Forbes’ Best One-Year Online Master’s Degree of 2024

In today’s fast-paced world, the demand for advanced education that prepares individuals for the workforce is higher than ever. With the aim of offering a swift yet comprehensive pathway to professional success, one-year master’s degrees online have gained significant popularity. These intensive programs provide students with the opportunity to obtain a graduate degree in a shorter timeframe, allowing them to swiftly transition into their desired career fields.

 

However, not all one-year master’s programs are created equal. The accelerated nature of these programs can sometimes compromise quality, making it imperative for prospective students to conduct thorough research before committing to a program. 

 

Recognizing this need, Forbes meticulously evaluated and ranked the top online one-year master’s programs across various high-impact fields, ensuring that aspiring professionals can make informed decisions about their educational pursuits.

 

On Forbes Advisor’s Education Editors

Forbes Advisor’s education editors are dedicated to delivering unbiased rankings and informative articles that cover a wide array of educational opportunities, including online colleges, tech boot camps, and career paths. To ensure the reliability and accuracy of their rankings, they leverage data from trusted sources such as the National Center for Education Statistics, educational providers, and reputable organizations within the industry. 

 

Additionally, all content undergoes rigorous fact-checking processes and is reviewed by an advisory board comprised of educators and subject matter experts. This commitment to integrity and transparency enables Forbes to provide readers with trustworthy, up-to-date information to guide their educational journeys.

 

The Top One-Year One Master’s Degree Programs

1. M.S. in Operations Research at Georgia Institute of Technology

Georgia Institute of Technology in the USA presents an intensive and enriching 12-month M.S. in Operations Research program, offered by the Scheller College of Business department of the university. The tuition rate is $586 per credit and boasting a staggering 71% of graduate students enrolled in distance education, this program offers flexibility without compromising on quality. The institution achieves an impressive overall graduation rate of 93%, reflecting its commitment to student success. 

 

2. M.S. in Health Informatics at Charter Oak State College

Charter Oak State College in the USA distinguishes itself with its exclusive focus on online education, offering a comprehensive master's program in health informatics requiring 33 credits. The curriculum delves into essential topics such as clinical database management and information technology project management, ending with a hands-on research project. Charter Oak boasts a tuition rate of $529 per credit, with a remarkable 100% of graduate students engaged in distance education, reflecting its commitment to flexible learning.

 

3. Master of Computer Science at the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign

The University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign in the USA offers the degree at a tuition rate of $749 per credit. The program requires students to complete 32 credits, ensuring a comprehensive understanding of key computer science concepts and practices. Prospective students should note the application fee of $70 and the array of major-specific courses available, including scientific visualization and foundations of data curation, which emphasizes the program's relevance to today's technology-driven landscape.

 

4. Master of Theology at Hellenic College-Holy Cross Greek Orthodox School of Theology

Hellenic College-Holy Cross Greek Orthodox School of Theology in the USA caters to individuals seeking a deep understanding of theological principles within an Orthodox Christian framework. The curriculum, comprising 24 credits, delves into essential topics such as the sacrament of marriage and Christ in the Old Testament, providing a comprehensive exploration of theological concepts. The semester tuition fees are $6,000 and the institution maintains a graduation rate of 60%. Applicants to the program are required to hold a Master of Divinity degree, although those with a Master of Theological Studies background are also considered, provided they complete additional coursework.

 

5. M.A. in Psychology at Touro University Worldwide

Touro University Worldwide in the USA offers the program with a tuition rate of $500 per credit. Despite the rigorous academic standards, the institution maintains a graduation rate of 56%, indicative of its dedication to guiding students through their academic journey. The curriculum, consisting of 36 credits, offers students the opportunity to specialize in one of five concentration options: media psychology, educational psychology, health psychology, forensic psychology, or child and adolescent development. Each student completes a capstone project during their final semester, providing a practical application of their knowledge and skills.

 

6. M.A. in Nonprofit Management at Johns Hopkins University

Johns Hopkins University in the USA offers this program for individuals passionate about making a difference in the nonprofit sector. With a tuition rate of $4,700 per course, the program provides a comprehensive curriculum spanning 30 credits, covering essential areas such as financial management, ethics, and organizational leadership. Despite the rigorous academic standards, the institution boasts an impressive overall graduation rate of 94%. For the final project, students have the option to choose between a research paper, an applied project, or an in-person internship, allowing them to apply their knowledge and skills in real-world settings.

 

7. M.B.A. at Clarks Summit University

Clarks Summit University in the USA offers this MBA program with a tuition rate of $317 per credit. The business administration master's degree offers a comprehensive 30-credit curriculum covering foundational topics such as marketing management, financial management, business modeling, and human resources. The university maintains a graduation rate of 64%. As part of the curriculum, learners engage in a strategic management seminar final course, focusing primarily on case studies to apply their knowledge and skills in real-world business scenarios. Students benefit from a streamlined application process, with an application fee of $25 and the option for full-time enrollment. 

 

8. Master’s in Athletic Coaching at Florida State University

Florida State University in the USA offers the program, which has 30 credits, for the tuition fee of $444 per credit. It covers foundational topics such as motor learning for coaches, theory and practice of athletic coaching, sociology of sport, cultural foundations of coaching, and philosophy and ethics. The program offers a coaching internship in the field, allowing students to gain hands-on experience. Applicants are required to hold a bachelor's degree with a minimum 3.0 GPA and submit additional application materials, including a résumé, a statement of purpose, and a writing sample. Out-of-state learners benefit from a $400 discount on nonresident tuition, resulting in a total cost of $675.66 per credit. 

 

9. Master of Integrated Innovation for Products and Services at Carnegie Mellon University

Carnegie Mellon University in the USA offers the program as part-time (nine semesters), full-time (five semesters), or accelerated (three semesters). The curriculum is structured around four certificates: methods and tools for product innovation, new product management, product design innovation, and technology for product management. With a tuition rate of $598 per credit, the program's innovative approach equips students with essential knowledge and skills in innovation processes, user experience research for digital and physical products, and more.

 

10. M.S. in Project Management at the University of Southern California

The University of Southern California’s program is designed to equip students with the skills and knowledge necessary for success in managing complex projects. With a tuition rate of $2,354 per credit, the program spans 24 credits and is tailored for both full-time and part-time students. Full-time students typically complete the program within one year, while part-time learners typically finish in two years.

 

The curriculum covers essential topics such as schedule management and agile project management, providing a comprehensive foundation in project management principles. The program’s final project entails planning and executing a project throughout its life cycle, gaining practical experience, and demonstrating their mastery of project management concepts. Prospective students should note the application fee of $90 and the program's flexibility in enrollment options.

 

The rise in the availability of one-year master’s degrees online has both advantages and obstacles for aspiring graduate students. Despite the accelerated nature and unparalleled flexibility compared to traditional programs, these offerings demand significant self-drive and organizational skills. The lack of in-person elements might restrict opportunities for practical learning experiences and building professional connections.

 

You can read more about the pros and cons of one-year master’s degrees online and decide for yourself!

 

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