist assistants.

The program has really good success rates. Over the past three years, 95% of Washburn’s PTA graduates have passed the National Physical Therapy Exam. Additionally, 80% of Washburn’s students earn their degrees in just two years.

Washburn’s PTA students have access to a 2,500-square-foot facility on campus. This building allows you to gain hands-on experience with advanced physical therapy equipment.

This is a 70-credit-hour program. It’s housed in Washburn’s Allied Health Department. Twenty-four students are admitted each year. All students take three clinical experiences. Clinicals last 17 weeks. 

Washburn’s PTA is a traditional on-campus program. But, this university offers many courses online. The Allied Health department has classes online. You might be able to complete your general classes through the College of Arts and Sciences’ online coursework. 

Learn more about these Online Physical Therapy Programs at Washburn University here.

4. Cleveland State University

Cleveland State University is in downtown Cleveland. It is close to the Cleveland Clinic. It is one of the biggest hospitals in the country. It is also one of the most respected.

Students in CSU’s Doctor of Physical Therapy program benefit from partnerships with the Clinic. The school has partnerships with more than 140 additional clinical sites. As such, physical therapists receive a quality education at Cleveland State.

Cleveland State’s three-year DPT program requires 133 credits. There is a core physical therapy curriculum. CSU’s doctoral students also take six elective credits.

Many students choose to conduct research. This is done with help from a faculty member. This work can lead to publication. It might also lead to presenting at a national conference. CSU’s DPT students also undertake 41 weeks of off-campus clinical training. 

To apply, you should already have a bachelor’s degree. If you don’t meet the requirements, you might be able to earn these online.

CSU also offers limited online classes in the DPT program. For example, you can take a basic pharmacotherapeutics course online. 

Learn more about Accredited Online College Programs for Physical Therapy at Cleveland State University here.

5. Northern Illinois University

At Northern Illinois University, you get the perks of joining a large student body. But you don’t sacrifice attention from your professors. NIU has more than 16,000 students. However, it maintains a 13:1 student-to-faculty ratio. 

NIU is based in Dekalb, IL. It’s about 60 miles west of Chicago. Students in NIU’s Doctor of Physical Therapy program get a unique advantage. They have access to the university’s Physical Therapy Clinic.

Here, you begin working directly with patients within your first year of study. This initial experience is in addition to four off-campus clinical experiences. This totals at least 30 hours. All that hands-on learning is very helpful for finding a job.

In fact, in the last three years, all of the program’s students have found employment after graduation. 

To apply, you’ll need a bachelor’s degree. You will also need at least 50 hours of documented experience in a physical therapy work setting. There are required courses, too. Many of them can be completed through NIU Online.  

Learn more about Accredited Online College Programs for Physical Therapy at Northern Illinois University here.

6. Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center

Based in Lubbock, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center is the state’s leading educator of health care professionals. More than 28,000 graduates earned their degrees from one of TTUHSC’s five schools and online programs. 

TTUHSC offers a Doctor of Science in Physical Therapy. It has a focus in orthopedic practice. This Sc.D. program allows practicing physical therapists to keep working. Candidates often use their work to inform their final dissertation. This can be in either clinical research or clinical teaching. The curriculum also prepares graduates for the Orthopaedic Certified Specialist (OCS) exam.

The Sc.D. program combines weekend in-person courses with additional online learning. On campus, candidates train in cutting-edge technology in TTUHSC’s newly built, multi-million dollar facilities.

All TTUHSC graduates who have applied for academic positions in the past have been hired. Additionally, many of its students go on to teach entry-level physical therapy programs. They also lead their clinic’s post-professional courses. 

Learn more about the Physical Therapy Degree Online at Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center here.

7. University of Michigan-Flint

The University of Michigan is a nationwide leader in higher education. It ranks No. 3 on U.S. News & World Report’s Top Public Schools. UM-Flint is part of the mission to extend academic excellence across the state. UM-Flint’s students have access to research and student resources at all of UM’s campuses. 

UM-Flint offers a Transitional Doctor of Physical Therapy program. It is highly customizable. The program takes about three years to finish. It does not follow a set curriculum. Instead, new students work with a faculty advisor to develop an learning plan. This program is for practicing physical therapists.

This degree’s coursework is delivered entirely online. All candidates take two core classes. These courses are in evidence-based practice and service-learning.

From there, you can choose from several courses. These classes cover topics like:

• Neuroscience
• Pharmacology
• Geriatrics

Classwork is complemented by hands-on learning. This includes interviewing and developing business plans for practicing physical therapists.

Learn more about Accredited Online College Programs for Physical Therapy at University of Michigan-Flint here.

8. Florida Gulf Coast University

Florida Gulf Coast University was established in 1997 in Fort Myers, Florida. It’s a young university. However, it’s growing fast. Enrollment has grown from 200 to 15,000 students in two decades.

The growth of the school is due to the business drive among FGCU’s faculty and students. In fact, one-fifth of FGCU’s students have started their own businesses.

Is your goal to open your own clinical practice? If so, FGCU’s Transitional Doctor of Physical Therapy program might be the right fit.

This physical therapy program is for distance learners. Students are experienced physical therapists seeking to advance their practice. This can be done by studying the field’s latest practices.

You will complete 30 credit hours of required courses. These classes cover topics like:

• diagnostic imaging
• medical Spanish
• professional issues in physical therapy

To graduate, you must complete a case study as your capstone project. 

Learn more about Accredited Online College Programs for Physical Therapy at Florida Gulf Coast University here.

9. Utica College

Utica College is based in Utica, NY. It’s a private university with a strong online presence. There are several fully online degree programs.

Utica is also a top online school. It is ranked by U.S. News & World Report for its online undergraduate and graduate learning opportunities. 

Utica’s Post Professional Doctor of Physical Therapy is an online physical therapy program. There is only one on-campus course. This ppDPT’s curriculum goes into topics like:

• Running your own practice
• Using the latest diagnostic imaging technology
• Addressing global health care issues

Only 18 credits are required for graduation. 

As a Utica doctoral student, you can customize your capstone project. This means you can match it to your specific goals for the program.

For example, if you intend to use your ppDPT to teach, then your project might be on a new teaching-learning discovery. Or, if your goal is to improve the services offered at your current workplace, your project might focus on a research initiative that you then present to your colleagues.

This program is for already working physical therapists.

Learn more about Accredited Online College Programs for Physical Therapy at Utica College here.

10. Andrews University

Andrews University sits a few short miles from Lake Michigan’s beaches in Berrien Springs, MI. This Christian university serves less than 5,000 students. Within its College of Health & Human Services is the School of Rehabilitation Sciences. The school offers two distance learning opportunities for physical therapists.

The first is a Doctor of Science in Physical Therapy. This is the highest degree a student can earn in this field. Andrews partners with the North American Institute of Orthopaedic Manual Therapy to ensure its degree-holders earn recognition as Certified Manual Physical Therapists. Andrews’ candidates are also prepared to teach at a university and undertake scholarly research.

This physical therapy program is 35-64 credit hours. Its requirements depend on your previous school experience. Online learning is done in addition to clinical practice. There are a few on-campus intensives, too. 

Andrews also offers a Transitional Doctor of Physical Therapy. This program can be completed mostly online. It can also be completed in as little as 18 months. 

Learn more about Accredited Online College Programs for Physical Therapy at Andrews University here.

11. Kent State University at East Liverpool

Kent State University at East Liverpool is on the Ohio River. It’s near the border of Pennsylvania and West Virginia.

The university has just over 1,000 students. East Liverpool’s graduates benefit from a close-knit campus. You will also benefit from the connection with Kent State University. Kent state has more than 250,000 alumni. 

Kent State’s East Liverpool campus offers an Associate of Science degree in Physical Therapy Assistant Technology. It takes two years to earn. This program combines on-campus classes and lab work. There is also off-campus clinical training. 

What if you’re also interested in becoming a certified athletic trainer? Then Kent State might be the best school for you. This campus is the first in the country to offer a hybrid ATC-to-PTA program. This degree covers the core competencies needed by both athletic trainers and physical therapy assistants. Coursework is completed online. There are also six required visits to Kent State’s Ashtabula Campus. 

Learn more about Accredited Online College Programs for Physical Therapy at Kent State University at East Liverpool here.

12. The College of Saint Scholastica

The College of Saint Scholastica is a Catholic university. It has campuses across Minnesota. A majority of this school’s student body is made up of non-traditional students. And with St. Scholastica’s long list of fully online, accelerated degree programs, it’s not hard to see why.

St. Scholastica has a 16-credit-hour Transitional Doctor of Physical Therapy program delivered entirely online. Distance learners undertake six courses. These classes are focused on topics like:

• Diagnostic imaging
• Evidence-based practice
• Pharmacology

Online classes can be accessed anywhere and at anytime. To maintain personalized attention from professors, St. Scholastica caps its online classes at 24 students. You are assigned an academic advisor who will provide support throughout the program.

If you were trained as a physical therapist in another country, then St. Scholastica is a great option. A quarter of its t-DPT students are trained abroad. 

Learn more about Accredited Online College Programs for Physical Therapy at The College of Saint Scholastica here.

13. Arcadia University

Arcadia University is well-known for its global opportunities. Here, studying abroad is the norm! This university’s Philadelphia campus is enhanced by locations in Greece, Spain, South Africa, and seven more countries. 

With such worldly connections, Arcadia’s Transitional Doctor of Physical Therapy is an attractive option for international students. No matter where you come from, earning a t-DPT from this school comes with respect. Arcadia ranks at No. 20 on U.S. News & World Report’s list of the top physical therapy schools. 

This t-DPT takes between one and three years to earn. Students educated in the U.S. must earn 18 credits. Students trained abroad need 22 credits to graduate.

The t-DPT is delivered through synchronous and asynchronous online coursework. The coursework will help you align your skillset with the current best practices. As such, physical therapists can use this degree to enhance their knowledge. You can specialize in:

• orthopedic
• neurologic
• cardiopulmonary physical therapy

Learn more about Accredited Online College Programs for Physical Therapy at Arcadia University here.

14. University of New England

The University of New England’s tagline is “innovation for a healthier planet.” This institution’s courses go beyond health studies. However, UNE has a strong tradition in physical therapy.

The school is based in Portland and Biddeford, Maine. UNE is the leading educator of the state’s healthcare professionals. It is also home to the only medical college in Maine.

UNE offers a Doctor of Physical Therapy program for aspiring physical therapists. The program requires eight semesters or 106 credit hours. You will undertake classes, lab work, and three full-time clinical experiences. In addition to the core coursework, two electives are provided. These courses are in orthopedics and pediatrics.

To graduate, UNE’s students take a comprehensive exam. You must also complete a research project or case study.

You should have a bachelor’s degree to apply. You will also need to fulfill several prerequisites. The science requirements for UNE’s DPT degree can all be completed through UNE Online. 

Learn more about Accredited Online College Programs for Physical Therapy at University of New England here.

15. A.T. Still University

A.T. Still University is named for Andrew Taylor Still. He was a groundbreaking physician who founded osteopathy in the late 19th century. The university is committed to osteopathic principles. This includes a focus on Still’s emphasis on the patient as a whole unit. Therefore, you will learn to treat the body, mind, and spirit.

ATSU enrolls nearly 4,000 students . You can attend classes at its locations in Arizona and Missouri.

Its Transitional Doctor of Physical Therapy is delivered through the Arizona School of Health Sciences. However, you never need to visit campus. This program’s online classes are flexible to fit the schedules of practicing physical therapists.

Courses start every six weeks. They can be done one at a time. Each student sets their own course of study. On average, ATSU’s t-DPT students take 22 months to finish.

As a final project, you will prepare a manuscript. This might lead to publication. Several courses in evidence-based practice and research methods help you write this final paper.  

Learn more about Accredited Online College Programs for Physical Therapy at A.T. Still University of Health Sciences here.

Frequently Asked Questions about Physical Therapy Programs

Why Is Accreditation Important for Online Physical Therapy Programs?

Enrolling in an accredited college or university is important no matter what degree you want. Accreditation guarantees that a school provides a quality education. It also shows that the school adheres to national educational standards. Additionally, employers recognize the value of your academic achievements.

Accreditation is especially vital for physical therapists and physical therapist assistants. To gain employment, you’ll need to be licensed in your state. To be licensed, you’ll need to pass an exam. And to even be eligible to take the exam, you’ll need to graduate from an accredited program. State licensing boards only recognize accreditation from the Commission on Accreditation in Physical Therapy Education (CAPTE). 

Thus, the online PT programs on this list are accredited by CAPTE. However, CAPTE does not offer accreditation for post-professional programs. This means that the Transitional Doctor of Physical Therapy and Post Professional Doctor of Physical Therapy programs on this list are not accredited. This is because no accreditation is available. 

Will I Need an Additional Certification in Addition to My Degree?

Yes. Physical therapist assistants need to pass the National Physical Therapy Exam for physical therapist assistants. Doing so is one step to gain licensure in any U.S. state.

Likewise, physical therapists need to pass the National Physical Therapy Exam to earn licensure. Academic programs are designed with these exams in mind. The test scores of past graduates can be key indicators of a degree program’s quality. 

Physical therapists can also choose to become board-certified. This is done in specialty areas of physical therapy. Three examples are:

• neurology
• pediatrics
• women’s health

To earn certification from the American Board of Physical Therapy Specialities, you’ll need to pass an exam. You must also document 2,000 clinical hours in your chosen specialty. 

How Much Do Physical Therapists Earn in a Year?

In 2018, the BLS reported an average annual income of $87,930 for physical therapists. Physical therapists working in nursing homes or residential care facilities reported the highest salaries. The top paying states for physical therapists are:

• Nevada
• Alaska
• New Jersey

How Much Do Physical Therapist Assistants Earn in a Year?

The median annual income for physical therapist assistants is $99,710, according to the BLS. Physical therapist assistants are some of the highest-paid holders of two-year associate degrees. The top-paying states for this job are:

• Texas
• New Jersey
• Connecticut

Physical therapy programs can prepare you for this rewarding job field.

Why Should I Earn a Transitional Doctor of Physical Therapy?

Today, a Doctor of Physical Therapy is the required degree for entry-level physical therapists. This wasn’t always the case. In the past, physical therapists could begin their practice with a bachelor’s or master’s degree in physical therapy. If this is your academic background, then a Transitional Doctor of Physical Therapy can help you advance your education to meet today’s industry standards. 

Education is about more than adding a new title to your resume. A Transitional Doctor of Physical Therapy is also a good idea for physical therapists who want to use the best practices with their patients. 

Technology is always changing. New advances can really improve a patient’s diagnosis and treatment. That’s why many t-DPT programs offer courses in diagnostic imaging and medical screening. Additionally, t-DPT programs often have a research or case-analysis final project. These give you the chance to add a scholarly work to your field. You might also create a researched solution to an issue in your workplace. 

Since these programs are geared toward working professionals, they are often delivered in a distance learning format. In most cases, this is online coursework. There might be limited on-campus work, too. This means t-DPT students can receive all the benefits of their program while continuing to earn a paycheck.

What Scholarships Are Available to Physical Therapy Students?

Scholarship and financial aid are available for physical therapy programs. Each university has its own institutional scholarships. Some online physical therapy schools might offer departmental scholarships that are only open to physical therapy students.

Additionally, the American Physical Therapy Association (APTA) offers several financial awards to aspiring physical therapists. This includes the Minority Scholarship Award for physical therapists. It also includes the Mary McMillan Scholarship Award, which is given to students in their last year of study. 

What is the American Physical Therapy Association APTA?

APTA (American Physical Therapy Association)’s mission is “Building a community that advances the profession of physical therapy to improve the health of society”. By supporting the physical therapy profession, APTA hopes to create change and positive influence for it’s members.

Continue Your School Search With Other Online Programs

If you’re interested in pursuing higher education, then you should check out our Top 20 Easy Accredited Online Ph.D. Programs. Also see the 15 Most Affordable, Accredited Online Associate Degree Programs! 

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With one of the best online master’s in educational leadership, you can learn the skills and experience needed to become a senior leader in educational organizations, without giving up your career.

Educational leaders need a broad variety of knowledge and skills. You’ll need to know how to handle school and community relations, perform evaluations on your staff, and assess and develop curriculums that inspire and engage students. One of the best online master’s in educational leadership will impart you with all the necessary traits needed to become a successful dean of students, principal, or school administrator!

Related:

• Best Online Master’s in Educational Technology
• Best Accredited Non-Degree Certifications In Demand
• Teaching & Education Certificates You Can Earn Online

Quick Picks:

Best Overall Value: University of Florida – licensure track, moderate tuition, strong reputation

Fastest Completion: Liberty University – as few as 1 year, 30 credits, 8-week courses

Most Flexible Schedule: Western Governors University – competency-based, work at your own pace

Best for Principal Licensure: University of Iowa – M.A. with principal licensure, strong clinical coursework

Most Affordable Online Option: Mississippi College – ~$305/credit

What kind of classes will you take with this degree?

In an educational leadership program, you’ll typically cover some core courses that are common between institutions. You’ll gain an understanding of how to evaluate and assess the performance of both students and teaching staff. You’ll also learn how schools are run from an operational and administrative point of view. What’s more, you’ll become incredibly proficient at evaluating and implementing improvements in these areas and within your school or district’s curriculums.

See Also: Financial Aid Tips for Online College

What requirements will I need to meet for this degree?

It’s common for universities and colleges to ask for a minimum GPA of 3.0 from an undergraduate degree when considering applications for a Master’s Degree in Educational Leadership or Administration. However, some institutions, including a couple on this list, will admit students who achieved a minimum GPA of 2.5 or 2.75. Bear in mind that it’s also common for institutions to require you to hold a current teaching certification or a minimum of 3 years experience in an educational role.

See Also: 30 Accredited Online Colleges in Health Education

What Are the Best Online Master’s in Educational Leadership Programs?

Accredited Online College uses the most recent data from the Department of Education’s National Center for Education Statistics. Each program is scored individually. It’s then compared to all other universities offering that degree to determine the final score you see by each ranking. Accredited Online College considers the affordability, student-to-faculty ratio, and the number of programs offered on-campus and online. To learn more, visit our methodology page. 

Best Online Master’s in Educational Leadership Programs

#1. University of Florida

UF’s College of Education can offer you the best Online Master of Education in one of two tracks. One degree pathway leads to eligibility for the Florida Level 1 certification in Educational Leadership, while the other does not. You can apply for the former pathway as long as you have a minimum of three years’ worth of experience teaching.

Otherwise, for admission, you’ll also need to hold a bachelor’s or master’s degree from an accredited U.S. higher education institution with a minimum GPA of 3.0 from your last 60 credits of undergraduate coursework. The program is available part-time or full-time, and you’ll study around 6 credits per semester, completing your degree in an average of 2 years.

If you’re a resident of Florida, your tuition for the program will be charged at a rate of around $448.73 per credit hour before fees. Including all fees, the total charge is around $518.69 per credit hour. As a non-resident or international student, the cost rises to around $622.22. This is a smaller increase than you’ll find for non-residents at many U.S. institutions.

#2. Liberty University

Liberty University Online (LU Online) offers a top Online Master’s in Educational Leadership (M.Ed.) featuring 8-week courses; it’s also accredited by the SACSCOC. With around 30 credit hours required by the program, you can complete this master’s degree in as little as 1 year. Rest assured that the program has also been voted a best value choice, in addition to other rankings.

The curriculum is highly flexible at LU Online, with no set log-in times and no campus visits required. Teachings are also woven with biblical principles, and you’ll benefit from a faculty with many combined years experience in education. Courses include:

• Leadership and Supervision in Education
• Contemporary Issues in Educational Policy
• Student Support Services

Liberty University is known for being an affordable institution, and tuition rates are fixed at a single rate for all students on a master’s degree in education. As a full-time student, you’ll pay around $430 per credit hour for your program. The rate for part-time students is a little higher, though still affordable compared to other universities across the nation. 

#3. Texas Tech University

At Texas Tech University, the online M.Ed. in Educational Leadership includes an emphasis in Educational Policy. This emphasis will help to prepare you for work within:

• government agencies
• nonprofit organizations
• policy-making institutes
• other organizations

You’ll be able to understand how education, policy, and leadership are related and implement meaningful changes in the education sector.

Comprising 36 credit hours in total, the program is offered entirely online. For admission, you’ll be expected to supply a resume, applicant statement highlighting your motivations and goals, and 2 letters of recommendation. You’ll also need to have an existing undergraduate degree in a related subject area.

A typical graduate student at Texas Tech who is also a state resident will pay tuition and fees of around $2,687/semester. Tuition varies depending on your chosen subject area, so you can find a full list of tuition and fees rates on the university’s website.

#4. University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign

This university offers a highly flexible Master of Education Policy, Organization & Leadership, which is available on campus, off-campus, and online. You’ll take courses such as:

• Psychology of Learning in Education
• Child Language and Education
• Psychology of Classroom Management
• Assessing Student Performance

A range of more than 10 concentrations is offered including those such as:

• Bilingual-Bicultural Education
• Global Studies in Education
• Higher Education
• Learning Design & Leadership

This allows you to further specialize in an area of interest, though a concentration is not mandatory. Admission into the program requires that you have an existing undergraduate degree with a minimum GPA of 3.0. 

The good news for distance learners is that this university doesn’t charge any additional fees for students enrolling in a fully online program. In terms of tuition, your final rates can vary from program to program. The easiest way to check your estimated cost of attendance is by using the university’s cost calculator on their website.

#5. Kennesaw State University

At Kennesaw State University, the Masters of Education in Educational Leadership can lead to eligibility for a GaPSC Tier 1 Leadership Certification. If you’re seeking promotions and greater earning potential after graduation, this could help get your foot in the door. Also, there are 2 concentrations available, including Leadership in Urban Schools and Leading Independent and Charter Schools for further specialization.

Owing to the emphasis of the curriculum, which is professionally oriented, applicants are required to already hold a position in an organization involved in the education sector. This could be a teaching role, an educational service agency, or a department of education for example. During the course of your studies, you’ll get the opportunity to practice your skills and newfound knowledge in field activities.

You’ll pay tuition by the credit hour for all online courses at Kennesaw State University. What’s more, there’s no additional charge for students from outside of the state. Online graduate tuition comes to around $393.00 per credit hour, with fees costing around $340.00 per semester. These costs don’t take into account the cost of books and materials. 

#6. University of Iowa

The University of Iowa offers an M.A. in Educational Leadership with Principal Licensure. Comprising 36 semester hours and available entirely online, you’ll spend a third of your time completing clinical coursework to gain essential hands-on skills. You’ll need a bachelor’s degree with a minimum GPA of 3.0 in order to apply.

Core requirements include the completion of courses such as:

• Foundations of School Administration
• Analysis and Appraisal of Curriculum
• Supervision and Evaluation

When you move onto your clinical coursework, you’ll undertake courses that cover a breadth of age groups including:

• Early Childhood Leadership
• Elementary Leadership
• Secondary Leadership

Online graduate costs vary between programs. Typically, graduate students will pay approximately $4,782.00 in tuition for 12 or more credit hours per semester. This rate applies to state residents, with non-resident students paying around $15,826.50 comparatively. Use the university’s rate tables to see costs for various departments and programs.

#7. Northern Arizona University

Northern Arizona University (NAU) offers a number of degree pathways in educational leadership. Choose from M.Ed. specializations that include:

• Principal Certification K-12
• Instructional Leadership K-12 School Leadership
• Community College/Higher Education
• Educational Foundations

You can also choose the Traditional Online or Competency-Based Online pathway to complete your degree. 

Traditional programs follow a set schedule with assignment deadlines and tuition based on the number of credit hours taken. Competency-based programs allow you to choose your start date, work to your own schedule, and pay a flat subscription rate every 6 months. For more information on each master’s program, check out the full list on the university’s website.

For traditional programs, the typical graduate tuition rate for online programs is around $14,279/year. The rate for non-residents is $33,533. See the university’s website and specific programs for more information on competency-based costs.

#8. Clemson University

Clemson University offers a distance learning M.Ed. / Ed.S. in Educational Leadership under the College of Education. They’re suited to professionals already working as experienced educators, and you’ll learn essential skills in:

• leadership
• policymaking
• curriculum development

For admission, you’ll need a minimum GPA of 3.0 from an existing bachelor’s degree.

It’s worth checking out the university’s website for more information on each specific program, as there are various options available. For example, you can earn a South Carolina building-level certification, which includes several internships and elementary or secondary certification. There is an additional district-level certification available from another program, and these certifications could help you secure promotions and higher earning potential.

Assuming a course load of 12 credit hours per semester, you’ll pay online tuition of approximately $7,596. Total costs per semester are around $7,864, which includes an information technology fee, a library fee, and other expenses unique to the program. You can also check out what financial aid is available from the university.

#9. University of Arkansas

The U of A Online campus has a Master of Education in Educational Leadership, which offers professional preparation for working professionals who want to move into administrative roles within either elementary or secondary schools. This particular program also has a 100% pass rate for graduates who take the School Leaders Licensure Assessment (SLLA). 

For admission into the competitive program, you will need to evidence a previous bachelor’s degree with a minimum GPA of 3.0. Assuming you meet this requirement, you won’t be required to show GRE scores. Bear in mind that while the program is offered fully online, there is an internship requirement, which is not available via distance learning.

If you’re successful in your application, you’ll pay tuition of approximately $459.68 per credit hour. There’s no additional cost for out-of-state students. Additional fees will apply.

#10. University of Central Florida

The University of Central Florida (UCF) College of Community Innovation and Education has been ranked as one of the Best Grad Schools and Best Colleges by U.S. News & World Report. Here, you can enroll in an Online M.A. in Educational Leadership. It’s a 30-credit program that can be completed at your own pace.

You’ll learn the skills needed to succeed as an educational leader, and you’ll study:

• contemporary issues
• methods of evaluation
• law and ethics in education
• diversity

You’ll also gain the skills needed to steer the direction and operations within a school. Graduates of this program have gone on to become dean of students, college provost, and district administrator.

Graduate students at UCF who are also state residents will pay tuition of around $327.32 per credit hour as online earners. This works out to around $11,783.52 in total. If you’re a student from out of state, you’ll pay a higher sum of around $1,151.72 per credit hour, with a total cost nearing $42,000. 

#11. Ball State University

At Ball State University, you can enroll in a Master’s Degree in Educational Administration and Supervision. All courses are available online, and you could earn a P-12 building-level administration and supervision license. The 36-credit program can be completed in as few as 18 to 20 months full-time.

The majority of the curriculum is made up of required courses including:

• Human Resource Development
• Educational Decision Making
• Supervision of Instruction
• Educational Finance and Ethics

However, you’ll also select 1 elective from Education and Ethics, History of American Education, Multicultural and Multi-ethnic Education, and Integrative STEM Education.

Assuming that you’re a resident of Indiana who is enrolled in 12 credits per semester, you’ll pay estimated costs of around $3,034. This includes tuition of around $2,784. You can use the calculator on the university website to find out more about costs.

#12. West Texas A & M University

The faculty and facilities at West Texas A&M University have recently been recognized for their quality; they were named on rankings by U.S. News & World Report, including Best Online Programs in more than one area of specialization. In addition to a Master of Education – Educational Leadership, you could gain your Texas School Leader Certification or Doctorate of Education here too. 

All of the above programs are focused on producing competent leaders in education, and the integrated hands-on field learning experiences have been aligned with standards set by the state. Your professors are also experienced leaders within the Texas public school system, including those in mid-management and executive positions.

West Texas A&M University charges graduate school tuition and fees of around $673.15/credit. For a comprehensive breakdown of tuition rates and fees, check out the university’s website.

#13. Florida State University

Under the Florida State University College of Education, you can enroll in a Master’s in Educational Leadership & Administration. This is a program that was recently named as a Best Online Program by U.S. News & World Report. You can choose between completing this master’s degree or a specialist, Ed.D., or Ph.D. degree, and there’s also an educational leadership certificate available.

For admission into the program, you’ll need to have a bachelor’s degree from a regionally accredited university with a minimum GPA of 3.0. Once enrolled, you’ll complete 33 credit hours, including 27 hours of required courses that include:

• Planning Effective Instruction
• Teacher Leadership Development
• Instructional Leadership

Florida State University tries to remain competitive with its tuition rates, which means that you’ll pay approximately $444.26 per credit (in-state) for your online programs. . There’s more information available on tuition, fees, and scholarships on the university’s website.

#14. Indiana University-Bloomington

Among its online programs, Indiana University offers an MSEd in Educational Leadership. It’s a 36-credit program that’s delivered entirely online, and it has been ranked among the Best Online Programs by U.S. News & World Report. You’ll be prepared to assume leadership roles within your school or district or seek out more senior roles in other educational organizations.

This curriculum was designed in collaboration with schools and districts specifically, ensuring that it addresses the unique and most current challenges faced by today’s learners and educators. You’ll study:

• teacher development
• evaluation methods
• legal and ethical perspectives
• K-12 principalship

In total, you’ll complete 27 credit hours of core courses and a 9-credit strand course.

At Indiana University, the School of Education charges graduate tuition of approximately $550.14 for online programs. This rate applies to state residents. Check out the university’s Funding Opportunities page for information on grants and scholarships!

#15. Mississippi College

The Master of Education in Educational Leadership at Mississippi College lasts for around 12 months and requires the completion of 36 credit hours. It features a faith-based curriculum that utilizes problem-based learning opportunities, and you’ll be eligible to gain your K-12 administrator endorsement upon successful graduation from the degree program. You could also upgrade this certification to an AA license after passing the SLLA.

You’ll learn how to:

• leverage the latest technology in teaching
• assess students and teachers
• respect the principles of diversity, ethics, and school policy in delivering positive change

Admissions requirements include a minimum GPA of 2.5 from a bachelor’s degree, which is lower than the 3.0 requested by most institutions. 

Tuition for this program is lower than the average across the nation, with online graduate students paying just $305 per credit hour.

#16. Minnesota State University

Enroll in this Master of Science & Specialist in Educational Leadership, and you’ll benefit from a program that offers 4 licensure options and a 100% job placement rate for graduates. You can also choose from 4 different emphases that include:

• K-12 Administration
• Student Affairs and Higher Education
• Teacher Leadership, and Educational Leadership

Depending on the choices you make, you could gain:

• K-12 Principal licensure
• Superintendent licensure
• Director of Community Education licensure
• Director of Special Education licensure

All courses are also delivered online, eliminating the need for you to travel to campus; this means that you can continue to work as you study.

At Minnesota State University Moorhead, you’ll pay graduate tuition of around $562.70 for this degree program. You can also find a list of fees on the website. If you need help with the cost of higher education, you could secure a graduate assistantship, which will not only help you meet your expenses but also give you valuable real-world experience.

#17. Saint Leo University

Saint Leo University offers an Online Master’s Degree in Educational Leadership. It’s a program that has been designed for educators who already have a valid teaching certificate and want to progress into leadership positions. You’ll study a curriculum that’s aligned with national standards in educational leadership including:

• decision making
• technology
• human resource development
• accountability and assessment

You’ll complete a supervised practicum during the course of this program, in addition to contributing to school improvement projects that can shape future curriculums. You’ll also gain eligibility for Florida’s Education Leadership (Level 1) certification. What’s more, the curriculum and its courses meet the national educational leadership standards set by the Interstate School Leaders Licensure Consortium.

Tuition rates at Saint Leo University vary depending on the program you choose. For this master’s degree in education, you’ll pay tuition of around $580 per credit hour, though tuition may increase annually for some programs. For more information and accurate estimates, you can use the Net Price Calculator on the website.

#18. Old Dominion University

Old Dominion University offers a 30-credit-hour master’s in Educational Leadership – Admin. & Supervision K-12 (Online). With this program, you’ll be eligible to gain your Commonwealth of Virginia licensure in Educational Administration and Supervision, PreK-12. Though you do not need 3 years experience in teaching to apply for the degree, you will need to meet this requirement for licensure.

In the program, you’ll complete a total of 24 credits of coursework. The remaining 6 credits will come from clinical experiences, which will give you 120 internship hours across the duration of the degree program. It’s also a cohort-based program, which means you’ll follow a set course sequence alongside your peers.

Old Dominion University charges fairly similar tuition rates for all online graduate students. Virginia residents will pay tuition of around $486 per credit hour, while out-of-state students pay around $649 per credit hour. If you’re an educator in the Virginia Public School system, you could be awarded a 25% tuition discount too. 

#19. The University of West Florida

The University of West Florida offers a Master of Education in Educational Leadership. It was voted among the top 3 programs of its kind in a recent ranking of the Top 50 Online Master’s in Educational Leadership. It has also been named by similar rankings for its teaching quality.

It’ll take around 18 months to complete the 30 credit hours mandated by the program, and you’ll study courses such as:

• Law and Education
• Administration of School Personnel
• Principles of Curriculum

For admission, you’ll need a valid teaching certification and a bachelor’s degree with a minimum GPA of 3.0.

You could transfer up to 6 credits from prior college learning to reduce the cost of your tuition too. Speaking of which, online graduate students typically pay around $384.60 per credit hour for this degree. You should check out the scholarship awards page to see whether you could qualify for additional financial aid that doesn’t have to be repaid.

#20. University of North Texas

Through UNT Online, you can enroll in an Online Master of Education in Educational Leadership. Comprising 30 credit hours across 10 classes in total, you’ll study current theory and research to become an educational leader. Start dates are available throughout the year in January, March, June, August, and October, and you could finish your degree within 12 months. 

Courses span the full range of topics required by an educational leader including:

• Race, Class, and Gender Issues in Education
• Management of School Resources
• Administration and Leadership
• Organizational Change
• Administration of the K-12 Curriculum

For admission, you’ll need an existing bachelor’s degree from a regionally accredited institution.

For an accurate estimate of your cost of attendance, check out the university website, where you’ll find several cost calculators. There are also a variety of financial aid options to help you cover the cost of your course. UNT has been named as one of the nation’s “Best College Buys” for more than 2 decades!

#21. University of Louisiana at Monroe

This Master of Education, Educational Leadership can be completed in as few as 15 months with a total of 36 credits required. Accredited by the Council for the Accreditation of Educator Preparation, it could lead to careers as a school principal, district administrator, instructional coordinator, or dean of students.

The admissions process includes the need for a prior bachelor’s degree from a regionally accredited institution, a valid teaching certificate with at least three years experience, and official transcripts from any institutions that you have attended previously. Your courses cover subjects such as:

• School-Community Relations
• Instructional Supervision
• Organizational Theory and Practice

Tuition for this master’s degree is reasonably low compared to other institutions, with online graduate students paying around $11,340 total tuition. Tuition is charged per course and can be paid in installments, helping you to meet the cost of a college education.

#22. Webster University

Webster University’s graduate catalog includes an MA in Educational Leadership and Administration. Available as both a campus-based and online program, it’s geared toward K-12 teachers who want to become leaders or administrators and improve educational standards in their schools. It also meets the national standards set by the National Educational Leadership Preparation Program (NELP). 

For admission into the program, you’ll need a bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university. However, the GPA requirement is 2.5 as opposed to the 3.0 sought by many institutions. You will also need to have completed the course on Education of the Exceptional Child or its equivalent in the State of Missouri. 

While some online programs cost less than their campus-based counterparts, tuition for this program is slightly higher online. You’ll pay around $775 per credit hour for any courses completed online, compared to the $650-$780 paid for traditional programs. More information on tuition and tuition discounts is available on the university’s website.

#23. Montclair State University

The online MA in Educational Leadership at Montclair State University has been named a Best Online Program by U.S. News & World Report. Comprising 36 credit hours, the program features coursework in the areas of:

• supervision
• decision making
• teacher and student assessment
• school and community relations

All courses are available online via distance learning, and you’ll follow one course at a time for 8 weeks. You can also opt to enroll in the Post-Supervisor Certificate MA Completion Program, which is open to students who gained their Supervisor Certificate at the same university. With this 24-credit program, you’ll gain your Certificate of Eligibility for Principal alongside your MA.

Montclair State University charges varying tuition depending on the degree program chosen. For the MA in Educational Leadership, you’ll pay around $9,962/year. If you want to find out more about financial aid, check out the Office of Student Financial Aid on the university website.

#24. Georgia College & State University

At Georgia College, you can enroll in an M.Ed. in Educational Leadership (Tier 1). Academic and skills-focused learning is aligned with the Georgia Educational Leadership Standards, ensuring that you have the skills needed to start a career in educational administration. There’s a residency requirement of 250 hours, which will help you evidence all the necessary skills.

The admissions department requires that you have a minimum GPA of 2.75 from a bachelor’s degree that was awarded by a regionally accredited institution. You’ll also need evidence that you’ve completed coursework for the education of children with special needs. This is in addition to official copies of your transcripts and 2 professional recommendations.

Distance learning programs at Georgia College are charged at a separate rate from traditional programs. As an online graduate student, you’ll pay around $5,712 in tuition. This assumes that you’re following a full-time schedule of study, taking 12 credit hours per semester.

#25. Louisiana State University

LSU Online is Louisiana State University’s distance learning campus, and you can enroll in an online Master of Education – Educational Leadership. Comprising a slightly higher-than-average 39 credits, you can complete the degree in as few as 15 months. Courses cover the usual spread of topics, including:

• ethics and educational leadership
• school personnel administration
• research in education

In total, you’ll complete 39 credit hours and can complete the program in less than 2 years. Alternatively, you can take longer should you choose so that you can fit your studies around your professional schedule. For admission, you’ll need to have a minimum cumulative GPA of 3.0 on all undergraduate work from a bachelor’s degree program.

You may be able to reduce the cost of your tuition and earn credit from your undergraduate coursework or professional training. The total cost per credit hour for tuition is $464.

#26. George Washington University

George Washington University offers a Master’s in Educational Leadership and Administration. It’s suited to students who would like to become a principal or administrator. You’ll receive practical instruction in management and leadership and supervision of instruction from a well-regarded and experienced faculty.

The program comprises a total of 30 credit hours. You’ll take courses including:

• Supervision of Curriculum
• Instruction, and Assessment
• Foundations of K-12 Educational Leadership
• Instructional Leadership for School Improvement
• Administrative Issues in Education

Most students secure an internship at their school or district of employment, though no placements are guaranteed.

Tuition at George Washington University varies between academic schools. Under the Graduate School of Education & Human Development, you’ll pay tuition of around $1,765 per credit for campus-based courses or $1,395 for online courses. A full list of tuition rates for this college is available on the website.

#27. Western Governors University

Western Governors University can help you to become a principal or administrator with their Master’s in Educational Leadership and Administration. Comprising 30 credit hours, the program is nationally accredited by the Council for the Accreditation of Educator Preparation. The combination of coursework and practical experience also meets the requirements for certification and licensure in a number of states.

If you opt to study the accelerated format, then you could graduate in as little as 2 years. You’ll take courses like:

• Foundations of K-12 Educational Leadership
• Leadership for Equity and Social Justice
• Instructional Leadership for School Improvement

You’ll complete an internship too, which could be arranged at your current place of employment.

According to the university’s website, the average cost per semester of a master’s degree is around $4,125 at WGU, which is around $15,000 lower than the national average. The Teachers’ College, which has been ranked a Best Value School on numerous occasions, charges tuition of around $3,490 for programs with field experiences.

#28. The University of Alabama

The University of Alabama offers an MA in Educational Leadership and a Reduced Hour Option (Instructional Leadership Certification). The awards can be completed online, and depending on your choice, you’ll complete between 18 and 33 credit hours. All courses can be completed online.

The master’s degree pathway is designed for teachers who already hold a bachelor’s degree and Alabama Class B teaching certification. You’ll be studying at an institution that was ranked for its Best Online Programs across multiple rankings by U.S. News & World Report.

Distance learning students pay tuition on a per-credit basis. For online graduate courses, you’ll pay a rate of around $480 per credit hour. A number of financial aid options are available, including the Back to Bama Grant, Bama Link Grant, and Build on Bama Grant. There are also scholarship opportunities.

#29. Concordia University

At Concordia University, you can enroll in a Master of Science in Educational Leadership, which comprises 32 credits. Full and part-time study schedules are available, and successful graduation from the program leads to recommendation for the School Administrator Certification in the State of Michigan. 

For admission into the program, you’ll need to have an existing bachelor’s degree from a regionally accredited institution. The GRE isn’t required, but you will need to submit a one-page essay that highlights your motivations, a resume, transcripts, and 2 signed letters of recommendation.

#30. University of New England

With UNE Online, the University of New England’s distance learning campus, you can enroll in a fully online Master of Science in Education. You’ll study topics like:

• educational ethics
• diversity & inclusion
• assessment and evaluation
• online learning

For admission, you do not need to hold an existing position as an educator.

You’ll complete 30 credits over the course of the program and could finish your studies in as few as 2 years. There are no visits to campus required whatsoever, and there are highly customizable pathways available so that you can tailor your course load to your professional goals.

FAQ

What is educational leadership?

Educational leadership refers to those professionals who champion best practices and improvements in the education process and sector overall. This could include a broad range of professionals, such as deans of students, principals, educational administrators, and more. The overall goal is for this united effort to result in improvements in the quality of teaching, school operations, and school and community relationships.

Strong educational leaders will strive to ensure that all students are given the opportunity to succeed, regardless of their background. They’ll also create a safe and secure learning environment where all staff is empowered to become leaders within their own classrooms. Strong leaders will continually assess staff and resources for improvements, whether through the use of new technologies or implementation of new processes.

The Association for Supervision and Curriculum Development (ASCD) tells us that teachers are the very foundation of educational leadership. There cannot be one single person responsible for leadership of the overall school, district, or all of its processes. Leaders rely on teachers to provide curriculum and student feedback and champion the school’s values in the classroom.

What can I do with a degree in educational leadership?

When you graduate with a master’s degree in the area of educational leadership, you’ll have a broad variety of career options available to you. These can include teaching and senior managerial positions within both private and public schools, including elementary through to middle and high schools, and post-secondary positions.

Some of the common roles sought by graduates of this type of program include:

• principal or assistant principal
• district administrator
• instructional coordinator
• director or supervisor within an organization
• dean of students
• college provost
• university registrar

There are, of course, transferable skills that you’ll gain on these types of degree programs, which could even see you working within business organizations as a trainer for example.

How much can I earn with a degree in educational leadership?

The earning potential for your role can vary within the education sector. For example, if we look at the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) data from May 2024, we can see post-secondary education administrators as a collective earned a median average annual pay of around $103,960. These are some of the highest salaries available in education.

However, earning potential is also strong for graduates who seek out employment as school principals. According to the BLS, these professionals earned around $104,070 in 2024. The projected growth in this role is a predicted 2% decrease in demand over the next decade, which represents around 20,800 new openings across the nation per year.

This is why a master’s degree in this subject can be so empowering for your career. Compare these salaries to high school teachers (around $62,870) or middle school teachers (around $60,810), and you’ll soon see how the cost of a master’s degree can immediately begin to cover itself within just a few years. 

For graduates who choose to leave the education sector and work in professional organizations, there are still good opportunities for advancement. Training and development specialists typically earn around $60,000 on average according to the BLS. Some may also start their own consultancies after gaining experience in the role. Many educational leadership programs include courses on human resource development, which could help you gain the skills needed for a role in such an organization.

Do I need experience for a degree in educational leadership?

Some of the professional certifications and licenses available to educational leadership graduates require you to have a minimum number of years experience as a teacher or in an educational organization. What’s more, many of the institutions above require you to have at least 3 years experience as an educator in order to apply.

However, since these are all online programs, you can continue to work while you gain your master’s degree. If you opt for a part-time study schedule, you can continue to gain experience towards your licensing requirements. You’ll also find that many programs include field experiences that can help you to gain further experience towards these requirements once admitted.

If you’re interested in pursuing higher education, then you should check out Best Bachelor’s in Education and Teaching and Best Master’s in Education and Teaching!

The post 30 Best Online Master’s in Educational Leadership Programs (Affordable & Flexible) appeared first on Accredited Online Colleges.

Aspiring accountants: we’ve done the math for you by determining the top accredited online accounting college degree programs. Now, all you need to do is choose one of the online accounting programs, and you’ll be on your way to one of the most in-demand professions.
At the heart of any successful business is a reliable accountant, and knowing the ins-and-outs of a company’s finances pays.

Related:

• Top Affordable Online Bachelor’s in Accounting
• Affordable Online Master’s in Accounting
• Best Online Bachelor’s in Economics

What Careers Does an Accounting Degree Lead To?

According to the BLS, accountants held 1.5 million jobs (2023). As a public accountant, you might work for a large accounting firm:

• preparing financial statements
• helping corporations prepare financial records for their investors
• advising them on tax matters

As a private or management accountant, you’d work within an organization. You would prepare financial statements that help determine budgets and strategies.

Government accountants keep track of governmental agencies’ expenditures. They also audit private corporations and citizens. This ensures they adhere to government standards and taxation laws.

Forensic accountants investigate financial crimes, providing key insight for prosecutors at trial. These accounting programs will help you get on the path to these careers.

See Also: 10 Tips for Maximizing Your Learning Experience in Online College

Why Earn an Online Accredited Accounting Degree?

Successful careers in business demand quality education. Work experience is also valuable. Online degree programs let you add both to your resume at the same time, all while bringing home a paycheck. You don’t have to be a math whizz to understand that two (a degree plus years of experience) is more than one. An accounting degree online may lead you to the career path you want! Online education is as valued as on-campus education.

See Also: 10 Best Online Bachelor’s in Economics

What Is the Best Online Accounting Programs?

Accredited Online Colleges uses the most recent data from the Department of Education’s National Center for Education Statistics. Each accounting program is scored individually. It’s then compared to all other universities offering that degree to determine the final score you see by each ranking. Accredited Online Colleges considers:

• affordability
• student-to-faculty ratio
• number of programs offered on-campus and online

To learn more about ranking online education, visit our methodology page.

Check out these best online accounting schools!

See Also: Financial Aid Tips for Online College

1. Penn State

Business-minded students learn the value of networking early on. Enroll at Pennsylvania State University, and you’ll be joining a network of more than 692,000 alumni. This institution has the largest alumni association in the world. Penn State also at No. 8 on U.S. News & World Report’s Best Online Bachelor’s Programs. This list takes into account a university’s graduation rates for online students. It also takes into account the quality of its faculty and support services.

Through Penn State World Campus, you can earn a BS in Accounting online. This is one of the few online programs accredited by the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB).
Penn State’s Bachelor’s in Accounting program prepares graduates to sit for the Certified Public Accountant (CPA) exam. It requires 120 credit hours. Students can work with an advisor to tailor their course of study to their specific goals.

Take courses from this online accredited accounting degree such as:

• financial accounting
• managerial and cost accounting
• governmental and not-for-profit accounting
• tax accounting
• financial statement analysis

Learn more about one of the best online colleges for accounting here.

2. Washington State University

Washington State University Global Campus allows students from around the world to earn online degrees from this respected university. The Cougars not only live across the globe, but they like to explore it too. WSU offers more than 500 study abroad programs on all seven continents.

As an online accounting major in the Carson College of Business, you’ll get to take advantage of WSU’s strong global presence. This Bachelor of Arts in Business Administration requires a six-credit international experience. Students fulfill this requirement by:

• studying abroad
• interning internationally
• completing a course focused on global business practices

WSU’s 120-credit-hour BBA with a major in Accounting is one of only seven programs in the Pacific Northwest accredited by the AACSB. The curriculum for one of the best online accounting programs includes 18 credits of core business classes.

Learn more about one of the best online accounting degrees here.

3. American Public University

American Public University has one of the top online degrees. APU has a mission to provide U.S. service members with the flexibility they need to continue their education. Today, 80% of its students are active-duty military and veterans. These students have reduced tuition rates and can transfer credits for their military experience.

Military or civilian, 72% of students graduate without incurring debt from credits earned at APU.
APU offers aspiring accountants an online BS in Accounting. Accredited by the AACSB, this accounting program requires 120 credit hours. Courses are in an eight-week format, with new courses beginning each month. Students cover topics with accounting courses like:

• law for accountants
• governmental and not-for-profit accounting
• introduction to payroll

As an APU accounting student, your capstone experience will allow you to put what you’ve learned into practice. The research project addresses an auditing or accounting issue by using real-world examples.

Learn more about accredited accounting schools online at American Public University System here.

4. Liberty University

LU is a faith-based institution of higher education. Liberty University employs a mission to train “Champions for Christ” in its academic programs. This university is also committed to making a college degree affordable. Liberty’s undergraduate tuition rates have been frozen for the past four years. Additionally, electronic textbooks are free at Liberty. Students save up to $2,000 each year.

Liberty’s BS in Accounting is an online degree program delivered in eight-week courses. On average, students take three and a half years to complete this AACSB-accredited program. Helping to speed up students’ academic journey is Liberty’s generous transfer credit policy. Here, you can transfer in up to 75% of the degree’s required 120 credit hours.
In addition to accounting classes, Liberty’s students take coursework in business topics like:

• corporate law
• operations management
• strategic marketing

All classes are taught by professors with professional experience, providing key on-the-job insight.

Learn more about online accounting degree accredited university here.

5. Temple University

Today, Temple University’s reputation for academic excellence extends nationwide. Temple started as a night school. This helped Philadelphians advance their education after the workday ended. Temple’s AACSB-accredited Fox School of Business offers a fully online Bachelor of Business Administration with a major in Accounting.
Success in business often requires excellent people skills.

At Temple, you’ll have the flexibility to earn your degree online. You’ll also have opportunities to form key relationships with your fellow accountants-to-be. Students partake in weekly, real-time virtual discussions with peers and professors. Most coursework is through an asynchronous format.

Temple offers a traditional 15-week semester format. It also offers accelerated seven-week sessions in the fall and spring and six-week sessions in the summer. This means students can earn their bachelor’s in as little as three years.

Learn more about accredited online colleges for accounting here.

6. Bellevue University

Bellevue University is located on a picturesque campus just outside of Omaha, NE. They serve 9,000 students. Bellevue’s online programs provide global access to this close-knit community.

Bellevue delivers its Bachelor of Science in Accounting both online and on-campus. This accredited online accounting program is an excellent option for students who foresee a master’s degree in their future. It is 127 credit hours. As an accounting major, you can get a head start on a Master of Science in Accounting. You can take up to 12 graduate-level credits from this online accounting degree program.

Accounting courses include:

• financial accounting
• managerial accounting
• business ethics

Bellevue’s Bachelor’s in Accounting is accredited by the International Accreditation Council for Business Education (IACBE). The curriculum is divided into:

• 36 general education
• 72 major
• 19 elective credit hours

You also have the option to pursue an accountancy internship. You can specialize in Business Finance or Tax Accountancy. A requirement for all Bellevue undergraduates is the Kirkpatrick Signature Series. These courses focus on American values and the importance of active citizenship.

Learn more about accredited online accounting degrees here.

7. Florida Institute of Technology

The Florida Institute of Technology calls Florida’s “Space Coast” home. Florida Tech is situated in Melbourne, under an hour away from Cape Canaveral and the Kennedy Space Center. It was founded to educate students interested in planetary science and space exploration.

Today, the university’s strong academic reputation stretches far beyond to include all STEM fields. You can join ranks with astronauts and CEOs of Fortune 500 companies.
Florida Tech offers an online BA in Accounting accredited by the IACBE. This accounting degree program prepares graduates for the CPA or Certified Management Accountant (CMA) exams.

As a Florida Tech student, you’ll undertake a 121-credit-hour curriculum covering topics like:

• auditing
• individual federal income taxes
• accounting information systems
• accounting principles
• financial management

You can access your coursework at any time and from anywhere. Your professor will set deadlines for weekly assignments and discussions.

Learn more about this bachelor’s degree in accounting from Florida Institute of Technology here.

8. Colorado State University

At Colorado State University Global, graduates get a 4:1 return on their investment. In other words, they get $4 in salary and benefits for every dollar spent on a CSU Global degree. Future accountants need to like math, and that’s some easy math to appreciate!

Here, you can earn your Bachelor of Science in Accounting entirely online. This accounting degree is accredited by the Accreditation Council for Business Schools & Programs (ACBSP). You’ll complete 120 credit hours to graduate. Up to 90 of these can be transferred in from another four-year institution.
CSU Global’s curriculum includes 51 core accounting credit hours, covering subjects like:

• business intelligence in taxation
• auditing
• forensic accounting
• accounting principles

Students have the option to complete a three-credit practicum to gain hands-on experience in a business setting.

Learn more about online accounting programs at Colorado State University here.

9. National University

Founded by a veteran U.S. Navy captain, National University helps U.S. service members advance their education. As a Yellow Ribbon School, National allows veterans to earn a degree at little to no cost. Additionally, active service members and their families receive reduced tuition. This military-focused private institution has several locations on bases and its main campus in San Diego.

NU’s online Bachelor of Science in Accountancy is a great option for students who plan to earn a Master of Business Administration in the future. The university offers a transition program. This allows undergraduate students who are within six courses of graduating to begin taking MBA classes as electives.
NU’s classes are delivered in four-week units.

Students focus on mastering one topic before moving on to the next. The accredited Accounting degree is comprised of 11 online courses, covering material like:

• auditing
• taxation
• accounting ethics
• business law
• managerial accounting

Learn more about the online accredited accounting degree at National University here.

10. Florida Atlantic University

Florida Atlantic University is headquartered in Boca Raton, FL. FAU has campuses up and down Florida’s stunning southeast coast. To earn an online Bachelor of Business Administration in accounting at this university, you’ll pay just $201 per credit.

FAU’s College of Business is accredited by AACSB. Its online BBA program uses the same curriculum and instructors as its on-campus counterpart. FAU’s accounting students earn 120 credit hours to graduate, completing:

• general education requirements
• core business courses
• major in Accounting

FAU offers 28 combined bachelor’s-to-master’s programs. This makes it a good option for those interested in graduate-level studies. Its Master of Accounting and Master of Taxation programs are designed to help students fulfill the CPA examination requirements in Florida. This state, along with many others, requires 150 credit hours before students can sit for the exam.

Learn more about the accounting program at Florida Atlantic University here.

11. Southern Illinois University

Southern Illinois University offers the only accredited online program for accountants in Illinois. Both SIU’s program and the College of Business have the stamp-of-approval from the AACSB.

Not only will an SIU education help you fulfill the educational requirements for Illinois’ CPA exam, but it will also teach you what a “Saluki” is (spoiler alert: it’s a dog!). SIU’s Saluki mascot is one the most unique around.

SIU’s Bachelor’s in Accounting is a degree-completion program. Students must enter the accounting degree online with 60 transferable undergraduate credit hours. Its curriculum is comprised of 20 eight-week courses, totaling 60 credit hours.

Students choose to take one or two courses at a time, completing their accounting degree in as little as 18 months. This online accounting program is taught by the same faculty members who teach on campus. The tuition rate is the same no matter where students live.

Learn more about the online accounting degree at Southern Illinois University Carbondale here.

12. University of South Dakota

At the University of South Dakota, students get all of the benefits of a big institution. They can join an alumni network of more than 70,000, without the fear of getting lost in the crowd. This university has a 16:1 student-to-faculty ratio.

USD is accredited by the AACSB. The USD Beacom School of Business offers an online Master of Professional Accountancy to prepare students for the CPA exam. This 30-credit-hour program helps students with undergraduate degrees reach the 150-credit-hour requirement.

Many states require this for the exam. As a USD student, you’ll take 21 credit hours of core, advanced accounting courses. Then, you’ll choose to complete your degree in one of three ways:

• by writing a thesis
• by undertaking electives
• by completing an internship

You also have the option to add a specialization in Accounting Analytics. This will teach you how to use data to make well-informed accounting decisions.

Learn more about the online accounting degree at University of South Dakota here.

13. Auburn University

If you want to switch to an accounting career, then Auburn University can help you reach your goals. Auburn’s online BS in Business Administration – Accountancy is for students seeking a second degree. This accredited accounting degree helps students fulfill the CPA exam’s educational requirements in only five semesters. This is 30 semester hours of study.

Auburn’s online BSBA is AACSB-accredited, and program participants will have a near-identical experience as on-campus students. That’s because each accounting class is recorded. Online learners have the option to either stream the video live or watch at a time that works with their schedules. Auburn’s Master of Accountancy students have an 85% pass rate on the CPA exam. That’s far above the national average, which is typically around 50%.

Learn more about the online accounting degree at Auburn University here.

14. University of Alabama Birmingham

Based in the Magic City, the University of Alabama Birmingham’s online degree programs perform some magic of their own. Students can earn a Bachelor of Science in Accounting without setting foot on campus!

UAB’s Bachelor’s in Accounting is provided through the AACSB-accredited Collat School of Business. This online accounting program is ideal for students pursuing a career as a private or management accountant. The Institute of Management Accountants endorsed its curriculum for preparing graduates to succeed on the CMA exam.

This Bachelor’s in Accounting is delivered entirely online. 95% of the business school’s classes are offered both online and on campus. This means that if you live nearby and want to have some traditional classroom experiences, you’ll have that opportunity. You’ll complete 120 credit hours to graduate. This will be a mix of:

• general education requirements
• lower- and upper-level business courses
• 24 credit hours in the Accounting major

Learn more about the online accounting degree at University of Alabama Birmingham here.

15. Old Dominion University

Dream of starting your own business? If so, Old Dominion University might be the school for you. Centered in Norfolk, VA, this university prides itself on its entrepreneurial drive. Its Strome Entrepreneurial Center provides key resources to those who want to start their own companies.

Through ODU Online, students can complete their undergraduate studies. They can earn an Accounting Bachelor of Science in Business Administration. This accounting degree completion program requires that students take at least 30 credit hours through ODU’s Strome College of Business. ODU is accredited by the AACSB. ODU’s accounting coursework is delivered through live, synchronous online courses. It follows a regular academic calendar.

If you’ve completed credits within the Virginia Community College System, then transferring into Old Dominion University is a breeze. You can do it through its Guaranteed Admission Agreement. If you plan on pursuing a Master of Business Administration, ODU can give you a heads start with its MBA Early Entry program.

Learn more about the online accounting degree at Old Dominion University here.

16. University of Toledo

The University of Toledo’s College of Business and Innovation boasts a 90% job-placement rate for its graduates. The process of securing a job is easier for UToledo’s accounting students through its Alan Barry Accounting Lab. To prepare for the CPA or CMA exams, this departmental resource provides:

• free materials
• tutoring
• software

AACSB-accredited, UToledo’s College of Business and Innovation offers an online Bachelor’s of Business Administration in Accounting. Students focus their first two years of study on general education requirements before turning to their upper-division coursework. In addition to gaining a well-rounded understanding of business principles like:

• financial management
• marketing
• manufacturing

Students take at least ten accounting courses.

At UToledo, 85% of business students undertake an internship. This can also be part of your plan of study. Regular job fairs will give you the opportunity to network with more than 100 employers.

Learn more about this bachelor’s degree in accounting at The University of Toledo here.

17. Saint Leo University

Situated outside Tampa, FL, Saint Leo University is the oldest Catholic university in the state. It is guided by its Benedictine tradition. Saint Leo emphasizes personal development in addition to supporting its students’ academic achievements. Saint Leo’s students take a course in personal health and wellness as part of their general education requirements.

Saint Leo’s ACBSP-accredited School of Business offers an online BA in Accounting taught by professors with years of industry experience. Here, students greatly benefit from faculty members’ impressive professional networks. Every summer, faculty members have helped students secure internships with the “Big 4” accounting firms:

• Deloitte, Ernst & Young
• KPMG
• PricewaterhouseCoopers

This bachelor’s degree requires 120 credit hours, 27 of which are within the major. You’ll undertake accounting courses in:

• auditing
• accounting information systems
• international accounting

You’ll also take core business courses in topics like:

• macroeconomics
• statistics
• business law

Learn more about the online accounting degree at Saint Leo University here.

18. University of Maryland Global Campus

The University of Maryland Global Campus has served the U.S. armed forces since 1947. It offers flexible degree programs to students juggling their studies with several competing responsibilities. Today, UMGC’s programs are ideal for any working adult who wants to earn a degree while continuing to take home a paycheck.

Here, the median age for U.S.-based undergraduate students is 30. At UMGC, students can pursue a Bachelor of Science in accounting. They will complete 120 credit hours to earn their degree and fulfill the educational requirements for Maryland’s CPA exam. This major requires 36 credits or 12 courses delving into topics like:

• fraud and forensic accounting
• accounting for government organizations
• internal auditing

With more than 140 locations worldwide, UMGC is a great option if you are seeking a hybrid program. This degree can be earned entirely online, but you also have the option to take in-person courses.

Learn more about this online Bachelor’s in Accounting at the University of Maryland Global Campus here.

19. University of Minnesota Crookston

The University of Minnesota Crookston is one of five campuses that make up the esteemed University of Minnesota System. Students benefit from this public institution’s reputation while getting a personalized education. U of MN Crookston enrolls approximately 1,800 students, half of whom study online.

The U of MN Crookston’s Department of Business is ACBSP-accredited. It also has a valuable partnership with Gleim CPA Review that saves its students time and money. Through this relationship, accounting students can earn credit hours for CPA Exam Preparation courses. Four review courses are available in:

• regulation
• financial reporting and accounting
• auditing and attestation
• business environment and concepts

Each consists of three credits.
U of MN Crookston’s online Bachelor of Science in Accounting requires 120 credit hours, 60 of which are in the major. While an internship is not required, it is recommended. Students can earn up to 12 credit hours for this hands-on experience.

Learn more about Accredited Online Programs for Accounting at the University of Minnesota Crookston here.

20. University of Massachusetts Amherst

Visit some of the most exciting companies across the country and you are likely to find a graduate of the University of Massachusetts Amherst there. From NASA and Google to Broadway and Fenway Park, UMass’ more than 103,000 alumni work across the globe.

What unites them is a degree from this impressive institution, ranked at No. 24 on U.S. News & World’s list of the Top Public Schools. UMass also holds the No. 23 spot on the Best Online Bachelor’s Programs.
The Isenberg School of Management offers an AACSB-accredited online Master of Science in Accounting. It can be earned in as few as two semesters.

This 30-credit program helps students fulfill Massachusetts’ 150-credit-hour requirement for the CPA exam. While students need a bachelor’s degree to apply, that degree does not need to be in accounting. Enroll in the UMass accounting program and you’ll join the ranks of more than 10,000 accounting alumni.

Learn more about Accredited Online Programs For Accounting at University of Massachusetts Amherst here.

21. Linfield University

Linfield University is one of the oldest private institutions of higher education on the West Coast. It was established in 1858 in McMinnville, OR. With over two decades of experience in online coursework, this college was at the forefront of distance education. You can earn a Bachelor’s in Accounting entirely online.

Take advantage of Linfield’s 11:1 student-to-faculty ratio from anywhere in the country. Linfield’s Accounting degree is comprised of 14 core courses. These cover specific topics in accounting. They give students a broad understanding of business principles through classes in:

• economics
• organizational behavior
• strategic management

Linfield also has an online accounting certificate for students who already hold a bachelor’s degree. This requires six four-credit classes and can help graduates make a career switch to accounting.

Learn more about Accredited Online Programs For Accounting at Linfield University here. Find information about financial aid here.

22. University of Connecticut

Enroll at the University of Connecticut, and you’re likely to come down with “Huskymania.” The Huskies are known to dominate in the classroom and on the court. UConn has won 15 national championships in women’s and men’s basketball.

At UConn, you can earn a Master of Science in Accountancy accredited by the AACSB. The United States Distance Learning Association recognized this program for best practices in online education. UConn’s MSA program is delivered in an asynchronous format. Weekly modules dive deeply into one topic at a time. Professors prioritize collaborative learning through discussion boards.

As a UConn accounting student, you’ll undertake ten courses. Eight are accounting electives that you choose from 17 available classes. This allows you to customize your plan of study to your specific professional goals. UConn is one of the top online degrees for accounting.

Learn more about Accredited Online Programs For Accounting at University of Connecticut here.

23. Thomas Edison State University

Thomas Edison State University was established in 1972 for the express purpose of serving mature adult students. It is based in Trenton, NJ. Today, this public university holds true to that founding mission. With an average student age of 35, it offers more than 30 online undergraduate degree programs.
Accredited by the ACBSP, Thomas Edison’s School of Business and Management offers an online Bachelor of Science in Business Administration in Accounting. This degree requires 120 credit hours including:

• 60 general education credits
• 36 professional business credits
• 18 accounting credits
• 6 electives

Thomas Edison’s accounting students can also pursue a CPA & Master’s Track. This program grants students up to six credit hours for passing the CPA exam. These credit hours are then applied to a Master of Science in Management, which focuses on leadership in accounting.

Learn more about Accredited Online Programs For Accounting at Thomas Edison State University here.

24. University of Memphis

Become a University of Memphis Tiger and earn your undergraduate degree from this top accounting program. At UofM Global, there is no distinction between online and on-campus degree programs. Each is taught by the same respected faculty and utilizes the same rigorous curriculum.

UofM’s Fogelman College of Business & Economics is the only business school in Memphis accredited by the AACSB. It offers an online Bachelor of Business Administration with a major in accounting.

As a UofM accounting student, you’ll undertake 120 credit hours. In addition to seven core accounting courses, you’ll choose an elective focused on topics like:

• advanced financial reporting
• accounting ethics
• international accounting

Also, you might get a head start on your degree through UofM’s Prior Learning Assessment program. You will gain transfer credits from:

• work experience
• military training
• standardized testing

Learn more about Accredited Online Programs For Accounting at The University of Memphis Global here. Find information about financial aid here.

25. Western Governor’s University

In the 1990s, a group of U.S. governors came together looking for a way to drive growth in their states. Higher educational attainment leads to higher salaries. So, they established Western Governors University as their solution. WGU is committed to adult learners. It focuses on flexible degree programs designed with working students in mind.

At WGU, students can earn an online Bachelor of Science in Business Administration in Accounting, accredited by the ACBSP. This degree program comprises 41 courses. The bachelor’s is career-focused through and through. The general education requirements for this bachelor’s degree are chosen with the accounting field in mind.

A majority (i.e. 62%) of WGU’s graduates earn their degrees in just 36 months. You’ll undertake a capstone project that uses case studies to address a real accounting issue at a real organization.

Learn more about this accounting degree here.

26. City University of Seattle

Seattle is ripe with employment opportunities. Every company needs accountants including:

• Boeing
• Starbucks
• Amazon
• Microsoft

You’ll have the opportunity to network with alumni by enrolling at City University of Seattle. They are employed at these world-leading businesses.

CityU’s online Bachelor of Science in Business Administration mirrors the innovative drive of Seattle. This online program is one of the first to require a course in artificial intelligence business applications. It is a 180 credit program. The BSBA also offers a specialization in Data Analytics, which is a trending business priority.
As a student at CityU, you’ll take courses in financial accounting.

You can also choose to undertake a specialized study to focus on your accounting interest. City also offers a 15-credit online graduate certificate in accounting, preparing graduates to sit for the CPA exam. It also qualifies for credits by the Washington State Board of Accountancy.

Learn more about the accounting degree at City University of Seattle here. Find information about financial aid here.

27. Fort Hays State University

Based in Hays, KS, Fort Hays State University boasts the lowest tuition rates in the Kansas Board of Regents system. Here, undergraduate students pay approximately $218 per online credit hour.

Currently, this university ranks at No. 42 on U.S. News & World Report’s list of the Best Online Bachelor’s Programs. FHSU was one of the first universities in Kansas to offer an online bachelor’s degree in accounting.
FHSU’s online Bachelor of Business Administration with an Accounting major is a highly customizable, 120-credit-hour program.

Students take six core accounting courses. Then, they choose four accounting electives from a list of 12 courses, covering topics like:

• advanced tax procedure
• accounting ethics
• fraud examination

Students also choose two directed electives in business topics like:

• financial planning
• investments
• commercial law

If you live near campus, you might join FHSU’s Accounting Club. This student-led organization plans an annual trip to visit prospective employers in:

• Denver
• Kansas City
• Wichita

Learn more about the accounting degree at Fort Hays State University here.

28. Indiana State University

Indiana State University’s nickname is “The Sycamores.” With a mascot like this, you can expect to gain a solid, sturdy education at ISU. It is based in Terra Haute. ISU is also a university invested in removing the classroom walls to expand learning outside the traditional setting. All of its programs require experiential learning.

You can earn a Bachelor of Science in accounting entirely online at this institution. You can also expect to gain practical, hands-on experience as well. ISU’s online Bachelor’s in Accounting is housed in the Scott College of Business, which is accredited by the AACSB. This degree requires 120 credit hours.

Students take seven core accounting courses. They then choose three accounting electives, one of which might be a three-credit internship. Other elective options survey topics include:

• fraud examination
• business computer systems
• accounting research and analysis

Learn more about the accounting degree online at Indiana State University here.

29. Franklin University

Based in Columbus, Ohio, Franklin University’s main priority is to help students finish what they started. This private university maintains a generous transfer policy, of which more than 90% of the student body takes advantage. It is dedicated to adult learners.

Here, you can work with an advisor to determine the best way to use your previous academic work to earn your degree as quickly as possible. Better yet, Franklin’s tuition rate is 66% lower than the national average for private, four-year colleges. And the university grants $13 million in tuition assistance. This includes scholarships specifically awarded to business students. So, reaching the finish line will also be affordable.

Franklin’s Bachelor of Science in Accounting is accredited by the IACBE. It requires 124 semester hours, including:

• general education requirements
• core business courses
• 36 hours in the Accounting major

Accounting courses include topics such as:

• financial management
• accounting principles
• accounting research

At Franklin, you’ll learn from professors with on-the-job accounting experience.

Learn more about the online accounting degree at Franklin University here. Find information about financial aid here.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why is accreditation important for online accounting programs?

Choosing to continue your education at an accredited university or college is a no-brainer. Accreditation guarantees that a school’s educational offerings meet regional or national standards. It gives you the reassurance that you’re learning the right material from quality instructors. Also, that your degree will be well-recognized by employers.

What types of accreditation are there?

There are two types of accreditation: institutional and programmatic. Institutional accreditation means that an accrediting body, like has completed an evaluation of a university’s academic offerings. It has found that they meet its standards. An example is the Higher Learning Commission,

Programmatic accreditation means that a school’s program has the stamp of approval from an industry-focused organization. These accrediting agencies confirm that a program’s curriculum covers the core competencies. These are needed to succeed in a profession. Many of the universities on this list have received accreditation for their accounting programs on top of institutional accreditation.

For business schools, the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB) is often considered the “gold standard” of accrediting agencies. Less than 900 institutions around the world have earned this distinction. Also, 190 schools have received separate accreditation for their accounting programs.
Additional accrediting agencies are:

• Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs (ACBSP)
• International Accreditation Council for Business Education (IACBE).

These organizations ensure the quality of a business school’s education. Each weighs criteria differently. For example, the AACSB stresses the caliber of a business school’s research. The ACBSP focuses on the quality of the faculty’s teaching abilities.

What is the CPA exam?

The American Institute of Certified Public Accountants (AICPA) administers a Uniform CPA Examination used by all states’ Boards of Accountancy. Candidates must pass this four-part test to earn their license to practice. Typically, states require that aspiring accountants pass all four parts of the exam within an 18-month period.

The CPA exam is challenging. According to the AICPA, the national pass-rate for each part of the exam hovers around 50%. An accredited bachelor’s program in accounting will help you prepare for this test. A university’s pass-rate can be a great indicator of a program’s quality.

Passing the CPA exam is a feat worth celebrating. Not only will this boost your resume and open doors to new job opportunities, but it’s likely to result in a higher earning potential. According to the National Association of State Boards of Accountancy, CPAs make 10-15% more than non-CPAs.

Do I need a degree to take the CPA exam?

Yes, you’ll need a bachelor’s degree to become a Certified Public Accountant (CPA). Each state’s Board of Accountancy has its own regulations for becoming a licensed CPA. However, most states require 150 semester hours of college credit for licensure. These accounting programs should give you an idea of what it takes to earn your degree. Online programs make it easy and convenient to become a licensed CPA.

Do most accountants have a Master’s degree?

Earning a master’s degree is not a requirement for becoming an accountant. However, since most states require 150 credit hours to become a licensed CPA, a master’s degree is common. To earn a bachelor’s degree, you need 120 credit hours. A 30-credit master’s program gets you to the required 150.

Many universities offer convenient pathways for students to earn a bachelor’s and a master’s. Students can pursue a graduate-level certificate program to help them prepare for the CPA exam while also completing the additional credit hours.

What other certifications are common for accountants?

If your goal is to become a Certified Management Accountant (CMA), you’ll need to pass an exam administered by the Institute of Management Accountants. To take this test, you need a bachelor’s degree or professional accounting certification and at least two years of work experience.

To become a Certified Internal Auditor (CIA), you’ll need to pass a four-part exam administered by the Institute of Internal Auditors. To sit for this test, you must have at least an associate’s degree. If you take the CIA exam while enrolled in an accredited institution, you might be able to receive a discount on the exam fees. However, you won’t become fully certified until you’ve earned your bachelor’s degree and worked for at least 24 months.
Additional specialized certifications exist for professionals working in:

• auditing information systems
• information technology
• business valuation

The post Top 29 Accredited Online Accounting College Degree Programs appeared first on Accredited Online Colleges.

Our Easiest Online College Recommendations

Penn State University, Baker College, Bismarck State College, University of Wisconsin, and Thomas Edison State College are considered some of the easiest colleges online to get into. They have high acceptance rates, few admission requirements, and offer affordable tuition rates. 

These schools provide flexible programs completed online, allowing working adults and non-traditional students to earn a degree at their own pace.

Related:

• Top Accredited Online Colleges with Low Tuition
• Most Affordable Online Business Bachelor’s Degrees
• Best Nationally Accredited Online Colleges
• Top Accredited Schools Offering Online Bachelor Degrees

Compare Easiest Online Bachelor’s Programs

Accredited Online College uses the most recent data from the Department of Education’s National Center for Education Statistics. We consider several factors:

• Affordability
• Student-to-faculty ratio
• Number of programs offered on-campus and online

To learn more about easy online colleges, visit our methodology page.

1. Penn State University

Pennsylvania State University World Campus makes it easy to earn a diploma. It’s one of the most revered public universities in the country, ranking eight on the U.S. News & World Report’s Best Online Bachelor’s Programs. On average, it takes eight to 12 hours of study time per course each week.

Penn State uses Canvas as its learning management system. You can choose from over 35 fully online undergraduate degrees. There are options in:

• Economics
• Cybersecurity
• Marketing
• Political Science

2. Baker College

Baker College is a private institution with more than ten campuses across the state. Its online coursework and library resources are available 24/7.

You can finish your general education requirements and concentrations in two subjects. Popular options include:

• Business
• Criminal Justice
• Game Software Development
• Automation Engineering Technology

3. Bismarck State College

Most Bismarck State College students take at least one online course, while almost 44% of its students are fully online learners.

Its online programs focus on providing critical thinking, problem-solving, and data analysis skills for workforce safety, government regulations, and energy economics. Bismarck offers a range of easy online degree programs:

• Applied Science in Energy Management
• Cybersecurity and Information Technology
• Operations Management
• Webpage Development and Design

4. University of Wisconsin

At the University of Wisconsin, you can finish the easiest bachelor’s degrees in just 12 months. This competency-based program gives you the tools to work through your college degree. The program’s length is up to you because it’s completely self-paced.

Jerome L. Rekart, Ph.D., who has over 15 years of experience in educational research, believes that the

“University of Wisconsin Flex Program is incredibly easy to understand and, for the most motivated students, can actually be incredibly fast as well. Because it is a competency-based program, students can move at their own pace, which can make life easier for students who easily get bored or who have acquired much of the background knowledge and just want to move on to the things that they don’t already know.”

Through the UW Flexible Option, your past knowledge helps you complete assignments and prove your understanding to move on to a new topic quickly. Currently, UW offers four quick and easy online degrees.

• Business Administration
• Biomedical Sciences
• Information Science and Technology
• Nursing 

5. Thomas Edison State University

Thomas Edison State University proves there is no age limit on advancing your education, as 35 is the average age of this public university. You can easily customize your academic experience to your learning style. You’ll never need to visit campus as you work through each 12-week course.

Today, you can pursue more than 30 bachelor’s degrees online. Choose from popular college majors such as:

• Accounting
• Cybersecurity
• Psychology
• Energy Systems Technology

6. East Carolina University

East Carolina University provides a customizable hub for quickly accessing the services you use most. With in-state tuition rates of around $166 per semester hour, you don’t need to waste your treasure on an expensive degree.

These programs build on an associate’s degree, allowing you to finish your bachelor’s degree quickly.

• Business
• Communication
• Education
• Industrial Technology

7. Lewis-Clark State College

Lewis-Clark State College offers a private college experience at a public school’s low tuition rates. LCSC boasts a 12:1 student-to-faculty ratio, compared to many public universities with a 16:1 ratio.

Any of the degrees here could be one of the easiest online degrees because of the college’s engaging, interactive, and supportive educational resources. LCSC’s online undergraduate programs cover:

• Business
• Nursing
• Sports Administration
• General Studies

8. Academy of Art University

The Academy of Art University has always existed on the vanguard of innovation and creativity. Created by artists for artists, this is a top art school in the heart of San Francisco.

Instructors use methods like narrated slideshows, interviews with industry leaders, and recorded lectures. You’ll receive resources specific to artists. You can get an online bachelor’s degree in several creative fields:

• Architecture
• Advertising
• Game Development
• Music Production

9. Holy Apostles College and Seminary

Holy Apostles College and Seminary is a Catholic liberal arts college with a mission to make faith-based education affordable. There’s a 10:1 student-to-faculty ratio, guaranteeing no student feels lost in the crowd.

Online programs are self-paced, letting you choose how many classes you take at one time. There’s a fast track for all bachelor’s degrees, enabling you to graduate in approximately 31 months.

• Theology
• Liberal Arts
• Philosophy
• Sacred Art 

10. Miami Dade College

Miami Dade College is one of the largest schools in the country, with approximately 92,000 students. Classes are asynchronous, so you can easily schedule your studies.

These are also fast-track programs where you take two eight-week courses at a time. Via MDC Online, you can turn your associate’s degree into a bachelor’s. MDC offers fully online programs in:

• Information Systems Technology
• Nursing
• Public Safety Management
• Supervision and Management

11. University of Texas of the Permian Basin

Nicknamed the “academic heart of West Texas,” the University of Texas of the Permian Basin is the University of Texas System’s smallest liberal arts university. This university provides a smaller learning environment with academic opportunities that stretch as wide as the Texas sky.

UTPB offers the easiest college majors. You can get an online bachelor’s degree in Business Administration in either Management or Marketing. Other options include:

• Political Science
• Communication
• Psychology
• Sociology

12. Wilmington University

There are several opportunities to finish an easy college degree at Wilmington University. The school’s PLA Accelerator also grants students transfer credits for prior work or life experiences. Its cooperative education programs allow undergrads to gain credits while learning on the job.

WilmU’s online courses are available 24/7, including online video conferencing that helps virtual students form real relationships with their classmates. You can choose from more than 40 online undergraduate programs, including:

• Animation and 3D
• Environmental Science and Policy
• Government and Public Policy
• Global Management

13. Franklin University

Franklin University helps students avoid saddling themselves with student debt. This private university’s tuition is 66% lower than the national average for four-year colleges. Moreover, Franklin awards its students $13 million in tuition assistance every year.

About 90% of Franklin’s students transfer from other schools. All of its academic and student support services cater to working adults. Franklin offers 35 online bachelor’s degrees, including popular programs like:

• Health Sciences
• Business
• Public Administration
• Emergency Management and Homeland Security

14. City University of Seattle

City University of Seattle makes earning the easiest bachelor’s degree convenient. What’s more, qualified students can enjoy financial aid.

Here, you can earn an online Bachelor of Science in Business Administration. This allows you to develop expertise in cutting-edge business practices like data analysis and artificial intelligence. The school also offers online bachelor’s programs in different areas:

• Applied Computing, Information Systems, or Information Technology
• Applied Psychology
• Project Management
• Business and Data Analytics

15. Cameron University

Cameron University is a respected public university with almost 50 degree programs. Unique to CU is “The Cameron University Guarantee”. You can take additional classes free of charge if your employer determines you need core knowledge in your major field of study. 

Cameron offers three fully online options for undergraduate students. You can pursue:

• Organizational Leadership
• Family and Child Studies
• Sports and Exercise Science
• Criminal Justice

16. Indian River State College

Indian River State College’s Virtual Campus courses are nationally certified by Quality Matters, an organization dedicated to improving the online learning experience.

It aims to provide the easiest college majors using free online tutoring, IRSC libraries, and the Blackboard mobile app. Its Virtual College offers ten fully online bachelor’s programs. You can study:

• Business administration
• Criminal Justice
• Public Administration
• Digital Media

17. Old Dominion University

Old Dominion University’s Guaranteed Admission Agreement allows you to transfer to ODU from a school in the Virginia Community College System. ODU holds virtual office hours, letting you chat one-on-one with professors using web conferencing.

ODU Online programs require 60 credit hours of upper-division courses. There are 18 fully online programs, including:

• Fashion Merchandising
• Geography
• Real Estate
• Industrial Technology

18. University of Maryland Global Campus

The University of Maryland Global Campus has made it easy for U.S. service members to advance their education since 1947. You can earn a second degree with just 30 credit hours if you already have a bachelor’s degree yet want to change careers.

UMGC prioritizes hiring scholar-practitioners so you learn from experts with academic and professional experience. Your eight-week classes incorporate free digital materials. UMGC offers more than 30 online programs, including:

• Biotechnology
• Digital Media and Web Technology
• Investigative Forensics
• Gerontology and Aging Services

19. Metro State University

Metro State University offers the easiest online degree in Bachelor of Arts in Individualized Studies that lets you customize a course of study that fits your interests.

Online students like you can access more than 6,500 courses through Minnesota Online. This Twin Cities-based public university also offers other bachelor’s programs, such as:

• Human Resource Management
• Law Enforcement
• Health System Studies
• Marketing

20. Snow College

About 85% of Snow College‘s students graduate or transfer to a four-year program in six years or less. This completion rate is much higher than the national average, which hovers around 42.2% for all community college students.

Snow College’s online courses are self-paced. You can take your time on complex topics and move quickly through easier material. You can finish these online degree programs in as few as 18 months.

• Software Engineering
• Agribusiness
• Communication and Rhetoric
• Visual and Performing Arts

Bonus Easy Colleges

University of Baltimore

The University of Baltimore maintains its founding mission to help working students continue their education. UB’s online Bachelor’s in Business is also a great option for earning master’s degrees.

In the school’s fast track bachelor’s-to-master’s degree, you’ll take nine graduate-level courses. These will “double count” toward both degrees, saving you up to $9,000! You can start by considering getting college credits from these courses:

• Business Administration
• Accounting and General Business
• Criminal Justice
• Policy, Politics, and International Affairs

Boise State University

More than 3,000 students pursue degrees online through Boise State University. Aside from online tutoring, you’ll get access to digital libraries, success centers, and remote proctoring.

Boise State offers eight fully online bachelor’s degrees. Each incorporates interactive online courses specially designed by on-campus faculty and instructional designers.

• Multidisciplinary Studies
• Nursing and Healthcare Administration
• Arts, Digital Innovation, and Design
• Integrated Strategic Communications

South Florida State College

South Florida State College offers an 11:1 student-to-faculty ratio. About 40% of SFSC’s students are first-generation college students. SFSC uses D2L Brightspace for its online learning so students can communicate with instructors and discuss course materials with classmates.

All courses in its Associate in Arts degree program are online, with one exception. There is an on-campus oral communications requirement. You can choose from areas like:

• Healthcare Administration and Services
• Hospitality
• Business and Human Resources
• Supervision and Management

The University of Texas at El Paso

About 81% of the University of Texas at El Paso’s student body is Hispanic, reflecting this unique geographic location. As a UTEP online student, you’ll also have a success advisor who can answer questions and connect you with campus-wide resources.

Unique among UTEP’s online options is a Bachelor of Arts in Chicano studies. This degree focuses on the study of Mexican Americans. UTEP Connect also offers other online programs.

• Security Studies
• Media Advertising
• Multidisciplinary Studies
• Organizational and Corporate Communication

Pensacola State College

Pensacola State College is a public community college offering only one fully online bachelor’s program – a Bachelor of Science in Nursing. This two-year program is for registered nurses. It builds on an associate’s degree, helping you earn the required 120 credit hours for your undergraduate diploma.

Meanwhile, online certificate programs focus on valuable skills like management or entrepreneurship. PSC also delivers associate’s degrees online:

• Criminal Justice Technology
• Accounting Technology
• Computer Information Systems
• Environmental Science

University of South Carolina

The University of South Carolina is one of the country’s most well-respected public universities. It ranks No. 44 among U.S. News & World Report’s Top Public Schools.

As a South Carolina student, you’ll have frequent online discussions and group projects. You’ll also receive recorded introductions to each week’s material from your professors as you study any of these college majors:

• Nursing
• Integrated Information Technology
• Interdisciplinary Studies in Services Management
• Applied Computer Science

Fayetteville State University

Based in North Carolina, Fayetteville State University is a Historically Black University. Its BS in Professional Studies program allows you to choose a concentration based on your interests and goals. Your concentration might combine existing majors, or it could center on a theme that covers various academic areas.

These completion programs let you move your studies online once you’ve entered the upper-division courses for your major. Sample programs include:

• Sociology
• Accounting
• Fire and Emergency Services Administration
• English Language and Literature

Weber State University

Weber State University makes it easy for aspiring health professionals to earn undergraduate degrees online. As a school that caters to working students, about 79% of WSU’s students have jobs.

You can reduce the cost of your studies at Weber State by applying for various financial aid programs. WSU offers online bachelor’s and associate degrees. You can focus on:

• Creative Writing
• Medical Laboratory Sciences
• Early Childhood Education
• Communication and Civic Advocacy

Why Should I Earn My Bachelor’s Degree Online?

Enroll in one of our online college programs for undergrads, and you can start your bachelor’s degree without even leaving the couch!

Online learners are no longer outliers in higher education. The National Center for Education Statistics reports that 36.3% of undergraduates were enrolled in distance education courses in fall 2019.  

How Will a Bachelor’s Degree Help My Career?

A bachelor’s degree opens doors to new career opportunities. A bachelor’s can help you keep a job, too. The Bureau of Labor Statistics reports that unemployment decreases as the degree level increases.

For example, the unemployment rate among bachelor’s degree holders was 5.5% in 2020. The rate for those with only a high school diploma was 9%. 

Moreover, the BLS found that as the education level rises, earnings do, too. On average, the weekly paychecks for employees with undergraduate degrees were 40% bigger than those for workers with a high school diploma.

See Also: Top 30 Accredited Online Accounting College Degree Programs 

What Will Be the Best Jobs in the Future?

The best future careers will be in revitalized industries like leisure and healthcare as well as innovative new technology occupations. As the leisure and hospitality industry recovers post-pandemic, jobs in restaurants, bars, travel, and hotels will be in high demand. Healthcare jobs will also grow significantly to serve the needs of an aging population, along with new roles in environmental care.

The most in-demand careers in the future also involve technology, including artificial intelligence, robotics, online video collaboration platforms, and computer-related fields like statistics, data science, and information security analysis. 

See Also: 10 Accredited Online Colleges For Game Design

Can I Earn the Same Degree Online as I Can on Campus?

Yes, online schools set the same expectations as on-campus schools. The diploma you’ll receive is the same too. When you enroll in an online degree program, you can expect to master new skills.

You’ll also expand your understanding of complex topics. What makes an online program easier is the flexibility it provides. This lets you do schoolwork when it’s most convenient. 

See Also: 30 Top Nationally Accredited Online Colleges For Nursing

What Are the Easiest Online Degree Programs?

When it comes to degrees being “easy,” Dr. Jerome Rekart makes a clear distinction:

“[Students] shouldn’t think that it is “easy” just because it is touted as such. Remember, that a degree needs to stand for a particular amount of work, and institutions want them to have value. To this end, it should be important to know that “easy” often means that there are few barriers in your way as you move towards your degree, but it doesn’t mean that the material will necessarily be any easier.”

Identifying the most accessible and easiest online degrees streamlines the path to earning a college education by minimizing barriers to enrollment and course completion.

General Studies

A general studies associate degree allows students to take foundational general education courses that provide transferable skills before committing to a specific major for advanced degrees. This flexible path develops educational leadership, critical thinking, and communication abilities valued in the workplace.

Liberal Arts

As a liberal arts major, you’ll study subjects like history, literature, language, and philosophy, developing well-rounded skills in communication, research, and management. Liberal arts programs lead to careers in intelligence analysis, project management, business development, customer service, or advanced degrees in law or business.

Computer Science

Online computer science degrees are popular and easy to complete from home, fitting for a field focused on computer and online technologies. The Bureau of Labor Statistics projects a 13% growth in computer and IT jobs from 2016-2026, adding over half a million positions.

Business Administration

Business administration degrees prepare for careers in upper management, human resources, health services, marketing, and more. Pay can exceed $70,000 or even reach six figures for management roles, especially as a management analyst.

English

Online English degrees provide transferable skills in composition, literature, communication, and technical writing. Graduates are in demand for growing fields like technical writing, public relations, and teaching high school, with new graduates earning around $40,000 and mid-career salaries averaging $71,000.

Nursing

While not typically considered easy, online nursing degrees are accessible since lecture courses are delivered remotely and clinical rotations can be completed at local healthcare facilities, eliminating campus visits. This flexibility makes nursing a surprisingly attainable online degree option for students living near hospitals or nursing homes.

Communications

Online communications degrees build public speaking, writing, digital media, and ethics skills with specialized concentrations in marketing, journalism, film, or public relations. Students graduate with the necessary skills to work in fast-growing, high-paying fields like advertising and marketing management.

Political Science

Online political science degrees provide foundational knowledge of government, politics, policy, law, and history. Entry-level positions can have possible concentrations in pre-law, international studies, or public administration.

Psychology

Psychology is one of the most popular online degrees because it provides flexibility through remote coursework in philosophy, statistics, human development, and social psychology, building critical thinking skills without hands-on requirements. Accelerated programs allow completion in under four years, making online psychology degrees a smart choice for busy students.

Marketing

Online marketing programs cultivate creativity through engaging courses, leading to high-paying, in-demand careers like marketing management. Top roles, like sales management and market research analysis, also see significant growth in jobs and salaries.

Accounting

Online accounting programs require strong math and organization skills for 150 credit hours of finance-focused coursework, prepared for CPA licensure exams. Accounting utilizes online technology extensively for classes and careers, making it a practical online degree choice for diligent, numerically-minded students seeking jobs in the financial sector.

Childcare and Education

Childcare and education associate’s degrees prepare students for careers as teacher’s assistants, preschool teachers, and childcare workers. Graduates average $25,944 annually and gain skills to begin working with children or continue studies in education.

See Also: Best Accredited Online Colleges for Social Work in the U.S.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why Does Accreditation Matter?

Enrolling in an accredited college or university ensures the value of your degree. For a school to earn accreditation, it must uphold certain educational standards. Accreditation helps back up a school’s claims by making a fair assessment of a university’s academic offerings, faculty members, and achievements.

How Long Does it Take to Earn a Bachelor’s Degree?

The National Center for Education Statistics reported that, on average, undergraduate students took 52 months, or 4.3 years, to graduate with a bachelor’s degree in 2017. In general, bachelor’s programs are designed as four-year programs. You might be able to reduce the time it takes to graduate by enrolling in a fast-track online completion program.

Which Is Better for College Students: Asynchronous or Synchronous Coursework?

Asynchronous coursework would be better for college students who like to study at any time. Meanwhile, synchronous courses will suit students who prefer to log on at specific times and participate in natural conversations.

What Undergraduate Majors Earn the Most?

According to Georgetown University’s Center on Education and the Workforce, the highest-paying majors are in STEM, health, and business. Engineering is one of U.S. News & World Report’s top picks for the best starting salaries.

What Student Resources Are Available to Online Learners?

Most universities provide online learners with access to all on-campus resources. For example, you can take advantage of your school’s career center to get free resume and job search advice. Schools often have free online tutoring and writing support.

See Also: Financial Aid Tips for Online College

Conclusion

Identifying and enrolling in one of the easiest online colleges can save you time, money, and frustration. You’ll be able to apply, get accepted, and begin your classes without jumping through hoops. Graduating from an accredited and reputable easy online college will help you reach your career goals efficiently and cost-effectively.

The post Easy Online College Programs for Undergrads appeared first on Accredited Online Colleges.

Can you really get a quality online master’s in accounting for under $30,000, $20,000, or even $15,000? The most affordable online master’s degree programs in accounting are a better investment than you might expect. The degree you earn can help boost your earning potential by thousands of dollars per year. Many of these economical MS in accounting programs are 100% online programs. This makes it easier to earn your accounting degree. Read one to find the most affordable online master degree!

See Also: 9 Tips For Balancing Work, Life, and Academics: Navigating the Challenges of Pursuing an Online Master’s Degree

What will you learn with this master’s in accounting?

Today, the field of accounting encompasses much more than generating financial data. Technology plays a bigger role than ever in accounting and finance. Accounts payable clerks, financial analysts and IT auditors need advanced skills in accounting technology. This technology includes the use of enterprise resource planning (ERP) software.

You can learn these cutting-edge, specialized skills in a master’s in accounting program. Accountants with the most in-demand specialized skills are now seeing strong demands. This means that taking a new job with a new employer could net them a salary increase well in the double-digits range.

If you want to work in nonprofit accounting, financial management, governmental accounting, corporate financial management, accounting firms these master’s in accounting programs will prepare students for these careers.

See Also: Financial Aid Tips for Online College

What certifications or licenses can you get that will increase salary?

For many students, the point of earning a master’s in accounting degree is to meet the 150-credit requirement for the Certified Public Accountant (CPA) credential. On average, CPAs make 10 to 15% more than non-CPAs, according to the Association of International Certified Professional Accountants (AICPA). You might also use your graduate accounting education to prepare for one of the following credentials: 

• Certified Internal Auditor (CIA) 
• Certified Management Accountant (CMA)
• Certified Fraud Examiner (CFE)
• Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA)

What are the Best Online Master’s in Accounting Degrees?

Accredited Online College uses the most recent data from the Department of Education’s National Center for Education Statistics. Each program is scored individually. It’s then compared to all other universities offering that degree to determine the final score you see by each ranking. Accredited Online College considers the affordability, student-to-faculty ratio, and the number of programs offered on-campus and online. To learn more, visit our methodology page. 

See Also: 10 Best Online Bachelor’s in Economics

Accounting Online Programs

#1. American Public University

One of the most affordable online master’s in accounting comes from the American Public University. This accounting degree costs $6,300 for both in-state and out-of-state students. The general cost of attendance is $370 per credit. Students who qualify for a military grant pay $250 for credit.

Generous financial aid packages are available. Among students who received financial aid during the 2017-2018 school year, the net price for the entire degree was $10,366. Aspiring CPAs should check whether this program, which is accredited by the Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs (ACBSP), meets their state’s requirements to take the Certified Public Accountant exam. 

Courses start monthly at this online-only school. Students in American Public University’s online Master of Science in Accounting program choose a concentration. Concentration options include: 

• Government Accounting
• Health Information Management
• Internal Auditing

Any of these concentrations from this affordable master’s in accounting will equip you with specialized graduate-level accounting knowledge and prepare you for a variety of accounting careers. 

See Also: How to Choose an Affordable Online Master’s Program

#2. National University

National University charges full-time graduate students an average tuition cost of $15,480. The same price applies to in-state and out-of-state students. The university, located in California, offers 100% online classes so that graduate school is more convenient. Courses for this affordable online degree are offered in both synchronous (real-time) and asynchronous formats. 

Online courses at National University consist of four-week courses instead of traditional semesters. It might sound daunting to complete an entire class in a month. However, this setup allows students to focus on one subject at a time. Students can start pursuing the degree at any time. 

The Master’s of Accounting program has two options. Students with an undergraduate accounting background take six core courses and three electives to complete the degree. Students without a background in accounting have to take nine core courses. Both options end with a mandatory capstone course, Cases in Accounting & Auditing. 

Possible accounting online courses include:

• Forensic Accounting
• Advanced Managerial Accounting
• Legal Issues in Accounting

#3. University of Arizona 

Arizona residents seeking an online affordable accounting master’s degree are in luck. In-state tuition for the online master’s in accounting program at the University of Arizona is $11,716. Out-of-state students of this 100% online program are looking at tuition costs of $33,065.  

The University of Arizona’s program builds upon an established background in accounting. In the in-person version of the degree, students take all six prerequisite accounting courses during the program. Online students, however, must complete Introduction to Financial Accounting before starting. 

This is a 10-course program. Students must take six courses in accounting and four non-accounting electives. The accounting requirements include choosing three core courses from:

• Advanced Accounting
• Business Law
• Advanced Federal Taxation
• Principles of Auditing
• Financial Statement Analysis  (not online)

In addition, students need three accounting electives to complete this affordable online degree. 

#4. Pennsylvania State University-World Campus

At Penn State University’s World Campus, the average net price for the degree among students who were awarded grants or scholarships for the 2017-2018 academic year is $8,811.  

 You can get into this Master of Professional Accounting program with any bachelor’s degree. If your undergraduate degree isn’t in accounting, you must complete courses in the following areas:

• Financial and managerial accounting for decision making
• Federal taxation 
• Cost accounting
• Intermediate financial accounting 
• Auditing

 Penn State’s online master’s in accounting requires ten courses. Required courses include the capstone course Forensic Accounting and Litigation Support. These core courses range from auditing theory and practice to business tax planning. The curriculum is set up to help prepare you for the Certified Public Accountant exam.  

#5. Liberty University

Are you looking for an online accounting master’s, no GMAT required? Then Liberty University might be your answer. To get into Liberty University’s program, you will need a bachelor’s degree and a GPA of at least 3.0. The accounting degree is accredited by the ACBSP. 

 Liberty University’s tuition is affordable, as well. Both in-state and out-of-state students are looking at a tuition cost of $7,904. The average net price for the degree among students who were awarded grant or scholarship aid from 2017-2018 was $27,432. First responders, in particular, have numerous financial benefits, including a 25% tuition discount. 

 The Master’s of Science in Accounting program requires 30 hours (10 courses). You can complete this degree in three semesters. Seven courses are core courses, which include:

• Advanced business law for accountants
• Tax research & jurisprudence
• Advanced auditing
• Accounting ethics

 The other three courses are business electives. 

#6. Purdue University-Main Campus

On its Indiana campus, Purdue University offers highly-respected traditional education programs. Purdue University Global is an option if you are looking for an online master’s in accounting. The public nonprofit school is accredited by regional accreditation agency the Higher Learning Commission.

Out-of-state students are looking at a tuition cost of $28,010 at Purdue University. Indiana residents enjoy a discounted rate of $9,208. On average, full-time students take one and a half years to complete their degree. Full-time students should expect to spend 20 hours on their studies per week. 

Students in this program can choose from three concentration areas. Aspiring CPAs should choose the public accounting option. Those interested in the CMA credential can pursue the private/corporate accounting option. There’s also a tax concentration to consider if you want to focus on tax preparation and planning. Whatever professional accounting interests you, you’ll find a concentration for this master’s degree.

#7. University of South Dakota

Looking for a cheap online master’s in accounting? Consider the University of South Dakota’s Online Master of Professional Accountancy. The low tuition costs of $5,869 for in-state graduate students and $11,283 for out-of-state students make the program affordable for everyone. 

The coursework in this online program helps students prepare for the Certified Public Accountant CPA exam. Specific course requirements for CPA certification vary by state, so check your state’s requirements. The 30 credits that make up this AACSB-accredited degree program are just what’s needed to add to a bachelor’s degree to meet the 150-credit hour requirement for CPA eligibility.

There are three options for this program, all of which require seven core accounting classes. Plan A requires a thesis and three to six hours of restricted electives. Plan B students take nine hours of restricted electives or an accounting analytics specialization. Plan C requires an accounting internship. 

#8. Western Governors University

Western Governors University (WGU) is another cheap master’s in accounting option. Tuition for both in-state and out-of-state graduate students averages $7,500. WGU uses a 6-month term payment plan rather than charging per credit. This structure is part of WGU’s goal to help you graduate with little to no debt.

During a six-month term, most students focus on one course at a time. When they’re ready, students take an assessment to prove course completion and can then move on immediately. You are able to work at your own pace and can take as many classes per term as you want.

No GMAT or GRE scores are required to apply to WGU’s accounting master’s degree program. By not requiring the GMAT or GRE, Western Governors University makes it easier to prepare for the CPA, CMA, and other certification exams. Most WGU students finish their master’s in accounting degree within 23 months. 

#9. University of Maryland Global Campus

Tuition at the University of Maryland Global Campus (UMGC) averages $8,244 for in-state graduate students. Out-of-state students pay an average of $11,862. The University of Maryland offers military tuition rate reductions to active members, spouses, and dependent children.

Applicants to UMGC’s master’s in accounting program should have 15 credits of undergraduate accounting coursework under their belts. Applicants to UMGC’s master’s in accounting program should have 15 credits of prior accounting coursework. What if you don’t have a recent background in finance, accounting, and/or statistics? You can enroll in 0-credit courses that give them the foundation they need to succeed in the program. 

UMGC requires graduate students to take an orientation course. You must also take the following three core courses:

• Organizational Theory and Behavior
• Financial Decision Making for Managers
• Statistics for Managerial Decision Making

In addition, you must complete all five specialization courses, two electives, and the capstone course. 

#10. University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill

Tuition for the online Master of Accounting program at the University of North Carolina (UNC) ranges from $10,243 for in-state students to $27,454 for out-of-state students. This program is open to all students, regardless of their undergraduate major. It normally takes students 12-36 months to complete the program. 

While open to all students, there are requirements for your application. You will need an unofficial undergraduate transcript. Also, an online survey must be completed by two recommenders. You must provide a statement of purpose, a resume or link to your LinkedIn profile, and your GMAT/GRE score. 

Students in the online master’s in accounting will choose from core courses to help learn accounting principles and develop their leadership and communication skills. Additionally, students are able to choose one of the following concentrations:

• Tax
• Audit
• Financial analysis and reporting

Also, students will select electives to help develop their accounting skills.  Whether the want to do financial statement analysis, be involved in accounting information systems, corporate financial management this master’s degree will prepare students for various accounting careers.

#11. Texas A&M University Commerce

Tuition for only $3,630 for a Master of Science in Accounting may sound too good to be true. For in-state graduate students at Texas A&M University-Commerce, though, it’s reality. Out-of-state students will pay more to enroll in this program, with a tuition rate of $11,100.  

The College of Business at Texas A&M University-Commerce is nationally accredited by the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB). The core curriculum for accounting graduate students includes classes in: 

• Advanced Managerial Accounting 
• Advanced Income Tax Accounting
• Forensic & Investigative Accounting
• Government and Not for Profit Accounting

Beyond the core accounting coursework, students can choose electives to customize their degrees. Texas A&M graduate accounting students can pick from 11 minors and five certificates. Possible studies include subjects like:

• Financial planning 
• Business analytics
• Real estate
• Corporate management
• Auditing and forensic accounting

If you are looking to do advanced financial reporting, do accounting analysis, or work in the global business environment this program prepares students for such careers.

#12. Georgia Southern University

Georgia Southern University’s average tuition was $6,636 for in-state students and $26,518 for out-of-state students. There is also an institutional fee of $290 for students enrolled in five hours or more. This fee drops to $145 for students that are enrolled in less than five hours. 

If you wish to apply for Georgia Southern University’s Master of Accounting program, you must write a statement of purpose essay. You should also be ready to provide the following:

• Past academic performance 
• Professional experience (optional)
• Competitive scores on other tests
• Letters of recommendation (optional)

The online Master of Accounting Degree (WebMAcc) requires the following core courses:

• Seminar in Financial Accounting
• Taxation of Corporations and Partnerships
• Seminar in Auditing
• Seminar in Accounting Information Systems
• Fraudulent Financial Reporting
• Law and Ethics for Accountants

Students must also complete 12 credit hours of approved electives in any subject area. The courses will prepare you for the CPA exam. 

#13. Saint Leo University

Saint Leo University offers a cheap, high-quality master’s in accounting program. Both in-state and out-of-state graduate students pay an average tuition rate of $8,498. The average net price for the degree among students who were awarded financial aid in 2017-2018 was $20,036. This 30-credit program helps students meet the 150-credit  requirement for CPAs. 

To graduate, students in Saint Leo University’s program must maintain a 3.00 GPA in the following core accounting courses:

• Government and Not for Profit Accounting
• Fraud Examination
• Contemporary Issues in Auditing
• Federal Taxation for Business Entities
• Advanced Cost Accounting
• Forensic Accounting
• Accounting Theory
• Using Financial Accounting Information
• Managerial Economics
• Corporate Finance

Students also complete mandatory but 0-credit Master of Accounting Orientation. This non-credit course is taken during a student’s first term on a pass/fail basis. In addition to information on the Master of Accounting program, it covers the history, values and policies of Saint Leo University.

#14. Franklin University

Franklin University has an online affordable accounting master’s degree. Both in-state and out-of-state graduate students pay an average tuition rate of $16,080. The average net price for the degree among students who were awarded grants or scholarship aid for the 2017-2018 academic year was $18,684.

While you must complete 30 semester hours, you can shape your own academic career. As part of their core curriculum for this master’s degree, students choose either Introduction to Research in Accounting or Introduction to Tax Research. The core courses for this online accounting master’s degree all students take are: 

• Financial Accounting Theory
• Management Control Processes & Systems
• Accounting Research Seminar

The rest of the courses in Franklin University’s master’s in accounting program depend on your area of focus. When choosing an emphasis in taxation, students take coursework in personal income taxation and taxation of different types of business entities. The financial operations concentration includes courses such as forensic accounting. 

#15. University of Alabama at Birmingham

In-state students at the University of Alabama at Birmingham (UAB) pay $8,100 tuition rates to pursue their Master of Accounting (MAc) online. For out-of-state graduate students, the average tuition cost is $18,540. UAB has a dedicated staff with a 24/7 technical help desk and award-winning industry experts.

To apply for the MAc program, you must have earned your bachelor’s degree in accounting from an AACSB-accredited school in the last five years. Prospective students without a bachelor’s in accounting can use UAB’s bridge program to fill any gaps and prepare for the MAc program.

The five required courses in UAB’s MAc program are:

• Advanced Financial Accounting
• Financial Accounting Research
• Advanced Auditing and Attestation
• Governance and the Business Environment
• Tax Research

For the remaining required courses for this online master’s in accounting, students can choose from a pool of electives. Options include everything from fraud examination to data science for business.

#16. The University of Texas Rio Grande Valley

For in-state students seeking a master’s in accounting degree online, the University of Texas Rio Grande Valley (UTRGV) offers an affordable tuition price of $5,720. The average tuition rate for out-of-state students is $13,190. UTRGV also offers graduate scholarships to help students afford to advance their education. 

One great thing about UTRGV’s Master of Accountancy (MACC) – Accelerated Online program is how fast it is. Students can complete the master’s in accounting in the span of just 12 months. Each course takes just seven weeks. This accelerated format allows students to save even more on tuition. 

The MAAC online program encompasses the following five core courses:

• Advanced Accounting
• Business Law for Accountants
• Accounting Research and Communication
• Information Technology for Accounting and Control
• Professional Ethics

Students also pick four accounting electives, like International Taxation, and a business elective.

#17. New England College

At New England College in New Hampshire, online graduate students pay the same average tuition rate for full-time study regardless of whether they attend as in-state or out-of-state students: $13,560. The average net price for the degree among students who received financial aid for the 2017-2018 school year was $27,800. 

New England College’s online accounting program is one of the longer programs on our list. Out of the 40 credits of graduate-level study, 24 credits make up core accounting coursework, such as: 

• Graduate-level intermediate accounting
• International accounting 
• Cost accounting
• Federal taxation 
• Accounting for mergers and acquisitions
• Government and non-profit accounting 

To earn this Master of Science degree, students must also take additional classes. Some, like Auditing and Attestation and Performance and Ethical Standards of the Audit Professional, are closely related to accounting. Others, like business law and finance for leaders, help accounting students develop their knowledge in a broader context. 

#18. Post University

Post University is proof that for-profit colleges and affordable tuition rates aren’t mutually exclusive. Both in-state and out-of-state graduate students at the Connecticut university pay an average of $7,500 for full-time online study. The average net price for the degree among students who received financial aid during 2017-2018 was $9,395. 

You can count on this affordable online program to provide a high-quality education. Post University as an institution has attained regional accreditation from the New England Commission of Higher Education. The master’s in accounting degree program, specifically—along with other programs in the Malcolm Baldrige School of Business—is accredited by the ACBSP. 

The Master of Science in Accounting program at Post University is a 30-credit program that consists of technical accounting courses, accounting management courses and a capstone experience. A separate optional CPA track includes six additional one-credit courses. These emphasize preparation for the CPA Exam. Students typically graduate in 22 months from this affordable master’s in accounting. 

#19. Shorter University

Graduate students at Shorter University in Georgia pay an average full-time tuition rate of $12,360, regardless of where they live. The majority of Shorter University students—95 percent—receive financial aid. The average net price for the degree among students awarded financial aid for the 2017-2018 year was $19,395. 

It takes as little as 12 months to complete the 100% online Master of Accountancy program at Shorter University. The 31-credit program is intended to meet the educational requirements for CPA licensure. Therefore, it includes required coursework in subjects such as:

• Managerial accounting 
• Advanced financial accounting
• Financial statement analysis 

In accounting, and particularly in public accounting, ethics and honesty are crucial. Shorter University’s graduate accounting program curriculum includes coursework in the legal and ethical issues involved in accounting as well as studies in auditing and fraud in internal accounting. Students may also gain experience through a graduate-level business internship. 

#20.  Southern Utah University

Utah residents get a bargain on the cost of a Master of Accountancy degree at Southern Utah University. The average in-state tuition for full-time graduate students is just $7,574. Out-of-state students pay an average of $23,784.Tuition waivers are also available for full-time students. 

Online students at Southern Utah University take between one and four courses per semester. They may start in the fall, spring or summer semester. This affordable master’s in accounting is impressive on numerous fronts, including its 25-year history at the institution and a job placement rate of nearly 100%. 

To earn their online Master of Accountancy, students take classes in auditing and advanced cost and managerial accounting. Courses such as corporate tax and estate and gift tax emphasize knowledge of tax procedure and principles. Specific courses of interest may include:

• Taxation of pass-through entities
• Forensic accounting
• Property transaction taxation

#21.  Sacramento State University

Sacramento State University is one of the 23 campuses that make up the sprawling California State University system. California residents pursuing an online Master of Science in Accountancy degree through Sacramento State University get a significant discount, with in-state tuition amounting to $7,176 and out-of-state tuition of $16,680. 

At Sacramento State University, graduate accounting students complete 27 credits of required coursework plus a three-credit culminating experience project. Required courses include a sequence of classes in financial reporting. Also required for this affordable online degree are studies in the following: 

• Auditing
• Cost analysis
• Taxation of individuals and business entities   
• Government and non-profit accounting

Sacramento State University’s MS in Accountancy is great for aspiring CPAs because its curriculum aligns with CPA Exam subject matter, covering coursework that fits in all four CPA Exam sections. On average, students of the program are 30 years old and have six years of accounting work experience.

#22. Regis University 

Both in-state and out-of-state students seeking online Master of Science in Accounting degrees at Colorado’s Regis University pay an average tuition rate of $13,177. At Regis University, where 100% of students receive financial aid, the average net price for the degree among students awarded financial aid for 2017-2018 was $26,273. 

Students pursuing this 12- to 24-month affordable online degree can start their studies during any of the eight-week terms that begin in January, March, May, July, August, and October. Regis University graduate accounting students may focus on one of the following specializations: 

• Financial accounting
• Managerial accounting
• Fraud and forensic accounting
• IT accounting

The required coursework for MS in Accounting students at Regis University builds upon foundational accounting knowledge in subjects like introductory through intermediate principles and procedures of financial and managerial accounting and auditing. Students must take the following classes:  

• Financial communication
• Interpreting accounting information
• Accounting ethics 

#23. California State University, San Bernardino

The San Bernardino campus marks California State University’s second appearance on our list of the 30 most affordable online master’s in accounting programs. Like the Sacramento State University campus, California State University at San Bernardino charges in-state students $7,176 and out-of-state students $16,680 in average graduate tuition costs.

Since both the San Bernardino and Sacramento locations award a Master of Science in Accountancy, you might expect the curricula of these degree programs to be identical, or at least, nearly identical. In fact, although both degree programs include one three-credit culminating experience, the coursework differs between these two campuses. 

Students of the San Bernardino campus have more choices in their curriculum. Their 18 credits of required courses include studies in areas like: 

• Internal auditing 
• Advanced corporate taxation 
• Controllership

Twelve credits of elective coursework, which may include studies in areas like international accounting and government accounting, flesh out the curriculum. 

FAQ

How long does it take to get a master’s in accounting?

Most master’s degrees in accounting are relatively short programs, encompassing 30 to 36 credits of graduate study. Full-time students can typically complete a master’s in accounting program in one to two years. Part-time students may take three years or longer to finish their studies since they complete fewer courses at a time. 

It may take longer to earn your graduate accounting degree if you’re pursuing a Master of Business Administration (MBA) degree with a concentration in accounting. Finishing a 40-credit or 55-credit MBA degree requires a lot more coursework. Also, it will usually take two to three years of full-time study, at least.

Is it cheaper to get an online master’s in accounting?

Online master’s degrees have a reputation for being more affordable. However, the cost depends on where you go to graduate school. Some online college programs cost less than traditional in-person programs. Others cost the same or even tack on extra technology fees. Similarly, some online schools charge separate in-state and out-of-state tuition rates. Other online programs cost the same no matter where the student lives. 

If you want to make your education more affordable, consider financial aid packages as well as the “sticker” price of tuition. Keep in mind that even schools with high tuition rates may be more affordable than you expect. If you receive a lot of money in merit-based or need-based scholarships and grants, your costs will go down.

What is the best accounting degree for accountants?

Accounting degrees at the graduate level go by different titles, including: 

• Master of Accountancy
• Master of Accounting 
• Master of Science in Accounting
• Master of Professional Accountancy 
• Master of Professional Accounting 

All of these degree programs are specialized accounting programs, not business administration programs. They also can serve to help students qualify to sit for the CPA Exam or to pursue other types of professional certification in accounting. 

However, there are some differences. Master of Accountancy and Master of Accounting programs provide graduate-level advanced knowledge of accounting in general and often allow for exploration of an area of concentration. Master of Science programs tend to involve more extensive quantitative coursework.  Professional-focused programs tend to emphasize practical skills over theoretical knowledge. Any of these accounting degrees can help you advance your career. 

There are substantive differences between these degrees and MBA in accounting degrees. MBA degrees cover core coursework in a broad business administration curriculum that you won’t find in most other accounting programs. While you will devote some of your studies to advanced accounting coursework you will also study more topics in leadership, management and operations than students in other graduate accounting programs. 

If you want to work in specialized or senior-level accounting roles, any graduate accounting degree that caters to your intended specialization is a good choice. If you’re seeking promotion to managerial roles, opting for an MBA or other online graduate business programs is a better move.

What salary can I expect with a master’s in accounting?

Your level of education and any professional credentials you have can affect your earning potential as an accountant. 

For accounting professionals in general, the United States Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) reported a median, or midpoint, salary of $81,680 in 2024. The lowest-earning 10% of accountants and auditors made less than $52,780. The highest-earning 10% of the occupation made upwards of $141,420, the BLS reported. 

However, this data appears to be skewed by higher-earning accountants. Payscale reported the average accountant salary as just $60,497 in 2025. The website did list a near-$70,000 average salary for CPAs. 

If you use your master’s degree to pursue CPA certification, you’re prepared to earn more money. The AICPA puts average salaries for junior-level public accounting roles in the range of $40,500 to $93,500. Salaries for senior-level roles range from $62,000 to $115,500. For corporate accounting positions, the AICPA lists junior-level salary ranges from $39,750 all the way up to the six-figure range. Top earnings can rise above $150,000 or even $180,000. CPAs can expect to earn between 10% and 15% more than colleagues without the credential. 

If you’re interested in pursuing higher education, then you should check out Top 30 Accredited Online Accounting Degree Programs and 30 Online Bachelor’s in Business Administration!

The post 23 Affordable Online Master’s in Accounting appeared first on Accredited Online Colleges.

More than 50% of nurses now have a bachelor’s degree in nursing. To stay competitive and gain access to new opportunities, check out the best accredited online colleges in RN to BSN. 

As the general population and elderly population grows, there’s an increasing demand for nurses. The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) predicts a 7% rise over the next decade, which represents around 221,900 new openings. However, employers are increasingly looking for graduates with a bachelor’s degree. If you hold an associate’s degree or diploma in nursing and RN licensure, consider the best accredited online colleges in RN to BSN for your bachelor’s degree. 

What requirements are there for an RN to BSN program?

To be eligible to apply for an RN to BSN program, you’ll need unencumbered RN licensure and either an associate’s degree or approved diploma in nursing. Most Rn to BSN programs require you to have a minimum cumulative college GPA of 2.5 to 2.75 as a minimum too. 

While you may already be working as an RN with these qualifications, there’s strong incentive to consider a bachelor’s degree. According to the University of Florida’s website, just over half of RNs now have a bachelor’s degree. What’s more, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), there are more than 3 million RNs in the nation. It’s never been more important to pursue your bachelor’s degree and remain competitive. 

See Also: 30 Top Nationally Accredited Online Colleges For Nursing

What are the Best RN to BSN Degrees?

Accredited Online College uses the most recent data from the Department of Education’s National Center for Education Statistics. Each program is scored individually. It’s then compared to all other universities offering that degree to determine the final score you see by each ranking. Accredited Online College considers the affordability, student-to-faculty ratio, and the number of programs offered on-campus and online. To learn more, visit our methodology page. 

#1. University of Florida

The University of Florida offers a Bachelor of Science in Nursing via UF Online, their distance learning campus. Designed for practicing RNs, you’ll be able to complete all of your coursework online in a program that is approved by the Florida Board of Nursing and accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE). 

All coursework can be completed online via the university’s distance learning system. You’ll follow the same curriculum and benefit from the same faculty as your on-campus cohort, but you’ll have a schedule that allows greater flexibility to continue working in your existing role. 

In this program, you’ll complete a range of courses, including two that have clinical components. However, these requirements could be met online without the need for commuting. Your tuition will cost around $129.18 per credit hour, including fees, which is why UF Online is ranked as the No. 1 most affordable online college. 

#2. Florida International University

Florida International University offers a fully online Bachelor of Science in Nursing that’s only available to Licensed Registered Nurses. It was named the No. 8 online RN to BSN program in the nation in 2020. Comprising 120 credits, the program includes coursework that is tailored toward your workplace experience. 

You’ll study the same core courses as your nursing cohort, including those such as:

• Health Assessment & Promotion
• Psychosocial Nursing
• Adult Physiological Nursing

You’ll also complete electives, human anatomy and lab, microbiology and lab, and other core subjects, in addition to a 30-credit clinical assessment. 

The program is accredited by CCNE and students can opt to start during any semester. For an accurate estimate of your undergraduate cost of attendance, use the university’s tuition calculator. As an approximate guide, you can expect to pay around $7,185.37 in tuition as an in-state student or around $10,697.17 as an out-of-state student. 

#3. Santa Fe College

Santa Fe College offers an RN to BSN bachelor’s degree, though entry is limited to a specific subset of students. Namely, you must be a graduate of an accredited Associate of Science in Nursing (ASN) to apply. The program is accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE). 

Courses within this program are structured into half-semester courses lasting for seven weeks. All students must achieve a minimum grade of ‘C’ on certain introductory courses to be allowed to continue on the program, and there are two courses with a clinical component, in addition to a foreign language requirement. 

Residents of Florida can expect to pay undergraduate tuition at a rate of around $126.33 per credit, which comes to around $3,793.20 annually. For non-residents, the cost rises significantly to $12,864.90. There are also distance learning fees of $300.00, in addition to $400.00 for books and supplies. Check out the scholarships page for information on the numerous awards available for Santa Fe College students. 

#4. Arizona State University

Arizona State University’s (ASU) Online Bachelor of Science in Nursing: RN to BSN comprises 10 total classes, with classes lasting for 7.5 weeks. The program favors practicing nurses who already hold an associate’s degree in nursing, as you’ll benefit from your existing academic as well as practical knowledge. 

To be eligible, you’ll have to have earned your RN license or alternatively have passed the NCLEX exam. The National Council of State Boards of Nursing examination tests nursing school graduate competency. Alternatively, students already enrolled in an associate’s degree can apply for the RN to BSN program concurrently via the Concurrent Enrollment Program. 

At Arizona State University, approximately 80% of students receive some form of financial aid. For the most accurate estimate of your cost of attendance, you should check out the university’s tuition calculator. You can expect to pay approximately $11,298 per year as a state resident or $11,484 as a non-resident. 

#5. University of South Florida

The University of South Florida offers an RN to BSN degree program through USF Health’s College of Nursing. It’s a fully online program, with enrolled students offered the option of completing their coursework in either five part-time or three full-time semesters, though the program director’s approval is required. 

Eligibility for the program requires you to have either a diploma or an associate’s degree in nursing from a regionally accredited college or university. You will also need to pass a background check, immunization screening, and drug screening. Once enrolled, you’ll follow a curriculum comprising 30 hours of coursework, with a choice of concentration in:

• Leadership/Management
• Patient/Staff Education
• Clinical Excellence
• Ambulatory Care

Typical undergraduate tuition is around $105.07 for Florida residents and $185.92-$211.19 for non-residents. However, as a nursing student, you’ll be expected to pay additional fees to account for training, criminal background checks, drug screening, and other supplies critical to your clinical experience and learning. You’ll receive a list of expenses that typically cost in the region of $1,000-$2,500. 

#6. Western Carolina University

Western Carolina University offers an Online RN to BSN Program that enhances key competencies required by practicing nurses. The program is fully accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education and has been approved by the North Carolina Board of Nursing. Students could earn their degree in as few as four semesters. 

This is a fully online program, and all coursework can be completed via distance learning. During the course of your studies, you’ll complete 24 hours of core RN to BSN courses, in addition to 6 hours of online electives, totaling 30 credit hours. There are two start dates available in either January or August. 

The estimated total cost of attendance (COA) for the RN to BSN program is around $3,500, which includes around $2,500 tuition. The remainder of your costs are made up of an application, graduation, and other fees, and you’ll also pay around $400 to $600 for course books. 

#7. Appalachian State University

You can earn your RN to BSN degree at Appalachian State University in a program that’s offered online. Comprising 30 credit hours taught by Appalachian and available part-time, you’ll need to have successfully graduated from an Associate in Applied Science or other associate degree in Nursing to be eligible. You’ll also need to hold a current RN license and have a minimum cumulative GPA of 2.5 from your prior college coursework. 

The program will last a year, and you can complete all of your coursework online. You’ll also complete non-traditional clinical requirements, which comprise either class projects or research projects; this means that there’s no need to commute to campus or elsewhere during your studies. 

Typical undergraduate tuition for a North Carolina resident comes to around $2,121.00 or $3,975.00 including all fees. For a non-resident, tuition costs around $9,924.50 or $11,778.50 including all fees. More information on tuition and a detailed explanation of other fees and charges can be found on the website. 

#8. University of Central Florida

The University of Central Florida offers an Online BS in Nursing via UCF Online. It has been named as one of the Best Online Programs for 2021 according to U.S. News & World Report and could lead to careers such as:

• nurse
• ER nurse
• nurse consultant
• leader

This post-licensure program awards up to 29 credits for past college study providing that you have a minimum GPA of 2.8 and no lower than 2.0 in any individual course. While enrolled, you could also get a head start on your master’s degree by completing a maximum of 9 credit hours of graduate coursework. 

For state residents, tuition is affordable at just $179.19 per credit hour. For non-residents, the cost rises to around $715.80 per credit hour. Interested students should check out the UCF Online page on scholarships. After submitting an application, you could be considered for more than 200 scholarships to help cover the cost of your degree. 

#9. CUNY Hunter College

CUNY Hunter College offers an RN to BSN Nursing program that is fully accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education. Designed for students who already hold an associate degree in nursing and a NY State RN license, the program curriculum is split into two components: professional nursing courses and liberal arts and general education courses. 

However, students admitted into the nursing program are exempt from the university’s usual foreign language requirement. Admission requirements are a little stricter, with students requiring a minimum cumulative GPA of at least 3.2 to be considered for admission into the program. 

Undergraduate tuition for a New York State resident typically costs around $6,930 for full-time students or $305 per credit hour for part-time study. For non-residents, this rises to around $18,600 full-time or $620 per credit hour part-time. The good news is that the in-state rate is available to non-residents who currently live in NY State and can produce proof of residency.

#10. Florida Atlantic University

Florida Atlantic University’s offers three modes of entry into the RN to BSN Track. These are the Freshman Direct Admit, Accelerated BSN, and RN-BSN entry types. Students interested in the program should’ve already completed a diploma or associate’s degree in nursing and possess an RN license in their state of residence. 

While the program is offered online, there’s a requirement to fulfill a minimum number of clinical experience hours. The university will work with you to arrange clinical site locations close to home wherever possible, which could reduce the need for any long commuting journeys. 

The estimated tuition for undergraduate students at Florida Atlantic University is around $203.29 for Florida residents and around $721.84 for non-residents. As your cost of attendance can vary based on your program, you can check out the Net Price Calculator for more accurate estimates. 

#11. Indiana University-Purdue University-Indianapolis

Taught under the School of Nursing, this RN to BSN Online Degree Completion Option comprises 33 credit hours. Students could complete the program in as few as 12 months; alternatively, you could take 2 years to complete the program through flexible, part-time study. Upon graduating, you’ll be awarded a Bachelor of Science in Nursing. 

Courses are taught in 6 or 8-week modules, and your clinical experiences can be arranged so that you complete them at your existing place of employment in many cases. Past students have also rated the program with a 92% satisfaction rate, in addition to there being a 92% retention rate for enrolled students. It’s easy to see why this has been rated the No. 2 best RN to BSN program in Indiana. 

This program requires the completion of 120 credit hours to graduate, but students could transfer up to three-quarters of their credits from prior college education. Tuition is charged at a rate of $350 per credit hour for residents of Indiana or $455 for non-residents. 

#12. East Carolina University

Designed for working nurses, East Carolina University’s (ECU) RN to BSN program is structured into four semesters and is available entirely online. You could obtain your degree in as little as 16 months from a program that is nationally ranked and offers personalized curriculum experiences. 

You’ll take courses such as:

• Professional Communication in Nursing
• Critical Thinking to Facilitate Role Transition
• Nursing Leadership and Finance

During fall and spring semesters, courses run for 7 weeks, while in the summer, they’re structured into 5.5-week blocks. Your clinical experiences can be arranged to take place in your local community too. 

ECU regularly features in national rankings for its low=cost tuition and high-quality teaching. The approximate cost for this program can be worked out by multiplying the undergraduate distance-learning tuition rates by the credit hours in the nursing program (33). However, with transfer credits, the program could cost as little as $5,491. 

#13. University of Memphis

The University of Memphis Loewenberg College of Nursing (LCON) offers a B.S. in Nursing that’s available exclusively to licensed RNs. It’s a fully online program with no required campus visits; in total, you’ll complete a minimum of 120 credit hours via online coursework. 

College level courses that you’ve completed previously can be used to help meet the credit requirements of this program. Upon graduating from the degree, you’ll also be encouraged to take part in the LCON Convocation ceremony, a celebration of both the graduating class and the nursing profession’s traditions and history. 

UofM Global undergraduates who are residents of Tennessee pay a tuition rate of around $413.00 per credit hour. This is capped at around $4,956.00 for full-time study of 12 to 18 credits per semester. For non-residents, you’ll pay around $573.00 per credit hour; non-resident tuition is not capped. 

#14. University of North Carolina-Wilmington

The University of North Carolina Wilmington offers an RN to BSN Online Degree Program that can be completed in as few as 12 months. Under the UNCW School of Nursing, you’ll complete around 29 program credit hours and engage in coursework that covers gerontological nursing, community health, professional practice, and more. 

Hopeful students will need a minimum cumulative GPA of 2.5 on all transferable college courses combined. You’ll need at least 24 credits of transferable coursework, which should include 6 credits from college-level English courses. You’ll also need to have graduated from an associate’s degree or diploma in registered nursing and have an unencumbered license to practice as an RN. 

North Carolina residents pay the lowest tuition, which comes to around $4,906.22 annually including fees. That’s around $169.18 per credit hour. Non-residents pay around $18,686.15 annually, which is around $644.35 per credit hour. Depending on your past study, some additional courses may be required, which could increase the amount of tuition due. 

#15. Winston-Salem State University

Winston-Salem State University (WSSU) offers a fully online RN to BSN program that could see you becoming one of the next leaders in nursing in as little as a year. According to RegisteredNursing.org, it is the No. 1 RN to BSN program in the nation, and it has also been ranked for its affordability. 

As a working RN, you’ll appreciate knowing that this program has been designed by nurses for nurses, ensuring a program that’s not only tailored to your profession, but flexible too. It’s no wonder that this has also been named one of the top 10 nursing schools in the region. 

State residents and non-residents pay a reduced rate of tuition and fees compared to campus-based learners. Tuition and fees for an in-state student come to around $1,775.00 per semester, while non-resident undergraduates pay around $6,967.70. Fees include an educational and technology fee, in addition to a student association and government fee. 

#16. Stony Brook University

Stony Brook University’s Registered Nurse Baccalaureate Program is an online, distance education degree, though it does have some site-based requirements. The university will work with you to identify suitable clinical placements, though the chosen site may not always be close to home, so this should be factored into your schedule. 

You’ll complete 60 credits of upper-division coursework, with study in areas such as:

• anatomy and physiology
• statistics, humanities
• global issues
• microbiology

Your will also take clinical nursing courses. For admission into the program, you’ll also need a minimum cumulative GPA of 2.5 from at least 60 college credits from prior study. These courses must have been passed with a grade ‘C’ or higher. 

According to the university’s website, undergraduate tuition at SUNY is around 15% lower than the U.S. average for public institutions and 50% lower than for-profit colleges and universities. New York State residents pay tuition of around $295.00 per credit hour, which is around $6,904.65 for 12 credits and including all fees. Non-residents pay around $1,041.00 per credit hour, which is around $15,864.65 for 12 credits, including fees. 

#17. Eastern New Mexico University

Eastern New Mexico University offers a Bachelor of Science in Nursing, BSN Completion Program. For admission into the program, you’ll need to have an RN license. It’s accredited by the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN) and offers 8 week courses, which should allow you to finish your degree in as few as 16 months. 

In this program, you’ll study courses such as:

• Global Health Care
• Economics and Nursing
• Health Assessment
• Integrative Care Concepts
• Cultural Competencies for Nurses

Upon graduating from the program, you’ll also have the option to become a member of Sigma Theta Tau, an honors society for nurses. 

For residents of New Mexico, undergraduate programs attract a tuition and fee rate of around $3,264 per semester. This comprises $2,037 in tuition and $1,227 in fees. Non-residents pay around $4,284 per semester, as tuition is charged at around $3,057. 

#18. Oklahoma State University

Under the College of Education and Human Sciences at OSU, students can enroll in an RN to BSN online completion program. The program is accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE) and is fully online. Evidence-based practice underpins the curriculum, which means you won’t have to attend campus or other sites for clinical experiences. 

With this program, you could complete your degree in around 9 to 12 months of full-time study. Delivered through Canvas, the university’s e-learning system, as a full-time student, you will complete 2 or 3 courses every 8 weeks. As a part-time student, you’ll complete 1 course every 8 weeks. 

Undergraduates may pay tuition following a block rate structure. This means that as a full-time student taking 12 to 18 credits per semester, you’ll be charged the same rate regardless of your precise course load. Residents pay $420.35 per credit hour or $6,305.25 per semester, while non-residents pay $937.70 per credit hour or $14,065.50 per semester. 

#19. Northwestern State University of Louisiana

Northwestern State University of Louisiana offers an RN to BSN in Nursing that involves fully online study. All of the required nursing courses and general education courses can be completed online. Enrolled students will be able to meet their course objectives and clinical practice within their own community. 

In total, you will complete 30 hours of required core nursing courses in this program that is accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education. For admission into the program, you will need to have already completed an associate degree or diploma in nursing. 

As an eligible RN, you will pay an undergraduate tuition rate of around $6,750, which includes all fees and covers the 30 hours required for your nursing courses only. Tuition for general education courses within this program is set at around $249 per credit hour for any additional courses required. 

#20. Eastern Florida State College

At Eastern Florida State College, registered RNs and graduates of an associate’s degree or diploma in nursing can earn their BSN degree entirely online. According to the nursing resource website, RNtoMSN, this program is one of the most affordable RN to BSN programs you can find online. 

The curriculum builds upon academic and practical knowledge already acquired to allow you to expand your skills and open up leadership opportunities. Alternatively, as a graduate of this program, you could pursue further study at the master’s level. Courses are varied; a full curriculum for the program can be found here. 

Tuition rates at Eastern Florida State College are lower than average for both residents and non-residents. Out-of-state students pay around $508.92 per credit hour, while state residents pay around $128.51. Other fees may apply, and you can find more information on fees and scholarships on the university’s website. 

#21. SUNY Delhi

SUNY Delhi’s RN to BSN program is structured into 7-week terms, and all coursework can be completed online. There are 5 start dates available throughout the year, and you can choose to enroll either part-time or full-time. For admission, you’ll need an RN license and a minimum GPA of 2.6 from an accredited associate degree in nursing. 

The National League for Nursing (NLN) has named this program as a Center of Excellence in Nursing Education. Benefits of the program include the ability to earn college credits for prior work experience and the opportunity to learn using innovative technologies, such as a virtual clinical simulation for practical experience. 

At SUNY Delhi, you’ll pay the same rate of undergraduate tuition that is charged to traditional, campus-based students, and you’ll also be taught by the same faculty. State residents pay tuition of around $295.00, while out-of-state students pay around $353.00. Some fees also apply to both groups of students. 

#22. University of West Florida

The RN to BSN Online program at the University of West Florida can see you earning your nursing degree in as little as a year. Comprising around 32 credit hours and structured into 8-week courses, you’ll build on your existing knowledge in a program that is accredited by the CCNE. 

Your faculty will include instructors who have many years’ worth of experience in many key areas of the curriculum. As you complete your courses, you will touch on topics that include:

• patient assessment
• evidence-based nursing practice
• health promotion
• disease prevention
• nursing strategies for the elderly

Tuition at the University of West Florida is affordable compared to other institutions in the nation. On average, undergraduates will pay around $6,860 for a bachelor’s degree. The average tuition for public and private colleges in Florida is around $13,800, so you could earn your BSN degree for just half the cost. 

#23. Purdue University Northwest

Purdue University Northwest (PNW) offers an RN to BSN program that accepts up to 86 transfer credits, which constitutes around 70% of the final value of the program. This could see you complete your degree in as few as 16 months for less than $11,000. The program is accredited by the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN). 

Like SUNY Delhi, this institution has been designated as a National League for Nursing Center of Excellence. All your coursework is available fully online, and what’s more, you can complete your capstone experience at your place of work. Courses are structured into a flexible 5-week block format. 

Each credit hour on the RN to BSN program costs around $378.01, making the cost of a 3-credit course around $1,134.03. Based on a course load of 34 credits, that’s around $12,852.34 in tuition. Should you choose to continue to a master’s degree, tuition is around $474.46 per credit hour. 

#24. Wichita State University

With Wichita State University’s RN to BSN program, you could earn your bachelor’s degree in as few as 3 semesters. All courses in this program are available via distance learning, and you could earn up to 30 credit hours for prior college coursework. You’ll also hone your leadership skills for future management positions in nursing. 

The curriculum has been built upon applied learning, ensuring that every course incorporates this or research experience at its core. Completing up to 35 credit hours, you will complete courses such as:

• Health Assessment for the Practicing RN
• Foundations of Nursing Leadership
• Care of Populations
• Healthcare Leadership

Undergraduate tuition for state residents runs at a rate of around $228.09 for both campus-based and online students. While non-residents pay around $540.27 for traditional programs, online tuition for non-residents is charged at the same, reduced rate of around $228.09. There are a number of mandatory fees that also apply.

#25. University of North Florida

The University of North Florida (UNF) Undergraduate RN-BSN Bridge Track is designed for RNs who want to expand their academic and clinical knowledge with a bachelor’s degree. As an online program, it’s available to working professionals from across the nation who hold an RN license in their state. 

Your curriculum will have a strong foundation in the sciences with numerous opportunities to work with patients directly. This involves working with both the vulnerable and under-served groups. In this program, you will be completing courses with the Quality Matters (QM) certification, which means that the teachings have met stringent standards for their quality and accuracy. 

Typical undergraduate tuition is charged at around $105.07 for both residents and non-residents. However, tuition for this bridge track differs from the standard tuition rate charged to both residents and non-residents. You’ll find more information on undergraduate tuition and a complete breakdown of all mandatory fees on the university’s website. 

#26. Thomas Edison State University

Thomas Edison State University’s RN to BSN program is unique in offering rolling admissions throughout the year. This means that you can enroll and begin your program on any day throughout the calendar year. Classes are structured into 8-week sessions, with 4 one-week breaks every year. 

In the RN to BSN program, you’ll need a minimum of 120 credits to graduate, which includes 12 graduate credits you can use toward a Master of Science in Nursing. There is in fact a RN to BSN/MSN program that allows you to earn both degrees with additional preparation as a:

• Nurse Administrator
• Nurse Educator
• Nursing Informatics Specialist

Tuition for the RN to BSN program at Thomas Edison State University is charged at a rate of $450 per credit for New Jersey residents. For out-of-state students, this rises to around $550 per credit. Lower level TECEP exams cost around $50, while upper level examinations are around $75. 

#27. Keiser University-Ft Lauderdale

Keiser University, Ft Lauderdale offers an RN to BSN program across multiple Florida campuses. This degree completion program combines health promotion, physical assessment, research, and management and leadership with other key skills like critical thinking. The curriculum takes a cultural, economic, political, and social approach to health care and patient management. 

Students can complete the curriculum in as few as 12 months with transfer credits from prior college study. You’ll need to hold either an associate’s degree in nursing or a nursing diploma to be eligible for admission. You’ll also need to prove your existing, non-restricted licensure as an RN in the U.S. 

Typical undergraduate tuition at Keiser University is around $19,008, though online students may pay less than traditional students. The university provides a net price calculator that can be used to get the most accurate estimate of your cost of attendance. 

#28. The College at Brockport – Suny

SUNY Brockport offers the Nursing RN to BSN Fast-Track program for adult learners with RN licensure in New York State. To apply, you’ll also need an associate’s degree with a major in nursing. The program is offered entirely online, with clinical experiences that can be completed in local communities for your convenience. 

In total, you’ll typically complete around 30-36 credits in order to graduate, with many students completing their degree in 12 months full-time or around 18-24 months part-time. Required courses include subjects such as:

• Health Assessment
• Community Based Epidemiology
• Pharmacotherapeutics for the RN

Around half of graduates report success finding nursing leadership roles within a year of graduation. 

Undergraduate tuition is charged at around $7,070 for in-state students, in addition to around $1,656 in fees. For out-of-state students, tuition costs around $17,180, in addition to fees of around $1,656. Graduate tuition costs between $11,540 and $23,560 annually should you choose to pursue your master’s degree at SUNY Brockport. 

#29. Winona State University

Graduates of an associate’s degree or diploma in nursing may apply to this RN to BSN program at Winona State University, which has mandatory clinical experiences. Students will complete more than one placement with community partners, which could be located within:

• public health departments
• schools
• other community health agencies

Admissions require you to hold a current RN license and the aforementioned college-level qualification, for which you should have achieved a minimum GPA of 2.75. You may choose a full-time program of study lasting for 1 year or enroll part-time over a period of 1.5, 2, 3, or 4 years. 

Undergraduate students enrolled in a full-time program of study, comprising 12 to 18 credit hours per semester, pay tuition of between $3,799.16-$6,848.66 for the Fall semester and $3,913.13-$7,054.12 for the Spring semester. There are also other mandatory fees. Check your exact tuition schedule, which depends on residency. 

#30. SUNY Polytechnic Institute

The Associate Degree to Bachelor’s Degree in Nursing program at SUNY Polytechnic Institute is offered on both a full-time and part-time basis. All coursework is available online via the university’s Blackboard LMS (Learning Management System). There’s also a health assessment course with a lab-based component, which is also available to complete remotely. 

Admission is offered during the Fall and Spring semesters, with the curriculum involving coursework in areas such as:

• professional nursing practice
• health assessment
• research
• leadership
• public health

There’s also a strong foundation in the arts and sciences, which will help you to develop personally and professionally alongside your nursing skills development. 

Students enrolled in this program on a full-time basis, studying 12 or more credits per semester, will pay tuition of around $3,535 as a New York State resident. Students from out of state will pay tuition of around $4,240. Part-time study is charged at a rate of $295 to $353 per credit hour depending on residency. 

Frequently Asked Questions

Do RNs go to medical school?

Nurses aren’t required to attend medical school before gaining their professional licensure. In terms of academia, a 2-year degree program is sufficient for employers. However, RNs do need to pass a licensing examination before practicing with patients. Some employers such as hospitals will often ask for a bachelor’s degree as a minimum level of education. 

What is an RN to BSN program?

RN stands for Registered Nurse, while BSN stands for Bachelor of Science in Nursing. So, an RN to BSN program is an academic bridge that allows registered nurses to obtain a bachelor’s degree in nursing. Employers are increasingly looking for qualified nurses with a baccalaureate degree, and completing your BSN could be a good way to future-proof your career. 

You can become a registered nurse by completing an associate’s degree in nursing or an approved nursing diploma. Since associate’s degrees typically last for two years, these options are often more appealing to students who want to get their qualification more quickly or pay less in tuition. 

However, with more than half of RNs now having a bachelor’s degree, competition for roles is growing. This is why many colleges and universities now offer RN to BSN programs. You can obtain your bachelor’s degree in as few as 12 months by transferring prior college credits and studying for your bachelor’s degree with a part-time or full-time commitment. 

How much do RNs make?

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the median annual salary for an RN in May 2024 was around $93,600. However, the lowest 10% of earners made less than $66,030, and the upper 10% of earners made more than $135,320 each year. 

According to the same data from the BLS, the highest earners were working in government agencies, while mid-range salaries were paid for those in hospitals and ambulatory healthcare services. The lowest groups of earners tended to be stationed within nursing facilities and educational services. 

When deciding upon a nursing role, salary may be just one factor that you want to consider. Nurses in hospitals and other care facilities are often expected to work shifts, which may mean working unsociable hours. You could be working through the night, on weekends, and on holidays. 

What can I do with a nursing degree?

With a Bachelor of Science in Nursing, patient care is just one of the options available to you. Some nurses decide that their skills are better aligned with roles outside of direct patient contact, and there are many other roles that you can consider with a BSN under your belt. 

Many graduates choose to become a nurse educator, which involves teaching other nursing staff within a classroom or clinical environment. You’ll need a wealth of clinical experience, strong communication skills, and a personable attitude. However, bear in mind that this role commonly requires a master’s degree in nursing (MSN). 

Nursing management and leadership roles are also popular for RNs who have chosen to move away from patient care. This could include:

• working as a nurse manager
• nurse administrator
• healthcare manager for example

In some cases, graduates choose to pursue a master’s degree for such roles, though it’s not always strictly required. 

Can I take an online RN to BSN without clinicals?

The appeal of an online RN to BSN program is typically that it doesn’t require a commute to campus. If you’ve got a busy working schedule or are commonly on-call at short notice, then you might not have the time to commit to a lengthy commute or fixed classroom hours. Fortunately, many degrees offer asynchronous learning so that you can study at your own pace. 

However, what about the clinical requirements; how do you avoid the need to commute to a clinical site? Some degree programs do require you to commute to a placement site that’s determined by the university. In other cases, your university will endeavour to arrange clinical placements close to home. Finally, there are many programs – several on this list in fact – that allow you to meet your clinical requirements online. 

If you’re interested in pursuing higher education, then you should check out Best Online Bachelors In Nursing Degree Programs and Best Online Bachelor’s in Nursing and Healthcare! 

The post 30 Accredited Online Colleges in RN to BSN (RN Required) appeared first on Accredited Online Colleges.

The best online colleges in forensic psychology allow you to gain the psychological know-how and legal knowledge to work as a forensic psychologist. Some programs even culminate in a bachelor’s degree and a master’s degree.

Forensic psychology is increasingly popular thanks to its emphasis in big-name movies and TV shows. While Hollywood might embellish things a little, it’s still a highly popular and exciting field in which to specialize.

The work you do might range from interviewing criminals and their victims while supporting criminal investigations to preparing threat assessments for a political candidate. Forensic psychologists also train law enforcement in psychological principles, serve as expert witnesses in court, and conduct profiling of criminals that have fled police. Every day is different, making this one of the most exciting fields of psychology to practice.

See Also: How to Balance Work, Life, and an Online Psychology Degree

What Will I Learn in a Forensic Psychology Degree Program?

A bachelor’s degree in psychology introduces you basic psychological concepts. While you might take a class or two that focuses on forensics, the bulk of your undergraduate studies will be in other psychological topics, including:

• History and systems of psychology
• Psychological statistics
• Research methods in psychology
• Developmental psychology
• Physiological psychology

However, to be a forensic psychologist, you need more advanced training. In a forensic psychology concentration, you’ll usually take courses in:

• Abnormal psychology
• Legal psychology
• Criminology and Victimology
• Forensic assessment
• U.S. legal system and its processes

Some undergraduate programs have additional requirements beyond coursework. For example, you might participate in a practicum experience in which you job shadow a forensic psychologist. Doing so gives you insight into the competencies you need to focus on in your forensic psychology degree program. Likewise, you might take part in seminars in which experts in the field share their knowledge with you and other students.

In some instances, you can find undergraduate programs that have an emphasis in forensic psychology. Usually, though, accredited forensic psychology programs are only found at the graduate or doctoral levels.

See Also: 25 Online Master’s in Behavioral Psychology 2022 and 30 Accredited Psychology Programs Online

Do I Need a PhD to Become a Forensic Psychologist?

Usually, you need to attend one of the top forensic psychology PhD programs or complete another doctoral degree, like a PsyD, to get the best jobs in this field. However, you might find some careers that only require a master’s degree. In those instances, there’s usually an added requirement of having extensive experience working as a psychologist or in law enforcement (or both). Likewise, research positions in forensic psychology are often available to graduates of masters programs in this field.

What’s certain is that you can’t become a forensic psychologist if your highest level of education is a bachelor’s degree. But, you might find work as a research assistant or another junior position that gets you some experience in the field while you get your master’s degree and doctorate.

What are the Best Forensic Psychology Degrees?

Accredited Online College used the most recent data from the Department of Education’s National Center for Education Statistics to determine the rankings for good colleges for forensic psychology.

Each of the forensic psychology schools has an individual score. That score is compared to all other universities offering the same degree to determine the final score you see by each ranking. Accredited Online College considers several factors when scoring these programs, including:

• Affordability
• Student-to-faculty ratio
• Number of programs offered on-campus and online

Using these and other factors to determine these rankings, we’ve devised a reliable means to evaluate these programs for you. This means you don’t have to Google “forensic psychology best colleges” or “online degree forensic psychology.” Instead, we’ve done the heavy lifting for you!

To learn more about our ranking methods for colleges with good forensic psychology programs, visit our methodology page. 

The Best Online Colleges for Forensic Psychology

#1. Liberty University

Topping our list of the best online forensic psychology programs is Liberty University. Liberty offers accredited online programs via distance learning through LU Online. This includes a Bachelor of Science in Psychology – Criminal Psychology.

This 120-credit-hour program is fully online. It takes around 3.5 years to complete, provided you study full-time. Yet, because it’s online with flexible classes, this program allows you to continue working while earning your degree.

In this program, you’ll take courses such as:

• Social Psychology
• Crisis Intervention
• Abnormal Psychology
• Psychology of Criminal Behavior

Each course is eight weeks in length. This accelerated format allows you to focus on fewer subjects at any given time. As a transfer student, you’ll have fewer courses to complete, anyway. Liberty University’s generous transfer policy allows up to 75 percent of the total degree credits to come from another accredited school.

The typical cost of tuition for a full-time, online undergraduate degree is around $390 per credit hour. For part-time students, this cost rises to $455 per credit hour. Active duty law enforcement and other first responders are eligible for a 25% discount. All students receive electronic textbooks at no additional charge.

#2. Arizona State University

At Arizona State University (ASU Online), you can earn an online bachelor of science in psychology with an emphasis in Forensic Psychology. This 120-credit-hour program typically takes four years of full-time study to complete.

Classes in this forensic psychology bachelor degree last 7.5 weeks on average. You’ll complete approximately 39 classes as part of the degree program. There’s also an alternative Bachelor of Arts program that focuses more on math and science as opposed to biological and neuroscientific understanding.

In this program, you will examine where law and mental health intersect and gain a good foundation in key psychological theories and concepts. Additionally, there’s a strong focus on statistics and research. Courses include:

• Forensic Psychology
• Correctional Psychology
• Abnormal Psychology
• Statistical Methods
• Psychology and Law

Tuition at ASU Online varies depending on your chosen program, the number of transfer credits, and your course load. Typically, the cost-per-credit ranges from $561-$1,343. Undergraduates pay between $561-$661 per credit hour, while graduate courses are $543 or more per credit. For more specific estimates, check out the ASU Online tuition calculator.

#3. Eastern Kentucky University

Via EKU Online (Eastern Kentucky University Online), learners like you can earn a Bachelor of Science in Psychology. You can apply up to 90 transfer credits toward the overall 120-credit degree program.

Since your classes are fully online, you can easily attend to work and life commitments. It helps that there are no campus visits required for this program.

EKU’s psychology program offers many concentrations, allowing you to specialize in an area that interests you or benefits your career most. In addition to forensic psychology, you can choose from:

• General Psychology
• Autism Spectrum Disorders
• Child and Family Psychology
• Workplace Psychology
• Psychiatric Rehabilitation
• Brain and Cognitive Science
• Substance Abuse

Additional minors include Criminal Justice, Social Welfare, and Child and Family Studies. Any of these minors pair well with a concentration in forensic psychology.

Unlike many traditional programs, EKU Online’s distance learning programs are billed at a single rate regardless of residency. Wherever you live in the U.S., you’ll pay around $421 per credit hour for your bachelor’s degree program in forensic psychology.

#4. Purdue University Global

Purdue University’s Global Campus offers a Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice. This forensic psychology major is in 10-week terms, with an estimated minimum of 15-18 hours of effort needed per week to successfully complete the program. You’ll need to complete 180 quarter credit hours to graduate.

Enrollment in this program gives you access to six concentrations, which include:

• Crime Scene Investigation
• Forensic Psychology
• Homeland Security
• Juvenile Justice
• Law Enforcement
• Socially Responsible Leadership

There’s at least one start date in each calendar month, offering maximum flexibility to start your program at the most convenient time.

Purdue University’s website has resources for calculating the approximate tuition you’ll pay for your program. This includes a tuition comparison worksheet and a net price calculator. Undergraduate students in a bachelor’s degree pay $371 per credit hour, which works out to $66,780 for this program. If you’re a veteran, you can complete this degree faster and less expensively with military transfer credits.

#5. Faulkner University

At Faulkner University, you can enroll in an Online Bachelor of Science in Forensic Psychology program that involves coursework in various subjects. In addition to your major requirements, you’ll learn topics such as:

• Psychology and behavior
• Interrogation
• Criminal law and investigations

Likewise, you’ll take a selection of forensic psychology electives that include Constitutional Law, Personality, and Criminalistics studies, to name a few.

All courses are offered online with no mandatory campus visits.

For admission into the program, you must be a high school graduate and submit an advanced diploma or GED certificate. If you graduated from high school less than five years prior, you must also submit ACT (at least 18 composite) or SAT (minimum 970) scores.

As an undergraduate student, you’ll pay between $310-325 per credit hour for the program. The exception is for military-qualified students taking 60 hours or less, which attracts a discounted rate of $250 per credit hour. Fees include a $70 per credit hour online course fee. 

#6. Grand Canyon University

Grand Canyon University’s online program in forensic psychology is a 120-credit-hour program that takes four years of full-time study. With all courses online and no campus visits required, this degree program offers the greatest flexibility for earning your Bachelor of Science degree in psychology.

This degree’s coursework is divided into general education courses (30-40 credits), 64 credits in the psychology major, and 16-22 open electives. You can expect to take forensic psychology courses in the following areas:

• Introduction to Forensic Psychology
• Personality Psychology
• Criminal Law
• Understanding Trauma
• Abnormal Psychology

This program also requires the completion of a capstone project. This project entails thorough research on a specific problem or issue relevant to forensic psychology.

Completing the capstone requires you to identify the problem or issue, conduct a literature review, and identify relevant research questions and methods. Likewise, you’re responsible for determining the limitations of your research and outlining any ethical considerations that should be considered.

Tuition for online studies in psychology is $485 per credit hour. GCU offers a substantial tuition discount for active-duty military, active reserve, and members of the National Guard. Military spouses are also eligible for the discounted rate of $250 per credit.

#7. Louisiana State University-Alexandria

Next in our rankings of the top forensic psychology colleges is Louisiana State University’s distance learning campus, LSU Online. You can earn an online Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice without stepping on campus.

This program includes a Criminal Psychology Concentration that allows you to explore the inner workings of the U.S. criminal justice system from a psychological perspective.

Admission into the program requires a minimum high school GPA of at least 2.0. Moreover, you must have an ACT composite of at least 20 or a high school core GPA of at least 2.0. If enrolled, your studies will cover course subjects such as:

• Police Process
• The Judicial Process
• Corrections Process
• Juvenile Delinquency

The program includes 120 credit hours. These hours include general education courses, major area courses, and electives. Six hours of electives must be in psychology, while 24 hours are free electives from any subject area.

Undergraduate tuition for this degree is $291 per credit hour. This figure includes fees. The estimated total cost of the program is around $34,920 before financial aid is applied, and assuming that you transfer no credits. If you have military or law enforcement training, you can earn credit towards this degree to reduce the course load. Consult LSU Online’s Prior Learning Assessment guide to learn how you can do so.

#8. Columbia College

Studying forensic psychology at Columbia College puts you in the driver’s seat for a future career in this field. The program is entirely online, giving you the flexibility to complete your coursework on a schedule that fits your needs.

The curriculum revolves around learning basic psychological principles and advanced skills in forensics. You’ll do this by taking courses in:

• U.S. Constitutional Law for Law Enforcement
• Ethics in Criminal Justice
• Criminological Theory
• Forensic Crime Scene Investigation with Lab
• Psychological Disorders

You’ll also take a psychological research course, statistics, and a course in the psychology of personality.

As a result of these studies, you’ll acquire skills critical for working in forensic psychology. For example, you’ll learn about the scope of normal human behavior and develop the ability to identify when behavior deviates from those norms. Likewise, you’ll learn how to critically evaluate research and implement strategies to ensure the administration of justice.

Tuition at Columbia College is $395 per credit. This includes free e-books for your courses. This school accepts up to 90 transfer credits. If you’ve already started your studies elsewhere, you can significantly reduce the time needed to complete this degree by seeking to transfer those credits to Columbia College.

#9. Colorado State University Global

At Colorado State University Global (CSU Global), you can pair a major specialization in Criminal Forensics with several degree programs. Students commonly pair this specialization with a:

• B.S. in Criminal Justice
• B.S. in Information Technology
• B.S. in Organizational Leadership

Of course, you can also major in psychology and add this Criminal Forensics specialization to prepare yourself for future studies in a graduate forensic psychology program.

This specialization includes a total of 15 credit hours in criminal forensics. You’ll take courses in forensic psychology, criminal investigation, and investigative forensic photography. Additionally, you’ll take a course in crime scene investigation and investigating and forensic interviewing. Combined with the knowledge and skills you acquire in your psychology program, these courses give you a well-rounded understanding of psychology and forensics.

The specialization program emphasizes hands-on, practical instruction to help you understand the processes behind crime scene investigation and evidence analysis. You’ll also learn how to treat suspects, witnesses, and victims. 

At CSU Global, the cost per credit for undergraduate students is around $350, with each 3-credit course costing around $1,050. This makes for an annual tuition of approximately $8,400 on average. What’s more, there are no fees associated with this program. There are no fees for any bachelor’s and master’s degrees at CSU Global, either! 

#10. Southern New Hampshire University

Southern New Hampshire University (SNHU) offers a Bachelor of Arts (BA) in Psychology with a concentration in Forensic Psychology. Accredited by the NECHE, you’ll complete 120 credits and may transfer up to 90 of those from prior college-level studies. You’ll also earn a data literacy certificate alongside your degree.

During the first two years in this program, you’ll build an understanding of antisocial behavior and its causes. Additionally, you’ll learn how crime impacts its victims and society on a broader scale. You’ll also develop essential skills, including improved critical thinking, an understanding of psychological statistics, and the ability to conduct psychological research.

Courses you can expect to take in this program include:

• Theories of Personality
• Social Psychology
• Psychology and Social Change
• Criminal Psychology
• Sociology of Deviant Behavior

A capstone project is also required, along with 39 credits of free electives. Since you can choose your capstone topic and your free electives, this is a highly customizable program. 

SNHU is an affordable school for online studies. For online undergraduate degree programs, you’ll pay around $960 per course, which is around $320 per credit hour. A discounted rate for U.S. service members and their spouses is $225 per credit hour.

#11. Maryville University

You can enroll in an Online Bachelor’s in Forensic Psychology at Maryville University to kickstart your career in this field. The Bachelor of Arts degree focuses coursework on three key areas: 

• Psychology
• Criminal justice
• Social science

As you take more courses in this program, you’ll develop skills related to identifying abnormal behaviors, understanding criminal procedures, and analyzing research. Furthermore, this program includes an internship component so you can see these skills at work in a real-life setting. The internship is customized to your interests, too.

The coursework in this program is entirely online, and there are no mandatory residencies or campus visits. Classes are also asynchronous, which gives you maximum flexibility around your work schedule. What’s more, the curriculum was designed alongside the American Psychological Association standards, ensuring that it is relevant and up to date. 

An added benefit of this program is that you can begin your master’s degree before completing your undergraduate degree. This saves you time and money and puts you on a track to being a master’s-level psychologist much sooner.

Tuition costs at Maryville University depend on the degree program you’re enrolled in. For this degree program, tuition is $500 per credit hour, with 128 credits required for graduation. The alternative BA in Psychology is $500 per credit as well. 

#12. Union Institute & University – Permanently Closed.

At Union Institute & University, you can enroll in a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology program that takes four years to complete. This program has various concentrations in a range of subjects, including:

• Holistic Studies
• Forensic Psychology
• Addiction Studies
• Industrial and Organizational Psychology

Classes are entirely online. You’ll learn from experienced mental health professionals, and class sizes are small, giving you the opportunity for more individualized attention as you learn. 

Both part-time and full-time options are available. You’ll complete 120 credit hours, though you can transfer up to 90 credits toward your degree. Classes start every eight weeks, giving you added flexibility to complete your studies.

You can also opt to begin your master’s degree before you finish your undergraduate degree. Union offers a Master of Arts major in Clinical Mental Health Counseling that you can start during the final semester of your bachelor’s degree program.

Undergraduate tuition is $545 per credit hour for this psychology degree. Get more information on tuition and fees by visiting the Union Institute & University website.

#13. Touro University Worldwide

Though Touro University is in New York, its Worldwide campus offers an Online Bachelor of Arts in Psychology with a concentration in Forensic Psychology that’s accessible to students around the world.

Some of the favorable features of this program include six annual start dates and the ability to transfer up to 90 credits toward the 120-credit total for graduation. Likewise, you can move directly into Touro University Worldwide’s graduate psychology program, which also focuses on forensic psychology. 

The undergraduate program is entirely online and features 8-week courses. In addition to having accelerated courses, small class sizes ensure your ability to interact closely with your professors. Instructors at Touro have real-world experience in their field, making them an invaluable asset in your learning program.

Coursework for this degree includes major-area courses in abnormal psychology, forensic psychology, and criminology. There’s also a capstone component that allows you to synthesize what you’ve learned throughout the program and develop higher-level skills that you’ll need in graduate studies in forensic psychology.

Tuition at Touro University costs $400 per credit hour for associate and bachelor’s degrees and $500 per credit hour for master’s programs. Many of the usual fees don’t apply at Touro. This means you won’t pay a technology fee, student service fee, and more. 

Touro University Worldwide is regionally accredited by the WASC Senior Colleges and University Commission. Since it’s regionally accredited, you don’t have to worry about a Touro University diploma mill. The degree you earn at Touro is recognized as high quality, given the school’s accreditation status.

#14. Florida Institute of Technology

Florida Tech’s Bachelor of Arts in Applied Psychology with a Concentration in Forensic Psychology is an entirely online program that prepares you for entry-level work in this field. Including a foundation in the liberal arts, the program focuses on how the field of forensic psychology links to the U.S. legal system and law enforcement. 

The curriculum covers key subject areas, including counseling, criminal behavior, and legal processes. You’ll also study criminal investigations, policing, and victimology. Specific courses you can look forward to taking include:

• Integrated Theories of Crime
• Victim Studies and Advocacy
• Forensic Clinical Psychology
• Psychology of Leadership
• Experiment and Abnormal Psychology

Graduation requirements include completing 109 credits of core courses and 12 credits of electives, for a total of 121 credits. Undergraduate tuition is $510 per credit hour, which makes the total cost of tuition around $61,710 for this program.

#15. Bushnell University

Bushnell University offers an Online Bachelor of Science in Psychology that enables you to transfer credits for your degree from past work experience in law enforcement or the military. Doing so can significantly reduce the number of credits you must complete to get your degree.

This program allows you to gain a solid understanding of how psychology influences criminal justice. Courses begin every eight weeks, and all teaching is delivered online, though you may participate in face-to-face classes once per week if you prefer. 

To complete the requirements for graduation, you’ll take courses that include:

• Biological Psychology
• Abnormal Psychology
• Forensic Psychology
• Psychometrics
• Cognition

You’ll also study topics that develop your skills and experience in research projects and methods, human development, and statistics. Additionally, there’s a senior capstone project that culminates in an oral defense of your research.

For undergraduate online programs at Bushnell, tuition costs $495 per credit hour. The average annual financial aid package is approximately $11,700, which can significantly offset the cost of getting this degree.

#16. Bay Path University

Last on our list of colleges that offer forensic psychology is Bay Path University. You can study human behavior, mental health, and criminal justice at Bay Path University in the BA in Psychology: Forensic Psychology program.

You’ll study many different topics related to psychology and criminal justice. This includes:

• Motivations that underlie criminal behavior
• The role played by mental illness in crime
• Ethical considerations that exist in the legal and criminal justice systems

This online program is offered through The American Women’s College, and you can take two graduate-level courses too. Doing so provides a good stepping stone into the institution’s Clinical Mental Health Counseling program. While there is a four-year, accelerated program that allows you to obtain your master’s degree while you get your undergraduate degree, it is not available online.

Bay Path University offers a single tuition rate for online programs, which is $410 per credit. With a military tuition discount, this rate drops to $350 per credit. According to the institution’s website, there are “no surprises“; there are very few fees outside typical books or supplies costs.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does forensic psychology mean?

The American Psychological Association (APA) defines forensic psychology as the application of clinical expertise in psychology to the legal arena. Most other definitions are similar, involving the practice of psychology in the context of law or those who come into contact with the law. 

​​The field of psychology is fairly new. It was only in 2001 that the APA officially recognized forensic psychology as a specialty area. This is despite the fact that the roots of this field go back much further. Today, the field is becoming increasingly popular with students, likely due to the growth of popular TV programs and movies that depict crime-solving main characters.

As noted in the introduction, though, forensic psychologists do much more than hunt down criminals. In fact, it’s rare for forensic psychologists to do that! Instead, most forensic psychology is done behind the scenes in laboratories for research or in professional settings, like consulting with law enforcement agencies.

A prime example of this is one of the most common duties for forensic psychologists – training law enforcement personnel. In this role, a forensic psychologist offers insights into human behavior, criminality, and the victim’s experience. If you become a forensic psychologist, you’ll spend most of your time in this context, serving as an expert to help others do their jobs more effectively.

This is just one example of what forensic psychology is, though. You’ll also spend most of your time as a forensic psychologist in an assessment function. You might conduct a psychological evaluation of a defendant before their criminal trial. You might also evaluate the fitness of a parent before they get their children back from state custody. While these duties aren’t as flashy as what’s on TV, they are nonetheless essential to ensure the mental health and safety of everyone involved.

What can I do with a degree in forensic psychology?

Though forensic psychology jobs often require completing a master’s degree or doctoral program, many entry-level positions in criminal justice and law enforcement are accessible with a bachelor’s degree. For example, with an undergraduate degree in psychology, you can become a juvenile offender counselor, a police officer, a probation officer, or a jury consultant. 

Forensic psychology students who wish to become police officers ordinarily join a police academy training program. Other careers might involve an entrance examination, such as working in probation and parole.

As noted above, you’ll need at least a master’s degree to work as a forensic psychologist. With the proper education and training, you can work in many different capacities in forensic psychology, including:

• Counseling and clinical work
• Trauma counseling
• Victim’s advocacy
• Law enforcement training
• Jury preparation
• Criminal profiling

These career paths might require different training and educational requirements. Likewise, counseling roles involve licensure in the state where you want to practice. In some cases, you might need a certification or another professional credential to perform the specific work that interests you.

In other words, the possibilities for employment in this field are virtually endless. Of course, the key is getting the proper education and training to make your career goals attainable. An excellent place to start that process is to consult guides like this. Your academic advisor is another good resource to help you chart a course for success.

What do forensic psychologists do?

One of the most important and routine duties for forensic psychologists is to assess those accused of committing crimes. This doesn’t mean you’ll interview just defendants of a crime, either; you may work with their victims or witnesses to the event.

Because of the nature of this job, forensic psychologists must have training in law, the legal system, and criminal processes. Additionally, you also need thorough training in many areas of psychology, such as criminal psychology, abnormal psychology, and developmental psychology. Clinical skills involving assessment, interview techniques, and report writing are also very important for practicing forensic psychology.

If you decide to work in private practice, you might meet with clients in a therapeutic setting, much like a clinical psychologist does. Likewise, as a forensic psychology consultant, you might offer your services to government agencies, law enforcement, or businesses. This might involve teaching others about the nature of criminality, assisting with an active investigation by offering a profile of the suspect, or teaching school resource officers about the characteristics to look for in a child that might be prone to violence at school

According to the APA, you might also participate in threat assessment for schools, evaluation of those involved in child custody cases, counseling for victims, and more. Regardless of the areas in which you work, strong verbal communication skills are essential, as are solid written communication skills. As with any career in psychology, you’ll have a lot of paperwork to complete as a forensic psychologist!

What do forensic psychologists make?

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the median annual salary for all psychologists in the U.S. is around $94,310. Those earning the highest wages are employed by government organizations, which includes many forensic psychologists. The highest 10 percent of earners make more than $157,330 per year.

Another lesser-known career in this field is forensic science technician. A bachelor’s degree is sufficient in this role, and you’ll aid criminal investigations by gathering and analyzing evidence used in criminal proceedings. The annual median wage for a forensic science technician is around $67,440.

In terms of other entry-level roles, probation officers made around $64,520 annually, according to the BLS. Police officers and detectives earn slightly more, at around $77,270. Earning your master’s degree or Ph.D. is one of the best ways to improve your earning potential in forensic psychology. Doing so opens up more advanced roles, including clinical psychology and counseling. With a median annual wage of $96,100, working as a clinical or counseling forensic psychologist also enables you to earn more money.

Does forensic psychology need biology?

Yes, forensic psychologists need a solid background in biology. If you’re in high school, you should prioritize taking as many psychology, biology, and chemistry courses as possible. Doing so gives you the best foundation to build an advanced education in your undergraduate studies. In fact, most psychology degrees include courses that link to biology (e.g., biological psychology, neuropsychology). Having a solid understanding of the natural sciences will certainly benefit you.

If you’re already enrolled in an undergraduate psychology program, consider taking extra biology and chemistry courses. Even if these classes aren’t required for your degree, they will help you build skills relevant to forensic psychology work. Ph.D. programs in forensic psychology are often heavily focused on research, so a strong foundation in scientific principles is a must for advancing your education.

If you’re interested in pursuing higher education, check out 20 Best Online Psychology Degree Programs and 20 Best Master’s in Psychology.

The post 16 Best Online Colleges in Forensic Psychology 2025 appeared first on Accredited Online Colleges.

The best online master’s in counseling can prepare you for a career in mental health, substance misuse, child and adolescent counseling, and more.

The best online master’s degrees in counseling can prepare you for varied, rewarding careers in therapy. The National Institute of Mental Health reports that 25% of adults suffer from a diagnosable mental disorder.

Around five percent of children from 4-17 suffer emotional and behavioral difficulties too. WIth one of the best online master’s in counseling, you’ll be able to prepare to join the forefront of mental health care remotely, without sacrificing your busy, working schedule.

What will I learn in a master’s degree in counseling?

The best online master’s degrees in counseling are no different from their traditional, campus-based counterparts. Some programs focus on a specific ‘type’ of counseling, such as marriage and family therapy or substance misuse, while others have broad curriculums that allow you to choose a specialization or gain a broad understanding of all areas.

The best online master’s degrees in counseling allow you to meet the necessary academic and clinical requirements to gain professional licensure as a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) in your state or another state across the nation. Whether you’re already working as a counselor or want to enter the profession after graduation, these degree programs will help get you there.

What are the Best Counseling Degrees?

Accredited Online College uses the most recent data from the Department of Education’s National Center for Education Statistics. Each program is scored individually. It’s then compared to all other universities offering that degree to determine the final score you see by each ranking. Accredited Online College considers the affordability, student-to-faculty ratio, and the number of programs offered on-campus and online. To learn more, visit our methodology page. 

#1. Liberty University

With Liberty University Online (LU Online), you can get your Master of Arts in Clinical Mental Health Counseling. Comprising 60 credit hours, the program can be completed in around 2.5 years on average. You could also transfer up to half of this degree credit total from prior college study.

The program is offered entirely online and is accredited by the CACREP. and it has been ranked one of the best value master’s degrees in counseling by AffordableColleges.com. You’ll study courses such as:

• Human Growth and Development
• Psychopathology
• Crisis Counseling
• Clinical Diagnosis and Treatment Planning

Liberty University is committed to being an affordable option in addition to a great-quality university. Tuition has been frozen for a number of years, and typical undergraduate tuition rates are around $390 per credit hour for full-time course loads. For part-time study, it’s around $455 per credit hour.

#2. University of North Texas

At the University of North Texas (UNT), students have the option of a Rehabilitation Counseling Master of Science Online. Studying under the UNT College of Health and Public Science, you’ll complete 60 credit hours over a total of 19 fully online classes. This program has been ranked by U.S. News & World Report for its academic quality.

Courses include:

• counseling ethics and principles
• diversity
• counseling techniques and theories
• assessment
• research and program evaluation
• case management best practices

Upon successfully graduating from the program, you will be eligible to gain national certification as a rehabilitation counselor, in addition to state licensure as a professional counselor. 

Typical tuition at UNT for Texas residents is just $50 per credit hour, while Oklahoma residents pay $100 per credit hour. Non-residents pay the higher rate of around $458 per credit hour. You can find a tuition and fees calculator on the university’s website for the most accurate estimate of your costs.

#3. University of the Cumberlands

At the University of the Cumberlands, you can enroll in an Online Master’s in Addiction Counseling. This degree is suited toward students who want to pursue careers in counseling for patients with substance abuse disorders. However, you could still work in other roles, including as a health educator, social administrator, community health worker, or postsecondary teacher for example.

This master’s program involves a lot of practical experience, with a 100-hour counseling practicum and two 300-hour internships available as part of the curriculum. Your academic studies will focus on areas such as psychopharmacology, family therapy, addictions, and motivation and change. The program is accredited by the CACREP.

Tuition at the University of the Cumberlands is a single, fixed rate for all undergraduate online programs. You’ll pay just $199 per credit hour, in addition to a bi-termly technology fee of $50. Master’s programs such as this one are charged at a rate of $315 per credit hour.

#4. Lamar University

Lamar University offers an M.Ed. Clinical Mental Health Counseling degree via the College of Education and Human Development. The program has been designed for those who already possess a bachelor’s degree and want to pursue a career as a mental health counselor. Your 60 credit hours of coursework is specifically tailored toward this role.

The program also involves a practicum and internship, which will give you valuable hands-on experience in a counseling setting. Field experience courses last for 15 weeks in the Fall and Spring and 10 weeks in the Summer semester. They may include:

• school counseling
• marriage, couples and family counseling
• clinical mental health counseling placements

Typical tuition at Lamar University depends on your residency. While Texas residents pay around $682.71, non-residents pay the higher rate of around $1,091.71 for graduate programs. There are additional fees to consider, including a $100 student center fee and $30-per-credit-hour technology service charge for online programs. 

#5. North Carolina Central University

The MA in Clinical Mental Health Counseling at NC Central University is offered entirely online via the NCCU Online campus. Comprising 60 credit hours of course work in total, you’ll be prepared to work as a clinical mental health counselor in non-profit, private, and other settings. The program is classified as a Criteria C institution for licensure as a Clinical Addictions Specialist, and you’ll need to complete three additional courses if you would like to pursue LCAS licensure.

For admission into the program, you’ll need to possess a bachelor’s degree in which you obtained a minimum GPA of 2.7. You’ll also need to evidence your GRE, all official transcripts, and provide two recommendations. You should also be prepared to write an admissions essay as part of your application.

In-state tuition rates at NCCU Online are lower than average, with undergraduates paying around $91.00 per credit hour and graduates paying around $157.11 per credit hour. Out-of-state students pay around $441.62 for undergraduate programs and $669.83 as a graduate student. More information on rates can be found on the tuition page.

#6. Concordia University-Wisconsin

At Concordia University Wisconsin, you can enroll in a Master of Science in Education, with either a School Counseling Licensure or Professional Counseling Licensure. You’ll complete between 45 and 60 credits and learn from a faculty that includes instructors with experience in the counseling profession. 

If you’re interested in pursuing the SAC-IT (Substance Abuse Counselor in Training) credential with WI DSPS, then you can opt to complete additional coursework to this end. Similarly, you can choose to gain a Christian Counseling certificate during the course of your studies.

Graduate students studying an online program will pay around $646 per credit hour under the Department of Graduate Education. The university has also recently launched four scholarships exclusively designed for adult learners, which range from $150 to $500 per course. You can find more information about scholarships on the university’s website.

#7. Adams State University

Adams State University offers a Master of Arts in Clinical Mental Health and School Counseling. Collectively, these programs are accredited by The Higher Learning Commission, CACREP, and The Colorado Department of Education. Upon graduation, you’ll meet the necessary requirements to gain licensure as a school counselor and/or Licensed Professional Counselor.

Core courses in this program focus on the knowledge needed by any counselor, such as lifespan development, group counseling, couples’ counseling, and addictions counseling. Depending on your chosen specialization, you’ll then take courses like Clinical Mental Health Counseling and Diagnosis & Psychopathology, or Comprehensive School Counseling and Professional School Counseling Issues.

Graduate tuition at Adams State University varies for traditional and online programs. Resident, on-campus students pay around $426.19 per credit hour including fees, while non-resident, on-campus students pay around $586.19 per credit hour. For online programs such as this one, you’ll pay around $452.80 per credit hour.

#8. Winston-Salem State University

At Winston-Salem State University, you can enroll in a Master of Science in Rehabilitation Counseling. The aim of the program is to prepare students to work with those who have physical, psychosocial, developmental, and sensory disabilities. After graduation, you’ll be eligible to enter the Certified Rehabilitation Counselor (CRC) examination.

Learning takes place online, and this involves both synchronous and asynchronous courses. What’s more, you’ll be able to choose from five concentrations including:

• Rehabilitation Counseling
• Clinical Mental Health Counseling
• Deaf and Hard of Hearing
• Transition
• Vocational Evaluation

The department has enjoyed an average 97% program completion rate in recent years.

Graduates at Winston-Salem State University pay around $231.08 per credit hour as state residents or $726.91 per credit hour as non-residents. Including all fees, full-time students in this program will pay around $2,824.34 and $8,845.70, respectively. Fees include educational and technology fees and student government fees.

#9. Bellevue University

Bellevue University offers a Master of Science in Clinical Mental Health Counseling that’s accredited by CACREP. Students can choose from a traditional, face-to-face program or an entirely online program of study. The curriculum has been modeled on existing licensing standards for clinical mental health counselors, so you can take your licensure examination after graduation.

Courses include those such as:

• Theories of Psychopathology
• Foundations of Addictions Counseling
• Couples and Family Counseling

You’ll also complete 100 practicum hours and 600 clinical internship hours with around 40% of each involving direct client contact. If you’re not located close to campus, you can complete your clinical requirements close to your home.

As an online graduate student at Bellevue University, you’ll pay tuition of around $610 per credit hour. You should also consider additional costs, including around $1,680 in online fees and other fees that you can find on the university’s website.

#10. The University of Alabama

At the University of Alabama, you can enroll in a Master of Arts in Rehabilitation Counseling that’s offered entirely online. It’s a master’s degree that has been ranked twice by U.S. News & World Report for its graduate and veterans graduate education quality.

While you’ll study online, you’ll benefit from live lectures and clinical experiences that impart valuable, hands-on experience in counseling. You’ll complete a total of 600 clinical hours as part of an internship experience. Courses include:

• Substance Abuse Counseling
• Rehabilitation Counseling
• Individual and Group Appraisal
• Case Management

For admission into this master’s degree program, you’ll need to have a bachelor’s degree with a minimum undergraduate GPA of 3.0. You will also need to evidence a minimum GRE score of 300 or 50th percentile result from the MAT. Tuition costs for this program are around $440 per credit hour.

#11. University of West Alabama

The University of West Alabama offers a Master’s in Clinical Mental Health Counseling via their online campus, UWA Online. Comprising 60 credit hours in total and 8-week courses, you can earn your master’s in around two to three years on average. The program is designed for students who wish to pursue a career in clinical mental health counseling.

You’ll complete a total of 9 credit hours in professional courses and 45 hours in concentration courses, including those such as:

• Psychopathology
• Techniques of Counseling
• Counseling Children and Adolescents
• Diagnostic Techniques in Counseling

For admissions consideration, you’ll be expected to submit a portfolio that includes an essay describing your career goals. You’ll also need to provide three recommendations and complete a video interview.

UWA Online charges graduate tuition of around $429.00 per credit hour for master’s degree programs. You’ll also need to cover a technology fee of $60 per session and clinical experience fee of $50. Rates are competitive compared to other nearby universities, with a handy comparison on the university’s website highlighting the value for money gained.

#12. LeTourneau University

The M.A. in Clinical Mental Health Counseling at LeTourneau University comprises 66 credit hours and is offered entirely online. For admission, you’ll need to have earned a bachelor’s or master’s degree from an accredited institution, with a minimum GPA of at least 2.5 on a 4.0 scale. 

You’ll complete 45 credit hours of core curriculum coursework in areas that cover basic and advanced knowledge. Courses include:

• Research Methods
• Counseling Skills and Techniques
• Lifespan Human Development

These will help ground you in the key skills and knowledge required by counselors. You’ll advance your understanding with courses such as:

• Psychopharmacology
• Group Counseling Methods
• Counseling Diverse Populations

Typical graduate tuition for an online student is around $10,890 to $19,200 annually, with your total cost depending on whether you are transferring credits from prior college-level study. Books and supplies may come in at around $1,755 too. A more detailed view of program costs can be found on the university’s website.

#13. Prairie View A & M University

Prairie View A&M University offers a Master of Science in Educational Administrations (MSED). Unlike some master’s programs, this program can be completed in as little as one year, comprising just 30 credit hours. The MSED is designed for students who don’t intend on becoming a certified principal. 

Alternatively, you can enroll in the Master of Arts Emphasis on School Counseling (MA) or Master of Education in Educational Administration (MED) programs. These comprise 48 credit hours and 36 credit hours, respectively. The first focuses on the eight core areas specified by the CACREP, while the second is for students who intend on becoming certified principals.

To obtain a closer estimate of your full costs, you can use the tuition calculator on the university’s website. Typical online tuition for a graduate student is around $576.97 per credit hour, which includes an installment fee, scholarship fee, and university services fee.

#14. University of Louisiana

Accredited by the CACREP, the Master of Science in Counseling (M.S.) at the University of Louisiana offers four separate concentration areas. These are:

• Clinical Mental Health Counseling
• School Counseling
• Addictions Counseling
• Combined Option

The program comprises 60 credit hours and can be completed entirely online, with no residency requirement.

Students interested in a particular field can also opt to select from 30 elective courses that can be used to specialize at a greater level within a specific area. Should you choose the Combined Option, you’ll specialize in two areas as opposed to one. However, this option involves a total of 75 credit hours of study. You can also pursue LPC licensure and school certification.

Tuition for ULM Online programs is straightforward, with a single rate for all programs. As a graduate student taking an online program, you’ll pay around $500.00 per credit hour, with undergraduates paying $400.00 per credit hour. This includes all fees, with no surprises.

#15. Mid-America Christian University

Mid-America Christian University offers a Master of Science in Counseling with a Licensed Professional Counselor Emphasis. Biblical principles are woven into the curriculum of this program that is intended to prepare you for work in a number of clinical settings or Christian ministries. All classes are available online, though you also have the option of attending weekly campus-based classes in Oklahoma City.

While faith-based principles are used throughout the program, all classes are instructed in scientific methods. Your instructors also draw on real-world experience in counseling settings, and many instructors are licensed counselors too. Admissions criteria are fairly relaxed, with a lower GP and test score required than many other institutions.

MACU offers competitive tuition rates and a number of scholarship options to help you cover the cost of your graduate degree. Typical graduate tuition at MACU costs around $400 to $642 per credit hour. Scholarships, while competitive, are generous; you can find more information on scholarship awards on the institution’s website.

#16. Thomas University

Thomas University offers a fully online Master’s in Clinical Mental Health and Rehabilitation Counseling with a clinical focus. It’s dually accredited by both the Council on Accreditation of Counseling and Related Programs (CACREP), making it the only program to hold such dual accreditation in the state. After graduation, you’ll be prepared to gain licensure as a professional counselor, in addition to the Certified Rehabilitation Counselor (CRC).

Class sizes are small and intimate; there’s a faculty-to-student ratio of just 1:10 in all core classes, and the ratio is even smaller during fieldwork. Should you choose to do so, you can opt to specialize in alcohol and addictions counseling by taking on 12 graduate level credits as part of your program.

Typical tuition for online graduate programs is around $725 per credit hour, slightly higher than the $524-570 for other online graduate programs. You can get the most accurate net cost of attendance by using the online calculator, and you can find textbook expenses using the online bookstore.

#17. Concordia University-Irvine

At Concordia University Irvine, you can enroll in a Master of Arts in Counseling: Clinical Mental Health via the Townsend Institute. Accredited by CACREP, this program will teach you how to assess and treat those struggling with mental health issues. You’ll learn more than 20 skills for transforming relationships, cognition, and emotions, and creating lasting change.

On the accelerated program, you can complete this program in 24 to 36 months. You’ll take courses such as:

• Human Growth and Development
• Theories of Counseling
• Clinical Psychopathology and Diagnosis
• Theory and Practice of Assessment

Courses are available entirely online and last for 7 weeks at a time.

Graduate tuition for this online program comes to around $670 per credit. The university also offers a Ph.D. in Counselor Education & Supervision for students who are interested in pursuing further study. A comprehensive list of tuition and fees can be found on the university’s website.

#18. California Baptist University

California Baptist University offers a Master of Science in Counseling Psychology via the distance learning campus, CBU Online. There’s an emphasis on marriage and family therapy or professional clinical counseling, and the curriculum takes a Christian worldview in its teachings. After graduation, you can take the necessary examinations to obtain licensure in California as a marriage and family therapist or Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor (LPCC).

The program has been ranked as one of the best master’s in psychology, in addition to CBU Online being designated as one of the best colleges in California. You can choose to study entirely online via asynchronous learning or in a virtual hybrid format, which sees you working synchronously with your cohort. 

You will complete a total of 60 credits in this program that takes an average of around 24 months to finish. Tuition is charged on a per-credit basis, with the typical graduate tuition for an online program coming to around $45,000 annually. This is around $745 per credit hour.

#19. Eastern University

At Eastern University, the scope for focusing your counseling education is broad. You can enroll in a Master of Arts in Clinical Counseling, with a concentration in either Applied Behavior Analysis Certification or Trauma Studies. Alternatively, there’s a Master of Education in School Counseling and a Master of Science in School Psychology. Finally, a number of post-master’s certifications are offered in areas like:

• Professional Counseling
• School Counseling
• School Psychology

Admissions requirements are fairly lenient, with the master’s degrees commonly requiring a minimum GPA of 2.8 on a 4.0 scale for admission, though 3.0 is required for online or accelerated tracks. You will also be expected to have completed two prerequisite undergraduate courses in behavioral science.

At Eastern University, all master’s degrees and certifications in counseling, education, or psychology are charged at the same rate of tuition. You’ll pay around $762 per credit hour for these programs. Typical fees include a $187 per semester fee for any graduate counseling programs.

#20. Lindsey Wilson College

Lindsey Wilson College can help you to get your master’s degree in counseling via distance learning. At the LWC Online campus, you can earn a Master of Education (MED) in Counseling and Human Development, which is accredited by CACREP. All courses are offered online in 8-week blocks, and you can also choose to earn a Certificate in Substance Abuse Counseling simultaneously.

For admission into the program, you’ll be expected to submit an application with your transcripts from a bachelor’s degree, in addition to three recommendations. You will also have to complete an interview. If enrolled, you’ll study courses such as:

• Multicultural Counseling
• Personal Growth & Development
• Life Cycle Development in Individuals & Families

The program was recently ranked in a list of the Most Affordable Colleges for Counseling Degrees Online. Credits can be transferred for up to 25% of the required credit hours to reduce the cost of tuition. For graduate programs, tuition of around $484 per credit hour is due.

#21. Crown College

Crown College offers a Master of Arts in Counseling that incorporates Christian practices and values. You’ll study key skills required by counselors, while also understanding how to help others understand the spiritual side of their lives. By completing this program, you will satisfy the academic requirements needed for licensure as a professional counselor in Minnesota and many other U.S. states.

Coursework focuses on key areas such as:

• addictions counseling
• family counseling
• diversity and ethics

You will also complete a 700-hour internship experience that’s needed as part of your licensure requirements. The program has recently been ranked as one of the best counseling programs by study.com.

At Crown College, typically undergraduate students pay around $425 per credit, while graduate programs cost around $575 per credit (MBA degrees charge $600 per credit). The university offers some grant and scholarship options to help cover the cost of earning your master’s degree.

#22. Hope International University

Hope International University offers an Online Master of Science in Counseling program. It has been ranked by PsychologyDegreeGuide.com as one of the 20 best graduate counseling programs in the country, and it will prepare you for Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor (LPCC) licensure after graduation. 

Courses last for between 8 and 16 weeks, though there’s a lot of flexibility to accommodate your schedule. This fully online program can be tailored to be finished within two or three years. You’ll also gain 3,000 supervised clinical hours’ worth of experience, which is needed for licensure.

Tuition for graduate programs at Hope International University varies. Those studying a Master of Arts pay the lowest rate of tuition at around $525 per credit hour. For this Master of Science program, you will pay around $650 per credit hour. For a list of fees and other costs, check out the university’s tuition and fee schedule.

#23. Indiana Wesleyan University

At Indiana Wesleyan University, you can earn your Master of Arts with a Major in Clinical Mental Health Counseling. This 60-credit-hour program is a licensure track that will prepare you to gain your counselor’s licensure after graduation. It’s accredited by the Council for Accreditation of Counseling and Related Educational Programs and offers several practicum experiences for hands-on experience.

You’ll study courses that are common among counseling curriculums and essential for any counselor including:

• Multicultural Counseling
• Issues in Addiction Recovery
• Psychopathology

You’ll also have the opportunity to study more focused courses in:

• addiction
• psychopharmacology
• family counseling
• couples’ counseling

Other concentrations are available if your interests lie elsewhere. For example, you can major in Clinical Addictions Counseling, Community Care, Marriage and Family Counseling, or School Counseling instead. An additional track is available, which allows you to major in Student Development Administration and focus on counseling skills and techniques in the field of student development and higher education.

#24. Adler University

Adler University’s Master of Arts in Clinical Mental Health Counseling is a CACREP-accredited program taught by experienced counseling professionals. The curriculum includes 62 credit hours’ worth of study, with significant clinical experience too. You’ll be expected to complete a 200-hour social justice practicum, a 100-hour clinical practicum, and a 600-hour clinical internship before graduation.

As part of customizing your program, you will also get to choose two electives from a range of options. These include courses such as:

• Child & Adolescent Counseling
• Psychedelic-Assisted Counseling
• Animal Assisted Therapy
• Asian Meditation Therapies

The program has some of the most unique electives available at the forefront of clinical mental health therapies.

At Adler University, tuition is charged each term based on the number of credits being taken. In this program, you can expect to pay tuition of around $89,390 annually, which includes all fees. Tuition will be higher in the first year, reducing in the second, and finally being at its lowest in your graduating year.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I become a counselor with a bachelor’s degree?

Some kinds of counseling opportunities are open to graduates whose highest level of academic attainment is a bachelor’s degree. You’ll find that requirements for different roles will vary from one state to the next, and from one opportunity or employer to the next, but you can still find entry-level work with a bachelor’s degree.

The majority of roles within the counseling field will ask for a bachelor’s degree as a minimum. For example, you could work as an addiction counselor or a school or college counselor. However, bear in mind that a master’s degree is normally required if you want to work as a mental health counselor.

With this exception, you might be surprised to find that there are roles out there that won’t require you to have a degree at all. Some counseling administrative positions will accept a high school diploma or a certification. However, to be a licensed, professional counselor, the best online master’s in counseling will provide you with extensive knowledge and training in a variety of subdisciplines.

What license do you need to be a counselor?

Licensure or certification is required in most cases to become a counseling practitioner. While some entry-level positions or administrative roles won’t ask you to gain additional licenses, most counseling fields mandate that you’ve passed an exam and gained licensure or certification to practice.

Most states will have two kinds of counseling licenses, which you’ll have read about above. One is the Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC), or similar, and the other is intended for graduates of master’s degree programs. The LPC is often the first kind of licensure that new graduates will seek. It is also one that the best online programs in counseling will prepare you to sit for.

To be eligible to sit the examination for the LPC and indeed other licenses, you will typically need to have met a certain number of supervised clinical experience hours. This is why master’s degrees in counseling have a practicum, internship, or both as part of the requirements. This will ensure that you graduate, in most cases, with enough experience to go straight into your licensure examination.

How much do counselors make?

The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) is a reliable source of information on average salaries for a range of professions. According to the BLS, the median annual salary for counselors working in substance abuse, behavioral disorders, and mental health was around $52,360 in May 2023.

According to the same data, the earning potential for the highest 10 percent of earners was around $79,880 or higher, and the lowest 10 percent of earners made below $33,300. The highest salaries were seen in government agencies, while the lowest were in residential mental health and substance abuse facilities. 

Getting your master’s degree in counseling will put you in the best position to seek higher earning potential, as you’ll improve your skills and knowledge, and you’ll be able to compete for the most respected and high-paying positions available. You might also consider taking any additional courses, licensures and certifications offered alongside your degree program.

What type of counselor should I be?

If you’re not sure which field of counseling is best for you, then consider asking around. Friends, family, and work colleagues can be a good source of inspiration to draw from. Failing that, the best accredited institutions have admissions advisors who can support you; some even have information days, allowing you to ask questions!

You should also think about the type of clients that you’d like to work with. Addiction counselors focus on problems related to substance abuse, gambling, sexual addictions, and so on. Mental health counselors work directly with clients who have been affected by a number of emotional, developmental, and mental disorders.

You could also consider career counseling, which involves helping people to choose their ideal careers. Or, you could work as a rehabilitation counselor and assist those who live with disabilities. This is not an exhaustive list, but you should think about your ideal kind of work and the type of clients with whom you’d like to be involved day today. 

If you’re interested in pursuing higher education, then you should check out Best Bachelor’s in Counseling and Best Online Doctorates in Counseling.

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What Are the Best Online Masters Degrees?

Among the top online master’s programs are Penn State World Campus for its high-ranking business, engineering, and education programs; the University of Florida for its affordable tuition and variety of programs, including business, education, and healthcare; and Liberty University for its Christian worldview and programs in counseling, education, and business.

With the rising costs of quality education and the need for flexibility, more students are turning to online grad school programs. The best master’s programs empower professionals to advance their careers, increase their earning potential, and gain a competitive edge in the job market.

Let’s get to our list of online master’s programs! Also, check out our school rankings for the Top 15 Accredited Online Colleges Without an Application Fee to see if you can save a little money.

See Also: Laptop Tips and Tricks for Online College Students

1. Penn State World Campus

Penn State World Campus offers more than 50 online and asynchronous master’s programs that ensure academic quality. This school is highly regarded for these online graduate programs, each appearing at the top of U.S. News & World Report’s rankings.

• Engineering
• Business Administration
• Education

2. University of Florida

The University of Florida offers more than 70 fully online master’s programs. When an online master’s degree in education is your goal, enjoy tech support, library services, and counseling while pursuing graduate studies at UF. These are among its popular tracks:

• Business Administration
• Fisheries and Aquatic Science
• International Construction Management
• Sustainable Design

3. Liberty University

Liberty University is a top choice for students who want a graduate-level education grounded in the Christian faith while achieving career goals. Its master’s degree in education online format lets you graduate in just 18 months. Even with low tuition fees, some of Liberty’s most popular online graduate degrees include:

• Master of Divinity
• Master of Arts in Human Services Counseling
• Master of Public Health

4. Texas A&M University

Texas A&M University boasts the most graduates, leading the top Fortune 500 companies. At Texas A&M, a distance education degree is any program in which more than half of a semester’s credit hours can be taken online. With financial aid available, you can study any of its graduate degrees, including:

• Engineering
• Education
• Nursing
• Wildlife Science
• Geosciences
• Maritime Administration
• Logistics 

5. National University

National University helps you juggle multiple responsibilities by offering courses that last just four weeks. By covering online program coursework in smaller segments, you can focus on one topic at a time. You can quickly master the material to graduate faster from these master’s programs, including:

• Business
• Healthcare
• Engineering
• Education
• Criminal Justice

6. Washington State University

Washington State University has Global Connections, an initiative that helps distance learners form a close-knit community while getting a master’s degree online. The Carnegie Classification of Institutions of Higher Education evaluates institutions’ levels of research activity. Academic-quality degrees include:

• Agriculture
• Health Promotion
• Molecular Biosciences
• Business Administration
• Engineering  

7. North Carolina State University

North Carolina State University’s Course Quality Program follows standards set by Quality Matters, an organization that improves online education across the nation. By partnering with this program, NC State offers training and resources for faculty members to enhance their online teaching skills. In-demand programs include:

• Education
• Engineering
• Business Administration
• Computer Information Technology
• Textile Chemistry
• Soil Science
• Aerospace Engineering

8. Sam Houston State University

Sam Houston State University follows a traditional academic schedule for online learning, with courses starting in the fall and spring semesters. With financial aid options, you can study various online program specializations to reach career goals:

• Criminal Justice (No. 2 spot on U.S. News & World Report’s list of the Best Online Master’s in Criminal Justice Programs)
• Education
• Engineering
• Computer Information Technology
• Library Science
• Band Studies

9. University of Nebraska-Lincoln

The University of Nebraska Online requires 36 credit hours to graduate. The flagship campus at Lincoln combines the latest technology and the most effective distance learning methods to provide a quality curriculum. With institutional accreditation, some of NU’s most unique master’s programs include:

• Business Administration
• Engineering Management
• Education in Special Education
• Architecture with a specialization in Interior Design
• Applied Science in Beef Cattle Production
• Textile History or Quilt Studies

10. Arizona State University

Arizona State University has held the No. 1 spot on U.S. News & World Report’s list of the Most Innovative Schools for five years. Many of ASU’s online master’s degrees have earned the No. 1 spot on U.S. News & World Report’s program-specific rankings. ASU has you covered with a well-respected program.

• General Management and Marketing
• Electrical Engineering
• Curriculum and Instruction 

11. Ball State University

Ball State University’s graduate degrees. combine online coursework with in-person classes on Ball State’s famously friendly campus. Many types of financial aid are available, including federal loans, scholarships, and grants. Quality education degrees include:

• Business
• Nursing
• Education
• Athletic Coaching
• Emerging Media Design and Development
• Nutrition and Dietetics

12. Ferris State University

Industry experts built Ferris State University’s online graduate programs. You’ll have the flexibility to take your online program classes whenever and wherever it’s convenient for your schedule and commitments. Ferris offers master’s specializations in:

• Business Administration
• Criminal Justice
• Nursing
• Healthcare Administration
• Information Security and Intelligence 

13. Florida State University

Florida State University offers low tuition rates and generous financial aid, making education affordable for out-of-state students. Some of FSU’s faculty include Pulitzer Prize winners and Nobel laureates. Take your career path to the next level by taking specializations such as:

• Criminal Justice
• Computer Information Technology
• Business
• Social Work
• Law Enforcement Intelligence

14. Virginia Tech University

Virginia Tech University is part of the National Council for State Authorization Reciprocity Agreements. This organization helps improve the quality of distance education while keeping costs low. Advance your expertise in the following fields:

• Computer Information Technology
• Instructional Technology
• Aerospace Systems
• Ocean Engineering
• Foreign Languages
• Cultures
• Literature
• Agricultural Science
• Life Sciences
• Political Science 

15. Auburn University

At Auburn University, professionals can advance their education with a specialized master’s program with different areas of concentration. As an online student, you will receive the same quality of instruction and assignments as those on campus. You can pursue a degree focused on:

• Business Administration
• Soil, Water, and Environmental Sciences
• Real Estate Development
• Elementary and Secondary Education
• Cybersecurity Engineering
• Nutrition
• Natural Resources

16. University of Missouri

The University of Missouri is part of a state-wide eLearning initiative that invests time and resources into improving its online experience. Contact the financial aid office for scholarships and federal loans. While the College of Education has the most online opportunities for graduate students, you can also cover areas including:

• Veterinary Medicine
• Journalism
• Public Health
• Engineering

17. University of Memphis

The University of Memphis allows you to combine areas of study into a degree plan that fits your specific professional goals. Despite being online, you’ll learn foundational knowledge while having evidence-based instructional practices. Whether you aim to pivot your career path or gain more expertise, you can study these fields in the comfort of your home.

• Music Education
• Business
• Engineering
• Health
• Liberal Studies

18. Colorado State University

Enroll at CSU if you want to conduct research that helps protect the environment. The Rams have the country’s most sustainable campus. By pursuing one of Colorado State University’s more than 30 master’s degree programs, you can further protect the planet by studying from home and avoiding the gas pump.

• Fish, Wildlife, and Conservation Biology
• Natural Resource Stewardship
• Tourism Management

19. University of Minnesota

The University of Minnesota offers online master’s programs with short, in-person classes. These in-person experiences give you opportunities for face-to-face interaction without traveling to campus each week. Expand your professional development as you take an online program specializing in:

• Business Administration
• Clinical Research
• Healthcare Administration
• Health Informatics
• Family Education

20. Oregon State University

Oregon State University is the largest institution of higher education in Oregon, with approximately one-fifth of the students studying online. Its Master of Engineering is one of the country’s top online graduate degrees. Online students can also pursue a specialization in public service areas like:

• Public Health
• Public Policy
• Education
• Rural Policy
• Urban Forestry
• Organic Agriculture
• Organizational Leadership

21. Bowling Green State University

Bowling Green State University is one of six universities with a Quality Matters’ Online Learner Support Certification. Get in touch with Bowling Green’s financial aid office if you need help with funding for an online program. BGSU’s most notable specializations include:

• Autism Spectrum Disorders
• Classroom Technology
• Music Education
• Accounting
• Finance
• Supply Chain Management
• Strategic Communication
• Nutrition

22. The University of Maryland Global Campus

The University of Maryland Global Campus meets the needs of working adults by offering flexible online master’s programs and in-person classes on military bases across the globe. Discounted tuition rates are available for active military, veterans, and their families. About 88% of its faculty have doctoral degrees, which means professors have hands-on experience in these fields.

• Business
• Technology
• Education
• Biotechnology
• Cloud Computing Architecture
• Digital Forensics
• Cyber Investigation

23. The University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign

The University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign holds the No. 1 spot in the U.S. News & World Report’s Best Online Master’s in Civil Engineering Programs and the top four spots for industrial and mechanical engineering. Virtual classroom environment technologies were invented on Illinois’ campus. Offset your fees by checking on financial aid opportunities.

• International Education Administration
• Global Studies
• Diversity and Equity in Education

24. Iowa State University

Iowa State University is part of the Great Plains Interactive Distance Education Alliance (GPIDEA). This consortium of colleges enhances the effectiveness of online programs by pulling resources from member schools. Develop advanced skills and professional development by mastering these fields:

• Family and Consumer Sciences in Dietetics
• Family Financial Planning
• Gerontology
• Civil, Construction, and Environmental Engineering
• Agricultural Education
• Apparel, Merchandising, and Design

25. The University of South Carolina

The University of South Carolina ranks at No. 2 on U.S. News & World Report’s Best Online Master’s in Nursing Programs. In fact, 100% of USC’s Master of Science in Nursing graduates pass the exam for the American Nurses Credentialing Center certification. To provide you with several flexible pathways to earn your degree, you can also specialize in:

• Psychiatric Mental Health
• Administration
• Informatics
• Public Health in Health Education
• Aerospace Engineering 
• Nuclear Engineering
• Information Science 

Along with ranking high on the U.S. News & World Report, Jerome L. Rekart, Ph.D. a former Vice President of Research and Insights at Southern New Hampshire University, would recommend the University of South Carolina as his top pick on this list:

“All things being equal, I would recommend the University of Southern California (USC) for an online master’s above the others on the list. Though the list includes some “heavy hitters” and notable names, USC offers the best name recognition across programs. That being said, the “best” for a student will ultimately depend on the specific program that they want to pursue, their budget, and their timeline.”

26. University of Michigan- Flint

The University of Michigan provides personalized attention and the flexibility to earn your degree online with a 13:1 student-to-faculty ratio. UM-Flint also has several hybrid programs that require in-person classwork every few weeks. Programs include:

• Liberal Studies
• Education
• Business
• Nursing
• Arts Administration
• Data Science
• Supply Chain Management

27. Fort Hays State University

Fort Hays State University offers the lowest tuition rates among Kansas’ public institutions of higher education, with students paying approximately $287 per credit hour. The multidisciplinary grad school programs let you combine disciplines to customize your studies. Its online Master’s in Education degrees include various areas of emphasis, including:

• PreK
• Student Affairs
• Math
• Reading
• Library Media
• School Counseling

28. University of Southern California

The University of Southern California‘s alumni lead across industries, most famously in Hollywood. Accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission, USC lets you tailor your studies to suit your lifestyle, whether you study full-time or part-time. Master’s Degree in Education and Science options include:

• Business Administration
• Engineering
• Information Technology
• Oral Medicine
• Geriatric Dentistry
• Community Oral Health

29. Golden Gate University

Golden Gate University offers online and hybrid-format degree programs with in-person classes. Check on graduate funding opportunities with Golden Gate’s financial aid office. Many of the school’s business programs focus on areas that require a strong knowledge of corporate law, and these span multiple disciplines:

• Accounting
• Taxation
• Business Administration with a Juris Doctor joint-degree concentration
• Advanced Financial Planning
• Counseling Psychology
• Human Resource Management

30. University of Texas at Austin

The University of Texas at Austin ranks as Kiplinger’s No. 9 Best Value Public College. Despite a flexible online learning environment, the school fosters personal engagement between students and instructors. With approval from the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges, the rigorous program can expand your expertise in the following areas:

• Nutritional Sciences
• Mechanical Engineering
• Computer Science
• Artificial Intelligence
• Data Science

Why Should I Earn an Online Master’s Degree?

Enroll in one of our top 30 accredited online master’s programs, and your resume will thank you! Online learning gives you access to some of the country’s most respected institutions of higher education. You can learn no matter where you live!

Is Online Education Worth It?

Aside from advancing your education after completing a bachelor’s degree, you’ll also be able to join a network of esteemed alumni. Bonded together by school spirit, your alumni connections might prove invaluable to your career goals.

According to the U.S. Census, more Americans than ever are earning bachelor’s degrees after high school. Higher-paying jobs with distinguished titles are more competitive as the workforce becomes more educated. Having a master’s degree on your resume is an excellent way to set yourself apart and get a full-time job.

Pursuing an online program can be a worthwhile investment for career advancement. However, you should weigh the pros and cons carefully. Realistically assess whether the potential long-term benefits outweigh the costs based on your circumstances.

• An online master’s provides opportunities for upskilling and increased earnings potential. On average, master’s graduates earn about $12,000 more per year than bachelor’s holders.
• However, specialized programs may not improve employability, and completing a master’s workload can be difficult to balance with work and family obligations.
• While a graduate degree helps candidates stand out and enhances competitiveness, it does not guarantee career advancement or higher pay, especially in saturated job markets.
• The higher debt burden of graduate studies is another potential downside.

Why Should I Enroll in One of the Best Online Master’s Programs?

As an online learner, you’ll receive the same degree diploma as traditional students. And, in most cases, you won’t need to study in person like you did in high school.

Most graduate students are already well into their professional careers. Taking time off from school isn’t always an option. An online master’s degree helps you and other grad students get to the next level on your schedule. 

That’s why so many universities have master’s programs that meet the unique needs of grad school degree students who want to earn a degree online. Many online graduate programs let you earn a paycheck while you study.

See Also: Accredited Online Colleges That Offer Laptops

Will a Master’s Online Diploma Lead to a Higher Salary?

A master’s diploma can unlock higher wages. The Bureau of Labor Statistics reports that the further you take your education, the higher your earning potential becomes. Also, the Bureau of Labor Statistics predicts that Master’s level occupations will grow by almost 17% by 2026, faster than any other education level.

What if I Change Careers? Will a Grad School Degree Boost My Pay?

While a graduate school degree is a great way to earn more money, you might not see a salary increase right off the bat if you change careers.

Careers take your experience into account when determining your wages. So, even if you have a master’s degree in education online, without some measure of relevant work experience, your salary will need time to grow.

See Also: 9 Tips For Balancing Work, Life, and Academics: Navigating the Challenges of Pursuing an Online Master’s Degree

How Should I Choose the Right Online Master’s Program?

When selecting a legitimate online master’s program, Dr. Jerome Rekart also recommends doing thorough research before making a formal decision:

“Doing your homework ahead of time will save you a lot of potential grief down the road. One thing to think about is what your expectations are for the program, meaning are you looking to maximize the return on your investment? If you are, then you’ll want to look at any number of evaluators online to determine how the programs you’re considering rank against one another and whether the amount you’ll be spending will be recouped sooner rather than later.”

Thoroughly researching these aspects can help you choose the best online master’s program. You should weigh in several key factors, including:

• Accreditation: Make sure an approved organization accredits the school and program to validate the quality of education.
• Program format: Online programs offer synchronous, asynchronous, and hybrid learning formats. Consider which format best suits your learning style and schedule.
• Identify goals: Clarify your reasons for pursuing a master’s before applying. This will help you choose the right field of study.
• Field of study: Select a field that aligns with your interests and career aspirations. Research job outlook and salary data for insight.
• School type: Compare nonprofit versus for-profit schools in terms of cost, degree options, and eligibility for federal financial support.
• Budget: Factor in tuition costs and financial assistance options to minimize costs. Accredited online programs qualify for federal aid.

See Also: Mastering the Virtual Classroom: 8 Tips for Success in Your Online Master’s Program

How Much Do Graduate Online Programs Cost?

Overall, tuition costs and fees for an accredited online master’s typically range from $13,000-$60,000. Carefully evaluating program options and financial support can help you maximize affordability. The cost of education online depends on several factors:

• Public versus private school: Public schools are typically less expensive than private institutions. According to data from the National Center for Education Statistics, the average graduate tuition and fees at public schools were $12,596 for 2021-22, compared to $20,513 across all institutions.
• Residency status: Some public schools charge less for in-state residents. However, many schools now offer the same online tuition rate regardless of residency.
• Full-time vs. part-time enrollment: Full-time students may pay less per credit yet have higher overall costs. In contrast, part-time learners pay less per term, although it might take longer to graduate.
• Program length: Most online education takes one to two years to complete.
• Financial aid: Grants, loans, and scholarships can significantly lower out-of-pocket expenses. You need to complete the FAFSA to qualify.

Who Accredits Colleges and Universities?

There are two types of institutional accreditation: national and regional. 

National accreditation is the lesser of the two. It’s usually applied to for-profit and online institutions. However, national accreditation is certainly a step up from no accreditation at all.

What Agencies Are Responsible for Regional Accreditation?

The preferred institutional accreditation is regional. According to the Council for Higher Education Accreditation (CHEA), there are seven collegiate accrediting bodies:

• Accrediting Commission for Community and Junior Colleges (ACCJC) Western Association of Schools and Colleges
• Higher Learning Commission (HLC)
• Middle States Commission on Higher Education (MSCHE)
• New England Commission of Higher Education (NECHE)
• Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities (NWCCU)
• Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC)
• WASC Senior College and University Commission (WSCUC)

While these agencies have their own set of accreditation standards, there is reciprocity between the agencies.

Suppose you attend a school that has accreditation from the Higher Learning Commission and transfer to a school that’s accredited by WASC. The chances are good that your credits will transfer. This is true for each agency in the list above.

Are There Other Types of Accreditation?

Yes, individual master’s degree programs might have professional accreditation.

For example, if you’re getting your master’s degree in counseling, your graduate program might be accredited by CACREP or the Council for Accreditation of Counseling and Related Educational Programs. Registered nurses pursuing a graduate degree might enroll in a program accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education.

Note that not every program has professional certifications. Suppose you pursue a master’s degree in education – your school might be accredited, yet your graduate program might not.

What Programs Usually Have Professional Accreditations?

Typically, professional accreditations are for programs that lead to certain careers, like:

• Business: Business degrees like MBAs and Masters in Finance remain very popular due to the wide range of concentrations available to specialize in. These include business analytics, consulting, accounting, marketing, and finance.
• Law and legal studies: Students with a master’s degree in education related to legal studies gain advanced legal knowledge without becoming lawyers. This can lead to careers in fields like criminal justice, criminology, dispute resolution, and compliance.
• Nursing and healthcare: Nursing and healthcare degrees like MSNs and accelerated BSN-to-MSN programs offer opportunities to advance nursing careers or transition into new specialties. Other options include public health, healthcare administration, health informatics, and specialized MBAs in healthcare management.
• Education: Master’s in education degrees open doors to careers in teaching, curriculum development, education policy, and school administration. Other accredited specializations include a master’s in education, majoring in early childhood or gifted education.
• Psychology and counseling: Psychology and counseling degrees lead to becoming psychologists, counselors, and social workers. Even a master’s degree in education specializing in counseling can help qualify you for clinical positions as well as roles in individual and group counseling.
• Computer science and information technology: Computer science and IT degrees build skills for technology careers in areas like cybersecurity, data science, AI, and information security, which are in high demand. Professional accreditation in these fields is common because the degrees directly prepare students for business-focused fields, including cybersecurity, information security, data science, and artificial intelligence.

How Did We Pick the Best Online Graduate Programs?

Accredited Online College uses the most recent data from the Department of Education’s National Center for Education Statistics to determine these school rankings. We consider various factors when ranking schools.

This includes affordability, the student-to-faculty ratio, and the number of master’s programs offered on-campus and online. To learn more, visit our methodology page.

Frequently Asked Questions

How Long Does It Take to Finish a Master’s Degree?

Most online grad school programs consist of 30 to 60 credits and take about two years to complete through full-time study. In some cases, you can finish it quickly through accelerated coursework or in one to two years if you’re studying part-time.

What Are the Most Popular Online Master’s Degrees by Field?

The most popular online master’s programs tend to be in the business, education, healthcare, and computer fields. They allow professionals to upskill in high-demand career areas with strong job prospects, higher salaries, and advancement opportunities.

Which Master’s Education Online Is in Highest Demand?

A graduate school degree in nursing is in particularly high demand because it qualifies nurses for advanced roles like nurse anesthetist and nurse practitioner, which are projected to grow 38% over the next decade per the BLS. Other popular and in-demand master’s programs include MBAs for executive roles and specialized degrees in healthcare and computer fields.

What Jobs Can You Get With a Master’s Degree in Education Online?

A master’s degree in education qualifies graduates for various professional roles like nurse practitioner, physician assistant, statistician, epidemiologist, computer scientist, speech language pathologist, genetic counselor, curator, and mental health counselor. Such programs provide the advanced skills and credentials these in-demand careers require.

Can You Get a Master’s Degree Even Without a Bachelor’s Degree?

You generally need to earn a bachelor’s degree before pursuing a master’s. However, some specialized programs, like ADN-to-MSN pathways, allow students with an associate degree to enroll on the condition they complete additional undergraduate prerequisites or have relevant professional experience.

Why Is Online Learning Becoming More the Norm?

Online students are no longer outliers. In 2000, just 5% of graduate students studied online. Fast forward six years, that percentage jumped to more than 30%. In 2019, that number was 37.2%.

What Makes Accredited Graduate Programs Better Than Other Programs?

Accreditation shows you’ve received a quality education in your master’s diploma. Accredited online schools and programs must demonstrate that they meet educational standards. These standards hold colleges and universities accountable for the education their students receive.

Does Accreditation Make Transferring Credits Easier if I Change Schools?

The chances of your credits transferring are much less when you begin your studies at a school that is not accredited because accreditation isn’t in place to guide the curriculum’s development and delivery. Meanwhile, if you start a degree program at an accredited university, the chances that those credits transfer to another university are high.

Does Having a Degree From an Accredited School Help Me Get a Job?

In some cases, employers might require that your degree be from an accredited institution. You might need an accredited degree to sit for the exam if you work in a field that requires a competency exam.

Conclusion

An accredited online program from a reputable institution can provide immense value by expanding your knowledge, skills, and opportunities. Identifying and enrolling in the right online graduate program for your goals and interests can yield tremendous professional and personal growth.

Want more information? Check out the Best Accredited Online Graduate schools. The Cheapest and Easiest Masters Degrees Online is another ranking worth your time!

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