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The 20 Best Online Master’s In Communications Degree Programs

jmc — Tue, 18 Mar 2025 04:37:44 +0000

Few skills are as universal as communications. While some individuals will go on to careers primarily about communications, others will incorporate this necessary quality of a leader into another subject matter. For individuals looking to get ahead in fields like public relations, journalism, storytelling or more, a master’s degree may be necessary to stand out in the field. Below we’ve compiled twenty options that are both flexible (all online, and many part-time, asynchronous, or providing additional flexibility-enhancing components), as well as from world class universities. Check out the 20 best fully-online masters in communication degrees today!

1. University of Florida

The University of Florida is a land-grant public research university with a main campus in Gainesville, Florida. Known for highly competitive sports, UF is also a great school. Some of the top ranked programs within the university include their programs in communications, education, business, medicine, engineering, law, and others. It’s typically thought of as one of the top 30 public schools in the nation and offers a huge range of degrees from the bachelor’s through doctoral levels. In recent years parts of the university have made a push online, including their master’s in communications.

The University of Florida’s fully online master’s in communications blew us away for the range and quality of academic programs. Individuals can pursue a wide range of specializations catered to the 21st century including audience analytics, digital strategy, global strategic communication, political communication, PR communication, PR, social media, as well as web design. For students not wichin to pursue an entire master’s program, or wishing to level up in more than one discipline a handful of these specializations are also available as graduate-level certificate programs. Degrees may be finished in under two years and boast robust placement in the job market.

Program Website

2. University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill

The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill is one of the best public universities in the nation and is considered a Public Ivy school. Formed in the late 1700’s, UNC has a long tradition of excellence. Today over 30,000 students call the university home, making it a large university. With its ample endowment, however, UNC is able to maintain small class sizes and a great deal of one-on-one attention for students to pursue a degree there. Particularly at the graduate levels, students have the ability to learn from award winning and nationally renowned individuals within their field, and the online communications masters is no different!

Known for their up-to-date, real world programming, UNC’s Hussman School of Journalism and Media offers a fully online master of arts in digital communication perfectly suited to the PR and communications needs of the 21st century. With two courses most semesters, individuals are able to work full time pursuing this degree. The final project is a non-traditional thesis, which allows individuals to build a portfolio with a semester-long project. Courses include digital-specific concerns such as media law online, usability, multimedia design, visualization of information, among others.

Program Website

3. University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign

Located in the twin cities of Urbana and Champaign, Illinois, U of I is a second Public Ivy school in our list. Though the list of accolades for U of I could go on for several pages, some highlights include the second largest university library in the world, a massive research park that is home to over 90 start-ups, and impressive alumni including Nobel laureates, Pulitzer and Turing Prize winners, among others. Over 50,000 students attend U of I, with a majority at the undergraduate level.

For potential students looking to jump into corporate or brand communications, U of I offers a fully online program that may be just for you. The masters in strategic brand communication as well as additional certificates and courses in the subject matter are led by real world experts and provide immediately applicable knowledge. With a 16 months time until degree, students can expect to be able to jump back into the workforce very quickly (or pursue the degree while working). For individuals presently working in communication, U or I is happy to work with your employer to try and line up employer sponsorship for the degree as well.

Program Website

4. Columbia University

Columbia University of New York is an Ivy League institution located at one of the hearts of modern communications. One of the nine colonial colleges founded in the Declaration of Independence, the university has a long history of excellence. Today the university has one of the largest endowments in the world, enabling the school to provide great levels of support and small class sizes even for its size. While it is the first private institution in our list, and therefore has an expensive “sticker price,” a “need blind” financial aid policy means the school tends to cover excess financial need for potential students.

Columbia University’s renowned school of professional studies offers a unique master’s level communication degree. This Executive Master of Science in Strategic Communication is specifically for individuals who have a decent amount of experience in the field. This means that the program can start with more advanced topics and skip intro material. This also means that the program can be completed part time and in as few as 16 months. We should note that this is not a 100% online degree, but rather provides most courses online with a few in-person meetups that simulate key communications settings in the real world.

Program Website

5. Purdue University

The flagship university of the Purdue University system, this university holds designations as a sea-grant and space-grant institution. Home to over 43,000 students, in recent years this prestigious university has started to open some degree programs up to online delivery methods. Particularly noteworthy programs include their overall undergraduate experience as well as engineering degrees. In recent years Purdue has been among the 20 top public schools in the nation and last year was honored by being named one of the five most innovative universities in the United States.

Purdue University’s online masters in communications is impressive for the range of specializations offered as well as how quickly one can achieve the degree. Students may choose how quickly they want to finish their degree, with average times ranging between 12 and 20 months. A range of specialization options include the intersection of communication and leadership, advertising, public relations, or health. No GRE or residency requirements mean you can jump right into the application and don’t have to disrupt your life or career to progress through the program.

Program Website

6. Florida International University

Florida International University is a relatively young (56 years old) public research university that’s located in accordingly named University Park, Florida. Despite its age, the university holds the highest designation for research activity. Up until 2005, the university placed an emphasis on growth in student body size. But in years since the focus has shifted on continually improving the quality of education being offered. With this said, this is still quite a large university with close to 60,000 students attending. With an estimated undergraduate cost per year after aid of $8,000, it’s also one of the most affordable schools we surveyed.

Florida International University offers a fully online master of science in global strategic communications. This university is particularly well suited to provide such an international degree given it’s proximity to the Carribean, Latin, and South America. This degree is interdisciplinary and offered by the innovative college of communication, architecture, and the arts. The program is also one of the most accelerated available on our list, and only requires 12 months of study, all online. Additionally students may start the program in the Fall or Spring semesters.

Program Website

7. American University

This private research university located in Washington, D.C. is associated with the United Methodist Church, and was founded to promote public service, internationalism, and pragmatic idealism. Known for its connection to the political action within D.C., the university is a great location to learn international affairs, diplomacy, communications, and law. A wide range of politicians have passed through this school, and it’s one of the top five producers of members of the U.S. Foreign Service, Congressional Staff, as well as Ambassadors. With “just” 5,000 postgraduates who attend the university, courses can be kept relatively small in size leading to increased interactions and quality.

American University builds on its unique position within the center of United States politics and governance to present a world class master of arts in strategic communication. We like this degree for the unique range of specializations that individuals may pursue. These focus areas include advocacy and social impact, digital communication strategies and analytics, international strategic communication, and corporate communication and reputation management. Speaking of reputation, American University is well known throughout the world and particularly in governance circles.

Program Website

8. Michigan State University

This public land-grant university is the flagship university of the Michigan State University system. Founded in the mid 1800’s, MSU was originally an agricultural college, and served as a model for many of the agricultural colleges that were created after it. It is one of the largest universities in the nation by enrollment. And graduates can draw from over 600,000 living alumni as connections across the world. With an 80% graduation rate at the undergraduate level (typically a marker of academic quality), it ranks among the best of the surveyed schools, particularly accounting for the relatively more affordable tuition when compared to private universities.

Michigan State University offers a fully online master of arts in strategic communication. We like this degree program for its affordable nature and flexibility. Students may choose from one, two, and three-year tracks. Each of these tracks is 100% online. Additionally students may choose three specialization areas. These include: digital media, media analytics, and organizational leadership and communications. No GRE requirements and a minimum undergraduate GPA of 3.0 keep this program accessible to many individuals. Additionally, students may begin their studies in fall, spring, or summer.

Program Website

9. Johns Hopkins University

This private research university is one of the most prestigious in the United States, commonly ranking among the 20 best schools in the world. Located with a main campus in Baltimore, Maryland, the undergraduate colleges are kept relatively small. Though it’s postgraduate work that the university is most well-known for. As a space-grant institution located close to many aeronautical and governmental centers in the region, many of their engineering programs stand out. Proximity to D.C. also bodes well for connections for students who want to pursue opportunities in government, politics, and industry. Additional clusters of excellence within the university include medicine-related degrees, education, international studies, and foreign policy.

The ability to attend schools of the caliber of Johns Hopkins fully online is rare. That’s part of what makes Johns Hopkins online master of arts in communication a great find. Additionally, three start dates (fall, spring, summer) and an adjustable time until degree ranging from 12 to 24 months make this program flexible enough for many individuals working full time. Nine segments help to build up versatility in graduates. These segments include writing and editing, publishing and media, brand management, political communication, content strategy, public relations, and advertising and marketing.

Program Website

10. Eastern Illinois University

Originally established as a teacher’s college, today Eastern Illinois University offers a wide range of degrees at the bachelor’s and master’s level. Home to roughly 8,600 students of whom 1,600 study at the graduate level, courses are able to be kept small in order to promote quality engagement. With a solid graduation rate for schools within its tier, the university is a “best buy” in terms of offering affordable tuition at all levels.

The fully online master of arts in communication studies offered by Eastern Illinois University is impressive for its great job placement rate as well as its range of concentrations individuals can specialize with. 86% of graduates find a job within the field of communications within three months of graduation. Students within the program can jump into a range of concentrations including strategic communication, media and critical studies, communication and leadership, interpersonal communication processes, as well as a pedagogy option. Additionally, a graduate certification is available for individuals who don’t want to pursue an entire master’s.

Program Website

11. University of Missouri

This public land-grant, space-grant and research university is the flagship location of the University of Missouri System. As the first public university to be erected west of the Mississippi River, Mizzou has long held a prestigious place among midwest universities. Journalism and communication have been at heart of their offerings for over 100 years, as the first school in the United States to open a school of journalism (likely the second in the world). At around 30,000 students, the university is large but not overwhelming. Around 7,000 of these students study at the postgraduate level.

The University of Missouri’s online masters in strategic communication provides a great option for individuals who want to balance work with school. Slower paced than other programs in our ranking, students may take one or two courses each semester. This leads to graduation in two or three years, but is likely easier to handle if working full time. One campus visit is required, so technically this is a “blended” degree. With that said, all courses are available online. This degree is offered by the school of journalism.

Program Website

12. Colorado State University

This public land-grant university is located in Fort Collins, Colorado within view of the front range of the Rockies. In recent years, however, Colorado State University has heavily pushed online education as well. Not to be confused with a separate school in the same system that is 100% online (Colorado State University Global), Colorado State University also offers some of its own degrees online. Originally an agricultural and mechanical college, the university has made a name for itself in environmental sciences, cancer research, and as a location for the origination of the Peace Corps.

Colorado State University Online’s fully online master of communications and media management provides a take slightly different from others in our ranking. The focus on management of media can be great for individuals looking to move up the communications ladder. A focus on technical skills in electives as well as building a professional network and learning applied knowledge is great for individuals looking to build on the degree directly within their career. This degree may be completed in two years and offers financial aid for graduate students who need it.

Program Website

13. Texas Tech University

The main institution within the Texas Tech University System,this public research institution is designated as a Hispanic-serving institution. Over 150 courses of study are offered and the university provides more than 60 research centers. With over 40,000 students, the university is one of the largest in the region, and alumni have gone on to achieve prominence in many fields and particularly in government, science, business, and sports.

Texas tech University’s College of Media and Communications offers a fully online masters in strategic communication and innovation. This degree focuses on the digital environments that most communications occur in today. Additionally, students not wishing to pursue a full master’s degree may opt for a graduate certificate in the same subject matter. Asynchronous courses provide the ideal amount of flexibility for working students. Additionally, four start dates are available and students may choose to pursue two or three courses for each semester in the program.

Program Website

14. University of Michigan – Flint

Operated under the board of regents of the University of Michigan system, the University of Michigan at Flint is one of two regional counterparts to the flagship schools. Rated as a Doctoral/Professional University, emphasis is not on research but on applied professional degrees moreseo. A regular of the “Best Midwestern” schools category in national rankings, the school provides a great value with one of the cheapest cost per credit hour after financial aid of schools surveyed. The school is a mid-sized university with only 1,400 postgraduates and an additional 6,000 undergraduates.

The University of Michigan at Flint offers small class sizes and supportive student services for their online masters in communication studies. Three emphasis areas allow students to craft a degree of their choosing. These focus areas include professional communications, media studies, and speech communication. Speech communication is a unique offering among schools we’ve ranked, and focuses on generalist communication as well as cultural connections, and interpersonal matters.

Program Website

15. Northeastern University

This space-grant, private research university is one of the top schools in the nation. With a main campus in Boston, Massachusetts, in recent years the university has expanded to industrial and governmental hubs with a range of satellite campuses as well as online. Satellite campuses are presently in Charlotte, Seattle, San Jose, San Francisco, Toronto, Vancouver, Portland (ME) as well as London, England. With 27,000 students, it’s a fairly large private school. But with this said, a commitment to high quality classes and a large endowment enables small manageable class sizes where students may interact or get more one-on-one instruction.

Northeastern University is known for their professional studies education, and this communications degree entirely fits within that focus. The fully online master’s in corporate and organizational communication can be completed on a full-time or part-time basis with the part time program only requiring 18 months for completion. The accelerated full-time program may be completed in a year entirely online so you can get back to your career quickly. Six concentrations allow for additional focus areas to be added to the degree. These include public and media relations, cross cultural communications as well as social media.

Program Website

16. The University of Alabama

The University of Alabama may best be known for their athletics, but their academics also rise to the top of their region (if not nationally in fields). This sea-grant and space-grant very high research activity university is presently home to around 38,000 students. Particularly noteworthy schools within the university include their law school, business school, education school, and engineering school. In recent years they’ve made a push into online education by growing their “Bama by Distance” program. Their offerings in journalism are particularly well fleshed out in these distance offerings.

Bama by Distance’s fully online master of arts in communication studies with a specialization in organizational leadership places highly in our ranking due to its flexibility, price, and quality. While all students will focus on the organizational leadership component of communications, students may choose a professional or academic option, depending on whether they would like to pursue further education in the subject matter or jump back into their career. The primary difference is that the academic option requires a comprehensive exam, while the professional option requires an applied capstone portfolio project. Three start date windows as well as affordable tuition make this program more accessible to all.

Program Website

17. Mississippi College

One of the first religious colleges in our list, Mississippi College is a private Baptist college with a main campus in Clinton, Mississippi. It holds the honor of being the oldest college in the state of Mississippi as well as the second oldest Baptist college in the United States. While designated a college due to the institution’s primary focus on undergraduate education, some graduate degrees are offered. Of the 6,300 students, roughly one quarter of them study at the postgraduate level, either in Mississippi College’s law school or additional graduate programs. This medium-sized private school is able to offer quality student-to-faculty ratios, meaning that students get plenty of attention and support.

If you’re a student looking for a Christian-based education in communication, Mississippi College could be a great choice. We like this program for its range of concentrations. Concentrations available include: an applied generalist degree, an applied journalism degree, an applied theater degree, an applied health-centered communication degree, a sports communication degree, and a PR and corporate communication degree. Presently the generalist and health concentrations are the only concentrations available online.

Program Website

18. University of Denver

This private research university is the oldest private university within the Rocky Mountain region. Home to almost 13,000 students, the university is somewhat large for a private organization. This allows for the school to host a wide range of research programs. The university is classified as an R2: Doctoral University – High Research Activity, school. Some of their top ranked programs are related to communication, with one of the best creative writing programs in the nation as well as one of the top International Studies degree programs. In recent years this university has pushed to gain a larger footprint online, and offers many quality degrees by this delivery method.

Denver University offers a fully online masters in communication management degree. This could be a great option for individuals who already hold practical communications skills and would like to move up the ladder within a communications organization. Focus areas include data-driven storytelling, strategic communication, organizational change, and interpersonal conversations. Semesters last 10 weeks and individuals do not need to take a GRE or GMAT for acceptance into the program. Students may elect to pursue a 6-month long certificate program, a longer 12 month certificate program, or the entire 18 month-long master’s degree.

Program Website

19. Gonzaga University

The first Catholic university in our list is located in Spokane, Washington. This top 100 university in the United States is particularly well known in the west, where it makes the top 30 universities. Noteworthy programs include engineering, among others. A mid-sized student body allows the school to boast particularly quality student to faculty ratios. At present roughly 7,500 students attend the school with 2,200 at the graduate levels. The university has a handful of online degrees of which a masters in communications degree is one.

Gonzaga University’s master’s in communication and leadership is available fully online and provides a unique focus on research, analysis, and problem solving. It provides one of the widest ranges of concentrations of programs we have seen in this year’s ranking. Concentrations presently available include change leadership, college teaching, digital media strategies, global leadership, servant leadership, and strategic and organizational communication. A range of domestic immersion experiences as well as study abroad opportunities are available if students choose to pursue them.

Program Website

20. Syracuse University

This private research university was originally established by the Methodist Episcopal Church, and still maintains a relationship with the United Methodist Church (though it is described as nonsectarian). One of the top 100 schools in the nation, this space-grant university is home to close to 23,000 students with a majority of them at the undergraduate level. Though the main campus is in Syracuse, New York, a growing range of degrees are offered fully online. Among their most noteworthy programs are their social science degrees, design degrees, architecture degrees, information studies, management, law, among others.

Syracuse University provides a top-ranked fully online master of science in communications that focuses on public relations. We like this program due to the national name recognition of Syracuse, quality of courses as well as flexibility-enhancing program components. The degree may be completed in as few as 15 months and no GRE or GMAT scores are required. Unlike some programs that are asynchronous, these courses are live and taught by the world class faculty of Newhouse college. Additional concentrations include advertising, journalism innovation, and media management.

Program Website

The post The 20 Best Online Master’s In Communications Degree Programs appeared first on DegreeQuery.com.

The 20 Best Online Master’s in Hospitality Management

jmc — Tue, 18 Mar 2025 04:29:44 +0000

Hospitality and tourism is a trillion dollar industry with hundreds of thousands of jobs created around the world annually. Expansion is particularly explosive in sectors of tourism and hospitality abroad. As tourism businesses expand into new exotic locations and countries, new hotels and resorts are developed, and the demand increases for experienced managers to oversee these operations.

With this in mind, an international business background is commonly required for upper-level employment in international tourism agencies. And even to work in the industry domestically, management positions are reserved for professionals who have specialized backgrounds in business management.

Given the specialized requirements of high-end positions in the job market, it can be tremendously difficult for professionals to work their way up the professional ladder without the proper degree to back them up. A Master’s of Hospitality Management is designed specifically for this purpose–to position students to take on the upper-level and most lucrative jobs in the hospitality and tourism industry.

Florida State University

Florida State University (FSU) has produced industry-leading professionals in the hospitality and tourism space. The FSU Dedman College of Hospitality is designed specifically to prepare students to not only excel as professionals, but to thrive as industry leaders, innovators, and entrepreneurs. Dedman College of Hospitality offers various undergraduate and graduate degree paths that confer a different focus or specialization–each of which consistently rank among the best of their kind.

The College however, offers one graduate level program–a fully online Master’s of Entrepreneurship in Hospitality Management. Offered through a collaboration between the Dedman College of Hospitality and the College of Entrepreneurship, the program is designed to cultivate students’ capacity of innovative thinking and strategic business strategizing.

Students will build toward expertise by progressing in the following areas of coursework:

Accounting and Finance for Entrepreneurs
Ethics in Management
Strategy Formulation
Foundation in Entrepreneurship and Leadership
Hospitality Colloquium
Entrepreneurial Lodging
Legal Environment of Hospitality and Tourism Operations
Marketing Strategy

The University of Alabama

Whether for its popular sports programs, its massive network of research facilities, or its robust degree offerings, University of Alabama (UA) is a well known name in higher education. Through the online degree programs offered by College of Continuing Education, UA reaches more students than ever before. These programs are designed to jumpstart students’ careers in flexible yet academically rigorous programs that can be completed by full-time workers and first-time college students alike.

The UA College of Continuing Education offers a Master of Science in Hospitality Management that is designed for students coming from one of two backgrounds: students coming from a bachelor’s program who look to specialize in hospitality career, or professionals coming from the hospitality industry who look to build the necessary expertise to take on managerial roles and upper-level employment.

Students will progress through a thesis or non-thesis track of business-oriented curriculum that prepares them for positions of management. Specifically, students will delve deeply into the following areas of coursework:

Research Method
Leadership in the Hospitality Industry
Hospitality Law
Management in the Hospitality Industry
RHM 596 Seminar in Hospitality Management
Financial Management and Hospitality Operations
Special Problems in Hospitality Management

Florida International University

Florida International University (FIU) is a prestigious institution that has driven industry-changing innovation in higher education. For FIU the word ‘international’ is not just marketing slang but a core pillar of the University’s aspirations. Where applicable FIU incorporates global awareness, international business studies, and worldwide internships. This statement is particularly true in the case of FIU’s Chaplin School of Hospitality and Tourism Management.

In 2006, FIU unveiled the first American Hospitality and Tourism School in China. Today students can take advantage of this resource to facilitate Chinese business networking opportunities as well as internships–specifically with the Marriott in Tianjin, China. Through the Chaplin School of Hospitality and Tourism Management students can earn one of two Master’s degrees.

Specifically, students can enroll either in the Master of Science in Hospitality Management or in the Executive Master of Science in Hospitality Management. The former will be the most common choice for students enrolling after completing a bachelor’s degree and can be completed entirely online in just one year. The executive program however, is designed for students who have demonstrated success working in the hospitality industry and can be completed in just 10 months entirely online.

Purdue University

Purdue University is a name associated with academic prestige and pedigree, a reputation conferred by its tremendously talented faculty who work at the forefront of their respective specialties. Faculty leverage their expertise and inside-knowledge of industries to position students to capitalize on market needs and opportunities after graduation. With the development of its online degree programs, more students are able to benefit from Purdue’s high standard of education.

Purdue Online offers a Master of Science in Hospitality and Tourism Management. Purdue has been recognized for offering the #1 Master’s and Doctoral Degree Programs for hospitality management education in the Journal of Hospitality & Tourism Education. Graduates of these programs can leverage the high level of prestige for higher levels of competitiveness in the job market.

One reason for the excellence of these programs is the commitment to research-centric studies. Students will explore the ins and outs current industry statistics, market interactions, and employer needs. So upon graduation students will have the complete tool kit needed to excel as professionals and leaders.

University of Central Florida

The University of Central Florida (UCF) offers more than 200 hundred degree programs that are designed to represent the real-world needs of the job market. The Rosen College of Hospitality Management is positioned in the #1 tourist destination in America, Florida. The College leverages this position to tap into global tourism networks and professional connections, so that students can find professional opportunities and internship opportunities both at home and abroad.

Specifically the College offers a Master of Science in Hospitality and Tourism Management that can be completed entirely online. The program is taught by international faculty who bring different backgrounds and specialties to the conversation. Students of the program can choose between a thesis or non-thesis option.

The thesis track is meant for students who wish to establish a specialization or niche area of expertise. The non-thesis track is meant for students who are not quite sure or ready to establish a specific focus, and as such will spend more time covering foundational concepts more comprehensively.

San Diego State University

San Diego State University (SDSU) has evolved in recent years to accommodate the rising demand for degree programs to accommodate working adults. Specifically, SDSU’s College of Extended Studies mentions in its mission statement that 34 million American adults hold college course credits but do not hold the relative certification. SDSU’s online degree programs are designed to accommodate adult professionals and working students who wish to work toward professional advancement amidst even the busiest of schedules.

SDSU’s L. Robert Payne School of Hospitality & Tourism Management is designed for mid-level managers with five to fifteen years of experience, who wish to advance to the next level of leadership–that is, as a general manager, director, CEO, or hospitality company executive. Specifically the School offers a Master’s of Hospitality Management that can be completed entirely online.

University of Houston

The University of Houston (UH) boasts a storied history of innovating in the distance education space, stretching back as far as 1953 when the University founded the nation’s first educational TV station. Today UH leverages an extensive catalogue of online degree programs to accommodate both busy professionals and working students who wish to work toward professional advancement amidst even the most demanding schedules.

UH offers a unique graduate hospitality program that is designed to groom students for upper-echelon positions in the job market. Specifically, students can earn an Executive Master of Hospitality Management (M.H.M). The ‘executive’ designation refers to the focus of curriculum on the upper-end challenges and concerns of management and executive leadership in the hospitality industry.

While the program accepts students from various backgrounds with various levels of professional experience, the program curriculum is tailored to meet a student’s individual level of preparedness and aptitude. The program leverages its various corporate partnerships to customize curriculums for mid-level and senior leaders. This allows the program to simultaneously accept novice leaders and veteran leaders alike.

Arizona State University

Arizona State University (ASU) is one of the largest institutions of online higher education in the world. To date the alumni body consists of a whopping 500,000 professionals and academics. Students looking for efficient and affordable online degree programs taught by academic scholars with industry clout will find ASU to be a seductive option.

Specifically ASU offers a Master of Sustainable Tourism (MST) which uniquely positions the hospitality curriculum in the context of environmental, economic, and societal considerations. The United States Agency for International Development has supported more than 123 sustainable tourism projects in 72 countries.

The program positions students to capitalize on market opportunities in this same vein–working as managers with sustainability expertise, as industry consultants, or sustainability research experts. As such students can expect a research-oriented curriculum, designed to prepare students for a profession that is essentially a blending of research sustainability science and hospitality management.

Monroe College

Monroe College offers a host of student-centric policies and services to ensure that online students graduate with the same grooming and support as their on-campus counterparts. Students have unfettered access to 24/7 online tutoring; program advisors help students make the best choices in navigating degree programs; and Monroe is recognized as one of the ‘best value’ colleges in the country.

Monroe College’s King Graduate School employs a research and project focus in curriculums that facilitates the skill-building that is so attractive to employers. Monroe offers an MBA program designed to prepare students to accell as managers in the hospitality industry. While the curriculum does not directly focus on the hospitality industry, students are free to establish this specialization through the freedom and flexibility of electives, research projects, and thesis work.

University of Louisiana – Lafayette

The University of Louisiana – Lafayette employs a unique strategy in its graduate level education programs for aspiring managers. All of its management-based programs are housed under the AACSB-accredited B.I. Moody III School of Business Administration. The School is designed to value students’ time and most programs can be completed in as little as 15 months. Program curriculum is informed by the most current industry research and corporate best practices.

Specifically, the B.I. Moody III School of Business Administration offers a MBA in Hospitality Management that can be completed entirely online in as little as 15 months. The total tuition cost is around $12,800, making it one of the most affordable MBA programs on the market.

The affordability of the program is not gained at the expense of academic rigor. Students of the program will build the necessary knowledge and skills to obtain employment in the following sectors of the hospitality industry:

Guest Experience Manager
Hotel Director
Global Development Manager
Tourism Coordinator
Director of Sales and Marketing
Director of Financial Planning

University of Nevada – Las Vegas

The University of Nevada, Las Vegas (UNLV) is a thriving urban research institution that has leveraged its explosive growth in expansion in the digital learning space. Its online degree programs are defined by research-centric curriculums that are designed to represent the real-world needs of the job market and industry trends.

UNLV offers a fully online Master of Hospitality Administration (M.H.A.) that is completed at a self-paced schedule. The program is designed specifically for hospitality professionals who wish to advance to upper positions of leadership and management.

The dynamic curriculum provides students with a host of choices and research opportunities that facilitate the building of specializations and focused skill sets. Students will conclude their time in the program in choosing between an entrepreneurial project or a professional paper that represents the student’s chosen professional focus.

University of North Texas

The University of North Texas (UNT) is a member of the National Council of Reciprocity Agreements (NC-SARA), an organization founded to ensure a high standard of education. This standard of academics represents a core pillar of UNT’s philosophy of education, that is, students at UNT can be sure that their degree program is being held to a high standard of excellence.

The UNT College of Merchandising, Hospitality & Tourism offers a fully online Master’s of Science in Hospitality Management. The program consists of 36 credit hours and comes with a price tag of about $16,300 for Texas residents. Tuition rates will vary for students from other states.

A defining characteristic of this program is its commitment to global awareness and to cultivating a sound foundation in international business considerations. Graduates of this program will be dynamically business-minded professionals ready to take on roles of management and leadership in the hospitality industry.

Auburn University

Auburn University (AU) is a large public institution of higher education whose name conferrs academic clout and professional preparedness to its alumni. AU’s College of Human Sciences houses a catalogue of various degree programs that all hold one thing in common–they look to create a sense of global awareness and humanistic responsibility. At the College of Human Sciences, students will learn how to leverage professional roles of their career path to enact positive change in the world around them.

The AU College of Human Sciences offers both an on-campus option and a fully online Master of Science in Hotel and Restaurant Management, HRMT. The on-campus track involves a thesis track which comprises a total 30 credits. The online program track forgoes the thesis option in favor of more comprehensive coursework totalling at 33 credits.

Students of the program will develop skills in assessing and addressing specific problems faced by the industry. As such students will become experts of conducting marketing research and analysis, and will learn to employ their managerial skills to implement responsive strategies in a given organization.

Colorado State University

Colorado State University (CSU) is consistently recognized for its top-tier degree programs and world class faculty. CSU offers flexible online degree programs that accommodate working professionals, adult learners, and others with demanding schedules that make traditional on-campus programs untenable.

CSU Offers a fully online Master of Tourism Management (M.T.M.) that builds a foundational knowledge of business practice as well as the specific challenges and factors most central to the tourism industry. The program curriculum is designed to train students to view tourism organizations as business ventures defined by financial forces and variables, so that upon graduation students will be able to lead tourism businesses to financial success.

CSU’s M.T.M. program is unique in that it allows an opportunity for students to specialize in ski area tourism. Given CSU’s proximity to the ski-capital of America, students who choose this track will engage with CSU’s professional network and corporate partners who are leaders of the ski-tourism industry in Colorado.

Temple University

Temple University is a school built around the mission of turning students into innovators and creative thinkers. Temple’s degree programs challenge the status quo and emphasize out-of-the-box critical thinking. By building skills of creative problem solving, graduates of Temple University are able to tackle a host of challenges–not just those typical to the chosen degree or career path.

Temple University offers two separate online graduate degree options for those interested in the tourism and hospitality industry. The first is a standard Master of Science in Hospitality Management, which delivers a curriculum based on the foundational concepts of hospitality and tourism organizations. The second option is a Master of Science in Tourism and Travel, which delivers a curriculum more focused on industry trends and statistics in the tourism industry.

In other words, the tourism and travel program is more focused on research and independent study–making it an excellent option for professionals who may not want to take on traditional management responsibilities in the workplace. In either program students will benefit from faculty who are plugged into the industry and who provide a host of student-development services, such as resume critiquing and professional counseling.

George Washington University

The George Washington University School of Business has maintained a global presence of business leadership for nearly 100 years. The GW School of Business houses internationally recognized faculty who have demonstrated real-world success in their industry of focus. The School’s forward-thinking curriculum positions students to capitalize in current and future market opportunities as well as the needs of employers.

The GW School of Business has expanded its reach to more students through its online degree offerings. Among these is a fully online Master of Tourism Administration that positions students to take on high-end roles of management and leadership in the tourism industry.

Students of the Master of Tourism Administration will not only learn from world-class faculty, but will also benefit from the program’s guest-teaching program where industry-leading professionals who tool their insider knowledge to jumpstart students’ careers.

Louisiana State University – Shreveport

Louisiana State University – Shreveport is a proud member of the Louisiana State University System that distinguishes itself by providing top-tier degree program options for a fraction of the cost of comparable programs. These programs do not sacrifice quality for affordability–students will learn from expert faculty, 80% of which hold the highest degree in their field.

LSU Shreveport offers hospitality professionals two graduate level degree paths housed in a Master of Business Administration (MBA) program. Specifically, students can choose between a MBA with a Hospitality and Casino Management Concentration, or an MBA with a Hospitality and Casino Management Specialization.

Students interested in entering the casino industry will be hard-pressed to find a better option. Students who graduate from this program will be perfectly positioned to take on management positions in the hospitality and casino management industry.

University of New Orleans

The University of New Orleans (UNO) College of Business Administration is an internationally recognized school of academic excellence and measurable professional advancement. The College of Business Administration consistently ranks among the industry’s best with its degree programs brandishing various metrics of impressive success.

Of most relevance to this ranking is the metric relating to the Online Executive Master of Science in Hospitality and Tourism Management. Specifically, an astonishing 100% of graduates of this program are employed in their industry by the time of graduation. This speaks to the program’s success in cultivating the skills and knowledge that are most valued by employers.

Students will build specialization by progressing through coursework in the following areas:

Survey of the Hospitality & Tourism Industry
Special Topics in Hospitality & Tourism Management
Marketing Applications for the Hospitality & Tourism Industry
Hospitality & Tourism Finance & Revenue Management
Tourism Destination Development
Technology for Hospitality & Tourism Management
Hospitality & Tourism Operations Analysis
Change Management for Hospitality & Tourism
Hospitality & Tourism Research Methods
Hospitality & Tourism Industry Strategic Management

University of Kentucky

The University of Kentucky College of Agriculture, Food, and Environment provides students with a career-focused, research-informed curriculum that is designed to facilitate industry knowledge and market understanding. This positions students to accel in the job market by capitalizing on industry-wide opportunities and employer needs.

Specifically the College’s Department of Retailing and Tourism Management offers students two graduate level degree options in hospitality and tourism–a Master of Science in Merchandising, Apparel, and Textiles, and a Master of Science in Hospitality Management and Tourism.

Regardless of the program path, students will benefit from expert faculty who facilitate professional development. Specifically, faculty will assist students in lining up internship opportunities that are most aligned with a student’s unique career goals and professional aspirations.

Schiller International University

Schiller International University is a global force in online education and services students from more than 130 countries. What distinguishes Schiller is its student-centric services and consumer-friendly practices. Foremost among which is the ‘try it and see’ model where students can choose to make a single partial payment to try one course, or two try a group of four within a specific major-path to ensure it is the correct path.

Schiller International University offers an MBA in Hospitality and Tourism Management that can be completed entirely online. A distinguishing element of this program is its commitment to a curriculum that embodies global business awareness and international tourism trends.

Students of the program will progress through coursework that emphasizes the foundational concepts of advanced business administration and hospitality management. Options for specialization are offered through a catalogue of electives and research projects.

Top 10 Graduate Degree Programs in Criminal Justice

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The 20 Best Online Project Management Degree Programs

jmc — Tue, 18 Mar 2025 04:19:44 +0000

If you are project-oriented then a career as a project manager may seem like a no-brainer. This is a growing field that is necessary for business success all across the world. It is a great resume-builder. Additionally, the profession offers a lot of variety as each project has a beginning and an end meaning that you’ll have the opportunity to problem solve repeatedly throughout your career. Project management is an exciting managerial position. The skills that you learn in this degree are transferable to every type of project and managerial making this degree extremely versatile. There are many specializations available to help you tailor your career to match your exact strength. Marketing and agile managing are among the most popular of these certifications. If you are ready to jump in but not sure where to start, check out our ranking for the top 20 best online project management programs.

1. George Washington University

George Washington University is a four-year private institution that offers comprehensive programming. GWU is located in the district of Columbia. According to the US News and World Report GWU ranks as the 66th best school in the nation and one of the top schools for veterans value computer science business and more. In recent years, GWU started offering online programming. In fact GWU offers online options in nearly all of their academic fields.

Among their many online off offerings is there online master of science in project management. This masters degree is one of the oldest of its kind in the world. In fact it was founded in 1996. Through the years George Washington University has developed an updated program now available online. Students participating in this degree will focus on the following areas: organization management and leadership, project management, optimization models for decision making, risk management, project portfolio management, planning and scheduling, and much more. Students complete their program with the capstone experience.

Program Details
Degree Type: Online master of science in project management

2. New York University

New York University is a private four-year institution located in New York, New York. The university currently enrolls over 50,000 students and maintains a student to faculty ratio of 9 to 1. According to the US news and world report NYU rank is the 30th best school in the nation and highly for veterans value business innovation engineering and much more. In recent years, New York university has offered online programming. NYU online is a growing online school for individual seeking degree programs or professional certifications.

NYU office a master of science in project management. The program is divided into three main parts: core courses, specialization courses, and the capstone. The core curriculum includes the following: principles of project management, leading global organizations, transforming organizations, organizational ethics, intercultural business communications, and management of information systems. The program itself is flexible and is designed to meet the needs of working professionals.

Program Details
Degree Type: Online master of science in project management

3. Georgetown University

Georgetown University is a private four-year institution located in Washington DC. The university currently enrolls nearly 20,000 students and has a student to faculty ratio of 11 to 1. Georgetown offers a bachelors degrees, masters degrees, and doctors degrees. Additionally the University offers professional certifications for baccalaureate and post masters certifications. According to the US News and World Feport Georgetown University ranks as the 23rd best school in the nation, the seventh best college for veterans, the 12th best undergraduate engineering school, the seventh best for service learning, and the 35th most innovative school.

Georgetown University offers an online masters degree in project management. Students may pursue this program on campus and online. This is a 30 credit hour program that typically takes 2 to 5 years to complete depending on whether or not you complete the course part time or full time. Because of this flexibility, this program is ideal for working professionals. The curriculums includes courses material in the following: project management fundamentals, agile fundamentals, project initiation and planning, project execution and delivery, and communications and collaboration for managers. Additionally, students have the opportunity to choose from a number of electives. For more information about this program check out their website.

Program Details
Degree Type: Online master’s in project management

4. American University

American University is a private institution located in Washington DC. The student population is just over 14,000 and the student to faculty ratio is 11 to 1. The university offers associates, bachelors, masters, and doctoral degrees. According to the US News and World Report American University ranks as a 76th best school in the nation and the 25th best undergraduate teaching school. Additionally, American university ranks highly for innovation and value. The institution offers a wide range of academic offerings now including online programming.

American university offers an online master of science in measurement and evaluation. If you are looking to become ready for the workplace and project and program evaluation and this course is for you. The curriculum model includes core courses, electives, a field/professional experience, and a capstone experience. The courses include: evaluation quantitative methods, principles and theories of evaluation, innovation through new technologies, professional ethics and project leader ship, human resource information systems, strategic management of sports organizations, decision making and change management, innovation through new technologies, and data driven decision making. For more information about this degree program check out their website.

Program Details
Degree Type: Online master of science in agile project management

5. Brandeis University

Brandeis University is a four-year institution located in Waltham, Massachusetts. There are 5825 students in rolled under student to faculty ratio is 10 to 1. Brandeis offers bachelors masters and doctoral degrees. According to the US News and World Feport Brandeis University ranks as the 42nd best school in the nation and highly for value, teaching, innovation, business, and computer science.

Brandeis University offers a master of science project and program management. This is a 30 credit hour part time online masters degrees that is broken into two main component parts: courses and electives. The required courses include the following: communication for affective leadership, foundations of project management, project scheduling and cost management, risk management and projects and programs, negotiating and conflict resolution, program management: theory and practice, and the human side of project leadership. Students then choose three elective courses to round out their program. For more information about this online degree head to their website.

Program Details
Degree Type: Online master of science in project management

6. Saint Louis University

St. Louis University is a private institution located in St. Louis Missouri. The university offers comprehensive degree programs as well as certifications. There are over 12,000 students in rolled at the student to faculty ratio is 9 to 1. According to the US News and World Report St. Louis University ranks as the 103rd best school in the nation as well as the 48th best school for value. Their academic offerings include programming in biology and medical sciences, business, engineering, health, homeland security, psychology, and much more.

St. Louis University offers a bachelor of science and project management. This is a 120 credit our PMI approved program. The program is divided into the following areas call a core curriculums, major requirements, general education courses. As part of the major you will learn about the fundamentals of project management and contract management. You will study courses like: project selection and scope, Project data analysis, requirements analysis, government contracting, time cost and risk management, project management laboratory and others.

Program Details
Degree Type: Online bachelor’s degree in project management

7. Colorado State University Global Campus

Colorado State University is a public institution located in Fort Collins. This is a four-year institution that offers a bachelors, masters, and doctoral degree. The student population is currently 33,000 and the student-to-faculty ratio is 14 to 1. According to the US News and World Report, Colorado State University ranks is 153rd best school in the nation and highly for veterans, value, social mobility, and undergraduate engineering. When it comes to academic offerings Colorado State University offers a number of programs both on campus and online.

The Colorado State Global Campus offers an online bachelors degree in project management. This is a PMI certified course as well as a GAC accredited program. This degree is 33 credit hours long and includes the following core courses: applying leadership principles, principles of management, operations management, effective project scheduling in control, project leader ship, project quality management, assessing in managing risk, project procurement and contract management, as well as a capstone experience. Students have the option of adding on a 15-credit hour degree specialization in one of the following areas: marketing, emergency management, healthcare management, foundations of accounting, organizational leadership, human resources and organizational development.

Program Details
Degree Type: Online bachelor’s in project management

8. Regis University

Regis University is a private four year institution located in Denver, Colorado. There are over 6000 students in enrolled at Regis and the student-to-faculty ratio is 12 to 1. The institution offers bachelors degrees, masters degrees, and doctoral degrees as well as professional certifications. Regis currently ranks as the 217th best school in the nation according to the US News and World Report. The university offers a wide array of academic programming including in business, computer and information sciences, education, healthcare, psychology, and the performing arts.

Regis University offers a Master of Science in Project Leadership and Management. If you enjoy organizing work and community projects but want to enhance your skill set than this is the course for you. This is a 30 credit hour cours where each course is eight weeks long. This course has been recognized for excellence by the PMI Global Accreditation Center for Project Management. Some of the courses that you’ll take include: delivering organization excellence, leading projects and contemporary organizations, and management of project performance. For more information about this program had to their website.

Program Details
Degree Type: Online master of science in project leadership and management

9. Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University

Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University is a four-year private institution located in Dayton Beach, Florida. There are 7000 students enrolled and the student-to-faculty ratio is 17 to 1. The university offers associates, bachelors, masters, and doctoral degrees as well as professional certifications. Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University ranks as the ninth best school in the region according to the US News and World Report. Additionally, the University ranks highly for veterans, undergraduate teaching, innovation, and value.

Embry-Riddle offers a Master of Science in Project Management. This program is divided into two main component parts for a total of 30 credit hours. The main components are core courses and project management capstone. As part of this online degree you will take the following: planning and execution of strategy, decision making for leaders, foundations of project management, management science for project managers, fundamentals of project scope schedule cost and research management, fundamentals of project quality communications stakeholder resource and procurement management, assessing and managing project risk, directing and controlling projects, contemporary project management.

Program Details
Degree Type: Online master of science in project management

10. Boston University

Boston University is a private four-year institution located in Boston Massachusetts. There are over 33,000 students enrolled and the student-to-faculty ratio is 10 to 1. According to the US News and World Report, Boston University ranks is the 42nd best school in the nation and also highly for a number of other things including value, innovation, undergraduate engineering, computer science, study abroad, and much more. The university offers bachelors, masters, and doctoral degrees as well as professional certifications.

Boston university offers an online master of science in project management. This is a 40 credit hour program that is divided into three main component areas: core courses, specialization courses, and elective courses. Some of the courses you will study include financial concepts, global supply chains, quantitative and qualitative decision-making, and the innovation process: developing new products and services. Students generally complete this program in a period of 18 to 24 months. This online degree has been accredited by the project management Institute and is an accredited member of the HACSB international. For more information and to apply check out their website.

Program Details
Degree Type: Online master of science in project management

11. Northeastern University

Northeastern University is a private institution that was founded in 1898. The student population is currently over 22,000 and the student to faculty ratio is 14 to 1. Northeastern University offers bachelors, masters, and doctoral degrees. According to the US News and World Report, Northeastern University ranks as the 49th best school in the nation the 11th most innovative school and highly for value, business, computer science, cybersecurity, and much more.

Northeastern University offers an online masters in project management. Students may select to complete this program either full-time or part-time. The duration of the course is 1.5 to 2.5 years. The curriculum is divided into two main component parts, core courses and electives. The core courses include the following: project management foundations, project management practice, project scope management, project risk management, project scheduling and cost planning, project quality management. Students may also elect to focus on a concentration in one of the following areas: agile project management, analytics, construction management, leadership, leading and managing technical projects, organizational communication, project business analysis. This is a highly flexible and customizable program. For more information and to apply check out their website.

Program Details
Degree Type: Online master of science in project management

12. Penn State World Campus

Penn State University is a public institution located in University Park, Pennsylvania. There are currently over 90,000 students enrolled at Penn State with a student-to-faculty ratio of 15 to 1. Penn State offers comprehensive programming as well as professional certifications. According to the US News and World Report, Penn State ranks as the 63rd best school in the nation and the 35th best college for veterans, 23rd top public school and a top school for engineering and computer science business and much more. In recent years, Penn State has developed their Global Campus. This online campus offers a wide number of online degrees and professional certifications.

Penn State world campus offers an online master of project management. This is a 30 credit hour program that has been credited by the AAA CSB as well as a project management Institute. If you’re looking to pursue a career in project management, project management analyst sales manager or a similar career this is the course for you. The program is divided into three main component parts including required courses, elective courses, and a capstone. Do you like to have courses include course material in enterprise modeling, engineering across cultures and nations, engineering product innovation, project team leader ship, project management and marketing linkages, and much more. For more information and to apply check out their website.

Program Details
Degree Type: Online master of project management

13. Florida Institute of Technology

The Florida Institute of Technology FIT is a private institution that was founded in 1958. FIT enrolls over 6000 students and has a student to faculty ratio of 14 to 1. The institution offers degrees for associates, bachelors degrees, masters degrees, and doctoral degrees. This is a doctoral university with high research activity. When it comes to academic offerings, FIT offers programming in the biological and biomedical sciences, business, communication, education, engineering, and much more.

Florida Tech offers a Master of Business Administration in Project Management. This is PMI and GAC accredited. Additionally, this program is 100% online. The degree combines principles and practical applications. The curriculum includes core courses, specialization courses, and a capstone for a total of 36 credit hours. The core courses include: essentials of business development, essentials of business development two, managerial economics, managerial accounting, financial management, organizational behavior, marketing management, and two directed electives. For more information and to apply check out their website.

Program Details
Degree Type: Master of business administration in project management

14. Minnesota State University Moorhead

Minnesota State University Morehead as a public four-year institution that was founded in 1887. The current student population is over 5,000 and the student-to-faculty ratio is 19 to 1. The university offers associates degrees, bachelors degrees, masters degrees, and doctoral degrees. According to the US News and World Report Minnesota State University Morehead ranks as the 98th best school in the midwest, and the 28th top public school.

The university offers an online project management degree. This online program is certified by the PMI and accredited by the PMI GAC. The university currently offers a bachelors degree in project management. The bachelors degree Includes 48 credits of the core requirements. The core requirememts are as follows: principles of accounting, principles of management, principles of marketing, method improvements, computer applications for technologists, cost analysis, quality management, process leader ship, and much more. For more information and to apply check out their website.

Program Details
Degree Type: Online bachelor’s in project management

15. Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University

Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University is a four-year private institution located in Dayton Beach Florida. There are 7000 students enrolled and the student-to-faculty ratio is 17 to 1. The university offers associates, bachelors, masters, and doctoral degrees as well as professional certifications. Embry Riddle Aeronautical University ranks as the ninth best school in the region according to the US news and world report. Additionally, the university ranks highly for veterans, undergraduate teaching, innovation, and value.

Embry-Riddle offers a Bachelor of Science in Project Management. The course is divided into three main component parts: general requirements, core requirements, and electives. The project management course includes the following: project management profession, project planning, project risk and control, project management in aviation operations, global project management, managing trouble projects, agile project management, and a project management capstone.

Program Details
Degree Type: Onlinebachelor’s degree in project management

16. Regis University

Regis University is a private four-year institution located in Denver, Colorado. There are over 6000 students in enrolled at Regis and the student to faculty ratio is 12 to 1. The institution offers bachelors degrees, masters degrees, and doctoral degrees as well as professional certifications. Regis currently ranks as the 217th best school in the nation according to the US News and World Report. The university offers a wide array of academic programming including in business, computer and information sciences, education, healthcare, psychology, and the performing arts.

Regis University offers an Undergraduate Certificate in Project Management. The program is online and 12 credit hours to complete. Students will focus on the following areas: process mapping an improvement, project management, conflict management. Additionally students may wish to do the online undergraduate certification in agile management. For more information and to apply check out their website.

Program Details
Degree Type: Online bachelor of science

17. Charleston Southern University

Charleston Southern University is a four-year private institution located in Charleston South, Carolina. There are over 3,000 students enrolled and the student-to-faculty ratio is 13 to 1. Charleston Southern University is ranked regionally as the 62nd best school on the south according to the US news and world report. Additionally, CSU ranks highly for veterans and social mobility. When it comes to academic offerings CSU offers bachelors degrees, masters degrees, and doctoral degrees. In recent years CSU has offered online programming in the fields of business , health, homeland security and much more.

CSU offers a Bachelor of Science in Project Management. This is an accelerated program with seven week courses. This online degree was designed with full-time working adults in mind. If you are interested in manufacturing, government contracting, construction or projects at a corporate level than this is the program for you. In 2020 US News and World report ranked this program as the 11th best online bachelors program. As part of this curriculum you’ll take courses like: accounting principles for managers, business policy, principles of macroeconomics, projects a strategic initiatives, project planning and implementation, project risk assessment. For more information and to apply check out their website.

Program Details
Degree Type: Online bachelor’s degree in project management

18. Liberty University

Liberty University is a private four-year institution that offers associates, bachelors, masters, and doctoral degrees as well as professional certifications. The current student population is over 85,000 and this is an evangelical Christian school. When it comes to academic offerings liberty offers a number of online programs as well as on campus programs including in the following fields: business, education, engineering, health, and more.

Liberty University offers a Bachelor of Science in business administration. This is a 120-credit hour course that requires on average 3.5 years to complete. Students may transfer up to 75% of the degree. This online program has been accredited by the ACVSP. This online course includes foundational core courses, major courses, and general education courses. As part of the major you will complete the following: financial accounting, managerial accounting, financial statement analysis, business law, international business, principles of management, corporate finance, principles of marketing, human resource management, and much more. For more information and to apply check out their website.

Program Details
Degree Type: Online BSBA in project management

19. Malone University

Malone University is a private institution located in Canton, Ohio. According to the US News and World Report, Malone University ranks as the 71st best school in the region. The student population is 1,524 and the student to faculty ratio is 11 to 1. To support their student success Malone University offers advanced placement credits, credit for life experience, and academic and career counseling. When it comes to academic programming Malone offers on campus and online degrees.

Malone University offers an online bachelor of arts in organizational management. This online degree has been accredited by the a CBSP. This is a rigorous and hands-on degree for students who are interested in a biblical perspective of management. Some of the key topics that you will cover include: problem-solving, control systems, management and leadership, organizational behavior, financial management, human resources, in critical thinking. Students will study the following courses: business finance, group and organizational behavior, business communication, principles of management and leader ship, business statistics, human resource/personnel management, personal values in business ethics. For more information and to apply check out their website.

Program Details
Degree Type: Online bachelor’s in organizational management

20. Saint Leo University

Saint Leo University is a private four-year institution located in Saint Leo, Florida. The university offers associates degrees, bachelors degrees, masters degrees, and doctoral degrees. The student-to-faculty ratio is 18 to 1. According to the US News and World Report St. Louis University ranks as the 26th best school in the region as well as 14th for best college for veterans and fourth for best value school. To support student success, the university offers credit for life experiences as well as academic and career counseling. Their academic offerings include degree programming in business, management marketing and related degrees as well as many others.

Saint Leo University offers a Bachelor of Arts and Business Administration and Project Management. If you’re interested in hospitality, construction, information, technology, healthcare, or simply running your own projects than this program is for you. Some of the classes that you’ll take during this online degree include: quality improvement in management, project teamwork and leadership, contracts and procurement, project risk management, and much more. Additionally students at Saint Leo have the opportunity to gain real world experience through a wide array of internships. For more information and to apply check out their website.

Program Details
Degree Type: Online project management specialization

The post The 20 Best Online Project Management Degree Programs appeared first on DegreeQuery.com.

Top 15 Master’s in Finance Degree Programs

Krystle Dodge — Tue, 18 Mar 2025 04:18:44 +0000

When it comes to attaining a high-paying role in the business world, earning a master’s degree in finance could be your next step. The right education – from the right school – can equip you with the knowledge and skills to succeed in a variety of finance jobs and the credentials to make you stand out to prospective employers. While a Master of Business Administration degree is the most traditional graduate business education, there are benefits to earning a master’s in finance degree instead of an MBA.

Whether you’re looking for work on Wall Street or just a finance career that will make you rich, a specialized graduate degree from one of the top 15 master’s in finance degree programs can help you on your journey.

1. University of Pennsylvania

Topping our list of the 15 best master’s in finance degree programs in the United States is the University of Pennsylvania. The private Ivy League institution was established in Philadelphia in 1740 by Founding Father Benjamin Franklin. With a student to faculty ratio of just six to one, more than two-thirds of classes offered at the University of Pennsylvania have fewer than 20 students enrolled. An overwhelming 98 percent of students who begin their college education at the University of Pennsylvania stay there for the duration of their undergraduate studies. At the undergraduate level, the University of Pennsylvania meets 100 percent of student financial need without loans. This financial aid policy makes the school’s nearly $50,000 undergraduate tuition rate surprisingly affordable and allows many students to graduate debt-free. U.S. News & World Report 8^th among the best colleges for veterans, 9^th among national universities and 11^th among the nation’s best value schools.

The University of Pennsylvania is home to the best graduate program in finance in America, according to U.S. News & World Report. It also has the honor of being ranked the best undergraduate program and the 4^th best graduate business school in the nation. USA Today also ranked the school at the top of its list of the best colleges for majoring in finance, noting that its graduates earn an average starting salary of $61,000 and an average mid-career salary of $132,000 – the highest mid-career average of all top business schools. The Wharton School at the University of Pennsylvania, founded in 1881, has the distinction of being the first collegiate business school in the world. University of Pennsylvania graduate students with an interest in finance pursue a Master of Business Administration (MBA) degree with a major in finance. Their coursework includes required classes in Corporate Finance and Macroeconomics and the Global Economic Environment as well as upper-level finance electives such as investment management, financial derivatives and behavioral finance.

Business College: The Wharton School

Location: Philadelphia, PA

Enrollment: 1,715 students

Tuition: $64,920

2. University of Chicago

Since its founding in 1890, the University of Chicago has cultivated a reputation for excellence in both academics and research. The 5,860 undergraduate students enrolled in the College at the University of Chicago must fulfill a rigorous required core of general education classes as they pursue one of 49 majors. The 9,866 graduate and professional students enrolled at the University of Chicago are spread across six professional schools and five academic divisions in subjects like law, medicine, humanities, biological sciences, physical sciences, social sciences, molecular engineering, public policy and business. At the undergraduate level, the University of Chicago meets 100 percent of demonstrated student financial need, and the school also offers financial assistance to students in its master’s and doctoral programs through merit-based and need-based aid. U.S. News & World Report ranked the university tied for 4^th place among national universities and the best colleges for veterans, as well as 15^th among the best value schools in America.

Not only does the University of Chicago host the second best master’s degree program in finance in the country, but its business college, the Booth School of Business, is tied for second place on U.S. News & World Report’s college rankings lists. At the master’s degree level, Chicago Booth students earn an MBA with one of 13 concentrations, including finance and analytic finance. Chicago Booth’s MBA program is known for its flexibility, with only one required course, Leadership Effectiveness and Development. Each student will take a foundational course of their choice in the subjects of financial accounting, microeconomics and statistics. To develop a breadth of business knowledge, students choose from several course options in subject areas like finance, marketing, operations, management and business environments. The Booth School of Business also offers a Ph.D. program in finance, which combines business studies with coursework in the Department of Economics. Ph.D. in Finance students study the behavior patterns of stocks and bonds prices, investment decisions, corporate governance and financial institution management.

Business College: Booth School of Business

Location: Chicago, IL

Enrollment: 2,509 students

Tuition: $63,980

3. New York University

Since its founding in 1831, New York University has educated 470,000 alumni spread across more than 180 nations around the world. Today, there are 44,000 students enrolled in New York University’s 17 divisions, making NYU the country’s largest private university. The school has a 93 percent retention rate, which means the vast majority of freshmen stay at NYU for the duration of their undergraduate studies, and 84 percent of NYU students graduate within six years. Students at New York University enjoy small class sizes, with a student to faculty ratio of just 10 to one and fewer than 20 students in most classes. More than half of NYU undergraduate students receive some form of need-based financial aid from the institution, with an average award amount of $24,246. U.S. News & World Report has ranked NYU highly on lists such as National Universities, Best Colleges for Veterans, High School Counselor Rankings and Most Innovative Schools.

The Stern School of Business offers both a Master of Science in Global Finance and an MBA program that includes the option to specialize in finance. The M.S. in Global Finance degree program is offered in conjunction with the Hong Kong University of Science and Technology and includes required international travel experiences. The full-time MBA program requires students to complete 60 credits, but they have plenty of flexibility to customize their education, since more than half of these credits are elective courses. Possible MBA specializations at NYU include finance, corporate finance, financial instruments and markets, financial systems and analytics and technology-enabled finance practices (FinTech). The Stern School of Business’s MBA program is one of the most selective in the country. NYU also offers a Mathematics in Finance degree option through its Courant Institute of Mathematical Sciences. U.S. News & World Report ranked NYU’s graduate finance programs third in the nation and the Stern School of Business among the top 20 business schools in America.

Business College: Leonard N. Stern School of Business

Location: New York, NY

Enrollment: 2,339 students

Tuition: $63,720

4. Stanford University

Stanford University is currently celebrating its 125^th anniversary, having opened in 1891. The private institution is home to a large campus, where 700 major buildings and 97 percent of the undergraduate student population reside on 8,180 acres of land. Despite the campus size, students can expect small class sizes and personalized attention, with a student to faculty ratio of just four to one. As a prominent research university, Stanford’s research budget is $1.22 billion annually. The university encompasses seven schools in the academic subjects of medicine, law, engineering, education, earth sciences, humanities and sciences and, of course, business. Stanford University follows a quarter-based, rather than a semester-based, academic calendar. U.S. News & World Report has ranked Stanford University highly in many categories, including naming the school as:

2^nd among the Most Innovative Schools
Tied for 3^rd among High School Counselor Rankings
4^th among Best Value Schools
Tied for 4^th among National Universities
Tied for 4^th among Best Colleges for Veterans

The Stanford Graduate School of Business was established in 1925. Graduate students interested in business and finance have options when they choose Stanford for their education. The Stanford MBA program provides general management knowledge but also encourages students to pursue a personalized education plan, using elective courses to study a specific aspect of business – like finance – in-depth. In 2014, Stanford University also introduced a multidisciplinary Master of Science in Mathematical and Computational Finance degree option. This program replaces the M.S. in Financial Mathematics program formerly offered by the School of Humanities & Sciences. The new program covers coursework such as statistics, applied and computational mathematics and financial applications. Stanford University also offers a Ph.D. in Finance degree program for students whose goals are more academically-oriented rather than industry-oriented. Not only does U.S. News & World Report recognize Stanford University’s graduate finance program as 4^th in the nation, but it has also ranked the Stanford Graduate School of Business as tied for the 2^nd best business school.

Business College: The Stanford Graduate School of Business

Location: Stanford, CA

Enrollment: 824 students

Tuition: $64,050

5. Columbia University

With a history of more than 250 years of academic excellence, it’s no wonder Columbia University rounds out the top five graduate finance degree programs in the U.S. When the school was founded in 1754, it was called King’s College, having been established by royal charter of King George II. The school closed briefly during the American Revolution and adopted its current name when it reopened in 1784. Columbia University’s long history makes it the oldest college in New York and the fifth oldest across the nation. U.S. News & World Report ranked Columbia University tied for 3^rd place on its High School Counselor Rankings list, tied for 4^th on its National Universities list and its Best Colleges for Veterans list and 6^th place on its Best Value Schools list. The college is known for small class sizes even at the undergraduate level, where the student to faculty ratio is six to one and more than 80 percent of classes have fewer than 20 students.

Columbia University offers a couple of different academic options for graduate students interested in finance. The Master of Science in Financial Economics (MSFE) degree program is offered by Columbia Business School’s Finance and Economics Division and provides students with two years of intensive study into the fields of finance and economics. The MSFE program combines MBA and Ph.D. courses. In fact, Columbia University’s MSFE program is rigorous enough that it has a good deal of coursework in common with the Ph.D. program, but is focused more on industry than academics. MSFE students take courses such as:

Asset Management
Asset Pricing
Capital markets
Corporate finance theory
Debt markets
Financial Accounting
Financial Econometrics
Finance Theory
Microeconomic Analysis

Columbia University students can also consider the Master of Arts in Mathematics of Finance (MAFN) degree program, offered by the departments of mathematics and statistics, and the Master of Science in Financial Engineering, offered through the Department of Industrial Engineering and Operations Research.

Business College: Columbia Business School

Location: New York, NY

Enrollment: 1,287 students

Tuition: $65,988

6. Massachusetts Institute of Technology

Since it was founded in 1861, the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) has been closely linked with innovation and exploration, particularly in the field of science. The school as a whole has earned recognition nationwide, including coveted rankings on U.S. News & World Report’s lists such as:

High School Counselor Rankings (tied for 1^st place)
Most Innovative Schools (3^rd place)
Best Value Schools (5^th place)
National Universities (7^th place)
Best Colleges for Veterans (7^th place)

In addition to its schools of science and engineering, MIT also hosts a school of architecture and planning, a school of humanities, arts and social sciences and – of course – a school of management. Using technology and language from each of these disciplines to develop world-changing solutions to problems remains the mission of the Massachusetts Institute of Technology. Despite the seemingly high tuition cost, MIT awards need-based scholarships to more than half of the schools’ undergraduate attendees, and one-third of undergrads attend MIT tuition-free.

Does it surprise you to find a technical institute like MIT on a list of the best finance programs? The private research university might be better known for its reputation in fields like science, technology and engineering, but its Sloan School of Management has built its own prestigious reputation in the business world. U.S. News & World Report ranks MIT tied for 5^th place among the best business schools and its graduate finance program 6^th in the nation. Students in MIT’s Master of Finance (MFin) program choose from a 12-month and 18-month study option. Compared to MIT’s MBA in finance program, the MFin degree option is a more specialized program and is focused on developing the skills of “early professionals.” Students can choose to complete an optional concentration in capital markets, corporate finance or financial engineering. MIT offers a personalized curriculum that allows students to supplement core requirements and advance subjects with elective courses that can be taken within or outside the finance department.

Business College: Sloan School of Management

Location: Cambridge, MA

Enrollment: 806 students

Tuition: $65,446

7. University of California—Berkeley

The State Constitution of California is what first planted the seeds for the founding of a university that would bring “glory and happiness” to “advancing generations.” In 1868, this dream came to fruition with the founding of the University of California. The public institution developed out of the joining of Oakland’s College of California, a private school, and the new Agricultural, Mining and Mechanical Arts College. The University of California—Berkeley has been named the top public school in America by U.S. News & World Report, which also ranked the school highly on its lists of High School Counselor Rankings (tied for 14^th), #20 in National Universities (20^th) and Most Innovative Schools (tied for 21^st). Admissions at the University of California—Berkeley are competitive, with just 17.3 percent of applications accepted. The school offers 277 degree programs at the undergraduate and graduate levels, including both academic programs and professional programs.

The graduate finance degree program offered by the University of California—Berkeley is the Master of Financial Engineering (MFE). Don’t let the inclusion of the word “engineering” in the program title fool you. The one-year degree is designed for professionals in the finance industry and offers the skills needed to find success working at a commercial bank or investment bank. Coursework includes investments, derivatives, financial institutions, qualitative and empirical methods in finance, calculus and asset pricing, fixed income markets, credit risk modeling, dynamic asset management, behavioral finance, high-frequency finance, finance ethics and regulations, financial practice, international finance, securities markets, financial risk management and opportunities in the financial world. They must also gain hands-on experience through applied finance projects and a mandatory 10- to 12-week internship. U.S. News & World Report ranks both the University of California—Berkeley’s Haas School of Business and its graduate finance program 7^th in the nation.

Business College: Haas School of Business

Location: Berkeley, CA

Enrollment: 1,301 students

Tuition: $53,907 in-state; $55,968 out-of-state

8. Harvard University

Harvard University is the kind of Ivy League school that everyone in the United States has heard of, so it’s no surprise that the prestigious private institution would make our top 15 list. Founded in 1636, Harvard isn’t just the oldest school on this list, but “the oldest institution of higher education in the United States.” Approximately 14,500 of Harvard University’s 21,000 enrolled students – more than two-thirds of the entire student body – are graduate and professional students. U.S. News & World Report has ranked the college highly on lists such as:

High School Counselor Rankings (1^st place)
National Universities (2^nd place)
Best Value Schools (2^nd place)
Best Colleges for Veterans (2^nd place)
Most Innovative Schools (tied for 8^th place)

In addition to its reputation for academic excellence, Harvard University is known for small class sizes even at the undergraduate level, generous financial aid packages and having the world’s largest academic library.

Like the institution as a whole, Harvard Business School has earned high honors. U.S. News & World Report rated it the best business school in America and ranked its graduate finance program 8^th in the nation. Students in Harvard University’s MBA in finance program start their education with a year-long required field experience that emphasizes leadership development, a global business perspective and hands-on learning. Students take required courses in finance, marketing, leadership and organizational behavior, financial reporting and control, technology and operations management, strategy, corporate accountability, entrepreneurial management and the intersection between business, government and the international economy. Students then use elective courses to develop an area of focus, such as finance. New MBA students at Harvard University work closely with their “section” of 90 peers, with whom they take all first-year courses. About 80 percent of students in Harvard University’s MBA program choose to live on campus in the Harvard Business School dormitories, and the demand for on-campus living space is so high that student accommodations are assigned by a lottery system.

Business College: The Business School at Harvard University

Location: Boston, MA

Enrollment: 1,872 students

Tuition: $61,225

9. University of Michigan—Ann Arbor

The University of Michigan dates back to 1817. At its founding, the school was located in Detroit and called the University of Michigania, or Catholepistemiad. The institution took on its current name in 1821 and moved to its current Ann Arbor campus in 1837. Since these early beginnings, the University of Michigan—Ann Arbor has flourished. While its first classes included just seven students taught by only two professors, the school now educates more than 43,000 students and employs more than 3,096 tenure-track professors. The University of Michigan—Ann Arbor is now home to 19 colleges spanning academic areas from the liberal arts to medicine and law. U.S. News & World Report ranked the University of Michigan—Ann Arbor 29^th among the top national universities. In addition naming the University of Michigan—Ann Arbor’s graduate finance program ninth in the nation, the publication also ranked the school’s undergraduate business program fourth and its graduate business program tied for 12^th place.

The Ross School of Business was founded in 1924 and currently boasts 45,000 alumni spread across 88 nations. In addition to its prestigious academic reputation, the Ross School of Business’s MBA programs include one-on-one personalized executive coaching. This is just one of the factors that lead to 97 percent of University of Michigan—Ann Arbor MBA students getting job offers within just three months of graduating. At the University of Michigan—Ann Arbor, students take a Fast Track in Finance as part of their MBA program. They can choose from two academic paths within their finance track. The University of Michigan’s other campuses also offer graduate programs in finance and business. The University of Michigan—Flint also offers an MBA with a concentration in finance option. At the University of Michigan—Dearborn, the College of Business offers a Master of Science in Finance degree program that allows students to concentrate in either corporate finance or investments.

Business College: Stephen M. Ross School of Business

Location: Ann Arbor, MI

Enrollment: 1,299 students

Tuition: $56,590 in-state; $61,590 out-of-state

10. Northwestern University

Northwestern University’s tradition of academic excellence dates back all the way to the 1850s. The idea of an institution that would serve the entire Northwest Territory was first conceived in 1850. The school’s nine founders together purchased the land to begin its construction in 1853, and in 1855, the one-building institution opened its doors to a tiny inaugural class of 10 students. Today, Northwestern University’s main campus in Evanston is 240 acres, with campuses in Chicago and Qatar as well. More than 21,000 students attend the institution, which is now home to a dozen colleges. U.S. News & World Report has ranked Northwestern University overall as tied for 12^th among the top national universities and 19^th among the best value schools. At the graduate level, the private research college has achieved high rankings in many academic fields, including business, law, engineering, education, medicine, psychology, economics, history and many other subjects of study.

Students who choose Northwestern University for their finance education will graduate with a master of business administration (MBA) degree. The finance department at Northwestern University’s Kellogg School of Management offers two MBA specializations, the finance major and analytical finance. The finance major offers a broader education that prepares students for both management generalist and finance specialist career roles. The analytical finance track focuses on technical aspects of financial markets and is intended for students who want to transition into highly specialized roles in the finance industry. The school also offers a financial doctoral program for students who want to go on to earn their Ph.D. as well as executive programs in the discipline of finance. In addition to ranking the school’s graduate finance program 10^th in the nation, U.S. News & World Report also ranked Northwestern University’s Kellogg School of Management tied for fifth place among the best business schools.

Business College: Kellogg School of Management

Location: Evanston, IL

Enrollment: 1,960 students

Tuition: $64,059

11. University of California—Los Angeles

In 1919, the University of California first opened its “Southern Branch,” which would become the University of California at Los Angeles in 1927. At its founding, the school was known for its two-year undergraduate training program for aspiring teachers. Today, UCLA has branched out significantly. The public institution now offers more than 125 undergraduate majors and 80 minors as well as close to 150 graduate programs. U.S. News & World Report ranked UCLA second in the nation among the top public schools, tied for 18^th place among the best colleges for veterans and tied for 23^rd place among national universities. Outside the classroom, the UCLA is known for its research opportunities and its service to the community. For more than half a decade, the UCLA has been awarded close to a million dollars in research grants annually, and it is home to 290 research centers. As the UCLA nears its 100^th anniversary, the school still prizes creativity, discovery and optimism as some of its main values.

In addition to ranking the University of California—Los Angeles as the 15^th best business school, U.S. News & World Report also ranked its graduate finance program 11^th in the country. Students in UCLA’s Master of Financial Engineering (MFE) program complete 52 quarter units over just 13 and a half months. They complete classes in investment fundamentals, financial accounting, econometrics, corporate finance, stochastic calculus, empirical methods in finance, derivatives, financial risk management, fixed income markets, computational methods in finance, quantitative asset management and credit markets. A summer internship is required, as is a hands-on applied finance project completed with a team. Because the program is based on financial engineering rather than simply the study of finance, it stands out from many other graduate finance programs. UCLA defines financial engineering as “the mathematical modeling, quantitative research and analysis involved in pricing, selling, trading and investing in a wide range of financial instruments,” which is why students in this program take more mathematics courses.

Business College: Anderson School of Management

Location: Los Angeles, CA

Enrollment: 1,696 students

Tuition: $50,517 in-state; $54,644 out-of-state

12. Ohio State University

Ohio State University was founded in 1870. Today, the public institution has more than 44,000 undergraduate students enrolled. The school also educates graduate students in fields such as business, law, medicine, nursing, science, social science, engineering, education, public affairs and fine arts. While Ohio State University’s main campus is located in Columbus, the school also encompasses research centers and campuses across the state. U.S. News & World Report has consistently ranked Ohio State University among the 20 best public colleges in the nation, and the school is currently tied for 16^th place on that list. The publication has also ranked Ohio State University tied for 27^th place among the best graduate business schools, tied for 42^nd place among the best colleges for veterans and tied for 52^nd place among the top national universities. In addition to its excellent academic reputation, the institution is known for its more than 1,000 extracurricular organizations and is home to the Ohio State Buckeyes collegiate football team.

Ohio State University’s Fisher College of Business was founded in 1916 and recently celebrated its 100^th anniversary. The Financial Times ranked Ohio State University’s Specialized Master in Finance degree among the best pre-experience master’s degree programs in finance across the nation. The program takes just nine months to complete and can prepare students for success in finance careers with such highly-regarded companies as Nationwide, JPMorgan Chase and Wells Fargo. Students who complete the program are well-equipped to attain their Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA) and Financial Risk Manager (FRM) designations. Students take core classes in corporate finance, data analysis, economics, leadership and derivatives as well as a team project in their final semester. They can choose a specialization from four academic tracks: corporate finance, investment management, risk management and real estate. Of the 30 semester hours students spend earning their degree, 15 hours are electives that allow students to choose their own academic path and complete their specialization.

Business College: Max M. Fisher College of Business

Location: Columbus, OH

Enrollment: 552 students

Tuition: $30,120 in state; $49,592 out of state

13. Tulane University

When Tulane University was first founded in 1834, it was strictly a medical school. The college has come a long way, now offering more than 70 undergraduate majors. The downtown New Orleans university first established its business school, then called the College of Commerce and Business Administration, in 1914. Today, that business college is known as the A. B. Freeman School of Business at Tulane University, and it’s tied for 68^th place among the best graduate business schools in the nation, as ranked by U.S. News & World Report. The publication has also ranked Tulane University tied for 41^st among national universities and tied for 33^rd place among the best colleges for veterans. As one of just 62 schools that make up the Association of American Universities, the private university provides exciting opportunities for research. Tulane University is also big on community service, going so far as to make it a required part of its undergraduate curriculum.

The Freeman School of Business at Tulane University isn’t only accredited by the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB) – it’s a founding member of the prestigious accrediting organization. Its Master of Finance (MFIN) program is also a CFA Program Partner of the CFA Institute, making it an excellent choice for students who aspire to earn their Chartered Financial Analyst credential. The 34-credit program takes 11 to 18 months to complete over a fall, spring and summer semester. Students can specialize in energy or banking and financial services.

In addition to their specialized classes, Master of Finance students at Tulane University take coursework in subjects such as:

Corporate Finance
Equity Analysis
Financial Communications
Financial Reporting
Fixed Income Analytics and Models
Investments and Asset Pricing
Risk Management and Applications
Valuation

Financial Times ranked Tulane University’s Master of Finance program among the top pre-experience master’s in finance degree programs in the world.

Business College: A. B. Freeman School of Business

Location: New Orleans, LA

Enrollment: 916 students

Tuition: $48,800

14. University of Rochester

The University of Rochester is a well-regarded private research school accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education. When the institution was first founded in 1850, it was a Baptist university, though today it maintains no religious affiliation. Even at the undergraduate level, the University of Rochester is known for its unique curriculum, offering students the chance to build their own customized education plan. With “no required subjects,” students can choose courses from broad academic “clusters” so they have the freedom to study the subject areas they are most passionate about without worrying about satisfying rigid general education requirements. The school as a whole has earned high rankings from publications such as U.S. News & World Report, including ranking 26^th among the best value schools, 27^th among the best colleges for veterans, 33^rd among the top national universities and tied for the 39^th spot on its list of the best business schools.

Simon Business School’s Master of Science in Finance degree program includes coursework in investments, corporate finance, capital budgeting, fixed income securities, economics, statistics, financial statement analysis and communicating business decisions. Students of the University of Rochester’s M.S. in Finance program have options. Those who are most concerned with earning their degree quickly can complete the graduation requirements in just 10 months. Students who want the chance to gain work experience and build professional connections can choose an internship track, instead – and still complete their degrees within 17 months. The University of Rochester even offers a brief nine-month program that allows students who have earned a more general MBA degree to develop the specialized skills they would find in a master’s in finance program. The Financial Times ranks the University of Rochester’s M.S. in Finance program among the top five pre-experience degree programs in the nation. Simon Business School is also responsible for publishing the Journal of Financial Economics, the Journal of Monetary Economics and the Journal of Accounting and Economics.

Business College: Simon Business School

Location: Rochester, NY

Graduate Business Enrollment: 209 full-time (185 part-time) students

Tuition: $46,000

15. Illinois Institute of Technology

Completing our list of the top 15 master’s in finance degree programs is the Illinois Institute of Technology (Illinois Tech, or IIT). While you may not expect to find a technical institute ranked among the best master’s in finance programs, IIT’s program is unique. Illinois Tech’s history dates back to 1893, then the school first opened as Armour Institute and focused on coursework in architecture, engineering, chemistry and library science. In 1895, another nearby school, Lewis Institute, was founded, offering studies in science, engineering and the liberal arts. The two schools merged in 1940 to create the high-ranking private technical university flourishing today. IIT has earned institutional accreditation from the Higher Learning Commission of the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools. Illinois Tech is also a research school. In addition to the Institute for Food Safety and Health, the Pritzker Institute of Biomedical Science and Engineering, the Wanger Institute for Sustainable Energy Research and the independent nonprofit IIT Research Institute, the school is also home to 21 business tenants at University Technology Park at Illinois Tech. This facility combines research, business and technology, housing tenants in labs, offices and incubators and providing the resources they need to grow and succeed.

The Stuart School of Business was founded in 1969 and has earned specialized accreditation from the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB) International. IIT’s Stuart School of Business offers a Master of Science in Finance degree available in full-time and part-time formats. Full-time students typically complete the 33-credit hour program in two years, while part-time students are allowed to take up to five years. Students can choose from a dozen concentrations in subjects like corporate finance, alternative investments, risk management, high-frequency trading and financial programming. During their studies, students take the following six core courses:

Financial Modeling
Financial Statement Analysis
Futures, Options, and OTC Derivatives
Mathematics with Financial Applications
Statistical Analysis in Financial Markets
Valuation and Portfolio Management

The school also offers two dual degree options, the M.S. Finance/Master of Business Administration and the M.S. Finance/Juris Doctor. The Financial Times ranked IIT’s program third in the nation among pre-experience master’s in finance degree programs.

Business College: Stuart School of Business

Location: Chicago, IL

Graduate Business Enrollment: 1,003 students

Tuition: $28,463

Editor’s Note: This ranking is intended as a guide to help prospective finance students start their research so they can ultimately find the right graduate school for their needs and goals. Tuition rates, enrollment data, school history, quality rankings and other facts were provided by U.S. News & World Report, the Financial Times, USA Today and the individual schools’ websites.

For Further Reading:

What Degree Do I Need to Be a Crime Analyst?

The post Top 15 Master’s in Finance Degree Programs appeared first on DegreeQuery.com.

What Can I Do With a Building Degree?

Krystle Dodge — Tue, 18 Mar 2025 04:06:44 +0000

Look around yourself. If you’re within view of a window, chances are you’re looking at something that was built. Not by one person, but an entire team. Many corporations and individuals that came together to construct the location you’re in now. Be it a library, a coffee shop, your home, or an airport.

Building degrees are wide and varied and in today’s economy a great bet for a range of employment opportunities including starting your own building business, consulting, or working for someone else.

If you’ve always wanted to learn how to “put things together” and wondered how the objects that surround us daily were made, a building degree could be a great fit for you.

Below we’re going to look at a wide range of building degrees, including degrees in civil engineering, architecture, construction management, construction technology, and other degree programs.

Think you may be interested in a building degree? Be sure to check out some of our related content including rankings of the best building degree programs out there.

Still need more information? Be sure to read through our guide on building degrees below!

Table of Contents

What is a Building Degree?
Can I Get a Building Degree Online?
How Do I Gain Admission To A Building Degree?
What Can I Do With a Building Degree?

What is a Building Degree?

Building degrees are a general category of higher education degrees that include:

Architecture
Civil Engineering
Construction Management
Construction Technology
And Related Disciplines

When looking at this range of disciplines, building degrees are available at the associates through doctoral levels (as well as in the form of many professional certifications).

Below we’ll walk through the four most common disciplines related to building sciences.

First, are the masterminds behind nearly every building you’ve ever set foot in, architects. Architecture as an academic discipline begins with pre-professional programs at the bachelor’s level. Typically a bachelor’s in architecture takes 5 years for completion, and can be used to jump into the job title of “architect.”

The major subjects studied within a bachelor’s level architecture degree include CAD drawing, architecture history, construction method, steel structural designs, and green design principles.

At the master’s level, architecture is often bundled with pre-professional programs. These “4 + 2” programs as they’re commonly called end up with students graduating with a bachelor’s and master’s in architecture in six years, as opposed to spending 5 years just on a pre-professional bachelor’s in architecture degree.

At the master’s level, students are more likely to be able to move directly into an “architect role.” Students in these programs study a selection of the following:

Architectural Theory
Formal Analysis of Structures
Visualization and Computation
A Multi-semester Building Project
Environmental Design
Urban Design
An Advanced Design Studio
And Management of Architectural Projects

For students without a bachelor’s in architecture, master’s in architecture often take three years of full-time study.

Our second common “building” discipline is civil engineering. Civil engineers are often employed in building communal or public projects including roads, dams, bridges, and the like. Civil engineers work for public and private entities and are found in nearly every location. Approval of new construction projects that many individuals will use almost always includes consultation with a civil engineer.

The primary degree that prepares one for civil engineering is a bachelor’s in civil engineering or civil engineering technology. Upon completion of a bachelor’s degree, students prepare for a licensure exam and then are required to take continuing education credits for the remainder of their practicing years.

Courses that are commonly taken in a bachelor’s in civil engineering (or civil engineering technology) include statistics, mechanics and systems of engineering, advanced math courses, fluid dynamics, physics, and a range of fieldwork requirements.

As with all engineering disciplines, master’s and doctor of engineering (D.Eng.) degrees are also available, though not required to land a job as an engineer of this type.

Our third degree type is construction management. Construction management degrees are available at the associates through the master’s level. These interdisciplinary degrees take from common degree types such as management, business, and construction-centered courses.

Specific coursework that students may take in a construction management degree include: mathematics, natural sciences, business administration, structural behavior, architecture, structural systems, construction methods, and basic technology courses.

At the master’s level, courses typically require 1-2 years and may come with industry certifications in sub disciplines such as historic restoration, green building, real estate, and so forth.

Our final degree category within building degrees is that of construction technology. Today, there are many subdisciplines within the construction industry that require advanced tech skills.

This degree type may be obtained at the associates through masters level, though most commonly offered at the associates level. It is generally considered a vocational or professional degree that is focused on applied (job-centered) learning.

Some of the most common courses that you may take if you pursue a degree in construction technology include:

Construction Material Strengths and Measurements
Surveying Equipment
AutoCAD Applications
Mechanics of Drafting and Engineering
Technical Drawing
Computer Applications in Construction
Intro to Construction Technology
Construction Materials and Methods

Think you may be interested in a building degree? Be sure to check out some of our related content including rankings of the best building degree programs out there.

Can I Get a Building Degree Online?

Building occurs in-person, on-site, but also in offices, meetings, and using drafting programs. Keep this in mind, when seeking out a building degree. That building is in many ways literally a “brick and mortar” experience. This doesn’t mean that there aren’t quality building degrees that are available online. Just that many programs do require an in-person component or field experience.

With that said, you can find fully online and fully in-person building degrees. It depends on the degree and the school offering the program.

While you’re choosing whether you want to pursue a degree online or in-person, you should be aware of some of the following terminology.

1. If a program is a hybrid program, you’ll need to attend some on-campus events but a sizable portion of the program will be online. Hybrid can mean you’re expected to come to campus once a week, or once a year. So make sure you know what exactly the program you’re interested in means by the term hybrid.
2. Fully online programs will often advertise the fact that they are fully online. This means that you do not need to attend any on-campus events including orientation or graduation. A great number of online programs actually include some hybrid components, so if a program you are interested in does not explicitly disclose that they’re 100% online, inquire.
3. Synchronous online courses mean that you attend an online course at the same time as your classmates. Similarly to an in-person course, everyone “shows up” at the same time. Only the course is presented online.
4. Asynchronous online courses involve logging on when you want to watch videos and perform course-related tasks. There will likely still be due dates, and you’ll still communicate with classmates and the professor. It’s just a more flexible format in which to take courses online

While more and more students do have a great student experience studying online, it’s not for everyone. You should do your research as to the pros and cons of attending your specific program online.

Some of the most common pros and cons of online education include the following:
Pros:

1. - There are lower fees in many online degrees.
  - You don’t have to move or leave your job for an online degree.
  - Asynchronous programs allow you great flexibility.
  - You graduate with an identical degree.

Cons:

1. - More self direction required for online degrees.
  - More difficult to meet classmates or attend networking events.
  - Lower level of support services (often).
  - Lack of college or grad school “experience.'”

With all that said, online universities work well for many students. And there are a wide range of online universities that all provide different experiences.

Think you may be interested in a building degree? Be sure to check out some of our related content including rankings of the best building degree programs out there.

How Do I Gain Admission To A Building Degree?

Building degrees are no exception to general admission policies depending on the degree level you’re pursuing.

Starting with the lowest higher education degree level, associates degree programs often offer open enrollment. This doesn’t mean that you can just show up, but that they admit all applicants that meet certain prerequisites.

Typically those prerequisites include a satisfactory completion of an application packet as well as the submission of transcripts to show graduation from high school.

At the bachelor’s level, there’s greater variability in what is expected of successful applicants. Some schools have open admission policies similar to many community colleges, while others are quite competitive in their application process.

Common components required for admission to bachelor’s-level building degrees include the submission of a Federal financial aid application (FAFSA), a standardized college admission test score (ACT or SAT), transcripts, as well as the filling out of an application packet. Transcripts are used to determine that you did indeed graduate from a high school, and that you have achieved a minimum GPA requirement. Most commonly, schools require students to have gotten at or above a 2.5 or 3.0 GPA. The most competitive programs may require as high as a 3.75 GPA for admissions.

Master’s-level building programs typically require GRE test results, proof that you’ve made arrangements for paying for the program, transcripts, and resumes. Transcripts are used to determine that you are a graduate of a regionally accredited undergraduate institution. Resumes are often used to fulfill work requirements and to provide information that may not have surfaced elsewhere in the application. At the graduate level, students may take out up to the full cost of attendance in Federal student loans. Other common payment routes include employer pay and self pay.

Two noteworthy differences are that construction management master’s degrees typically require GRE scores for admissions. And architecture bachelor’s degrees may require additional application measures as they are often competitive and intensive courses of study.

Think you may be interested in a building degree? Be sure to check out some of our related content including rankings of the best building degree programs out there.

What Can I Do With a Building Degree?

Finally, what you’ve been waiting for. Well, the short answer is that building degrees can take you into many roles (particularly when coupled with experience). There are many construction firm owners that hold associates degrees in building technology. There are small business owners that are architects, and there are highly sought after construction technologists.

Particularly in an expanding economy, real estate and development opportunities are all over the place.

Some of the most common roles include:

1. - Building Science Engineer
  - Civil Engineer
  - Construction Technologist
  - Site Supervisor
  - Architect
  - Drafters
  - Real Estate Developer
  - And Cost Estimator

Working our way down the list, building science engineers (also called construction engineers) are generally civil engineers that actually oversee construction work. While some civil engineers oversee plans from their home office, construction engineers are commonly “on the ground” and helping to oversee some of the most crucial structural aspects of building roads, bridges, and buildings.

The average salary for building science engineers is currently close to $90,000. Though many construction engineers may eventually go out and start their own consulting businesses to bring in much more money.

Civil Engineers are one of the most common types of engineers and are involved with nearly every construction type. In particular, infrastructure projects are within the purview of civil engineers including dams, harbors, bridges, roads, as well as large buildings that need to be able to withstand a variety of natural events.

Job duties of civil engineers include performing feasibility and technical studies, the management of budgets, overseeing construction projects, legal compliance, utilizing a range of advanced software for design and calculations, ordering materials, and generally being the “expert” for building projects.

The average salary for civil engineers is presently $91,790, with more senior engineers easily making over $100,000.

Construction technologists (also known as construction specialists depending on the role) are responsible for some facet of operations within a construction environment. Generally these specialists will focus on one area of construction tasks. Perhaps that’s heavy machinery operation, perhaps it’s electronic systems within building, and the list goes on.

While average salaries vary depending on what area of construction technology, many construction specialists make close to $60,000 a year.

Site supervisors are the day-to-day logistics and human resources managers for building sites. Responsibilities of site supervisors include managing orders of materials, ensuring compliance of workers, hiring and firing of construction workers, overseeing subcontractors, ensuring a project stays on budget, and generally providing leadership to ensure that projects are completed in a satisfactory measure. Generally, site supervisors have worked in the construction industry for 5-10 years.

The average salary for site supervisors in construction settings is presently $70,067.

Architects play a role in designing and approving designs for nearly every building projects. These specialists must attend rigorous 5 year pre-professional programs, or hold master’s degrees in architecture. Additionally, professional licensure exams are required to be able to practice as an architect.

Job requirements of this role include preparing and proposing designs for clients, playing advisor roles, coordinating subcontractor work, periodic visits to building sites to assess progress, and the creation of detailed drawings and calculations for building. The average salary for architects in the United States is currently $76,100.

Drafters work in architecture and engineering firms in the public and private sector. These professionals are skilled at converting the drawings of engineers and architects into workable technical drawings that guide construction. Typically drafters specialize in one aspect of engineering including civil, electrical, architectural, or mechanical drawings.

Drafters typically only require associate’s degrees, and earn an average salary of over $55,000.

Real Estate Developers play a hybrid role of investor, manager, salesperson, and designer. While real estate developer positions typically mean you run your own business, these are also roles within established real estate companies. Typical duties include the identification of finished or unfinished properties, planning for how to make improvements or repairs on said properties, and go-to-market strategies once improvements to the property are made.

While the highest paid real estate developers have earned billions of dollars in their trade, the average salary for a real estate developer not running their own company is presently $91,333.

Cost estimators are specialists in construction logistics. Common job tasks include reviewing technical documentation and project planning documents to ascertain the viability of plans. They may provide detailed cost lists or documentation on how materials will get to the work site, what temporary aid is needed in construction, and potential hang-ups to do with logistics in construction. Cost estimators should also be good communicators as they often have to interface with a wide variety of stake holders.

The average salary for cost estimators is presently $54,026.

Finally, construction worker jobs can also benefit from building degrees. While you don’t need a degree to get your foot in the door as a construction worker, furthering your education can help you move into specialized or supervisorial roles.

Besides technical skills needed for demolition, construction, and tasks such as the laying of concrete and operation of machinery, construction workers must be team players, willing to learn, and decent at communication. Construction workers that enhance their education to some degree may quickly find themselves promoted to foreman, IT specialist, or roles such as building inspector or cost estimator.

The average salary for construction workers is presently $38,890.

Additional jobs that building degrees will likely prepare you for include:

1. - Construction Worker
  - Building Inspector
  - Foreman
  - Among Others

Think you may be interested in a building degree? Be sure to check out some of our related content including rankings of the best building degree programs out there.

The post What Can I Do With a Building Degree? appeared first on DegreeQuery.com.

What Can I Do With a Civil Engineering Degree?

Krystle Dodge — Tue, 18 Mar 2025 03:33:44 +0000

We shape our buildings, thereafter they shape us – Winston Churchill

Civil engineering is the design, development, and maintenance of infrastructure. In America, we’re facing significant infrastructure issues. These issues can be seen in our airports, train systems, bridges, roads, and water systems. From the Rust Belt to major cities like New York and Los Angeles, there are comprehensive infrastructure challenges that must be addressed. We’ve all heard about Flint, Michigan’s water crisis, but throughout the country, there are areas where people can’t depend on clean, dependable running water.

This is just one of the challenges facing the modern civil engineer. Fortunately, civil engineers have a long track record of beating seemingly insurmountable odds to create safe and sustainable projects that markedly improve the lives of anyone who utilizes or relies on them.

One great example of a civil engineering success is the Qingdao Haiwan Bridge. Built in 2011 the bridge is 26.4 miles long, making it the longest bridge in the world based on its aggregate length. It took 10,000 workers four years to build and required 450,000 tons of steel along with 3 million cubic yards of concrete. It was designed to withstand earthquakes up to 8.0 on the Richter scale, impacts from 300,000-ton vessels, as well as typhoons.

These massive civil engineering projects aren’t new, and in fact, some of the historical accomplishments in the field are extremely impressive, especially when you consider the times and places they happened in. Consider the Panama Canal. In the 1600’s Charles V, King of Spain and Holy Roman Emperor wanted a route that ships could take between Peru in Spain. Hundreds of years later his dream became a reality in the form of the Panama Canal, which connects the Atlantic and Pacific oceans through movable locks that lift and lower ships. It saves thousands of miles on each trip between North and South America. In 1914 it opened. Now 15,000 ships use it each year.

Each ship that passes through must be raised and lowered by 85 feet across the canal, and each movable lock door weighs 750 tons and fills with 52 million gallons of water to support the thousands of ships that go through it each year. The project required 60 million pounds of dynamite and 40,000 workers.

These are just a couple of the most important civil engineering projects in human history, but they demonstrate how much can be accomplished with a bold vision and the will to bring it to fruition. Civil engineers handily solve complex problems by coordinating as many skilled professionals they require. If they’re successful, their works stand the test of time and markedly improve the lives of incalculable people over the years and decades after they’re completed.

Being a civil engineer is extremely rewarding and challenging work. It’s not for everyone, but if you have the aptitude and the will to thrive in this field, a top-notch civil engineering education can give you the tools you’ll need to have a successful, long-lasting career in the field.

By earning a civil engineering degree you can help build a better, more efficient world and help people live better lives whenever they make use of your works.

In this handy, thorough guide, we’ll look into the available civil engineering degrees, including different degree levels and common specializations. We’ll also look at all that we’ve done at Degree Query to help you find the best civil engineering degree for you. While you peruse this resource, please ask yourself and consider the following (among other factors that might pertain to you):

What are your short and longterm career goals, and how can a degree in civil engineering help you reach them?
You don’t need to have an exact plan of how your education and career will go, but starting with a premise about where you’d like to work and what you’re good at is a great way to explore your civil engineering degree options.
What degrees do you currently hold? What civil engineering position do you want, and what degree level would you need to reach to qualify for it?
Entry-level civil engineering positions often require at least a Bachelor’s degree. Applicants with graduate or doctoral degrees can reach more senior positions and are preferred for competitive civil engineering positions.
How much can you afford to pay in tuition and the other costs that are associated with a specific civil engineering degree, and how much would you have to take out in loans to afford one?
There are many costs associated with civil engineering programs, depending on the school you choose, and the delivery formats they offer. You should also consider what scholarships and loans you could qualify for, among other personal financial considerations.
Whenever possible you should choose schools you can afford to attend. However, that’s not an option for many people, so if you need to borrow money take out loans from the government instead of borrowing money from private interests.
Consider schools that are comparably affordable, accredited, and non-profit over more costly for-profit options.
How much time can you commit to a civil engineering degree each day, week, and in total before graduating? Depending on the civil engineering program you choose you can enjoy a variety of delivery formats.
These delivery options include full-time, part-time, online, on-campus, or a hybrid of online and traditional on-campus instruction. What’s best for you?
Where do you want to live and use your civil engineering degree? Different states, cities, and industries have different demands for civil engineers.
What is your career and educational background? How can a prospective civil engineering degree program increase your strengths and mitigate your weaknesses?
What are the available specializations in civil engineering degrees you’re considering? How can a specialization or focus in the field help you meet and exceed your educational and career goals?

This is just a taste of what you should look at when searching for a civil engineering degree or any other discipline for that matter. While you explore, it’s beneficial to write down more questions, parameters, obstacles, and considerations that will inform your search. This way, you can set up criteria to pare down the available civil engineering options. Throughout, keep in mind, what do you want from a civil engineering program?

Now let’s look at some of the factors that make civil engineers successful. These may not all apply to you, but that’s OK. Probe your aptitudes, and how they play into civil engineering, and think about whether you can make up for the things you struggle with to determine whether civil engineering is right for you.

What Makes Successful Civil Engineers?

Many qualities make a great civil engineer, but here are some of them:

Incredible Analysis: Civil engineers are constantly looking to solve problems, and prevent them from occurring. They need to be examining a multitude of factors that go into a project and determining where the courses they and their coworkers have chosen need correction, and where they will be successful.
Management and Organizational Skills: Because of how much a civil engineer must try and control (can they maintain their budgets? Is their building being constructed safely? Etc.) they need excellent planning and delegation skills to keep everything running smoothly on time. Coordinating all of the moving parts of a building project is a lot easier when you’re naturally adept at managing many different aspects of a project towards an overall goal.
Communication Skills: Knowing exactly how you want a project to play out won’t matter unless you can convey your plans to peers, those working under you, your bosses and the people financing a project.
Flexibility: No matter how hard you plan, large or small scale civil engineering projects will hit snags. Your ability to adapt, and also compromise on your desires is essential to success in the field.
Negotiation Skills: Of course, you don’t just want to give in to any demands that workers or bosses are making. However, patience and kindness will go a long way towards achieving your goals and keeping everyone you need to complete a project happy while you do so.
Attention to Detail: This is one of the most important aspects of an engineer’s life. No detail is too small, especially when it can rear its head as a major problem down the road.

Let’s move on to what we’ve done at Degree Query to help you find a civil engineering degree:

How Can We Help You Find the Right Civil Engineering Degree for You?

At Degree Query we’ve worked hard to provide you with resources in your hunt for the right degree for you. We’ve ranked jobs, schools, and degree options. We’ve answered common questions about schools, degrees, jobs, and the state of higher education. We’ve also built tools like our interactive compare careers matrix, which was designed to help you find the best pathway in school for you. Some of what we’ve done that applies to civil engineering and adjacent fields includes:

Rankings

Frequently Asked Questions

Now let’s explore the different levels of Civil Engineering degrees:

What are the Different Levels of Civil Engineering Degrees?

Associate’s in Civil Engineering

These degrees take approximately two years to earn depending on your schedule and availability. In these programs, you’ll study the construction of public infrastructures like roads, bridges, tunnels, and systems like water and electricity. Students will likely do lab work in addition to in-class instruction. You’ll get acquainted with the latest tools and technologies used for mapping and surveying. These programs can prepare you to work as an assistant technician, inspector, or surveyor, or can assist you in your ongoing education and help you earn a Bachelor’s degree in Civil Engineering or a similar discipline. These programs are often offered at community or junior colleges, which can cost less than traditional four-year programs. If you choose to transfer into a four-year program, you’ll come equipped with pertinent credits that can make your remaining undergraduate civil engineering studies much more comfortable.

Bachelor’s in Civil Engineering

Here you’ll study construction, materials, and much more. These programs are similar to their associate counterparts but far more in-depth. Topics covered include structural design, soil composition, waste management, surveying, materials science, hazardous materials, wastewater, among other areas. You’ll become exceptionally well-versed in the writing, calculus, computer-aided design, and other math skills needed in civil engineering. Generally, these programs take four years to complete, depending on your delivery format and any credits you’ve earned previously in the field. Graduates will be prepared to design systems, bridges, roads, public sanitation, dams, and other vital infrastructure. If you succeed in these programs, you’ll also be on the way to certification as a civil engineer, and can continue your education at the graduate level.

Master’s in Civil Engineering

In these programs you’ll go much further into advanced concepts and the practical skills needed to design, implement and maintain infrastructure. These degrees take approximately two years to earn, depending on your needs and schedule. They’re incredibly interdisciplinary and demand extensive practical work, often through an internship. These programs offer feature specializations students can choose to refine their education to a particular area of civil engineering (more on this later). You’ll need to hold a Bachelor’s degree to be considered for one of these programs, and many schools require that degree to be in engineering. In these degrees, you’ll study engineering decision-making, support systems, physical hydrology, linear programming, pipe systems, environmental monitoring, statistics, and much more. Graduates will be prepared to work as supervisors, team leaders, and in other administrative positions within civil engineering.

Doctorates in Civil Engineering

These are incredibly challenging, demanding degrees that require four to five years for completion. In them, you’ll gain an excellent understanding of materials, structural engineering, mechanics, physics, data analysis, and much more. These programs also allow students to select a particular aspect of civil engineering to focus on. These might include earthquake engineering, transportation, geoenvironmental engineering, water resources, computational engineering mechanics, structural engineering, and much more. Students can expect to do advanced coursework for approximately half to heir time in these programs, and then will spend the second half researching, creating, writing, and eventually defending a thesis. There are opportunities to have tuition covered through fellowships and teaching/research posts as part of being accepted into these programs. Graduates will be prepared to teach advanced civil engineering courses, do vital research in the field, and work at the highest levels at a number of agencies, companies, and other organizations that employ civil engineers.

Now that we’ve discussed the available degree levels in civil engineering let’s look into degree and career specializations in the field:

What are Your Civil Engineering Specialization Options?

Civil engineering encompasses so many different areas of infrastructure design, creation, and development. Here are some of the specific areas you could find yourself in, either through studying in a focused program or within the field itself:

Construction Management

If you think you’re a great leader and love to see projects from their infancy through completion, this could be an excellent choice for you. These civil engineers help create building projects, from their initial designs until they’re completely done. They work with all of the different groups that help build, including plumbers, financiers, architects, electricians, construction workers, and anyone else involved in bringing a construction project from a dream into reality. They need to be up to date on the latest building codes (at the federal, state, and local levels). They’re also in charge of making a project safe, which is extremely difficult while working on a deadline.

Environmental Engineer

This option is excellent for people who want to create a better world through civil engineering. Here you’ll learn to develop projects that improve environments or sustain them. You’ll study the use of alternative energies like water, wind and solar, building materials that can reduce energy expenditure, and make many other design choices that lend themselves to sustainability. For example, you might build a project with windows and panels that maximize lighting and draw solar power while cutting down on energy expenditures.

Geotechnical Engineering

In this specialization you’ll focus on the soil and rock that form the bedrock for a project. Depending on where you’re constructing you’ll need to mitigate the softness or toughness of the land you’re building on. Your work can prevent erosion, and make sure a project lasts longer than it would have without your efforts. Projects spring from the ground up, and people who understand that ground are invaluable to building successes.

Structural Engineering

This is related to geotechnical engineering, but a bit broader. Structural engineers make sure buildings, and other physical structures can support their weight, and the weight of those who go inside them. They calculate potential loads and what designs can handle in a variety of ways. They’re essential to the skeleton of buildings, and the materials used to build them.

Transportation Engineering

These civil engineers work on the infrastructure that gets people where they need to be. Their work can include subways, roads, bridges, rails, and anything else necessary for the transportation of people and goods. The significant factors they consider are the capacity to carry people while making sure they’re safe. Our society depends on reliable, convenient, safe, and sustainable travel, and will continue to in the foreseeable future. If you were obsessed with trains as a kid, this might be the right fit for you.

Water Resources Engineering

We depend on safe water to live. But even as our societies and infrastructures have developed exponentially, there are constant obstacles to people receiving clean, consistent water. Water resources engineers build and maintain the infrastructure that delivers people the water they need to live.

As you can see, these are all fundamental aspects of civil engineering that will always have high needs for competent professionals.

Now that we’ve explored the degree and career options in civil engineering we’re almost through our guide. Before we go though, let’s look at what you can expect to earn as a civil engineer to support yourself and your family:

Civil Engineering Degrees in Conclusion

Let’s take a quick look at what civil engineers are likely to earn in the field:

In 2018 the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics found civil engineers made a median pay of $86,640 a year, or $41.65 per hour.

BLS wrote that in 2016 there were 303,500 of these positions, which they predicted would grow by 11% between 2016-26, translating to 32,200 new jobs.

They also found that in May 2018 the lowest 10% of civil engineers earned less than $54,780, while they top 10% earned over $142,560. Areas associated with higher pay included government positions and engineering services positions.

We hope you’ve found this guide illuminating and extremely useful. If you find a school through our content that feels like a good fit, it’s useful to email their support staff directly to request more information about it.

Good luck!

The post What Can I Do With a Civil Engineering Degree? appeared first on DegreeQuery.com.

Top 10 Highest Paying Engineering Careers

Staff Writer — Tue, 18 Mar 2025 03:21:44 +0000

If your dream job involves solving real-world problems and making a meaningful difference, an engineering career could be the perfect fit. This career path involves drawing from the principles of science and mathematics to devise, design and develop solutions of all kinds. Engineers understand theory and calculations, but the focus of engineering careers is on applying these methods to real-life issues and opportunities.

There are numerous types of engineering careers, each of which has its own distinct earning potential and path to the career. Our list below presents the 10 most lucrative engineering jobs.

Preparing for the Best Engineering Jobs

If you have your eye on an engineering career, you need at least a bachelor’s degree. Some engineers have a master’s degree. Graduate education is more common in some engineering jobs than others, so whether you should enroll in a master’s degree program depends on the specific career in engineering you are most interested in.

Engineering students need a strong background in math and the sciences. Often, engineering majors have to take classes in science disciplines like physics, biology and chemistry and math classes like linear algebra, differential equations and calculus, as well as engineering principles.

The Highest Paying Engineering Jobs, Ranked

1. Petroleum Engineer

Petroleum engineer is the highest paying engineering job. For 2021, the United States Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) reported a median annual salary of $130,850 for petroleum engineers. The best-paying of the top employing industries for this career, management of companies and enterprises, paid a median wage of $165,480. Even the lowest-paying top employment industry, support activities for mining, still paid a median wage of $123,820.

The highest-earning 10 percent of petroleum engineers made more than $208,000 per year in 2021, while the lowest-earning 10 percent of the occupation reported salaries below $78,390, the BLS reported.

What Do Petroleum Engineers Do?

The primary concern of petroleum engineers is extracting fuel resources from oil and gas deposits beneath the Earth’s surface. More specifically, a petroleum engineer might devise the plan for extracting these resources from oil and gas deposits, design the machines and equipment used to perform this work and evaluate the effectiveness of extraction efforts. Some of the industries that employ petroleum engineers include the oil and gas extraction industry, support activities for mining, petroleum and coal products manufacturing and engineering services.

Coursework in Petroleum Engineering

Petroleum engineering is closely linked to the topics of energy production and the environment, so many petroleum engineering programs include at least one class that touches upon these topics. Some of the coursework involved in a petroleum engineering program is somewhat general, including studies of engineering mechanics, such as statics and the mechanics of solids. Thermodynamics and phase behavior, especially as they pertain to petroleum fluids, are also relevant, as are petrophysics and the properties of petroleum fluids.

Petroleum engineering programs typically include some coursework in the geological sciences, including the foundations of geology and of sedimentary rocks, as well as classes in geostatistics. Prospective petroleum engineers will also learn about rock formation evaluation, resource economics and valuation in the petroleum industry, reservoir engineering, reservoir geomechanics, drilling and well completions and petroleum engineering production technology and design. Aspiring petroleum engineers should expect to study the design and analysis of geosystems, transport phenomena in geosystems and the formulation and solution of problems that arise in geosystems engineering.

2. Aerospace Engineer

Another of the highest-paid engineering jobs is aerospace engineer. For aerospace engineers, the BLS reported a median salary of $122,270 in 2021. The lowest-paid aerospace engineering professionals reported annual earnings below $77,440, while the highest-paid professionals in this field made more than $168,370 in a year. The top-employing industry for aerospace engineering careers, aerospace product and parts manufacturing, paid a median wage of $126,780 to the 33% of aerospace engineers it employed.

The 8% of aerospace engineers working in research and development in the physical, engineering and life sciences industry enjoyed the highest wages, with a median salary of $128,020. Of the top employment industries for aerospace engineers, engineering services, which amounted to 18 percent of the workforce, paid the least. However, the median salary in this industry, $120,640, was still well into the six-figure range.

What Does an Aerospace Engineer Do?

Aerospace engineers design and develop solutions that pertain to aircraft and spacecraft. In general, aerospace engineering encompasses everything from the structural design of airplanes and spaceships themselves to the propulsion systems, navigation controls, instrumentation, communications systems and other components that make these vessels work. Often, an aerospace engineer will specialize in one area of expertise.

Besides coming up with designs, aerospace engineers are responsible for ensuring that their designs meet product quality standards. Quality is particularly important in this field, because a malfunction can be devastating if it occurs on a commercial jet filled with people 35,000 feet in the air or on a manned spaceship in outer space, too far away to wait for outside help. Aerospace engineers can determine whether a design or product meets quality standards by running tests, such as computer simulations and hands-on examinations and tests of prototypes.

Careers in aerospace engineering can be further broken down into two categories. Aeronautical engineers deal with aircraft and vessels intended to stay within the Earth’s atmosphere, while astronautical engineers are concerned with spacecraft and other craft that are meant to perform both within and outside the Earth’s atmosphere (in other words, in space).

Coursework in Aerospace Engineering

Some of the coursework involved in a bachelor’s degree or master’s degree in aerospace engineering is, literally, rocket science. Dynamics, or mechanics as they pertain to motion and force, is a major area of concern for aerospace engineers. Aerospace engineering students often study spacecraft aerodynamics, low-speed aerodynamics and flight dynamics. Additionally, propulsion and compressible flow are common topics of study in this engineering degree program.

Majoring in aerospace engineering also requires learning about the different systems used in aircraft and spacecraft, including electromechanical systems, feedback control systems and linear systems. Aerospace engineering students must also become familiar with the properties and performance of aerospace materials.

3. Computer Engineer

Computer engineering can be said to encompass two major types of careers, both of which rank among the highest-paying engineering jobs. Computer hardware engineer is the job most commonly associated with the field of computer engineering, but the work of software engineers also revolves around computer systems and computer technology.

For computer hardware engineers, the Bureau of Labor Statistics reported a median salary of $128,170 in 2021. Software engineers in roles like software developers earned a median wage of $110,140.

What Do Computer Engineers Do?

Computer engineers are a type of electrical engineers that focus on the electrical equipment used in computer systems. A computer hardware engineer is a computer engineering professional who primarily develops the physical components for computers. The types of components that a computer hardware engineer may work on include circuit boards, memory devices and microprocessors.

Software engineering revolves around designing and developing software programs and applications. Software engineers are generally more involved in conceptualizing programs and applications to be developed with computer programming languages than with putting together physical computer components. However, like computer hardware engineers, software engineers focus more on high-level design and development of solutions to complex problems. Software engineers don’t just write computer code. Rather, software engineering is about creating detailed plans for how a software application should function.

Coursework in Computer Engineering

The coursework that computer engineers need depends on whether they want to design hardware or software. Hardware engineers, as a specialized subset of electrical engineers, focus more on electrical and electronic circuits for computer systems. Software engineering is the engineering career at the intersection between engineering design and computer science, so software engineers should expect to study computer science and develop advanced skills in programming. Of course, software engineers must also learn the principles of engineering design. Computer engineering coursework can also prepare students for roles such as computer and information research scientists.

4. Nuclear Engineer

The Bureau of Labor Statistics reported a median salary of $120,380 for nuclear engineers in 2021. Earnings in excess of $169,000 per year characterize the top 10% of earners in this occupation, while the lowest-paid 10% of nuclear engineers reported an annual income below $75,460.

The federal government, which is the largest employer in the field of nuclear engineering and accounts for 18 percent of the workforce, is also the lowest paying of these top employment industries. The median annual salary for nuclear engineering professionals in this industry just exceeded the six-figure mark, at $100,650. Nuclear engineers working in the scientific research and development services industry – about 15 percent of the profession – reported the highest median salary, $151,980.

What Does a Nuclear Engineer Do?

Nuclear engineers are the professionals behind the development and production of nuclear energy and nuclear radiation. As such, nuclear engineers play a big part in energy production. They are also responsible for medical uses of radiation, including diagnostic imaging tests that use radiation to visualize the inside of the body and radiation-based treatments for conditions like cancer.

Unfortunately, the current job outlook for nuclear engineering professionals is discouraging. From 2020 through 2030, the BLS expects jobs in this field to decline by 8%, compared to the 8% increase predicted for all jobs as a whole and the 7% increase predicted for engineering careers in general. If you want to work in this career field, you should be prepared for a competitive job market.

Coursework in Nuclear Engineering

Coursework in this degree program often begins with an overview of the principles of nuclear engineering. Specialized coursework in this major includes nuclear reactor theory and design, nuclear plant systems, nuclear engineering systems design, experiments in nuclear engineering and the materials for nuclear energy applications.

Nuclear engineering is an interdisciplinary branch of engineering that draws from more than one of the major disciplines of the field. As such, students should expect to study the principles of electrical engineering, fluid mechanics, thermodynamics, statics and particle dynamics and electricity and magnetism.

5. Chemical Engineer

Another of the six-figure engineering careers is chemical engineer. For chemical engineers, the Bureau of Labor Statistics reported a 2021 median salary of $105,550. The 10% of chemical engineers who make the most money reported earning upwards of $187,430 per year, while the 10% of the chemical engineer occupation that earned the least brought in less than $62,730.

Industry of employment makes a big impact on the earning potential of chemical engineers. For chemical engineer careers in the engineering services industry, which make up 10% of the chemical engineering workforce, the BLS reported a median salary of $152,430. Chemical engineer roles in engineering firms are some of the highest-paying engineering jobs. The pharmaceutical and medicine manufacturing industry, which employs 3% of the occupation, is the lowest-paying top employment industry for chemical engineers. Professionals working in this industry reported earning $96,220 annually in 2021.

What Do Chemical Engineers Do?

A chemical engineer is an engineering professional who uses the principles and practices of chemistry and other life and natural sciences to design solutions that range from the development of new chemicals to processes and equipment used in chemical production. Chemicals are a part of many facets of life, which means that chemical engineers play a role in products ranging from food, medicine and clothing to fuel, energy production and electronics.

Coursework for Chemical Engineers

As you might expect, an aspiring chemical engineer needs a strong background in chemistry and should expect to take laboratory courses in physical chemistry, organic chemistry, chemical practice and a more advanced level of principles of chemistry than other students typically take.

Specialized coursework for aspiring chemical engineers includes chemical engineering materials, the design and operations of the chemical engineering process, chemical engineering analysis, biochemical engineering, separation processes and mass transfer and transport processes. Additionally, students should study the design and analysis of chemical reactors.

6. Electrical Engineer

For electrical and electronics engineers, the BLS reported a median salary of $101,780 in 2021. The BLS further distinguishes between the job titles of electrical engineer and electronics engineer. According to the BLS, electronics engineers earn slightly more than electrical engineers – $104,820 compared to $100,420 in 2021. Among electronics engineers, the best-paid 10% earned more than $166,890, and the lowest-paid 10% made less than $73,630. Electrical engineers in the 90th percentile reported earnings of more than $162,930, while an electrical engineer in the 10th percentile would make less than $62,360 per year.

The highest-paying industry for electronics engineers is the navigational, measuring, electromedical and control instruments manufacturing industry, for which the median salary was $128,560. The lowest-paying top employment industry in this field, telecommunications, paid a median annual salary of $100,290.

For electrical engineers, the highest-paying engineering jobs are in research and development in the physical, engineering and life sciences industry. Electrical engineering professionals in this industry reported earning a median salary was $125,080. The lowest-paying top employment industry for electrical engineers, the engineering services industry, paid a median wage of $99,330. An electrical engineer or electronics engineer can expect earnings that approach, if not exceed, the six-figure range as they advance their career over the course of their work lifetime.

What Do Electrical Engineers Do?

Electrical systems and electronic equipment are the main areas of focus for electrical and electronics engineers, respectively. Both areas pertain to electricity in some way, but an electrical engineer is generally more concerned with the generation and distribution of electrical power on a larger scale, and electronics engineers typically focus more narrowly on electronic devices and equipment.

In either case, designing and developing products, equipment or processes used for an electrical system or electronic device, such as navigation systems, is the main job duty of engineers in these related areas of electrical engineering and electronics engineering.

Coursework in Electrical Engineering

Students majoring in electrical engineering should expect to take coursework in the foundations and design of electric circuits, electronic devices and the fundamentals of power and energy. Studies in digital logic design and design with microcontrollers are also common requirements in electrical engineering bachelor’s degree programs. Electrical engineering students should learn about electromagnetics in computing and wireless systems and about continuous and discrete signals and systems.

Gaining hands-on experience designing electrical circuits and systems is important for an aspiring electrical engineer. A bachelor’s degree in this area of study should include design studio coursework, internship or co-op opportunities or a senior project that facilitates the acquisition of hands-on electrical engineering work experience.

7. Biomedical Engineer

The median salary the BLS reported for bioengineers and biomedical engineers in 2021 was $97,410. A six-figure salary is well within the realm of possibility for biomedical engineers. The average salary for biomedical engineers and bioengineers, according to the US Department of Labor Bureau of Labor Statistics, was $101,020 as of 2021.

Although the lowest-paid 10% of workers in the biomedical and bioengineering field reported making less than $60,680 per year, the highest-paid 10% of the field earned upwards of $154,750.

The 8% of bioengineers working in navigational, measuring, electromedical and control instruments manufacturing enjoyed the highest median salary of all top employment industries, at $108,690. Bioengineers working for colleges and universities earned the least, with a median wage of $62,650.

What Do Biomedical Engineers Do?

A biomedical engineer is an engineer who designs and develops solutions based on or with applications in medical science. For most biomedical engineers, a passion for helping people and making a difference is what attracts them to this career that U.S. News & World Report had ranked as one of the best STEM jobs. Through their work in engineering design, most biomedical engineers create medical devices, equipment and processes that can be used to help diagnose and treat medical conditions.

Biomedical engineering isn’t just one of the highest paying engineering jobs but also one of the newer fields of engineering. It wasn’t until the late 1960s that the first college biomedical engineering departments were established, according to the American Institute for Medical and Biological Engineering (AIMBE). Despite the relative recency of the field’s development, biomedical engineers have accomplished a great deal in a short time.

Coursework in Biomedical Engineering

To innovate and engineer solutions to biomedical problems, biomedical engineers first need to know a great deal about the body and biological systems. This means studying cell biology, biochemistry, biophysics, membrane physiology and the physiological systems of the body.

Coursework in biomechanics, vascular mechanics and biotransport and kinetics also helps biomedical engineering students build a foundation for the work of engineering medical solutions. Specialized areas of study in this field may include medical device design, biomedical signals and imaging, biomaterials, biomedical computation, bioimaging, tissue engineering and immunoengineering.

8. Geological Engineer

The median salary for mining and geological engineers in 2021 was $97,090, the BLS reported. The highest earners in this career field made more than $162,720, while the lowest earners reported making less than $48,690.

Even the lowest-paying of the top employment industries for geological engineering professionals, metal ore mining, paid a median annual salary of $95,300. Geological engineers working in the oil and gas extraction industry enjoyed a median salary of $131,020.

What Do Geological Engineers Do?

Geological engineers locate mineral deposits below the surface of the Earth and plan for the extraction of these resources. Geological engineers design different kinds of mines and procedures for transporting and processing extracted resources.

Coursework in Geological Engineering

Courses in geological sciences – including structural geology, mineralogy, crystallography, stratigraphy and sedimentation, igneous and metamorphic petrology and rock mechanics – is essential for those seeking a career in geological engineering. Students also need a thorough understanding of fluid mechanics, metallurgical thermodynamics, engineering geophysics, geographic information systems (GIS) and computer-aided design.

Through their coursework, students of geological engineering should develop skills and knowledge pertaining to geotechnical engineering, petroleum drilling and production engineering and engineering for environmental geology. Gaining practical experience through geological engineering fieldwork and hands-on design projects is particularly valuable for students who want to enter this career.

9. Mechanical Engineer

In 2021, the median salary for mechanical engineers was $95,300, according to the BLS. The mechanical engineers with the highest salaries reported earning upwards of $136,210, but those with the lowest salaries made less than $60,750.

The scientific research and development services industry paid mechanical engineers the best, with a median salary of $102,050, while the machinery manufacturing industry paid a median wage of just $79,770.

What Do Mechanical Engineers Do?

Mechanical engineering is a broad discipline that encompasses any engineering application that involves movement and motion. While mechanical engineering work encompasses machines like robots, automotive engines and power grids, it can also include biomedical applications that pertain to the movement of the human body. Because they work in so many areas and industries, mechanical engineers develop solutions for a wide range of problems.

Coursework in Mechanical Engineering

The most important topics of study in a mechanical engineering program include computer-aided design software and techniques, the properties of materials, thermodynamics and the process of heat transfer and energy conversion, static and dynamic systems and the mechanics of matter – both fluids and solids. By the time they graduate, mechanical engineering students should know the fundamentals of machine theory and engineering design, and they often have an opportunity to concentrate on certain areas, like robotics or automotive vehicles, in their elective courses.

10. Civil Engineer

Civil engineering is one of the major engineering disciplines, but it encompasses other types of engineering job roles, including environmental engineer. The median salary for civil engineers in 2021 was $88,050, while environmental engineers specifically earned a median salary of $96,820 – making environmental engineers some of the highest-paid workers in the engineering industry.

What Do Civil Engineers Do?

Civil engineers design and implement infrastructure projects that range from roads and bridges to buildings.

The subdiscipline of environmental engineering focuses on engineering design work used to solve environmental problems. Example areas of focus for environmental engineers include the development of renewable energy systems and waste disposal systems.

Coursework in Civil Engineering

Studies in civil engineering include courses in statics and dynamics, structural engineering and structural analysis, construction materials and structural material behavior, soil mechanics and hydraulics.

Environmental engineering may be a concentration within civil engineering or its own distinct degree program. In either case, coursework for aspiring environmental engineers emphasizes sustainability. Aspiring environmental engineers also study the chemical principles and microbial principles in environmental engineering work. Environmental engineer degree programs include coursework in environmental science topics, such as soil science, and in environmental regulations. Environmental engineers often start their careers off by gaining experience through an internship, co-op experience or field practicum.

Other Types of Engineering Occupations

These aren’t the only engineering careers out there. Other engineering jobs to consider include agricultural engineer, materials engineer and industrial engineer.

Agricultural engineer, as the job title suggests, is a field of engineering devoted to problem-solving in farming and agriculture. Agricultural engineers may develop new products, processes and procedures for cultivating, harvesting, storing and processing produce and other types of agricultural products. Although the BLS predicted a slower than average rate of job growth for agricultural engineers between 2020 and 2030, the Bureau of Labor Statistics reported for this occupation a median salary of $82,640 per year in 2021 – not too shabby, considering this isn’t even one of the 10 highest-paying engineering jobs.

Materials engineers research the properties and uses of raw materials and existing combinations of materials for application in all engineering fields. Materials engineers combine existing materials into new substances that can be used to solve problems in medicine, construction, computer technology and even sports. In addition to studying materials themselves, a materials engineer may also develop methods of processing and testing materials more efficiently and with less waste of time, product, energy or expense. The BLS reported that materials engineers earned a median wage of $98,300 per year as of 2021, but the material engineer profession is considerably smaller than many other engineering occupations. There were only 25,100 materials engineers working in America as of 2020. Although materials engineers can look forward to an 8% job growth rate, that amount of growth would yield only 2,100 new jobs for materials engineers over the course of a decade.

Industrial engineering, which focuses on the efficiency of industrial processes and manufacturing processes, was one of the most in-demand engineering jobs as of 2020. The BLS predicted a much faster than average job growth rate of 14% for industrial engineers between 2020 and 2030. Industrial engineers focus on improving efficiency in production processes and manufacturing processes. For industrial engineers, the BLS reported an average salary of $95,520 in 2021.

Management Careers in Engineering

If you want to move up from any of these engineering jobs, you might work toward another of the highest-paying engineering jobs, engineering manager. If you’re making a determination based solely on earning potential, engineering manager is one of the best engineering career options.

Engineering managers are tasked with project management duties as well as supervisory duties. The median annual salary for engineering managers in 2020 was $152,350.

Talented engineers are needed for management roles in every field of engineering. Often, aspiring engineering managers prepare for this career path by pursuing a master’s degree. However, a master’s degree is not strictly required for aspiring engineering managers, because candidates may advance to this role with only a bachelor’s degree.

Master’s degree programs in engineering management focus on skills in leadership and administration – precisely the skills engineering managers most need. You are also likely to need several years of work experience to become an engineering manager. In some engineering disciplines, licensed Professional Engineers will have the best prospects for engineer manager jobs.

What Are the Best Engineering Careers?

Our ranking of the highest paying engineering jobs focuses on just one aspect of the different types of engineering careers: earning potential, based on median pay rates. Your ability to earn a comfortable or even lucrative living is one important factor in choosing the best career for you, but average salary potential shouldn’t be your only consideration when choosing between different types of engineering fields.

In fact, engineering jobs as a whole report average salaries that are well above the national average salary. For all architecture and engineering jobs, the BLS reported a median annual salary of $79,840. For all occupations in all types of careers across the United States, the BLS reported an average salary of $58,260 in 2021. That national average salary translates to $28.01 per hour.

While some engineering jobs pay more than others, all of them offer significant earning potential and the opportunity to use your knowledge and skills for real-world innovation, not just academic and theoretical contemplations. High salaries don’t always correlate with high job satisfaction, although having an earning potential that exceeds the national average salary certainly doesn’t hurt job satisfaction rates.

As you’re exploring options for a career in engineering, think about the types of technical skills you would enjoy using on a regular basis and the types of problems you’re most eager to solve. Do you prefer the hands-on work of building circuits out of physical materials or the conceptualization of software programs constructed out of computer coding? Are you more interested in climate change and other environmental issues or in tackling public health issues? Would you prefer to assemble computer hardware, test drug therapies, build aircraft and vessels for space exploration, find safe methods of using and securing useful yet dangerous chemicals or planning construction projects?

There’s no one right answer to any of these questions. Fortunately, the 10 highest paying engineering careers include a variety of areas of focus, each of which requires its own set of technical skills.

Demand for Different Types of Engineering Jobs

What else should you consider when choosing the best engineering career for you? Looking at the job market and job growth rates, as predicted by the BLS, is a wise idea. Although the demand for jobs in any industry and discipline can shift over time, it can be helpful to know going into your career preparation whether the projected rate of job growth for your profession over the next few years is characterized as an average, above-average or below-average rate.

Even if knowing the job growth rate for your intended occupation doesn’t change your big-picture career plans, this information can inform how you go about your job search and career advancement efforts. If you’re entering one of the engineering fields that is seeing less job growth, you may have to be less selective when it comes to applying for entry-level jobs. It might make more sense for workers in these engineering fields to pursue a master’s degree or get licensed as Professional Engineers when they’re working toward career advancement, so that they can stand out from the competition – most of whom are likely to have only a bachelor’s degree.

The most in-demand engineering jobs in 2020 were growing at above-average rates, and the job outlook for many engineering roles was consistent with the average growth rate. However, some engineering roles – like nuclear engineer – were expected to see a significant decline in job opportunities from 2020 through 2030.

Your Personal and Professional Interests

Full-time workers can expect to devote a third of their life (on workdays) to their jobs. Since there are few activities you will spend more time doing over the course of your life than working, you might as well choose an occupation that you can get excited about.

Engineers in all disciplines draw from the same general subjects: mathematics and the natural and physical sciences. Engineers working in many industries perform many of the same basic tasks, as well. For example, they design new products and processes, prepare technical reports that express the engineering specifications for their designs, run computer simulations and work closely with others involved in the project, from stakeholders to technicians. However, the technical work that different kinds of engineers do on a daily basis can be very different depending on the field of engineering they pursue.

Do you want to develop building plans, put together electrical circuit boards, mix up chemical solutions, assemble machines or plan the development of software programs? Would you prefer to take on the task of solving environmental problems, or do you have no qualms about working in the petroleum and mining industries? (These goals, by the way, aren’t necessarily mutually exclusive, since petroleum engineers and mining and geological engineers often strive to improve the effectiveness of this work and to mitigate the harm it does to the environment.) Engineers are creating the future, so aspiring engineers choosing their path should consider both the big-picture matter of what kind of future they want to create and the smaller details of what an average day of work will look like.

Related Resources:

Highest Paying Degrees in Engineering – Majors & Careers

What Are the Highest Paying Jobs With a Degree in Mechanical Engineering?

What Are the Highest Paying Jobs With a Degree in Civil Engineering?

What Are the Highest Paying Jobs in Engineering Technology?

For Further Reading:

Top 10 Paying Jobs With an Associate’s Degree

What Are the 5 Best Careers in Environmental Science?

How Much Can I Make With a Degree in Digital Marketing?

The post Top 10 Highest Paying Engineering Careers appeared first on DegreeQuery.com.

Top 10 Skills Employers Look For in Business Graduates

Krystle Dodge — Tue, 18 Mar 2025 02:59:44 +0000

Earning a business degree opens up a world of career opportunities, but not all graduates are created equal in the eyes of employers. When reviewing recent business grads for open positions, hiring managers look for much more than academic credentials. There are key skills that set standout candidates apart from the pack.

We’re outlining the top 10 skills employers seek when recruiting business graduates straight out of college. From communication abilities to the ability to work on a team, the following capabilities are highly valued across industries like marketing, finance, and HR.

Top 10 Skills Employers Look For in Business Graduates

In the challenging job market, a varied skill set becomes crucial. Let’s examine the essential skills that distinguish business graduates in the professional arena.

1. Communication Skills

Effective workplace communication is pivotal for success. In today’s dynamic business world, clear articulation is a cornerstone for collaboration and innovation. Strong communication skills transcend mere verbal exchanges.

They underpin successful collaboration and relationship-building within teams, propelling career growth and contributing to organizational success.

Importance

Clear communication fosters collaboration, ensuring ideas are conveyed seamlessly. Employers, recognizing its significance, deem communication skills indispensable in prospective hires.

Impact

A study highlights the pivotal role, with 77% of employers deeming communication skills “very important.”
Enhances collaboration and teamwork, crucial for modern work environments.
Establishes a foundation for effective negotiation and conflict resolution.

2. Problem-Solving Skills

In the dynamic business realm, adept problem-solving is non-negotiable. This skill consists of unraveling complex situations into smaller and more manageable problems. Then, a great problem-solver must be able to find an easy and efficient solution to each situation.

Problem-solving skills are required in almost every job application across industries, and as a result, this skill is in extremely high demand, and it should be worked on before considering applying for a job.

Importance

Business landscapes are rife with challenges; problem-solving skills aren’t just desirable. They are also essential, influencing job performance and efficiency.

Impact

Jobs requiring problem-solving skills boast an average pay scale of 14% higher, as revealed by a comprehensive study.
Critical for informed decision-making, these skills foster innovation and adaptability.
Real-world examples highlight how problem-solving directly enhances job performance.

3. Teamwork

The essence of effective teamwork in achieving organizational goals cannot be overstated. Teamwork skills consist of being able to coordinate a group and to work together to achieve a common goal.

In teamwork, adaptability is crucial, and effective teamwork becomes a cornerstone of success.

Importance

This skill is extremely valuable to any employer as the employees should be efficiently working together. If, instead, the employees cannot work together and everyone tries to prevail over others, you can end up in a hostile working environment.

Impact

Forbes Insights emphasizes that 89% of executives believe teamwork is crucial for a company’s success.
Strong teamwork fosters innovation, improved collaboration, and job satisfaction within the workplace.

4. Written Communication Skills

In the dynamic landscape of business, clear and professional written communication is a linchpin for success. Written communication skills encompass all the communication channels that businesses might adopt.

From emails and CRMs to informal messaging apps, you need to know how to write in various styles before getting hired by a company.

Importance

Mastering the art of written communication is crucial for navigating the complexities of a business setting. It ensures that ideas are clearly expressed, leaving no room for misinterpretation.

Impact

70% of employers actively seek graduates with robust writing abilities.
Effective written communication positively influences job performance.
It creates a pathway for career advancement, setting you apart in the competitive business realm.

5. Initiative

Initiative is a quality that sets you apart in the eyes of employers. It consists of going the extra mile and progressing even when a situation is at a standstill.

Importance

In the dynamic landscape of business, employers highly value graduates who don’t merely follow the path, rather they look for someone who can pave the way. Taking initiative is a testament to your proactive approach, showcasing that you’re not just a passive observer but an active contributor to the success of any endeavor.

Impact

A notable 67.5% of employers actively seek candidates who demonstrate initiative.
Taking initiative can lead to increased job responsibility, indicating that you’re ready to take on challenges beyond the norm.
It opens doors to leadership opportunities, allowing you to guide and influence outcomes within your professional sphere.

6. Strong Work Ethic

Regardless of your field, a strong work ethic is one of the most important characteristics you should have. Each job consists of written and unwritten rules that must be followed to correctly achieve the goal and maintain a proactive work environment.

A strong work ethic is the skill that sets apart diligent workers from the ones who are willing to cut corners just to finish the job sooner. A strong work ethic serves as a compass guiding you toward comprehensive career success, constructing a narrative of dependability and achievement.

Importance

A robust work ethic extends beyond mere time investment; it embodies a commitment to excellence, discipline, and unwavering dedication. Employers, recognizing its transformative impact, actively seek candidates who naturally embody this trait.

Impact

A substantial 71% of employers highly value and actively seek candidates with a strong work ethic.
A diligent work ethic lays the foundation for heightened job performance, showcasing your commitment to achieving goals.
It’s the bedrock of reliability, assuring employers you can be counted on to meet deadlines and exceed expectations.

7. Technical Skills

In a world where digital proficiency is paramount, possessing technical expertise has become synonymous with career preparedness. Technical skills encompass all the textbook techniques, expertise, and tricks that one can learn over a career.

Importance

Proficiency in technical skills serves as your gateway to a realm of heightened job opportunities and promising avenues for career growth. Even if many soft skills are important, technical ones are the founding principle of the job.

Impact

The professional arena exhibits a palpable demand for individuals well-versed in technical acumen responding to the surge in the need for digital proficiency.
A substantial 64.9% of employers underscore the importance of technical competency, acknowledging it as a crucial attribute in the job market.

8. Flexibility and Adaptability

In the ever-shifting terrain of today’s business world, adaptability is indispensable. It allows workers to continue to perform their best even if some significant factors about the job change.

Importance

From an employer’s point of view, adaptability and flexibility are fundamental skills to look for as a “jack of all trades” could be a long-term key component of the business, as opposed to someone who only knows how to perform a very specific job.

Impact

Amidst the perpetual flux of the business environment, adaptability emerges as a beacon of resilience. It enables you to adeptly navigate the complexities of evolving trends.
A substantial 63.4% of hiring managers actively seek candidates showcasing adaptability. They recognize it as a pivotal attribute that fosters a responsive and forward-thinking work culture.

9. Self-Motivation

Self-motivation is like fuel for your professional engine. It is no secret that a professional career is full of challenges, so having the inner motivation that helps a worker plow through them is key.

Initiative and self-motivation aren’t just admirable traits, they’re pathways to expanded job opportunities and a successful career. By embodying these qualities, you will be able to impress employers and set the stage for your own professional triumph.

Importance

Employers appreciate graduates who take ownership, embrace challenges, and consistently stay motivated, recognizing the intrinsic value in such qualities.

Impact

Employees with high initiative levels are 44% more productive.

10. Commercial Awareness

Understanding the ins and outs of how businesses operate is a game changer. Even if you are a back-end engineer for an e-commerce website, understanding how the sales are made and how the business generates profits will help you achieve a better result, even in what might seem insignificant details to you.

Importance

An employer’s goal is to build a strong team on which they can rely, so even a programmer should be aware of how the company’s finance department operates. By doing so, teamwork is enhanced, increasing efficiency and profitability.

Impact

A study by the ACCA reveals that graduates with commercial awareness are 27% more likely to secure employment.
This statistic highlights this skill’s concrete advantage, making it indispensable in today’s fiercely competitive job market.

Conclusion

Our exploration of key skills employers desire reveals the recipe for success in the competitive job market. These skill sets not only boost employability but they also lay the foundation for a thriving career. Continual learning is vital for staying ahead in the dynamic business landscape.

The post Top 10 Skills Employers Look For in Business Graduates appeared first on DegreeQuery.com.

The 10 Best Online Masters in Economics

jmc — Tue, 18 Mar 2025 02:30:44 +0000

Throughout the ebbs and flows of rapidly changing economies around the world there is one constant–that even amongst the greatest changes, there are fundamental rules that predict and even determine the outcomes of economic fluctuations. A strong foundation in economics can open many doors, leading to careers in business, finance, and even in academia–just to name a few. But, in fact, the list will be smaller to name the things you cannot do with a background in economics.

And due to the recent and near-ubiquitous adoption of online education over recent years, there are more options for prospective economics than ever before. Even some of the most traditionalist and conversative universities around the world have recently adopted online education in response to the worldwide pandemic, which has led to many of the best master’s of economics programs shifting offerings to the digital education space.

This widespread adoption of online education has simultaneously unraveled cynical skepticism toward online education on both the side of employers and educators, meaning that there have simultaneously never been more options and these options have never had such acceptance and approval. So with this in mind, our researchers have done the legwork and compiled some of the best options to consider for earning your master’s of economics online.

Our researchers have organized this ranking according to metrics that we believe will be most meaningful to prospective students–including overall prestige of the institution, graduation rate, tuition costs, and aggregate scores from parallel education rankings.

1 West Texas A&M University

The West Texas A&M University Paul and Virginia Engler College of Business offers a renowned economics program that can be completed as a fully online master’s degree. The program has racked up numerous accolades that recognize it for outstanding standards of excellence and promising outcomes for program graduates. Students of the program will master the skills needed to succeed in careers of economic and financial consulting and advising in either the private or public sector.

The program can be completed through 36 to 45 credit hours of coursework that is completed through an asynchronous schedule. The program also offers excellent flexibility for students who wish to progress through the program while holding down full-time employment. As such, hard working professionals have up to six years to complete the program so as to ensure a comfortable work-life balance.

Net Price: $13,185

Learn more about the Top Online Master’s Degree in Economics at Texas A&M University here.

2 Purdue University

The Purdue University Krannert School of Management is one of the most prestigious and respected business schools in the country and beyond. Students of the Krannert School of Management go on to achieve their goals through exemplary careers. Among other top-notch degree programs, the Krannert School of Management offers a fully online Master of Science of Economics.

Students of the program will learn from top-tier faculty who specialize in cutting-edge quantitative and empirical instructional methods. As such, students will progress through a high-tech curriculum that enforces study in the following areas: econometrics (big data, machine learning), statistical software applications, modern computational and programming tools (Python), business outcome-forecasting, game theory and more.

Students of the program will be able to choose from a four degree specialization tracks:

Business and Data Analytics
Financial Economics
Public Economics and Policy
Advanced Theory

Net Price: $12,527

Learn more about the Top Online Master’s Degrees in Economics at Purdue University here.

3 University of Missouri

The University of Missouri offers a number of career-centric degree programs that are designed to propel students to the next threshold of professional advancement. Particularly in the case of the College of Arts and Sciences, programs are designed to position graduates to capitalize on market needs and job market opportunities. Specifically, the College offers a fully online Master of Arts in Economics.

Esteemed faculty cultivate students’ skill sets with hands-on learning opportunities meant to cultivate mastery in the following areas: public sector business development, international trade, international finance, economic development.

Students who graduate from the program will be prepared to take on employment in any of the following roles (evidenced by recent graduates who hold these titles):

Data Scientist
Director of Institutional Research
Economic Development Incentive Specialist
Energy Markets Manager
Lecturer in Economics
Quantitative Modeling Analyst

Learn more about the Top Online Master’s Degrees in Economics at University of Missouri here.

Net Price: $18,480

4 University of Detroit Mercy

The University of Detroit at Mercy College of Liberal Arts & Education offers some of the most recognized and awarded degree programs on this list. This particularly true for one program in particular, the fully online Master of Science in Applied Data Analytics has racked up numerous accolades recognizing it for its top-tier education and promising outcomes for recent graduates.

While not listed as an economics program in the name, the program is specifically designed to position students within the field of global economics. In fact, the data analytics curriculum represents a well-informed strategy to position students to capitalize on the rising prominence of data-centric strategy in economic careers.

For students interested in the technical side of global economics, few programs replicate this commitment to a high tech, career-centric curriculum.

Learn more about the Top Online Master’s Degrees in Economics at the University of Detroit here.

Net Price: $20,415

5 Ohio University

Ohio University offers a globally-minded, STEM-designated Master of Arts in Economics that is particularly accommodating to international students. The STEM designation allows for a program classification, which grants up to 24 months of extra training after graduation for international students.

The program can be completed at jaw-dropping pace, with completion in as little as one year. Class sizes are kept to a small number to encourage full integration and engagement between students. This is meant to convey a focus on socially aware collaboration, which is an integral part of the economist’s profession.

Specifically, graduates of the program will be prepared to excel in any of the following career paths:

Data Analyst
Research Analyst
Financial manager
Policy analyst
College instructor

Learn more about the Top Online Master’s Degrees in Economics at Ohio University here.

Net Price: $6,677

6 Johns Hopkins University

John Hopkins University is a school that confers tremendous clout to graduates of its programs. JHU is at the forefront of research in countless fields, and produces industry-shifting professionals year after year. Most of its programs commit to industry-relevant research methods, so that graduates enter the job market armed with knowledge of the current market needs and opportunities.

JHU’s Online Master of Applied Economics offers one of the most flexible and accommodating degree programs on this list. Students can choose from a robust catalogue to facilitate building a unique profile of training. Students will be able to choose from 7 concentrations and 27 electives in order to build the program that is best suited to individual career aspirations.

Moreover, students can complete the program in as little as 12 to 24 months. Making this one of the most prestigious, flexible, and efficient programs on this list–which more than justifies the comparatively high tuition costs.

Learn more about the Top Online Master’s Degrees in Economics at Johns Hopkins University here.

Net Price: $30,701

7 American University

American University is a school that focuses on providing students with a foundation to build professional thriving and success. Its online programs are helmed by top-tier faculty who hold at least 20 years of experience in their respective specialties, and who work to stay on top of the most current trends and opportunities.

American University offers a host of online degree programs, among which is a fully online Master of Arts in Economics. As with many of its programs, American University offers tremendously affordable tuition rates which are further tempered by generous financial aid packages and transfer credit policies.

American University is an ideal option for students who want quality education that can bring them into the job market quickly and affordably. From enrollment to graduation, students of the program will complete the following required courses:

Introduction to Mathematical Economics
Microeconomic Theory
Macroeconomic Theory
Applied Econometrics I
Applied Econometrics II
Economics MA Capstone Seminar

Learn more about the Top Online Master’s Degrees in Economics at American University here.

Net Price: $9,656

8 Youngstown State University

Youngstown State University offers a fully online Online Master of Arts in Financial Economics Program, which is designed to accommodate students with even the busiest of work schedules. The program’s curriculum is designed to cultivate an awareness of global economics and international business, so that students can analyse data sets from all angles.

To this end, coursework is strongly positioned in data science fundamentals in the context of financial analyses. As such students will become well-accustomed to research methods and protocols for assessment of an entity’s financial operations–which will position graduates for success in both public and private sectors.

Students will complete the following required courses:

Microeconomic Theory
Macroeconomic Theory
The Economics of Financial Markets and Institutions
Econometrics
Research Seminar
Finance for Decision Making
Financial Statement Analysis
Corporate Financial Management
Securities Analysis

Learn more about the Top Online Master’s Degrees in Economics at Youngstown State University here.

Net Price: $11,595

9 Georgia Southern University

The Georgia Southern Jack N. Averitt College of Graduate Studies provides students with a strong career-centric foundation from which to build professional advancement. Specifically, students at the College will have the opportunity to earn a fully online Master of Science in Applied Economics (M.S.A.E.).

Students of the program will delve deeply into topics relating to business development, performance metrics, and financial analyses. As such, graduates will be prepared to work in any industry which participates in economic development, public utilities, or federal and state regulation.

For students interested in a curriculum that tackles state and federal regulation practices and policies this program is an ideal option.

Learn more about the Top Online Master’s Degrees in Economics at Regent University here.

Net Price: $15,795

10 University of North Dakota

The University of North Dakota is a research-centric school that leverages a large network of research partners and facilities to offer industry-aware programs that capitalize on market opportunities. This is particularly beneficial in degree programs that benefit the most from cutting-edge research methods, such as is the case with the fully online Master’s in Applied Economics & Predictive Analytics.

The program is completed through 30 credit hours either online or on-campus, which typically takes around 2 years. Students of the program will build toward specialization in key areas such as the following:

Econometrics
Statistical analysis
Utilizing industry standard software (such as STATA)
Programming languages (such as ‘R’ and Python)
Operational Metrics

Learn more about the Top Online Master’s Degrees in Economics at Regent University here.

Net Price: $15,970

For Further Reading:

Top 10 Graduate Degree Programs in Criminal Justice

The post The 10 Best Online Masters in Economics appeared first on DegreeQuery.com.

The 20 Best Online For-Credit Certificates in Marketing

jmc — Tue, 18 Mar 2025 02:17:44 +0000

Marketing is a Safe, Lucrative, and Growing Profession

The field of marketing is one that has continuously evolved alongside the business world and the world economy. But one thing is certain–it isn’t going anywhere, and in fact the Bureau of Labor Statistics suggests that management-level marketing positions are growing at a rate of 6% which is nearly double the national average. A skilled marketer will always have a number of professional opportunities to consider. Working in freelance, joining a respected agency, or starting your own marketing agency–these are all viable options for marketers.

And it is this optionality and sheer flexibility that makes the field of marketing an excellent destination for professionals and students of all levels. And for those looking for a quick and affordable entrypoint into the industry, a four year degree may not always be the best answer.

Quick and Affordable Online Marketing Certificate Programs

Marketing certificate programs have always been a popular choice for both current and prospective marketing professionals. Certificate programs are often built around key skills and specialized areas of study, so that students can focus all of their attention on what is most beneficial in the context of professional advancement.

In many cases, employers might enroll their marketing employees in these programs to improve efficiency and productivity. And likewise, independent marketers often enroll in certificate programs if they feel they need to improve in a certain area. Thankfully, the process has never been more simple, and can often be completed while maintaining full-time employment and a comfortable work-life balance.

Our researchers have compiled the best programs available according to metrics which we believe matter the most to you, the student–affordability, academic integrity, efficiency, and overall reputation (as measured by the program’s performance in rankings of trusted publications).

1. University of Washington-Seattle Campus

The University of Washington Professional & Continuing Education program is designed for working students, adult learners, and other nontraditional students who need results-driven education. The UW Professional & Continuing Education program is designed to propel students into successful careers by building high-value skills that are of high value in the job market. UW distinguishes itself through this commitment to providing career-centric programs, which prepare students to seize on the real-time demands of their industry.

The UW Professional & Continuing Education Department offers a for-credit Certificate of Digital Marketing. The program’s curriculum has been designed from the ground up to represent the current needs of the industry, and the expectations of future employers. The program can be completed on any schedule that best accommodates a student’s needs–self-paced online, online with real-time meetings, or a traditional classroom format.

The program emphasizes hands-on learning experiences where students will engage projects like the following:

Learning to leverage Google Analytics to gain exposure
Learning to use other digital marketing tools
Developing a paid-media plan and strategy for a mock company
Creating a comprehensive digital marketing plan for a real local company, which is added to each student’s portfolio on completion

2. University of South Florida-Main Campus

The University of South Florida (USF) is a booming university system that ranks as one of the nation’s most prolific research investors with an annual budget of $1.6 billion. As such, USF leverages this extensive network of research facilities and initiatives to offer modern programs informed by USF’s cutting-edge research. The USF Executive Education program takes this to the next level, and specifically designs programs using current industry-data to create pathways for students to become highly competitive and successful professionals on an accelerated schedule.

The USF Muma College of Business offers a number of business and marketing programs at the undergraduate and graduate level, among which is an online Marketing Certificate. The program is self-paced so that students can earn their certificate amidst full-time employment and demanding schedules.

Students of the program will develop valuable skills and strategies such as the following:

Develop strategies applying to your business
Break through silos in order to bring your unify your organization on behalf of your customers
Eliminate barriers and develop a customer-centric mindset of innovation
Gain customer insights, and convert theories into action

3. University of California-Los Angeles

The University of California Los Angeles (UCLA) is a name that is recognized around the world, a name associated with academic excellence and professional innovation. No matter your chosen program, at UCLA students work at the forefront of their fields to become future-minded professionals who have the tools needed to build lifelong success.

The UCLA Extension program was built to bring the University’s most successful programs to more students around the country, and even around the world. Among these is an online Marketing Certificate with a Concentration in Digital Marketing. The program offers a comprehensive introduction into the following areas:

Digital analytics
Digital and social media marketing
Influencer marketing and content strategy
Advertising in the digital age

4. University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign

Illinois Online offers a number of accessible programs that are built with the student and their career in mind. As such, its programs are delivered through a range of modalities in order to meet students where they are, no matter where they are in life. Illinois Online’s certificate programs however, are designed specifically for those wishing to pursue professional advancement.

Illinois Online offers a Digital Marketing Certificate through the prestigious Gies College of Business. The Digital Marketing Certificate (Coursera MasterTrackTM Certificate) offers a curriculum that teaches students how to engage consumers in a global economy. The program offers one course at a time, so that students can comfortably progress while maintaining full-time employment.

Specifically, the program is built around the following course schedule:

Marketing in a Digital World – Spring, 4 weeks
Digital Marketing Analytics – Summer, 8 weeks
Digital Marketing Channels – Fall, 8 weeks
Marketing in an Analog World – Fall, 4 weeks
Digital Marketing Capstone – Fall, 2 weeks

5. University of California-Irvine

Established in 1962, the UC Irvine Division of Continuing Education (DCE) has a storied history of servicing adult learners and working students who want to elevate their career trajectories. Today, the UC Irvine Division of Continuing Education (DCE) offers more than 80 industry-relevant certificates and specialized programs–either on campus, online, or at a corporate site. The Division’s certificate programs leverage the University’s network of strategic partnerships so that online students benefit from hands-on learning experiences.

The Digital Marketing & Communications certificate program is completed entirely online through coursework which is designed to prepare students to capitalize on career opportunities. Students of the program will polish their skills of research, writing, design, and analytics–all of which are highly sought after by employers in the field of marketing.

This program differentiates itself in the special attention paid to digital marketing and computing technology. Students of the program will learn how to leverage the latest tools to become as efficient and productive as possible.

6. Ozarks Technical Community College

The Ozarks Technical Community College breaks the mold for what many think of when considering a community college. Ozarks Technical offers an array of future-facing, career-focused degree programs that are designed to propel graduates into successful careers. Ozarks Technical employs a value-based learning paradigm built on the following tenets:

Quality
Opportunity
Accessibility
Learning
Inclusion
Innovation
Community
Respect
Integrity
Personal growth

If these values resonate with you, you might want to consider enrolling the College’s online Business and Marketing Certificate. The program differentiates itself from similar programs through its focus on business education. Students of the program will be introduced to the foundational concepts of marketing framed within the context of business operations.

Specially, the certificate program is made up of the following courses:

Principles of Accounting I
Principles of Business
Principles of Marketing
Business Communications
Principles of Management
Technology & Digital Literacy
Principles of Macroeconomics
Composition I With Support

7. University of Virginia

The University of Virginia Online has earned a national reputation for producing innovators and leaders. The University of Virginia develops its programs to appeal to working professionals and adult learners. As such, students will find that Virginia Online’s programs maintain a high bar of academic rigor, while focusing on coursework that is most valuable in the context of one’s profession. Upon graduation students will be prepared to not only compete in the job market, but to win in the job market.

The University of Virginia offers a graduate certificate in Digital Marketing that can be completed entirely online. Students of the program will master the various tools of the trade and will build the practical skills needed to retain customers in the modern marketing field.

The program is built upon the following curriculum:

Digital Marketing Tools & Technologies
Strategic Database Marketing
Customer Relationship Management
Legal Aspects of Digital Marketing
Web Marketing: Building Awareness on the Internet
Social & New Media in Digital Marketing
Mobile Marketing Strategies
Introduction to Project Management

8. Hagerstown Community College

Hagerstown Community College (HCC) was founded in 1946 as Maryland’s first community college, and today has become a well-respected provider of student-centric online programs. Today, HCC offers a number of fully online programs designed for university transfer, career preparation, and/or personal development. At HCC students engage curriculums which are designed to reflect the real world needs and demands of the job market, so that graduates have what it takes to win over future employers.

HCC offers an online Marketing Certificate that combines entry-level college courses with professional experience and skill development. Students of the program will engage course material that counts as credit towards a business or marketing Associate’s degree.

Specifically, the program is built around the following curriculum:

Principles of Management (3 Credits)
Marketing (3 Credits)
BUS 101 – Introduction to Business Organization and Management (3 Credits)
Public Speaking (3 Credits)
Technical Writing (3 Credits)
Introduction to Information Technology (3 Credits)
Macroeconomic Principles (3 Credits)
Microeconomic Principles (3 Credits)
Any Management (MGT) course (3 Credits)
Any Entrepreneurship (ENT) course (3 Credits)

9. University of Vermont

The University of Vermont (UVM) Department of Continuing and Distance Education specializes in offering high-end programs for future-minded students. UVM built its online programs long before the industry began to embrace ‘remote learning’ due to the pandemic, and as such online students at UVM benefit from years of program iteration and polishing.

Among these polished online programs is an Online Digital Marketing Fundamentals Professional Certificate. The program is led by industry experts who deliver the program in a bite-sized format of just 8 weeks, making it accessible to professionals on any schedule. Despite its short format, students will delve into a variety of topics and projects:

SEO (Search Engine Marketing)
PPC (Paid Search & Pay Per Click)
Web & Marketing Analytics
Email Marketing
Social Media Marketing
Display Advertising
Mobile Marketing
Capstone

10. Oregon State University

Oregon State University is a prime example of a large public university that has leveraged its success to expand into online learning. Today, OSU Online services nearly 30,000 international students around the world and designs its programs to offer the utmost accessibility to adult learners and working professionals. OSU Online offers more than 100 areas of study that can be pursued online or in a hybrid format that combines on-campus elements.

Oregon State University specializes in convenient certificate programs that offer a high level of academic rigor and professional integrity. Among these programs is a Digital Marketing Certificate and a Digital Brand Management Certificate. The courses of each are as follows:

Digital Brand Management Certificate
- Search Engine Optimization & Search Engine Marketing
- Digital Brand Strategies
- Building Digital Content Strategy
- Developing a Social Media Plan

Digital Marketing Certificate
- Audience Segmentation
- Content Marketing Strategy
- Transmedia Storytelling
- Business-to-Business Marketing

11. Macomb Community College

Macomb Community College is another College that is shaking up our conception of what a community college is capable of, and in fact, Macomb Community College is demonstrating a level of success that many large universities would like to replicate. Today, Macomb Community College services more than 38,000 students annually through its more than 200 degree and certificate programs.

Among these programs is a Digital Marketing certificate that can be completed entirely online. The program has a number of amazing selling points, one of which is the partnership with Burning Glass, which empowers students with the most current and relevant industry data. Additionally, the program employs a career-insights tool which allows students to explore promising areas of the job market.

12. Montgomery County Community College

montco-logo-stacked

Montgomery County Community College (MC3) earns consistent national recognition for its commitment to academic excellence demonstrated through world class faculty and use of technology. Today MC3 boasts an alumni group of more than 65,000 alumni, many of which have gone on to work at the highest levels of their fields. MC3 invests heavily in each of its programs so that it provides the best chances for each student to actualize their professional goals.

MC3 offers a marketing certificate that can be completed either on-campus or online. Students of the program will master key marketing concepts within the context of a global business environment. The program is built on the following foundational curriculum:

Survey of Accounting, Writing for Business and Industry, or Principles of Management (3 credits)
Legal Environment of Business (3 credits)
Introduction to Public Relations (3 credits)
Ethical Decision Making in Business (3 credits)
Principles of Marketing (3 credits)
Personal Sales Management (3 credits)
Advertising and Promotion (3 credits)
Digital Marketing (3 credits)
Management, Marketing, or Entrepreneurship Elective (3 credits)

13. University of Georgia

The University of Georgia (UGA) is one of the southeast’s most reputable and successful providers of education programs–with degrees and certification tracks available at all levels. And with the University’s expansion into online education, more students can benefit from these programs than ever before. In particular UGA’s Terry College of Business has partnered with industry experts in Silicon Valley in order to create top of the line programs that will prepare students to succeed in the job market.

Specifically, students can choose from three marketing certificate programs:

Digital Sales and Marketing Basics (3 month course)
Digital Marketing for Marketing Professionals (6 month course)
Digital Marketing for New Media Professionals (6 month course)

These programs are designed to propel students into prosperous areas of the job market, and improves the competitiveness of students’ portfolios by acting as sufficient preparation to sit for the Online Marketing Certified Associate (OMCA) or Online Marketing Certified Professional (OMCP) designation exams.

14. Cornell University

Cornell University is a name that confers tremendous academic and professional clout to its alumni, which in many cases is as valuable as the education itself. In short, Cornell University opens doors for its students, which is why it’s an internationally respected destination for pursuing a degree or other form of professional advancement. Over the last decade, Cornell Online has invested heavily in bringing more of its top-tier certificate programs to students.

Today, students can choose from a robust catalogue of fully online certificate tracks that employ the latest strategies and online learning technologies helmed by some of the world’s most celebrated faculty, who have worked at the highest levels of their fields–both academically and professionally.

Specifically, students can choose from a selection of online marketing certificate programs–one of the most extensive lists available:

Digital Marketing Certificate
Digital Marketing 360 Certificate
Social Media Marketing Certificate
Growth Marketing Certificate
Marketing Strategy Certificate
Brand Management Certificate
Product Marketing Certificate
Marketing AI Certificate
Marketing Analytics Certificate
PR Strategy Certificate
Integrated Marketing 360 Certificate
Corporate Communication Certificate
Data Privacy Strategy Certificate
Hospitality Digital Marketing Certificate
Strategic Hospitality Marketing Certificate

15. Scottsdale Community College

Scottsdale Community College (SCC) provides student-centric programs that engage adult learners and working students with intellectually rigorous curricula. Today SCC has grown to service more than 10,000 students annually through 100 degrees and 60 certificates, many of which can be completed entirely online from the comfort of one’s own home. For three consecutive years, SCC has been eligible for the prestigious Aspen Award for Community College Excellence.

SCC offers two marketing certificate programs, an Online Marketing Certificate and an Online Social Media Marketing Certificate. The Marketing program is made up of the following courses:

Introduction to Business (3 credits)
Principles of Marketing (3 credits)
Computer Usage and Applications (3 credits)
Survey of Computer Information Systems (3 credits)
Workplace Communication Skills (3 credits)
Advertising Principles (3 credits)
Principles of Sales (3 credits)

16. Community College of Philadelphia

Community College of Philadelphia (CCP) is Philadelphia’s largest institution of higher education and to date has serviced nearly 700,000 of the city’s inhabitants. CCP provides students with a number of flexible pathways to actualize professional and academic development. Its programs are designed to offer the highest level of academic integrity while preserving the flexibility needed to accommodate adult learners and working students.

CCP offers an online Digital Marketing Certificate which begins monthly in order to accommodate students’ of all backgrounds and schedules. The program aligns with the Online Marketing Certified Associate (OMCA) credential, which is a significant accolade in the field of marketing.

Students who enroll in the program will engage a comprehensive investigation of the central tasks of the marketing profession:

Social media messaging
Website ads
Facebook marketing campaigns
Google Adwords

17. Harvard University

Harvard University has always been a pillar of higher education in the United States, and the world at large. Its programs consistently rank as the most prestigious and academically rigorous of their kind, and often produce industry leaders who set the course of markets for years to come. Today, the Harvard University Extension program looks to make their quality programs available to students all over the world.

Among these programs is an online Marketing Management and Digital Strategy Certificate which is typically completed over 1.5 years on average. The program is designed for the working and distance student in mind, with 83% of enrollees working full-time and 29% living outside of the U.S.

The program’s curriculum is formatted as follows:

Foundations course (choose one course from select group)
Digital Tools (choose one course from select group)
Elective courses (choose two courses from select group)

18. University of Wisconsin – Milwaukee

The University of Wisconsin Milwaukee (UWM) School of Continuing Education is the largest provider of professional development in the region, and its year-round program structure enables students to engage flexible programs at a cadence that best facilitates learning and professional development. UWM emphasizes lifelong learning, so that its programs instill in students a frame of mind that contributes to success long after graduation.

UWM offers a fully online Digital Marketing Certificate which is based on a skill-building approach, which is meant to offer value to marketing professionals of all levels. Specifically, students who enroll in the program will engage the following curriculum format:

Building an Integrated Digital Content Strategy
- $924
Foundations for Effective Digital Marketing
- $924
Improve Marketing Results Using Advanced Analytics Techniques
- $374
Introduction to Digital Marketing Analytics
- $374

ELECTIVE COURSES

Adobe Illustrator – Basics
- $250
Adobe InDesign – Basics
- $374
Adobe Photoshop Bootcamp
- $374
Advertising on Facebook, Twitter and Other Social Platforms
- $374
Email Marketing Best Practices
- $374
Google Ads: Getting the Most From Paid Search
- $374
Google Tag Manager
- $374
SEO: Keyword Research, Link Building and Content Optimization
- $699
Storytelling Films: How to Make an Emotional Connection With Your Audience Through Video
- $374
Write High-Impact Copy for Your Website
- $374

19. University of San Diego

The University of San Diego’s Division of Professional and Continuing Education (PCE) offers future-minded, career-focused degree programs that aid students in reaching the next level of their careers. The PCE program leverages partnerships on the local, national and international level in order to maintain the most current and career-relevant strategies in each program.

The PCE program offers a number of certificate tracks that can be completed entirely online such as the Strategic Online Marketing Certificate. The program is designed for entry level to advanced marketers who want to improve their skills of online marketing. Specifically, the program is built around the following courses:

Building Your Brand and Website Foundation
Principles of SEO and Onsite Optimization
Offsite SEO Strategies
Content Marketing
Social Media Marketing
Online Advertising
Web Analytics
Capstone Project Presentations

20. University of Pennsylvania

The University of Pennsylvania’s Wharton School of Business is one of the world’s premier destinations for business and marketing education. Its programs consistently hit the top spots of rankings in trusted publications, and alumni often go on to work at the highest levels of business–running large international corporations, or heading prestigious marketing agencies. And with its adoption of online education, these top-tier programs are more accessible than ever before.

One such program is the online Digital Marketing Certificate which cultivates on-demand skills and strategies in students:

Omni-channel marketing
Marketing analytics
Social media strategy and analysis
Data-driven & customer-centric strategies for customer retention

The program is helmed by some of the industry’s top experts, who employ their specialties to guide and assist the advancement of students. Areas of faculty expertise include:

Digital marketing
Viral marketing
E-commerce
Online shopping behaviors
Sales forecasting

The post The 20 Best Online For-Credit Certificates in Marketing appeared first on DegreeQuery.com.

The 20 Best Online Master’s in Accounting Degree Programs

jmc — Tue, 18 Mar 2025 02:05:44 +0000

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics the accounting job market is projected to grow 4% from 2019 through 2029. This rate of growth mirrors the national average of growth between all job markets in the US economy (also 4%). While this rate of growth might not be immediately alluring, one should note the vast size of the accounting job market.

In 2019 there were more than 1.4 million accounting jobs in the US economy, making it one of the most sizable traditional job markets. Explosive growth is more typical of a new job economy or industry and does not reflect the health of the accountancy job market. In fact, explosive growth within the accounting industry is happening–it’s just not happening in the traditional places that one might expect.

Cloud accounting software, automation artificial intelligence (AI), and other forms of information technology (IT) are spurring evolution across various sectors of the accounting profession. Expert accountants are able to leverage a command of IT to automate large portions of the daily workload and streamline monotonous tasks.

Accountants who use IT simultaneously reduce the brain-drain of carrying out repetitive, monotonous tasks day-in and day-out, but it also increases the workload-capacity for these talented accountants, which ultimately makes them more competitive in the job market–they are better compensated and maintain more secure prospects of future employment.

Why Earn an Online Master’s in Accounting?

Earning a Master’s of Accounting is an excellent strategy for positioning one’s self for success in the accounting industry. Many of the best accounting positions are reserved for those with an advanced graduate degree or for those who have established a specialization. As mentioned above one of the most promising specializations to pursue is one in information technology, data science, or [accounting] software development.

Online Master’s of Accounting programs are typically designed to accommodate working adults, meaning course formats offer the flexibility that allows students to complete coursework amidst even the most demanding of schedules. Online programs can also typically be completed more quickly than traditional on-campus variants. So oftentimes an online master’s represents the most efficient entrypoint into the job market.

And in 2021 with most American universities offering online programs there is a good fit for any student. Luckily our researchers have done the legwork for you, and we have compiled the best online Master’s of Accounting for your consideration below:

Best Online Master’s of Accounting

University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill

UNC at Chapel Hill is a premier institution of higher education in the southeast known for cultivating world class professionals, top tier thinkers, and paradigm-shifting innovators. UNC Kenan-Flagler produces some of the accounting field’s most impactful professionals. Its programs train students in addressing the real world problems of the industry, so that upon graduation they are prepared to provide constructive solutions in the workplace.

UNC Kenan-Flagler offers a fully online Master of Accounting program that is completed through 36 to 48 credit’s worth of coursework. The on-campus variant of the program is hailed as one of the best of its kind, and the online option vows to offer the same level quality and academic rigor.

Students of the program will engage coursework in independent projects and through peer collaboration. The program faculty commit to providing students with more than just education, they look to provide students with mentorship and professional guidance. This is likely why the placement rate for graduates is so high–98% of students have accepted a job offer within three months of graduating from the program.

University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign

The University of Illinois is a nationally recognized institution of academic excellence which has broadened its online offerings to service students around the globe. Today the University offers more than 100 online degree options delivered through 1700 courses, making it one of the most robust online education programs in the country.

The University of Illinois Gies College of Business is the first of the top 5 ranked accountancy programs to offer a fully online program option. The online Master of Science in Accounting program can be completed in 18 months of 36 months, depending on which cadence best accommodates a student’s schedule.

Students of the program will learn from industry giants–faculty who have demonstrated success and innovation in the real world. But one of the most distinguishing offerings is the extensive alumni network of the program, which seems committed to helping both current students and recent graduates find success.

North Carolina State University

North Carolina State University (NCSU) is built around a model of experiential learning–that is that students ‘learn by doing.’ NCSU encourages students to engage communities both local and abroad in order to expand horizons and broaden professional repertoires. NCSU is consistently recognized for offering a multitude of world class degree programs.

Among which is the Master of Accounting program that can be completed entirely online that is designed to offer both flexibility and academic rigor. This highly competitive program will challenge students to take their skills and knowledge to the next level. Specifically, the program prepares students to take on positions of management and leadership in the accounting industry after graduation.

The program’s tuition is about $34,000 for in-state students and $60,000 for out-of-state students. While this price tag might seem high, the program is recognized as one of the best of its kind–where graduates are sure to see highly lucrative employment opportunities.

California State University-Sacramento

California State University-Sacramento (CSUS) is committed to driving innovation in the higher education space. Its efforts have been both largely successful and recognized, as Money Magazine ranked CSUS as the ‘9th Most Transformative’ among top U.S. colleges. Among its innovations is the University’s recent expansion into online education where its programs seek to service working students and busy professionals.

Among these online programs is a Master of Science in Accountancy (MSA) that is 100% compatible with the CPA exam, so that graduates will be perfectly positioned to pursue careers at certified public accountants. Coursework is delivered through a variety of formats to keep the online education experience fresh and stimulating.

Students will progress through a combination of streaming classroom sessions, chat-based group projects, and more. Beyond the preparation for the CPA exam, students will delve deeply into the following topics:

Auditing Attestation
Financial Accounting and Reporting
Regulation
Business Environment and Concepts

The University of West Florida

The University of West Florida (UWF) is built around the core mission of providing students with affordable education programs that do not sacrifice academic merit. At UWF students will be groomed to become creative and innovative professionals who can offer solutions to real world problems. This grooming is accomplished by project-based learning, real-world projects, and team-based collaboration. This will be of particular helpfulness to aspiring accountants whose profession is a largely collaborative one.

UWF offers an AACSB-accredited, fully online Master of Accountancy program that prepares students to thrive in professions of finance, accounting, and business. This flexibility of professional direction is a core and distinguishing element of the program.

Students can choose to focus on one of two specialization tracks that are meant to reflect the most common professional paths in the industry. Specifically students can choose between the following program paths: Professional Accountancy, or Professional Taxation specialization.

George Mason University

George Mason University (GMU) is Virginia’s largest public research university and services more than 37,000 students from around the globe. In 2016 GMU was recognized by the Carnegie Classification of Institutions of Higher Education to be one of the most impactful research universities in the United States. GMU leverages its extensive research infrastructure to inform its degree programs, position programs to reflect real world challenges and industry trends.

This approach will be of particular value to accountants whose education will benefit massively from a program that reflects current market trends. GMU offers a fully online Master of Science in Accounting (MSA) program that prepares students to capitalize on current opportunities in the industry.

Perspectives of this program will find its metrics of success highly alluring. Graduates of the program earn higher salaries than professionals who hold a Bachelor of Accounting–roughly $10,000 more. And 7 out of 10 students have already secured a position in their chosen specialty by the time of their graduation.

University of Connecticut

The University of Connecticut School of Business is one of the premier institutions of business education in the United States. And with its expansion into the online education space, more students can benefit from its programs than ever before. UConn’s online programs have been recognized by the United States Distance Learning Association for its ‘best practices’ and high standards for academics.

The UConn School of Business offers a fully online Master of Science in Accounting (MSA). US News & World Report ranked the program as the 9th best program in the United States. The program is one of the most affordable MSA programs on the market–the combination of affordability and academic prestige makes the program extremely attractive, and is the reason we thought it deserved a more generous ranking.

The MSA program provides students with an extensive catalogue of electives and course options. By strategically pursuing study in key topics, students are able to establish a specialization. The program alters the course catalogue, adding or exchanging courses to reflect the most current industry trends and opportunities.

Rutgers University

Rutgers University Business School is a name synonymous with prestige and academic excellence. Graduates of the program will benefit from this well-known reputation–both directly through the extensive and highly active alumni network, and indirectly through the employment opportunities that come with an impressive academic background.

Rutgers Business School offers several graduate level accounting programs:

Master of Accountancy in Financial Accounting
Master of Accountancy in Governmental Accounting
Master of Accountancy in Professional Accounting
Master of Accountancy in Taxation

The Master of Professional Accounting program can be completed entirely online, while the other programs typically combine elements of online and on-campus education.

Students of the Professional Accounting program will learn from world class faculty, who specialize in preparing students to excel as Certified Public Accountants. For professionals interested in broadening their horizons as a CPA, few programs can compete.

SUNY Polytechnic

SUNY Polytechnic Institute is built on the foundational mission of providing students with the real-world technical skills that facilitate professional success and fulfillment of career aspirations. This approach to building technical expertise will be particularly advantageous for accountants looking to build a strong background in skill-based accounting.

SUNY Polytechnic offers a fully online Master of Science in Accounting, which is fully accredited and recognized to fulfill the credit requirements of the CPA certification process. Students of the program will complete 33 credits worth of coursework organized into 11 core courses.

Students will select which courses to complete from a robust catalogue of options. Chosen coursework is meant to facilitate the building of professional speciality, so that students can choose to complete the coursework that is most beneficial to their individual career goals and interests.

Saint John’s University

St. John’s University is a premier educator in the accounting-education space, and employs a unique focus on positioning theoretical concepts to tackle practical problems. In other words, students at the University will not just study concepts and theories, they will learn how to actually apply these theories and concepts to one’s career to drive actionable results.

Too few institutions of higher education are willing to apply this focus, because it means constantly tailoring education programs to reflect industry needs and market challenges in the real world. St. John’s offers an online graduate level accounting program that reflects the real world demands of the job market.

Specifically students can earn a Master of Science in Accounting that is designed to jumpstart careers in tax, auditing, and accounting disciplines. A distinguishing element of this program is that it seeks to position program graduates to take on positions of management and leadership in the job market–positions that are typically the most prestigious and lucrative.

Georgia Southern University

Georgia Southern University is one the state’s largest institutions of higher education. A fundamental mission of the University is to provide students with future-focused degree programs so that upon graduating from a program students are prepared for the job market that they enter. This approach is particularly meaningful for accountants, whose profession is constantly evolving and changing in accordance with market demands and other economic factors.

George Southern students can earn a Master of Accounting Online, or a WebMAcc. The program is meant to be completed on a two year schedule, while providing students with the flexibility to progress through the program without altering professional or personal responsibilities. Ambitious students should not have trouble earning this degree while holding full-time employment.

The program is provided through the AACSB accredited School of Accountancy, which is a distinction only held by 180 accounting programs in the world. Students of the program can enjoy the confidence that their degree-work will be recognized by all the relevant professional bodies and agencies.

DePaul University

DePaul University Online distinguishes itself through a uniquely committed faculty who take on a greater role in their students’ lives. Specifically, DePaul faculty are more than just educators, they work to fulfill the role of mentor and adviser for their students. And in the Driehaus College of Business & Kellstadt Graduate School of Business, faculty work to ensure that business-minded students are prepared to make professional goals and aspirations into a reality.

The Driehaus College of Business & Kellstadt Graduate School of Business offers students a fully online Master of Science in Accounting. Faculty of the program represent world-class professionals with backgrounds as top-notch CPAs and professionals/academics from the Big Four accounting firms.

Program faculty work to ensure that students are building the necessary skills and knowledge to excel in their desired field or area of professional interest. Faculty also leverage extensive professional networks and connections to help ensure students’ have an abundance of career opportunities upon graduation–which is a tremendous value itself.

Oklahoma Christian University

As suggested by its name, Oklahoma Christian University maintains strong ties to the Church of Christ. What this means for students is that degree programs will emphasize the principles of community engagement, leadership, and a standard of ethics. All of which are meaningful for professionals regardless of religious orientation or lack thereof.

Students at Oklahoma Christian can earn a Master of Accountancy that can be completed entirely through online coursework in as little as 12 months. This represents one of the quickest routes to professional advancement for perspectives of graduate accounting programs. The program is accredited and is able to provide this quick pace without sacrificing academic merit.

Specifically students will participate in an comprehensive exploration of the following topics:

Economic Issues
Advanced Auditing and Professional Ethics
Advanced Financial Accounting
Ethics, Decision Making and Communication
Legal and Regulatory Issues
Accounting Research and Quantitative Techniques
Financial Services
Accounting Theory — Topics in Accounting
Advanced Tax Accounting

University of South Dakota

The University of South Dakota (USD) Online looks to provide busy adults and working students with the nationally recognized degrees of the flagship University tailored to provide the utmost flexibility. USD degree programs are consistently recognized as some of the best of their class provided at an affordable rate. Perhaps most astonishing is that USD manages to offer the same tuition rates for both in-state and out-of-state students, which is typically where online degree program tuition rates spiral out of hand.

USD students can earn a Master of Professional Accountancy from the University of South Dakota Beacom School of Business. The School of Business was first founded in 1927 and has been accredited by the AACSB International – The Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB) since 1949. Less than 5% of the nation’s business schools have earned this prestigious designation.

Students of the Master of Professional Accountancy program can choose the general track or the Accounting Analytics Specialization. The specialization track facilitates the building of data science and IT skills, which as mentioned in this article’s intro is one of the burgeoning areas of the accounting industry.

Maryville University of Saint Louis

Maryville University Online distinguishes itself in accounting education by emphasizing its future-focused curriculum. Students of its programs will be taught more than just rote memorization of concepts, they will delve deeply into core principles that will help students stay ahead of the curve. And perhaps more importantly, programs teach students how to remain adaptable, so that they can adapt to the ever-changing environment of the accounting industry.

Students at Maryville University Online can earn a Master of Science in Accounting (MSA) in as little as 10 months. This astonishing pace is accomplished by focusing on central concepts and principles and encouraging students and by offering credits for previous professional experience.

The program also offers a bridge option that is designed for students who do not have an accounting background. Regardless of the chosen track, graduates of the program will have fulfilled the requirements for the CPA certification. Few programs can compete with the efficiency and flexibility of Maryville’s MSA.

Saint Leo University

Saint Leo University is one of the oldest Catholic Institutions in the state of Florida. Today it has evolved to offer programs to students of all faiths around the world through its online degree programs, and research centers in seven states. Saint Leo provides its students with strong liberal arts education that lays a foundation in ethics, leadership, and research-based innovation.

Embodying these ideals is Saint Leo’s Master of Accounting degree program that can be completed entirely online. Program faculty are committed to upholding a standard of academic excellence that confers professional clout to degree-holders.

Students who complete the program will be prepared to complete the CPA and CMA exams and will progress through coursework in classes such as the following:

Intermediate Accounting 1
Cost Accounting
Auditing
Financial Statement Analysis
Accounting Information Systems

Seton Hall University

Seton Hall University’s online programs are nationally recognized for carrying a strong standard of ethics. Programs emphasize a commitment to the civic good by cultivating leaders who employ a sense of optimism to enact a positive influence in their profession. Seton Hall looks to balance online education by emphasizing real-world examples and projects-based learning. In other words, students at Seton Hall will ‘learn by doing.’

The Seton Hall University Stillman School of Business offers students a fully online Master of Science in Accounting. The Stillman School of Business is among the top 1% of its kind in maintaining dual AACSB accreditation in both accounting and business.

Students of the program will learn more than just the standard accounting curriculum, they will learn how to excel in the corporate environment, how to engage in international markets, and how to leverage technical know-how to advance one’s career. Seton Hall’s accounting program is certainly one of the best of the best.

Western New England University

Western New England (WNE) University distinguishes itself through a commitment to fostering an entrepreneurial spirit in students. Degree programs at WNE teach students how to think creatively and how to solve theoretical problems with practical solutions. This type of environment is ideal for accounting professionals with entrepreneurial aspirations.

The WNE School of Business offers a fully online Master of Science in Accounting that is completed through 30 credits of coursework. The program curriculum is designed to fulfill the prerequisites for the CPA examination and certification process.

The WNE accounting program distinguishes itself through offering students an excellent opportunity for specialization. Specifically students can earn a degree specialization in Forensic Accounting/Fraud Investigation.

Saint Joseph’s College of Maine

Saint Joseph’s College of Maine (SJCME) is a historically Catholic institution with roots connected to the Sisters of Mercy organization. Today though SJCME positions its programs to service students from all backgrounds whether religious or secular, and emphasizes its core values in a commitment to ethical standards and to fostering a sense of civic leadership in students.

SJCME students can earn a Master of Accountancy (MAcc) that covers advanced and comprehensive studies in finance, taxation, accounting, and auditing. Students will also engage in electives and research projects that facilitate the building of an area of focus. The curriculum fulfills the prerequisites for the CPA examination and certification process.

A distinguishing element of this program is its interdisciplinary curriculum which covers principles and subjects of universal value to business operations. Graduates of the program will be able to convert information into valuable financial conclusions within any industry.

New England College

New England College provides students with career-focused education and professional advancement. Central to the College’s values is its commitment to positioning students for professional success and achievement. The College demonstrates this commitment by providing students with unparalleled opportunities for internships, research opportunities, and professional projects.

New England College offers a Master of Science in Accounting that is completed entirely online through 40 credits of coursework. The program is designed to build key competencies as identified by the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants. As such, completing the program will complete the prerequisites for the CPA licensure process.

A distinguishing element of this program is its concentration track option. Specifically students can earn a degree specialization in Forensic Accounting. This specialization track is designed to prepare students to obtain the Certified Fraud Examiner (CFE) designation.

Top 10 Paying Jobs With an Associate’s Degree

The post The 20 Best Online Master’s in Accounting Degree Programs appeared first on DegreeQuery.com.

25 Fastest Online Associates Degree Programs

Krystle Dodge — Tue, 18 Mar 2025 02:02:44 +0000

You’ve decided to get an associate’s degree! Maybe you are looking to earn more money when you enter the workforce. Or maybe you will continue with your bachelor’s degree later on. You want a degree path you can finish fast from a regionally accredited school you can trust.

Associate degrees are commonly called two-year degrees because that’s how long it traditionally takes to earn them. However, in some cases, you can get an associate degree faster.

Here are 25 accelerated online associate degrees that you can earn in less than two years.

1. Associate of Science in Construction Project Management

Are you interested in overseeing a construction project from start to finish? Do you want to be involved in the details of planning and design? The rising career path of construction project manager might be for you. With this associate degree, you can quickly prepare for career paths like construction manager, building inspector and trades supervisor.

Where to Earn a Construction Management Associate Degree Fas

If you want to fast-track your construction project management associate degree program, consider enrolling at Penn Foster College. The private, for-profit higher education institution located in Scottsdale, AZ, offers an accredited online Construction Technology Associate Degree. This self-paced program is one of the fastest options for an associate degree. While the average time to complete the program is as little as 11 months, highly motivated students who choose the fast-track format can get an associate degree in as little as five months. That makes this a rare example of being able to earn an associate degree in 6 months online.

2. Social Science

Do you have a love of fields like history, sociology and political science? Consider majoring in social science. An associate’s degree in social science helps students build foundational skills and knowledge upon which they will build when they advance to their bachelor’s degree studies. Among the areas you will study when you major in social science at the associate degree level are:

History
Sociology
Psychology
Anthropology
Geography
Political science
Economics

Where to Earn a Social Science Associate Degree Fast

Social science is one of three accelerated online associate degrees students can pursue at Tidewater Community College. Tidewater is a public community college based in South Hampton Roads, VA, and has five campuses in addition to its online offerings. The school is regionally accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges. The accelerated social science degree, as well as the school’s other accelerated online associate’s degrees, can be completed in just one year.

3. Associate Degree in Business Administration

Business administration is one of the most common associate degree programs. It’s also one of the fastest degrees you can get online. It is possible to get your degree in just 12 to 18 months – or less if you have credit hours to transfer.

Students in an accelerated online business administration program will study a wide range of business topics. Core classes for a business administration associate degree may include:

Introduction to business management
Financial accounting
Managerial accounting
Economics
Principles of management
Marketing fundamentals
Business law
Management information systems
Business communications
International business

When you earn an associate degree in business administration, you’re equipped with the skills for entry-level positions in the business world.

Where to Earn a Business Administration Associate Degree Fast

One of the fastest associate business degree online programs can be found at Truckee Meadows Community College. The program, which is available in a traditional two-year format and an accelerated one-year format, is proof that you don’t have to go to a four-year university to earn an associate’s degree fast. A community college can have a similar program for less time and money.

Truckee Meadows Community College is based in Reno, Nevada. The school is regionally accredited by the Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities. Through the school’s Business FastTrack Program, students take two online courses per five-week term and study year-round, with new classes starting nine times per year. It’s a whirlwind for sure – but a productive one, as students can complete their 2-year degrees in half the time without transfer credits.

Another school where students can earn an online business administration associate degree quickly is Liberty University. Liberty University is a private Christian school based in Lynchburg, Virginia, with extensive online offerings. Online business courses are eight weeks long. By studying over the summer, students can finish their associate degree in one and a half years.

What if you have credit hours to transfer? The right associate degree program will allow you to slash the time it takes to earn your associate degree. Liberty University has a generous transfer policy through which students can apply up to 75% of the credit hour requirement for an associate degree. Prospective transfer students should also consider Purdue University Global’s business administration associate degree. Students transferring the maximum number of credits can complete their associate degree in just four months.

4. Associate of Arts in General Education or Liberal Arts

Maybe you don’t know yet what you want to study. You just know that having a degree will open doors to opportunities that you might not have with only a high school diploma.

If you haven’t decided on a specific major, it’s not a big deal. You can earn a degree in general education or liberal arts. This program is often considered the easiest associates degree, but it’s also one of the fastest associate degrees to earn.

These programs provide a broad foundation of college-level education for you to draw from. A general education or liberal arts major can be the perfect stepping stone for a career that doesn’t require a specific path of study or for earning a bachelor’s degree at a later time.

In an online associate degree in general studies or liberal arts, students take courses in a wide range of subjects. Examples include:

Human development
Psychology
Sociology
Science
Economics
Finance
Philosophy
Mathematics
Business
Humanities

Where to Earn a Liberal Arts Associate Degree Fast

General studies is one of the accelerated online associate degree programs at Tidewater Community College that can be completed in just one year. Students complete a breadth of coursework that draws from all of the major disciplines. The program offers optional specializations in professional communication and teacher preparation.

Another school that offers AA degrees online in general education is Florida State College at Jacksonville. By taking eight-week courses throughout the year, students at the public higher education institution can complete their associate degree in general education in just 18 months. Florida State College at Jacksonville is part of the Florida College System and is accredited by the Southern Association of College and Schools Commission on Colleges.

5. Associate’s in Nursing

Good nurses are consistently in demand. Whether you’re already licensed as a vocational nurse or fresh out of high school, an associate degree can help you get ahead in this critical role in the healthcare industry.

Associate degrees in nursing, or ADN programs, typically prepare students to provide patient care according to the nursing model and to pass the National Council Licensure Examination-Registered Nurse (NCLE-RN) test. Even in online programs, students should expect to have to gain hands-on experience through in-person labs and clinical courses. Depending on your online program, you may have to visit campus for these requirements or find a local clinical site where you can fulfill your clinical requirements. Consider these programs to be generally hybrid options rather than fully online associate degree programs.

Where to Earn a Nursing Associate Degree Fast

Suppose you’re currently a licensed vocational nurse but haven’t yet earned a degree. Howard College in Big Springs, TX, offers a primarily online 12-month Transition Associate Degree Nursing Program. The school is regionally accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools.

If you don’t yet have experience or a license, don’t worry. A number of colleges offer accelerated 2-year online degrees in nursing. Herzing University‘s Associate in Nursing program, for example, can be completed in 20 months. Students should note, however, that this isn’t a fully online program and requires some in-person coursework at one of Herzing’s campuses in Alabama, Florida, Ohio or Tennessee. The Associate Degree in Nursing Program from American Career College is another 20-month program. Although some of the coursework is offered online, some of it must be completed on campus at one of the college’s locations in Los Angeles or Anaheim, California, or in Ontario, Canada.

6. Associate of Science in Health Information Technology

Would you like to start a new career in healthcare service in as little as 15 months? The field of health information technology brings together the disciplines of healthcare and computers and IT. Students in health information technology associate degree programs take coursework in areas such as:

Medical billing and coding
Electronic health record management
Disease classification
Healthcare procedural codes in hospitals and other healthcare facilities

Graduates from a health information technology associate degree program can pursue roles that range from medical coder and medical transcriptionist to health information technician.

Where to Earn a Health Information Technology Associate Degree Fast

Fremont University in Cerritos, CA, is one school that offers a fast online degree in health information technology. The private for-profit college l caters to working adult students, so it’s no surprise the school offers a program that allows for quick entry into this rapidly growing field. Fremont College is accredited by the Accrediting Commission of Career Schools and Colleges (ACCSC). Students can complete their online health information technology associate degree program in just 15 months.

7. Associate of Arts in Accounting

If you think an accounting career is out of reach, think again. You don’t need to spend years in school or earn an advanced degree to get started. An associate degree can be the first step to your career. Students in an online associate degree for accounting will learn the theoretical and accounting standards and fundamentals. They also develop skills for the practical application of accounting procedures.

Through their coursework, students in accounting associate degrees become familiar with:

Equities
Liabilities
The process of preparing financial statements and records
Accounting’s role in business decisions

Graduates from an associate degree in accounting program may be able to qualify for some entry-level staff accountant roles. They can also seek positions in auditing, financial data analysis and payroll administration.

Where to Earn an Accounting Associate Degree Fast

How fast can you finish an accounting associate degree online? At Lorain County Community College, the accelerated pathway for this program can be completed in just 15 months. To speed up their progress toward the degree, students in the accelerated pathway take eight-week and ten-week courses.

8. Associate of Applied Science in Computer Information Systems or Information Technology

Do you have an interest in technology? An associate’s degree in computer information systems or information technology can help you find a job in a rapidly growing field. Some of the coursework students may take in computer information systems and IT associates degrees online includes:

Computer system analysis and design
Programming in Java, Visual Basic and C/C++
Software design and development

Where to Earn an Information Technology Associate Degree Fast

Lorain County Community College in Elyria, OH, offers a number of 15-month associate degrees online for computer and IT fields, including:

Computer and digital forensics
Computer applications integration specialist
Computer maintenance and networking

The community college is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

Another school to consider for online associate degree programs in computers and IT is ECPI University in Manassas, VA. Among the institution’s accelerated online associate degree programs are:

A 16-month Associate of Science Degree in Computer and Information Science with a concentration in Cyber and Information Security Technology
An 18-month Associate of Science Degree in Computer and Information Science with a concentration in Software Development

ECPI University – which stands for East Coast Polytechnic Institute – is a private for-profit institution accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.

9. Associate of Science in Marketing

Good marketing leads people to buy a product, service or brand. The field is ideal for students who are creative, strategic and analytical. An associate degree could be the first stepping stone into a rewarding marketing career.

An associate program in marketing typically combines core business studies, some focused marketing coursework and a background in liberal arts. Students learn how to plan, create and evaluate advertising and marketing campaigns. By the time they graduate, students know the basic principles of marketing and have the skills to work for an established or start-up organization.

Where to Earn a Marketing Associate Degree Fast

Ferris State University in Big Rapids, MI, offers a 17-month fully online marketing associate degree. The school, which is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission, doesn’t just repurpose an on-campus curriculum for an online audience. Instead, Ferris State University builds its online courses for the virtual learning environment from the ground up. The online associate degree in marketing is accredited by the Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs (ACBSP).

10. Associate of Arts in Psychology

Do you have an interest in human behavior? Do you wonder why people think, feel and act the way they do? Consider pursuing a fast online associates degree in the field of psychology. Some institutions of higher learning allow students to get an associate degree in psychology in just one and a half years.

An associate’s degree in psychology will prepare graduates to work in entry-level jobs in psychology. This includes jobs in environments such as:

Mental health facilities
Substance abuse and rehabilitation centers
Childcare facilities
The criminal justice and legal system

Where to Earn a Psychology Associate Degree Fast

Liberty University offers an online Associate of Arts (AA) in Psychology program that students complete in one and a half years, on average. The program is an excellent choice for students who want to pursue a bachelor’s degree eventually. Because there are no required login times or on-site intensives for this program, Liberty’s online associate in psychology degree is ideal for students who need flexibility.

11. Associate of Applied Science in Criminal Justice

If you are interested in a law enforcement career, having an associate’s degree in criminal justice can give you an edge over candidates starting out with just a high school diploma. By earning your degree quickly online, you won’t have to sacrifice years of your life to prepare for your new career.

In associate programs in criminal justice, students will typically learn about the philosophy and development of the criminal justice system in the United States. They will gain exposure to topics in criminology and criminal law.

This fastest associate’s degree program in criminal justice gives students the education employers are seeking. With an associate degree in criminal justice, you can pursue entry-level positions in:

Law enforcement
Corrections
Investigations
Probation
Corporate security

Where to Earn a Criminal Justice Associate Degree Fast

Criminal justice is another type of associate’s degree students can pursue at Purdue University Global. Purdue’s program isn’t an accelerated program per se, but it’s an excellent choice for students who have past experience to draw from. These students can make their way through the curriculum faster not only by transferring prior college credits but also by receiving credit for any military service work they have completed. If you transfer in the greatest possible credit hour amounts, military service credits and work experience credit, you can finish this program in just four months.

12. Associate Degree in Web Programming

Do you enjoy the technical side of web applications? There’s considerable money, as well as career flexibility, in programming. Employers and clients are looking for trained professionals who know how to use the essential tools and techniques for coding websites and software applications. Knowledge of programming languages like the following are in high demand:

HTML
Java
JavaScript
Visual Basic
CSS
SQL databases

Where to Earn a Web Programming Associate Degree Fast

How fast can you build the skills for web programming? The New England Institute of Technology offers an 18-month online Associate of Science degree in Software Engineering and Web Development. The school, which is regionally accredited by the New England Commission of Higher Education, emphasizes not only proficiency in programming languages and visualization tools but also how computer systems and applications can address real-world business problems.

13. Associate of Applied Science in Health Science: Medical Office Management

Maybe you want to break into the healthcare industry but not in a clinical role. Can you see yourself in an office management role instead?

You don’t need years of education and experience to prepare for the responsibilities of keeping an office organized and running efficiently. An online associate degree in medical office management can help you prepare for this career quickly. Through this course of study, students will learn skills for the following tasks:

Managing office operations
Scheduling appointments
Managing patient records
Handling billing, coding and insurance paperwork

Medical office managers need strong communication and organizational skills, as well as knowledge of billing and coding procedures and healthcare record management. Online associate degree programs in medical office management help students cultivate these skills.

Where to Earn a Medical Office Management Associate Degree Fast

Ultimate Medical Academy in Tampa, FL, offers a Medical Administrative Assistant associate degree program that can be completed in as little as 18 months. The school, which is institutionally accredited by the Accrediting Bureau of Health Education Schools (ABHES), also offers an 11-month diploma program if you want to get into this career even faster. By the time you finish this short online associate degree, you will be prepared to take the Certified Medical Administrative Assistant (CMAA) examination.

14. Associate of Arts in Early Childhood Education

Do you love working with kids? An associate degree in early childhood education could be your first step to a career such as:

Pre-kindergarten teacher
Childcare worker
Learning center administrator

Whether you intend to make a career out of childcare work or eventually earn a bachelor’s degree to become a licensed teacher, this fastest associate in early childhood education degree can be a stepping stone to achieving your dreams.

In an associate degree in ECE program, students can expect to cover subjects like:

Child development
Childhood education
Classroom management
Teacher preparation

15. Associate of Arts in Graphic Design

Do you have an eye for design? You can be more than a “starving artist.” With an associate degree in graphic design, you can apply your creativity to a career as a designer.

During associate degree programs in graphic design, students learn to communicate ideas and messages through visuals. They apply communication, critical thinking and computer skills to a design setting. Throughout the program, students build a portfolio of their own designs that can showcase their talents to potential employers and clients.

Coursework in a graphic design program is likely to cover the techniques of traditional art and multimedia design, including:

Color theory
Photography
Typography
Print design
Interactive media
Editing audio and video clips
Designing for the optimal user experience

16. Associate’s in Human Resources

In every industry, businesses and organizations need to recruit, train and manage talent. Human resources personnel are professionals who specialize in hiring workers and developing their skills. An associate degree in human resources can give you the skills you need for this versatile career.

Human resources students can expect to take classes in the following:

Management and training of employees
Employment law
Change management
Benefits administration

17. Human Services Associate Degree

Do you feel a calling to help other people who are struggling through difficult life problems? An education in human services could put you on the right path.

Studying human services will prepare you for roles like:

Community health worker
Social and human service assistant
Social or community service manager
Community and social service specialist

18. Associate of Science in Software Application Development

Are you tech-savvy? If your computer skills are matched only by your creativity and resourcefulness, you could find great success as a software application developer.

Software development is a rapidly growing industry. An associate degree can help you get started sooner rather than later.

To cultivate the skills for a career in software development, you should expect to take courses such as:

Software design
Smartphone app development
Programming in languages like Java and C++
Networking
Cybersecurity
Cloud solutions

Where to Earn a Software Development Associate Degree Fast

ECPI University offers an 18-month software development associate degree that’s 100% online. In addition to teaching students the tools, technologies and processes of the field, this program also builds their communication skills and knowledge of ethical best practices in the industry.

19. Associate of Science in Engineering Technology

Engineering applies the principles of math and science to the design and development of solutions to all kinds of real-world problems. Although you need a bachelor’s degree to become an engineer who undertakes the design process, an associate degree is enough to land you a role as an engineering technician. Engineering technology associate degree programs exist in various engineering disciplines. Coursework in these programs typically encompasses the most relevant background knowledge and a great deal of practical and technical skills.

Where to Earn an Engineering Technology Associate Degree Fast

ECPI University offers online associate degrees in both mechanical engineering technology and electronic engineering technology. Both programs can be completed 100% online in 18 months. The curriculum of each program is tailored to the current needs of the respective discipline. By the time they graduate, students have the theoretical knowledge and technical know-how to succeed in technician-level roles in the engineering field.

20. Associate of Applied Science in Paralegal Studies

Just because you have an interest in the legal system doesn’t mean that you want to spend seven years or more pursuing a bachelor’s and then a law school degree. Fortunately, there are other ways to get a job working in the field of law. A paralegal supports lawyers through work that includes the following:

Conducting legal research
Drafting legal documents
Maintaining files for civil or criminal cases

The bar to entry for paralegals is much lower than for attorneys. An associate degree is sufficient preparation for entry-level jobs for paralegals.

Where to Earn a Paralegal Studies Associate Degree Fast

Herzing University, a private institution located in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, offers an online paralegal/legal assisting associate degree. The school is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission and features a career-focused curriculum that students can complete in 20 months.

For students with prior college credit, Purdue University is an option for finishing your associate’s degree in this field faster, too. Again, although the program is intended as a two-year program, the online school’s generous transfer policy ensures that credit previously completed at other institutions won’t go to waste. Purdue’s program awards an Associate of Applied Science Degree in Legal Support and Services that allows students to apply transfer credits and gain credit for prior work experience in relevant roles.

21. Associate of Science in Medical Assisting Services

Are you looking for your place in the healthcare industry? Perhaps medical assisting is the career path for you. Medical assistants work alongside doctors and nurses in clinical patient care. Their work may include measuring vital signs, drawing blood and managing medical records.

Where to Earn a Medical Assisting Associate Degree Fast

Herzing University offers a medical assisting program that takes just 20 months to complete. This associate degree is a hybrid program. While students take all of their courses online, they must meet face-to-face with a proctor at a health facility for some hands-on clinical experiences and complete a 180-hour externship at a medical clinic or doctor’s office.

22. Associate of Applied Science in Addiction Counseling

Substance abuse and addiction remain a major problem in the United States. If you want to be part of the solution, consider a career in addiction counseling.

In online associate degree programs in addiction counseling, students take coursework in areas like:

Theories of addiction
Addiction and the family
Assessment and treatment planning
Co-occurring disorders
Individual and group counseling
Motivational counseling and interviewing
Case management
Crisis intervention
Trauma recovery
Ethics in addiction counseling

Where to Earn a Design Studies Associate Degree Fast

Beal University in Bangor, ME, offers a 100% online associate degree in addiction counseling. The private for-profit institution is accredited by the Accrediting Commission of Career Schools and Colleges. The school also offers an accelerated online diploma in addiction counseling that takes 14 months to complete and a 42-month bachelor’s degree.

23. Associate of Arts in Healthcare Management

Healthcare businesses rely on professionals with excellent management skills to keep them running efficiently and operating at their best. With an associate degree in healthcare management, you can break into the exciting, fast-growing field of managed healthcare. By combining studies in both healthcare and business, online associate degree programs in healthcare management give students the tools to succeed. Coursework typically includes topics like:

Organizational structure of healthcare
Trends in modern managed healthcare
Ethics in the medical field

Throughout their coursework, students seeking associate degrees develop skills for a wide range of management tasks, like planning and staffing. By the time they graduate, students will be ready to work in roles such as:

Medical administrators
Case coordinators
Office managers
Risk managers

Where to Earn a Healthcare Management Associate Degree Fast

At Pima Medical Institute in Albuquerque, NM, the healthcare administration associate degree program takes 20 months to complete online. This institution is accredited by the Accrediting Bureau of Health Education Schools. Students who already have some healthcare education can transfer as many as 28 credits into this online associate program.

24. Associate of Applied Science in Insurance Billing and Coding Specialist

Medical insurance plays a major role in today’s healthcare system, at least in the United States. The need for doctors’ offices and hospitals to handle a massive amount of extensive insurance forms has created positions dedicated solely to insurance billing and coding. That reality makes billing and coding a strong career choice.

Associate degree holders with a background in insurance billing and coding can work in doctors’ offices, hospitals, outpatient medical facilities, nursing homes and home healthcare services. Students can use this college degree to prepare for jobs such as:

Insurance billing and coding specialist
Medical clerk
Insurance claims analyst
Medical office assistant
Health information specialist

Associate degree programs in this field typically include coursework in:

Medical terminology
Coding for procedures and diagnoses
Computer databases for managing patient information

Where to Earn an Insurance Billing and Coding Associate Degree Fast

Herzing University offers an Insurance Billing and Coding Specialist online associate program. The curriculum takes 20 months to complete and prepares students for professional certifications such as:

The National Healthcareer Association’s Certified Billing and Coding Specialist (CBCS) Certification
The American Academy of Professional Coders’ Certified Professional Coder (CPC) Certification
The American Health Information Management Association’s Certified Coding Specialist (CCS) Certification

25. Associate of Applied Science in Fire Science

Another online associates degree to consider is an associate degree in fire science. Studying fire science at the associate degree level prepares graduates for a variety of firefighting and emergency services roles in their communities. Through a fire science curriculum, students typically take classes in the following areas:

Fire prevention
Firefighter safety
Defense planning
Firefighting strategy
Hazardous materials management
Building codes and code inspection

Where to Earn a Fire Science Associate Degree Fast

The fastest online associate degrees in fire science currently available are programs that welcome transfer credit hours and award credit for work experience and military service.

Take the associate in fire science program offered through Purdue University Global as an example. Purdue’s fire science associate degree is technically a two-year program, but students can finish faster if they have prior education or work experience to apply. If you already have some firefighting experience gained through serving in the military, you might be interested in Purdue’s PME2Degree, in particular. Your military service experience can help reduce the time it will take you to get an associate degree. Even better, the U.S. Fire Administration also recognizes Purdue University as an official Fire and Emergency Services Higher Education institution (FESHE), so students can trust that they’re getting a great education.

Another option to consider for a fast associate degree in fire science if you have prior college coursework is the American Military University. American Military University is part of the American Public University System and is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission. Although AMU’s 60-credit online Associate of Science in Fire Science program normally takes two years to complete, the school allows transfer students to bring up to 45 credits of prior college coursework with them. With the maximum amount of transfer credits, you could finish your degree in just one term. This program is accredited by the International Fire Service Accreditation Congress. Courses can be eight to 16 weeks long.

Conclusion

For students who are eager to earn a degree quickly, accelerated associate’s programs are a fast way to achieve this goal.

Taking advantage of accelerated programs, competency-based curricula and transfer credits can help you earn your associate degree faster than you ever thought possible.

Our Fast Degree Series

– Fastest Overall Programs
– Fastest Online Associates Degrees
– Fastest Online Bachelor’s Degrees
– Fastest Online Master’s Degrees
– Fastest Online Doctorate Degrees

Related Resources:

50 Highest Paying Associate Degree Jobs

How Long Does It Take to Get an Associate Degree?

What Salary Can I Expect With a Human Resources Management Degree?

What Degree Do I Need to Be an Information Technology Specialist?

For Further Reading:

Top 10 Graduate Degree Programs in Criminal Justice

What Are the 5 Best Careers in Environmental Science?

Exciting Jobs: The Top 15 Jobs for Adrenaline Seekers

The post 25 Fastest Online Associates Degree Programs appeared first on DegreeQuery.com.

The 20 Best Online Master’s in Information Systems

jmc — Tue, 18 Mar 2025 01:45:44 +0000

Why should you earn a Master’s in Information Systems? A master’s level education represents a high level of investment both in terms of time, finances, and mental bandwidth. In the case of the information systems industry, specialization and knowledge are key–and the field is defined by a level of complexity that leads to many of the best job opportunities being gated behind extensive educational requirements and years of professional experience.

Given the technical expertise required to excel in the upper echelons of the profession, a Master’s in Information Systems represents an ideal in-road to the job market. And as the industry experiences explosive growth year after year, many new programs are starting to offer this degree–both on-campus and online.

Online variants of this degree are often designed from the ground up to accommodate adult learners and working students with even the most hectic of schedules. Simply put, there are more high-end options for earning your Master’s of Information Systems than ever before, many of which offer surprisingly affordable tuitions or generous financial aid packages, and in some cases both.

Our researchers have done the leg work and have compiled the best of the best options to consider–programs that package comprehensive and academically rigorous curriculums in flexible and convenient online formats. The programs listed below have been organized according to metrics that we believe will be most meaningful to prospective students: graduation rate, average tuition costs, financial aid packages, and representation in trusted publications and other rankings.

1 Florida State University

Florida State University (FSU) brings top-tier degree programs to the comfort of your own home or office through its rapidly expanding online education programs. These programs leverage world-class faculty and student-centric teaching philosophies to groom each student for success in their careers. The FSU College of Business specifically tailors its programs to represent the needs of real world job markets. Students progress through coursework that emphasizes on-demand skill sets and models for problem solving.

Specifically, the FSU College of Business offers a fully online Master of Science in Management Information Systems (MS-MIS). The program consists of 11 courses that emphasize the infusion of technical skill with business knowledge. Students who have yet to earn the necessary baccalaureate prerequisites might want to consider the alternative program: Combined Bachelor of Science in Management Information Systems/Master of Science in Management Information Systems (BS/MS-MIS) Pathway.

The curriculum of the program is organized into courses such as the following:

Information and Technology Management
Systems Analysis & Design
Database Development & Management
Project Management
Corporate Information Security
Business Intelligence
Knowledge Management

Learn more about Florida State University’s Online Master’s in Information Systems

2 California State University – Fullerton

The California State University (CSUF) College of Business and Economics is the largest AACSB accredited business school in California, and offers a number of nationally renowned degree programs that are helmed by faculty with countless accolades that validate their expertise–both as professionals and as educators.

The College’s cohort model really demonstrates its value through its network of more than 65,000 graduates, who are now professionals working at the high-end of their respective fields. Graduates of the College often go on to find professional opportunities with the cohort groups they worked with throughout their degree program.

The CSUF College of Business and Economics offers a fully online Master of Science in Information Technology that is completed through 30 units of coursework. Before students begin the program, they are required to complete an orientation course which emphasizes how to make the most of one’s time in the program. Students can also choose to specialize by enrolling in one of two specialty tracks: Data Science or IT Management.

Learn more about California State University’s Online Master’s in Information Systems

3 Arizona State University

Arizona State University (ASU) is one of the premier hubs for online education for students around the world through hundreds of online degree and certification programs. The ASU W. P. Carey School of Business offers a robust selection of undergraduate and graduate level programs that are designed to be efficient and affordable. Program curriculums are compact and focus on only the most important information in order to offer accelerated tracks.

The ASU W. P. Carey School of Business offers an online Master of Science in Information Systems Management (MS-ISM). The program offers specialty tracks that are designed to represent on-demand opportunities in the job market in following areas: Cloud, Big Aata, and Tech Consulting. The program is completed at a blistering pace of just 12 months, making it one of the most efficient and affordable programs of its kind.

Learn more about Arizona State University’s Online Master’s in Information Systems

4 The University of Texas at Dallas

The University of Texas at Dallas offers a number of career-centric degree programs that position students to build lifelong success in their careers. The UT Dallas Naveen Jindal School of Management in particular offers forward-facing degree programs that combine specialized tracks with in-depth curriculums in order to prepare students to take on positions of leadership after graduation. The Naveen Jindal School of Management frames its degree programs in the context of business management and industry.

The UT Dallas Naveen Jindal School of Management offers a fully online Master of Science in Information Technology and Management. The distinguishes itself in two primary offerings that set it apart. Firstly, the program facilitates more than 400 internships every academic year, meaning that online students will have access to unparalleled professional grooming. Secondly, the program offers one of the most robust selections of specialization-tracks:

Business Intelligence and Analytics
Digital Product Management
Cybersecurity Management
Enterprise Systems
Healthcare IT
IT Consulting

Learn more about the University of Texas at Dallas’ Online Master’s in Information Systems

5 University of Illinois – Springfield

The University of Illinois System leverages a large network of schools and infrastructure in offering a number of online degree programs. The University of Illinois is consistently recognized for its traditions of academic excellence, which most importantly translate well into impressive career outcomes among graduates. Graduates of the University of Illinois go on to find success throughout their careers.

The University of Illinois offers a graduate level online Management Information Systems program. The program provides a curriculum that seamlessly combines the technical side of the field with the business savvy needed to thrive in mid-to-upper management positions. Specifically, students of the program will progress through the following curriculum:

Technical Foundations of Information Systems
Management Information Systems
Managerial Decision Support Systems or Strategic Decision Support Systems
Management of Database Systems
Systems Analysis and Design
Telecommunications
Business Process Modeling and IT Governance
Business Process Management and Innovation
Project Management
MIS Design and Research Methods
MIS Elective
Data Warehousing or Information Security
Graduate Project and Seminar or MIS Capstone
One approved MIS elective or MIS Thesis and Seminar

Learn more about University of Illinois’ Online Master’s in Information Systems

6 West Texas A&M University

The West Texas A&M University Paul and Virginia Engler College of Business offers a number of prestigious degree programs with specialty and technical tracks. The College’s degree programs have earned dozens of accolades consisting of top-spot rankings with the Princeton Review and US News & World Report. The College’s degree programs include: a Master in Business Administration (MBA) with several emphasis options, and Master of Science degrees in Computer Information Systems & Business Analytics (MSCISBA), in Finance and Economics (MSFE), and Professional Accounting (MPA).

The West Texas A&M University Paul and Virginia Engler College of Business offers a fully online Masters of Science in Computer Information Systems and Business Analytics (MS CISBA). The program is completed through 36 credit hours of coursework on an asynchronous schedule, meaning each student progresses through the program at a self-set pace. This is ideal for working students and adult learners who have many responsibilities to juggle.

Learn more about West Texas A&M University’s Online Master’s in Information Systems

7 University of Colorado

The University of Colorado (CU) Online is a well-respected pioneer of online education, having launched its distance education program nearly 30 years ago. CU Online has used this time to iterate and improve on its online programs, which is likely why so many of its programs rank among the best of their kind. CU Online differentiates itself from competition by developing its degree programs to reflect the needs and expectations of real-world employers. Students looking for career-first degree programs need look no further.

CU Online offers an online Master of Science in Information Systems program that infuses managerial training with technical skill-building. The program offers both full-time and part-time pacing options to accommodate working students and adult learners. Students can tailor their studies to match career aspirations by pursuing any of the following specialized tracks:

Business Intelligence
Cybersecurity and Information Assurance
General Track (General Curriculum)

Learn more about the University of Denver’s Online Master’s in Information Systems

8 Missouri University of Science & Technology

The Missouri University of Science & Technology (MST) Business and Information Technology (BIT) department specializes in degree programs that prime students for building successful careers in STEM and technology related careers. Beyond offering comprehensive career-focused curriculums, students can further improve their competitiveness in the job market by completing a number of specialized graduate certificates in on-demand areas.

Specifically though, the MST BIT department offers a fully online Master of Science in Information Science and Technology (MS IST). The program makes use of the Laboratory for Information Technology Evaluation to offer a curriculum-focus on human-computer interaction where students can get hands-on experience in virtual labs. The program can be completed in just 12 to 24 months if completed on a full-time basis, or 24 to 36 months if completed on a part-time basis.

Learn more about Missouri University’s Online Master’s in Information Systems

9 Colorado State University

Colorado State University (CSU) is quickly becoming a hub for high-end, academically rigorous degree programs for adult learners and non-traditional learners. Each degree program is helmed by world class faculty who hold the highest degree in their field, and have demonstrated remarkable success as professionals as well. CSU faculty also take on the role of mentor and advisor in their students’ lives, and help them to build a solid foundation from which to launch successful careers.

CSU offers a fully online Master of Computer Information Systems (M.C.I.S.) as part of the Western Regional Graduate Program exchange (WICHE) program. The program is one of the elite few that is fully AACSB-accredited. Students can complete the program on-campus or online on a schedule that best matches their desired work-life balance, either over 3 or 5 years depending on whether students enroll on a full-time or part-time basis.

Learn more about Colorado State University’s Online Master’s in Information Systems

10 New Jersey Institute of Technology

The New Jersey Institute of Technology (NJIT) is one of the country’s leading polytechnic universities. New Jersey is home to more than 30 of the world’s leading technology companies, a network that the NJIT Ying Wu College of Computing leverages to create both learning opportunities and professional opportunities for students. The College offers the following degree programs:

Bioinformatics – M.S.
Business & Information Systems – M.S.
Computer Science – M.S.
Computing and Business – M.S.
Cyber Security and Privacy – M.S.
Data Science – M.S – Computational Track
Information Systems – M.S.
Information Technology and Administration Security – M.S.
Software Engineering – M.S.

The Master of Science in Information Systems program is offered online, and provides students with some of the most extensive options for specialization available on the higher ed market. The core curriculum however, is conferred through the following courses:

Web Systems Development
Enterprise Database Management
System Analysis and Design
Data Analytics for Info System
Business Process Innovation

Learn more about New Jersey Institute of Technology Online Master’s in Information Systems

11 Bellevue University

Bellevue University offers an array of online degree programs designed from the ground up to meet students wherever they are in life–whether that is as a first-time student, working student, or adult learner. As such, each degree program is meant to cultivate on-demand skill sets and the high-value knowledge that employers expect. Bellevue University models its program curriculums on the best-practices in higher education, and the real-world needs of respective job markets.

Bellevue University offers a fully online Master of Science in Management Information Systems that is modeled on the best practices and standards set by the Association for Computing Machinery for IS Management and Technology (ACM). Students will further fine-tune their program by choosing from one of the following specializations:

Business administration
Business analytics
Cybersecurity
Information security management
Information technology project management

Learn more about Bellevue University’s Online Master’s in Information Systems

12 Oklahoma State University

Oklahoma State University is a comprehensive research university that specializes in offering career-focused degree programs in engineering and technology, human services, business, education, and liberal arts. Students will participate in industry-defining research and will explore the fundamental paradigms and dynamics that influence job markets and employer expectations.

OSU offers a fully online Master of Science in Management Information Systems Program (MS in MIS) that positions students to build successful careers at the intersection of business and data science. The program is consistently recognized as one of the best programs of its kind in numerous trusted publications. Students will progress through a curriculum based on the following subjects:

Business
Database Management
Data Warehousing
Systems Analysis
Programming for Analytics
Descriptive Analytics
Visualization and Professional Development

Learn more about Oklahoma State University’s Online Master’s in Information Systems

13 Minot State University

The Minot State University College of Business offers affordable degree programs that train students to recognize opportunities and seize them in order to advance their careers. The University continues to expand, moving more of its most successful programs online where more students can benefit from them. The College of Business also specifically looks to prepare students to work in a world that is becoming increasingly global.

The Minot State University College of Business offers a fully online Master of Science in Information Systems (MSIS). The program is one of few that is designed for preparing students to take on roles of executive management. But the curriculum is also comprehensive, and graduates go on to successful careers in the following areas:

Consulting
Data Administration
Systems Integration
Networking, Telecom and Infrastructure
Managing Sourcing and Global Projects
Consumer Products and Services
Project Management
Software Development

Learn more about Minot State University’s Online Master’s in Information Systems

14 University of the Cumberlands

The University of the Cumberlands is one of the largest and most affordable universities in Kentucky, and has recently expanded rapidly into the online education space. A defining element of the University of the Cumberlands is its commitment to providing a career-focused curriculum framed in the context of christian principles. This translates to programs that train students to act as leaders and role models in their careers.

The University of the Cumberlands offers a unique degree information systems program, specifically an Online Master in Information Systems Security. The program is broken down into two major core inquiries–cyber security and information assurance. Graduates of the program go on to successful careers in the following fields:

Computer and Information Systems Manager
IT Security Manager
Network and Computer Systems Administrator
Database Administrator

Learn more about the University of the Cumberlands’ Online Master’s in Information Systems

15 Mississippi State University

Mississippi State University College of Business’ the Department of Management & Information Systems offers a number of degree programs at the associate, undergraduate, and graduate level. The Department of Management & Information Systems is helmed by world class faculty who have worked at the forefront of their fields–both in terms of academics and professional achievement. The Department also works hard to train students for positions of leadership through various avenues of business operations.

Students can earn an online Master’s of Science in Information Systems that is fully accredited by the AACSB, which is one of the most elite accrediting bodies for business schools. The curriculum delves deeply into the following subjects: technology, systems analysis, database design, and business telecommunication.

Learn more about Mississippi State University’s Online Master’s in Information Systems

16 Stevenson University

Stevenson University distinguishes itself by providing students with career-focused degree programs packaged in small class sizes that facilitate student-instructor engagement. The Stevenson Career Connections program provides a structure to connect students with potential employers, so that upon graduation students can hit the ground running. Faculty have real-world experience and bring this experience to their students so that they know how to maximize their opportunities after graduation.

Steven University offers an Online’s Master’s in Business and Technology Management. The program is a non-traditional format for the study of information systems, and shifts the focus from technical knowledge to macro-level inquiries based on understanding the relationship between existing and emerging technology and modern business. Students can choose between one of two tracks: Emerging Technology or Innovative Leadership.

Learn more about Stevenson University’s Online Master’s in Information Systems

17 Wright State University

The Wright State University Raj Soin College of Business offers innovative, forward-facing business degree programs that consistently rank among the best of their kind. Graduates of the College go on to become industry leaders–working at the forefront of business and technology. At the Raj Soin College of Business students learn how to actualize and maximize their potential as both students and professionals.

The Raj Soin College of Business offers a fully online Master of Information Systems. Online education is balanced by the program’s emphasis of real world learning and the facilitating of experiential opportunities. Students of the program are groomed to take on positions of leadership in the following fields:

Systems Analysis
Business Systems Designs
Information Technology Management.

Learn more about Wright State University’s Online Master’s in Information Systems

18 Tarleton State University

Tarleton State University leverages seven academic colleges to offer a wide array degrees:

Agricultural and Environmental Sciences
Business
Education
Graduate Studies
Health Sciences and Human Service
Liberal and Fine Arts
Science and Technology

The Graduate Studies College offers a fully online Master of Science in Information Systems. The program has ranked among the best of its kind–most notably for its affordability and overall value. And amazingly, 100% of graduates of the program report being satisfied with their investment.

Learn more about Tarleton State University’s Online Master’s in Information Systems

19 Dakota State University

Dakota State University looks to teach students how to build prosperity–both for themselves and for their communities. Its programs have received national attention for their adaptability–being constantly updated in response to industry trends and developments in the market. Program curriculums are developed around core values of academic integrity and intellectual curiosity.

Dakota State University offers a Master of Science in Information Systems that emphasizes technical skill and knowledge. Students will master all the various applications of information technology in business today such as:

Computer-Aided Software Engineering (CASE) Programming
Internet and Electronic Commerce
Network Operating Environments
Decision Support Systems (DSS)
Database Management

Learn more about Dakota State University’s Online Master’s in Information Systems

20 Georgia College & State University

Georgia College & State University offers premier liberal arts online degree programs for both traditional and nontraditional students. GCSU frames its technology program curriculums within the context of a liberal arts framework, that is, students learn how to apply practical problem solving to theoretical problems and vice versa.

GCSU offers a fully online Master of Management Information Systems (MMIS) that is completed through a combination of asynchronous and synchronous learning formats so that students get the best of both worlds–the flexibility to progress through coursework at a comfortable pace, while still benefiting from organized lectures and collaborative peer projects. The program’s curriculum is built around core tenets of project management, analysis, and strategic planning.

Learn more about Georgia College & State University’s Online Master’s in Information Systems

Related Resources:

What Is the Benefit of a Degree in Cybersecurity vs. Network Security?

The post The 20 Best Online Master’s in Information Systems appeared first on DegreeQuery.com.

15 Top Highest-Paying Business Degrees

Krystle Dodge — Tue, 18 Mar 2025 01:30:44 +0000

In the right role, business can be a money-making career field. The highest paying business degrees can help you break into these competitive positions to earn the lucrative salary you’re seeking.

What Business Degree Makes the Most Money?

Many business careers have six-figure or near-six-figure salaries. Dozens of business and related jobs earn more than double the median annual salaries for all occupations.

Our list below of the highest-paying business degrees includes the 15 business degrees that prepare students for the positions with the highest median salary.

High-paying business careers are out there. To get them, you will need a solid education and an in-demand degree.

As you’ll notice, the highest-paying business majors on our list run the gamut from undergraduate to graduate and generalist to highly specialized. That’s because running successful business ventures takes all kinds of skills.

Some occupations in business administration call for an undergraduate degree. Others, like high-ranking management positions and roles that require highly specialized knowledge, need more advanced study.

Depending on what you want to do, you may need a broad or specialized business degree. You may major in a field closely related to business or a subject that seems less directly involved with the business world. What all of the highest-paying business degrees have in common is the significant earning potential they offer to students.

Here are 15 degrees that lead to a high-paying business career.

1. Master of Business Administration

First on our list is undeniably one of the best business masters degrees: the Master of Business Administration (MBA).

The MBA degree is the traditional pathway for business professionals who want to advance into high-level (and high-paying) roles. The MBA is a graduate business degree that includes core courses in a broad range of business subjects, according to U.S. News & World Report, such as:

finance
accounting, management
marketing
strategy
operations
information systems

The traditional MBA program takes two years of full-time graduate study to complete. Many schools now offer these masters degrees in business programs in both part-time and accelerated study options in their online and on-campus programs.

What leads many people to consider an MBA the best business masters degree is its versatility. The MBA program gives you a flexible degree that includes graduate-level study across a range of business subjects. The MBA appeals to a range of employers in the world of business and finance.

Despite their strengths as generalist business masters degrees, MBAs do offer some opportunity to gain more in-depth, specialized knowledge of particular business subjects. Students may choose a specialization or concentration in a subject of interest.

Among the most popular MBA specializations are:

Finance
Supply chain management
International business
Computer information systems
Entrepreneurship
Marketing
Sustainability

There are plenty of roles you can hold with your MBA. It helps to choose a well-respected school and a sought-after specialization. Many of the more lucrative business career paths are open to students who earn an MBA with a relevant concentration.

Chief executives like CEOs typically need an MBA. Chief executives have the highest-earning role in the business world. The median salary for chief executives was almost five times the median wage for all occupations in 2021, the Bureau of Labor and Statistics (BLS) reported. As a result, if you’re asking “What business major makes the most money?”, the MBA is probably the best answer.

Chief executives are top managers who hold titles such as president, executive director and managing director. They oversee the big-picture direction of the company or organization, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics.

Management analyst is another possible job for an MBA graduate. While not nearly as lucrative as chief executive, management analyst still ranks high on the list of the top-paying business careers, with the BLS reporting a near-six-figure annual salary.

A management analyst acts as a business consultant. They provide valuable advice that helps companies improve productivity, efficiency and profitability. An MBA is an important credential for those who want to be chief executives, management analysts and other high-level business professionals. The degree alone won’t help you get to these senior positions. You will also need a great deal of experience and the leadership abilities to inspire confidence in companies and employees.

Job Titles: Chief Executive, Management Analyst

Median Salaries (2021): $179,520, $93,000

Occupation Group: Management

2. Bachelor’s in Management Information Systems

Some of the highest-paying jobs in the business world revolve around technology. A degree in computer science or information science can help prepare students for technological roles. These play an important part in the success of modern businesses. If you want one of the most profitable positions in the business world, you will need more than just computer knowledge. You must develop a background in business theory and practices. You can then apply that computer knowledge to help your company achieve its goals.

A bachelor’s degree in management information systems (MIS) is a great choice. It combines business classes with the mathematics, software development and computer programming courses of a computer science program. By the time you graduate from an undergraduate MIS degree program, you will understand how computer coding and technology works. You will also learn to use computer technology to solve an organization’s problems.

A degree in MIS can help you get a position as a computer and information systems manager. This program is sometimes called information technology (IT). Managers and IT project managers figure out what a company’s technology needs are based on their goals and challenges. They implement systems that meet these needs.

Even the lowest-paid information systems managers have a fairly high salary. The BLS reported that computer and information systems managers at the 10th percentile – that is, the 10 percent of workers in a given occupation who earn the least – still earned a median wage that amounted to upwards of $30,000 more per year than other operations management roles in 2021.

Earning your MIS degree can also qualify you for a role as a database administrator. Database administrators are responsible for creating, maintaining and keeping secure the electronic databases that have the information a business uses to operate. While not quite as high-paying as a manager role, this technology position had a median salary of $96,710 in 2021, according to the BLS. The Bureau of Labor Statistics also predicted for this occupation a positive job outlook with faster-than-average job growth.

Job Titles: Computer and Information Systems Manager, Database Administrator

Median Salaries (2021): $159,010, $96,710

Occupation Group: Management

3. Bachelor’s in Marketing

Getting people to buy your product or service is crucial to the success of a business. Whether a company focuses primarily on business to business (B2B), business to consumer (B2C) or business to government (B2G) transactions, you need marketing and sales professionals on your team. In a bachelor’s degree program in marketing, students learn about consumer behavior and how to influence people’s purchasing decisions. They take coursework such as:

advertising
sales
marketing research
strategic marketing
marketing management

Students must understand the data behind marketing campaigns. It is just as important for them to learn to create winning advertisements and marketing strategies. You should expect to take classes in finance, statistics and analytics. Some programs include specialized aspects of marketing like social media marketing, e-commerce and public relations. Marketing majors take business classes such as:

economics
management
business law and ethics

When you earn your marketing degree you can begin a path to the role of marketing and sales manager. The job duties may be different from one employer to the next. It can even be different from one job title to another. Marketing and advertising managers work more behind the scenes. They develop the campaigns and strategies that promote a company and its products or services. Sales managers, on the other hand, focus more on leading teams of sales representatives. They handle tasks like:

training sales staff
setting sales goals
measuring progress toward those goals

The salary of a marketing and sales manager depends on the size of the employer and scope of the job duties. A marketing manager for a major national or global corporation will earn more than a marketing manager for a small business that makes mostly local transactions. A bachelor’s degree in marketing will prepare you for more entry-level roles like marketing specialist.

Job Titles: Marketing & Sales Manager, Marketing Specialist

Median Salaries (2021): $135,030, $63,920

Occupation Group: Management

4. Master’s in Finance

MBAs aren’t the only suitable masters degrees for business majors. Some of the top-paying business degrees are specialized master’s programs, like the Master of Finance degree.

There are two kinds of graduate degrees in the field of finance. Some students earn an MBA in finance. This business degree is a master’s degree with an emphasis on business in general that includes some specialized studies in finance.

There is also a specialized finance degree available at the master’s level of study. This is business degree for graduate students who are looking to delve deeper into the field of finance rather than dividing their studies between a wide array of business subjects.

There are several reasons to consider earning a master’s in finance degree. For one thing, many employers are seeking candidates with a targeted educational background. Also, you can complete a traditional master’s in finance degree program in just one year. That’s half the amount of time it would take to earn an MBA in finance degree.

A master’s in finance degree helps students who want to work as financial managers. These management professionals are in charge of the overall financial health of a company or organization.

Financial managers handle a wide range of responsibilities. For example, they create financial statements. They oversee the efforts of finance workers. They analyze market trends to develop business forecasts.

Technically, it is possible to get a finance manager position with just a bachelor’s degree and extensive work experience. However, there will be strong competition for these management roles. Having a master’s degree and graduate-level skills in financial analysis and software can help candidates stand out from the crowd and impress prospective employers. In addition to a master’s degree, aspiring financial managers may also want to pursue professional credentials. Some of the most common credentials in financial management are:

The CFA Institute’s Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA) certification
The Association for Financial Professionals’ Certified Treasury Professional credential

Job Titles: Financial Manager

Median Salaries (2021): $131,710

Occupation Group: Management

5. Bachelor’s in Supply Management

All kinds of organizations, from retailers to manufacturers, need some form of supplies to keep their operations running. Supply management is the operational process of obtaining goods and materials for a company or organization’s use. This may be for internal use, for manufacturing purposes or retail sales. You might also hear related terms like supply chain management and logistics.

Coursework that is common in undergraduate supply chain management degree programs includes:

introduction to supply management
principles of microeconomics and macroeconomics
strategic management
supply chain strategy and practice
manufacturing planning and control
behavior and organization.

Often, students also take more general business courses, such as classes in business leadership, business communications and business laws and ethics. Hands-on experiences and internship opportunities are an important part of many supply management degree programs. The experience students gain is valuable in helping them get started in the career field.

A bachelor’s degree in supply management can put you on the path to a career as a purchasing manager. This is a position with a six-figure median annual salary. Purchasing managers:

develop and implement plans to get the products a business needs
compare vendors and suppliers
decide which business offers the best quality products or materials for the best price
forge and maintain relationships with suppliers
handle price and contract negotiations
oversee the work of buyers and purchasing agents

The purchasing manager is a high-level role, one in which even the 10th percentile earned a salary around $77,310 as of 2021. To reach this position, candidates usually need a minimum of five years of experience acting as purchasing agents or buyers.

Job Titles: Purchasing Manager, Buyer or Purchasing Agent

Median Salaries (2021): $127,150, $63,470

Occupation Group: Management

6. Master’s in Human Resources

Supplies aren’t the only thing businesses need to succeed. To run effectively, companies and organizations also need to have hardworking employees. They need those employees to be trained properly and working as efficiently as possible.

Graduate degree programs in human resources are among the best business masters degrees. These programs teach students how to handle the important administrative duties that relate to staffing and employee relations. In a master’s in human relations degree program, according to U.S. News & World Report, students take core courses such as:

Employee and labor relations
Organizational change
Human relations management strategy
Conflict management
Employment and labor law
Collective bargaining
Human performance improvement
Compensation and benefits

Students often choose to take elective courses that lead to a specialization in subjects such as project management, staffing and recruitment or training and development. Many master’s degree programs in human resources also include some sort of final capstone experience. This may take the form of an internship, thesis or research project.

A master’s degree in this field gives you the skills needed to become a human resources manager. Lower-level human resources management roles are available to candidates with just an undergraduate degree. However, having a master’s degree will improve a candidate’s job prospects in this competitive field, according to the BLS.

Human resources managers serve an important role. They connect a company’s employees with its management and administration team and handle job duties such as recruiting staff and handling any employee issues that arise. Training and development manager is another role you can go for with a graduate degree in human resources. Unlike the more general role of human resources manager, these professionals focus on training the company’s workforce.

Both of these management roles typically require a minimum of five years of related work experience, often in roles such as human resources specialist or training and development specialist.

Job Titles: Human Resources Manager, Training and Development Manager

Median Salaries (2021): $126,230, $120,130

Occupation Group: Management

7. Master’s in Economics

Economics is the study of how resources are transferred and used. Money, real estate, natural resources, labor and time are studied in a bachelor’s program.

In a master’s in economics degree program, students study:

theory and principles of microeconomics and macroeconomics
Mathematics (such as statistics and econometrics)
international economics
labor economics
financial economies and risk
managerial economics
applied econometrics
economic development and growth

While it’s not necessary to have an undergraduate degree in economics to get started in a graduate program in the subject, it is important to have a solid mathematics foundation. Undergraduate-level coursework in calculus is a prerequisite for most graduate economics programs, according to U.S. News & World Report. Some master’s in economics programs offer students the chance to specialize in a topic like advanced theory or financial economics.

A graduate degree in economics can prepare you for a career as an economist, a high-paying business-related role. Economists fit more closely in the category of social scientist than business professional. However, with a six-figure median annual salary and a lucrative $193,690 wage at the 90th percentile as of 2021, economist is among the highest-paying business careers all the same.

In the business world, economists don’t just study the production and distribution of various kinds of resources. They also use their findings to develop data-backed business recommendations.

More than one-third of economists work for the federal, state or local government. Many others work in management consulting or research and development services. An economics degree can prepare graduates for other roles, too. In fact, most students who graduate from an undergraduate economics degree program don’t go on to become economists. Instead they find business roles such as research assistant, financial analyst and market research analyst, according to Forbes.

Job Titles: Economist

Median Salaries (2021): $105,630

Occupation Group: Other Business-Related Occupation

8. Bachelor’s in Engineering

On the surface, one of the best-paying business degrees, engineering, may not seem like a business degree at all. Engineering degrees incorporate a great deal of math, science, computer software training and practice in engineering design. Still, the architectural and engineering services industry is a major part of the business world. Success as an engineer hinges on an understanding of business principles as well as engineering principles. Engineers need to take into account clients’ needs, budgets and timetables in planning an engineering project.

At the undergraduate as well as graduate level, most engineering degree programs focus on a particular discipline of engineering. Each of these disciplines includes studies in core courses such as:

Science
Mathematics
principles of engineering

All high-quality engineering programs allow students the opportunity to gain hands-on experience working in laboratory and design studio settings. Most encourage or require some form of an internship opportunity. However, the precise curriculum of an engineering program depends heavily on the specialization the student is pursuing. Among the most popular engineering specializations are:

civil engineering
computer engineering
construction engineering technology
electrical engineering
mechanical engineering
petroleum engineering
software engineering

Students majoring in computer engineering or software engineering may devote much of their studies to computer science or computer programming.

Students in a civil engineering program focus more on engineering mechanics and systems.

Becoming an engineer in your chosen discipline is the traditional career path following an engineering degree program. However, some engineering graduates choose a different, and at times more lucrative, career. The $103,710 annual salary the Bureau of Labor Statistics reported for sales engineers in 2021 was more than the median salaries of:

Electrical and electronics engineers
Mining and geological engineers
Marine engineers
Materials engineers
Biomedical engineers
Health and safety engineers
Environmental engineers
Mechanical engineers
Industrial engineers
Civil engineers
Agricultural engineers

Sales engineers develop the same level of engineering knowledge in their discipline as students who go on to become professional engineers, but they put that knowledge to work in the business world. A sales engineer is responsible for selling highly technical products and services to clients, typically businesses. Sales engineers are necessary when the product is so technical that it takes a salesperson with a college-level engineering background to understand the science behind the product. They can explain that information to clients in clear, accessible language.

Job Titles: Sales Engineer

Median Salaries (2021): $103,710

Occupation Group: Sales

9. Bachelor’s in Actuarial Science

Actuarial science is the study of risk. Majors in actuary science degree programs have strong analytical skills. They use numerical data to identify the mathematical likelihood of an outcome occurring. An actuarial science program typically includes coursework in:

Algebra
Calculus
Probability and statistics
Microeconomics
Macroeconomics
Business and finance

In addition to these core courses in math and business, actuarial science majors can benefit from taking classes in computer science and communication.

Graduates from an actuarial science program need to have skills in:

Public speaking
Written communication
Computer programming
Using databases, spreadsheets and statistical analysis tools

College degree programs in actuarial science may also include preparation for the actuarial exams candidates must pass to attain certification. There are around 200 colleges across the globe that offer degree programs in actuarial science.

A degree in actuarial science is an excellent start to a career as an actuary. These mathematics professionals earn a lucrative living. The $105,900 median salary the BLS reported for 2021 lands them among the best-paid employees in the business world. They also had an exceptionally high 10th percentile wage of $63,260 and 90th percentile wage of $206,820. More than 70 percent of actuaries worked for the finance and insurance industry as of 2021, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. Other actuaries find employment in the professional services industry, management and government entities.

Some of the different types of actuaries include:

Health insurance actuaries
Life insurance actuaries
Property and casualty insurance actuaries
Pension and retirement benefits actuaries
Enterprise risk actuaries

Their work helps determine the terms and rates of insurance policy contracts as well as companies’ financial strategies. Earning certification is essential for full professional status as an actuary. This requires successful completion of professional actuarial exams.

Job Titles: Actuary

Median Salaries (2021): $105,900

Occupation Group: Other Business-Related Occupation

10. Bachelor’s in Health Administration or Health Management

Managing the business side of the healthcare industry requires a background in both business studies and the issues facing healthcare providers. An undergraduate degree program in health administration or health management combines these studies in a focused curriculum. It equips graduates with the skills needed to oversee the operations of a hospital or medical practice.

Business courses are an important component of a health administration curriculum. According to U.S. News & World Report, students in a healthcare management program typically take classes in the following subjects of study:

Human resources
Economics
Finance and leadership
Health law and regulations
Standards for healthcare staff
Policy issues in healthcare
Medical facilities management
Critical issues in healthcare

Some health administration programs allow students to pursue a specialization such as health care informatics systems, long-term care management or public administration. Often, students complete an internship or practicum to attain hands-on work experience.

With a degree in health administration or health management, you can be on your way to a role as a medical and health services manager. Sometimes called health care executives or health care administrators, these management professionals don’t provide care themselves. They direct and coordinate care to make sure that medical facilities run efficiently and that patients get adequate treatment.

With a $101,340 median salary and a $205,620 90th percentile wage as of 2021, medical and health services manager is among the most lucrative business management positions. This is also a rapidly growing management role. The BLS predicts a “much faster than average” 28% job growth rate for opportunities for medical and health services managers between 2021 and 2031.

Nearly a third of medical and health services managers oversaw the operations of hospitals as of 2021. Others worked in physicians’ offices, nursing homes, home health services and government entities.

Job Titles: Medical and Health Services Manager

Median Salaries (2021): $101,340

Occupation Group: Management

11. Bachelor’s in Finance

Finance is consistently one of the highest-paid business majors for undergraduates.

At the bachelor’s level, a finance degree program introduces students to the basics of business, accounting and financial reporting and analysis. Later in the curriculum, U.S. News & World Report noted, students will encounter more in-depth coursework in subjects such as the following:

Risk management
International finance
Investment principles
Corporate finance
Portfolio management
Financial institutions and markets
Insurance
Financial management
Regulatory issues in finance

By the time students graduate with their bachelor’s in finance degree they should understand:

The different types of financial assets and how to manage them to promote growth
The factors that determine an organization’s financial health and how to evaluate those factors
How to budget for the company’s expenses and analyze the company’s finances and the industry’s financial markets

Some undergraduate finance programs include a specific focus on financial planning, according to the BLS.

Among the most lucrative careers you can attain with a bachelor’s degree in finance are personal financial advisor and financial analyst.

A personal financial advisor works directly with individuals helping them plan for and achieve their financial goals. These professionals might help clients weigh their options when it comes to:

making investment decisions
saving for college or retirement
planning their estate
minimizing their tax burden
purchasing insurance or real estate mortgages

Financial analysts, on the other hand, focus more narrowly on analyzing investment opportunities. They may work with individuals, but they also work with companies. Financial analysts find employment in banks, mutual funds, pension funds, insurance companies and securities firms, the BLS reported. Some work on the “buy-side,” where they focus on obtaining investments. Others work on the “sell-side” and seek investors to purchase their stocks and bonds.

Personal financial advisors have a higher median salary ($94,170, as of 2021), but financial analysts have an exceptionally high 10th percentile wage among financial specialists ($57,900). This data shows that even the lowest-paid analysts are earning a good income.

Job Titles: Personal Financial Advisor, Financial Analyst

Median Salaries (2021): $94,170, $91,580

Occupation Group: Financial Specialist

12. Master’s in Statistics

Statistics is the scientific study of analyzing and interpreting numerical data. Students majoring in statistics commonly take a blend of math and science courses that include:

Calculus
Linear algebra
Survey methodology
Perimental design
Statistical theory
Probability

Graduates of statistics degree programs need to have a well-rounded background. Students often take courses in engineering, physical science, chemistry, biology and health services, particularly as undergraduates.

Statistics students don’t work only with formulas but also with computer software. In fact, using data analysis software is so integral to the study of statistics that it is also recommended that students take some computer science and computer programming courses. Some entry-level roles in the field of statistics are available to graduates from a bachelor’s degree program. However, most roles require that candidates hold at least a master’s degree, if not a Ph.D.

Statistician is the job title given to math professionals who gather and evaluate data through statistical methods to gain insight into solving problems. A statistician is responsible for everything from figuring out what data can help a company gain valuable insight to devising and implementing ways to attain that data and finally analyzing the information they collect. Statisticians work in several different employment environments, including federal government agencies and college and university settings. In the business world, most statisticians find jobs in:

scientific research and development services
finance and insurance
management consulting services

For statisticians, the career outlook is highly positive. While the expected increase in job opportunities for all occupations is just five percent between 2021 and 2031, statisticians are looking at a “much faster than average” growth rate of 31 percent. With a median salary of $95,570 and a 90th percentile wage of $157,300 as of 2021, statistician is one of the top-paying business careers and the third most lucrative math career.

Job Titles: Statistician

Median Salaries (2021): $95,570

Occupation Group: Other Business-Related Occupation

13. Bachelor’s in Accounting

It’s a common misconception that an accounting degree is all about mathematics, according to U.S. News & World Report. True, you do need to have solid math skills to succeed in the degree path and any career that follows. Still, accounting is a business degree program, not a math program.

Accounting is the work of preparing financial statements and reports. In a bachelor’s degree program in accounting, students take courses such as:

Fundamentals of accounting
Principles of accounting
Auditing principles
Internal auditing
Financial accounting
Managerial accounting
Financial reporting
Business law
Finance
Economics
Business communications

By the time students graduate from an undergraduate accounting degree program, they will understand the workings of business transactions and how to prepare a wide variety of financial reports. They will not, however, have met the 150 semester hours of college study needed to be eligible for the certified public accountant (CPA) credential. For that reason, many graduates of bachelor’s in accounting degree programs go on to attain a master’s degree in accounting or an MBA.

An undergraduate accounting degree can prepare you for a couple of possible positions in the business world. Financial examiner and accountant are the most notable. Accountants and auditors earned a median wage of $77,250 annually as of 2021, according to the BLS. They follow a fairly direct career path, work with individuals or companies to prepare accurate financial statements and offer advice for making smart financial decisions. Tax returns, balance sheets and income statements are just a few of the types of financial reports accountants are responsible for creating.

Financial examiners are the higher paid of the two occupations, earning a median salary of $81,090 per year. These professionals focus more narrowly on the rules and laws companies have to follow with regards to financial practices and reporting. Some financial examiners specialize in “risk scoping,” assessing the financial wealth of institutions such as banks and credit unions. Others are more concerned with “consumer compliance.” They ensure financial institutions abide by the laws designed to protect consumers from predatory lending practices. Nearly one-fifth of all financial examiners worked for the federal or state government as of 2021, according to the BLS. Other financial examiners work in credit inter-mediation, financial investments and management.

Job Titles: Financial Examiner, Accountant

Median Salaries (2021): $81,410, $77,250

Occupation Group: Financial Specialist

14. Bachelor’s or Master’s in Operations Research

Operations research is a math-heavy degree program. This is one of the highest paid business degrees that is best students for students with strong analytical and mathematics skills.

Core courses such as calculus, statistics and linear algebra are essential to success in the field of operations research. Students should also take enough computer science coursework to thoroughly understand the software used to run statistical analyses and model data. It’s also a good idea for operations research majors to take classes in subjects that need quantitative analysis, such as economics, political science and engineering.

Should you go for a bachelor’s degree in operations research, or a master’s degree? That depends on what you want to do with the degree. An undergraduate degree in operations research or a similar program is sufficient to attain some entry-level roles in the field, according to the BLS. However, there are some jobs you won’t be able to get unless you have a master’s degree or a Ph.D. Having an advanced degree can improve your job prospects considerably.

With a degree in operations research or a similar educational path, you can pursue a career as an operations research analyst. This math professional applies quantitative, statistical and analytical methods to data to develop solutions to real problems facing businesses and organizations. While their work uses mathematical principles, the challenges operations research analysts face aren’t quite as simple as solving an equation. These professionals don’t just look for any solution, but instead for the best solution. That requires analyzing the pros and cons of a variety of different actions.

One-quarter of operations research analysts worked in the finance and insurance industry as of 2021. Others found employment in professional and scientific services, manufacturing, management and the federal government. In addition to having a high median salary of $82,360, operations research analysts also enjoy a highly positive job outlook. The BLS predicts that operations research analysts will see a “much faster than average” job growth rate of 23 percent between 2021 and 2031.

Job Titles: Operations Research Analyst

Median Salaries (2021): $82,360

Occupation Group: Other Business-Related Occupation

15. Master’s in Industrial Organizational Psychology

You might associate the field of psychology more with counseling or clinical treatment than with business. However, industrial-organizational psychology is a specialized discipline of psychology that focuses on how humans behave in the workplace and other organizations, according to the American Psychological Association.

You can pursue a master’s degree in industrial-organizational psychology even if you didn’t major in psychology as an undergraduate student. You will just need to complete certain prerequisites, such as introductory and experimental psychology coursework. At the graduate level, The Princeton Review reported, coursework in industrial-organizational psychology includes:

Psychology
Human resources
Business and management
Organizational development
Personnel selection
Training in organizations, work motivation and attitudes
Leadership and strategic change
Performance measurement

Some form of field work may also be required. A typical master’s degree program in industrial-organizational psychology can be completed in one and a half to three years, The Princeton Review reported.

An industrial-organizational psychologist applies his or her knowledge of human behavior to the specific setting of the workplace. These psychology professionals help businesses find ways to improve productivity and workplace culture and resolve management and employee performance problems by implementing psychological principles and practices. Their goals may range from developing fair and constructive company policies to raising employee morale and developing effective working styles.

In most specialties of psychology, you need a Ph.D. to become a psychologist. Industrial-organizational psychology is an exception to that rule, the BLS reported. Candidates with a master’s degree can begin working in entry-level industrial-organizational psychologist roles.

With a median salary of $81,040 and a 90th percentile wage of $133,890 as of 2021, industrial-organizational psychologist is among the most lucrative business careers without a business degree.

Job Titles: Industrial Organizational Psychologist

Median Salaries (2021): $81,040

Occupation Group: Other Business-Related Occupation

Editor’s Note: No one educational or career path is right for everyone. If you aspire to rise to a well-paid position in the business world and make the big bucks, you need to weigh your options and consider all of the factors that will affect your professional life. What are your strengths and interests? How will you get the experience you need to advance to your dream career? This list is a guide for you to start off your research into the right degree program and career path for you. For more information about the highest-paying business careers, check out this resource from the United States Bureau of Labor Statistics.

DQ Staff

Updated April 2023

For Further Reading:

The post 15 Top Highest-Paying Business Degrees appeared first on DegreeQuery.com.

Top 10 Paying Jobs That Involve Math

Staff Writer — Tue, 18 Mar 2025 01:22:44 +0000

With strong math skills and a college education, you can qualify for some of the highest-paying jobs available. Math skills are consistently in demand across industries that use data analysis to develop business strategies and scientific breakthroughs. In the highest-paying math jobs, median salaries climb to $80,000, $90,000, $100,000 or even more.

What Are the Highest-Paying Math Jobs?

Mathematical skills – and the other competencies students develop pursuing an undergraduate math degree – are in-demand in many fields.

High-paying jobs for math majors may include high-paying jobs in financial and government agencies, consulting firms, insurance companies, colleges and universities and more.

1. Cryptographer

At the intersection between mathematics and computer science is the cryptographer career path. In general, cryptography refers to the security and privacy of messages and data – but the modern field of cryptography refers specifically to computers and cybersecurity.

A cryptographer writes the computer code – and algorithms – used to protect data security online. When hackers and other cybercriminals attempt to breach data security measures and access or steal unauthorized information, the encryption programs created by a cryptographer

Average Annual Salary

The average salary for cryptographers across the United States in 2021 was $145,356, according to Western Governors University. The highest-paid cryptographers made nearly $200,000 per year, and even the 4% of the occupation with the lowest wages still earned salaries around $102,000.

2. Financial Manager

Another math role with an exceptionally high salary is financial manager. A financial manager makes financial decisions for a company and oversees the organization’s financial activities. Some of the job titles that fall under the financial manager role include treasurer, controller and chief financial officer (CFO).

Median Salary

For financial managers as a whole, the United States Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) reported a median salary of $131,710. The top 10% of earners in the financial manager occupation made upwards of $208,000, while the lowest-paid 10% of the field reported annual earnings below $77,040.

The management of companies and enterprises industry, which employed one in 10 financial managers, paid the highest median salary of all top employment industries at $158,820. The 15% of financial managers working in the professional, scientific and technical services industry earned a median salary of $158,770.

In the manufacturing industry, which employed 6% of the field, and the finance and insurance industry, which employed 30% of the field, financial managers earned a median salary of $131,710. For the 7% of financial managers who worked for government agencies, the median salary was $123,010.

Of course, how high a management position a financial manager holds affects their earning potential. Salary.com reported an average salary of $224,461 for treasurers, $240,082 for controllers and $420,300 for chief financial officers.

3. Mathematician

Mathematician may seem like the most direct career path for math majors, but in fact, relatively few math majors follow this trajectory. There are only about 2,000 mathematicians working in America, even though the BLS reported that there are 887,590 American workers in the mathematics field.

Mathematicians are the professionals whose job duties involve math in the purest sense. To solve problems – which may be theoretical or exist in the real world – they create mathematical equations. Testing new mathematical theories and developing mathematical rules are some of the duties that a mathematician may perform.

Mathematicians who focus on abstract math work acquire mathematical knowledge for the sake of advancing the field. Mathematicians interested in applied mathematics use their knowledge of complex mathematics and their math skills to understand, organize and quantify problems and to write and solve equations through which they can address real issues.

If you want to be a mathematician with an academic focus working at a college or university, you will likely work toward a full math professor role. Unfortunately, math professor jobs and other roles for mathematicians in colleges and universities pay significantly less than other mathematician jobs. The median salary the BLS reported for mathematicians working in colleges and universities was $61,600 as of 2021 – and these math jobs typically require a doctorate degree.

Median annual salary:

Mathematicians across the United States earned a median salary of $108,100 as of 2021, the BLS reported. The highest-earning mathematicians made more than $169,500, while the lowest-earning mathematicians earned below $61,760.

Mathematicians in the professional, scientific and technical services industry, which made up 13% of the profession, earned a median salary of $129,800. The federal government – the largest industry of employment for mathematicians, which employed 62% of the workforce – paid a median wage of $115,610. Unfortunately for the 13% of mathematicians working for colleges and universities, academia pays much less, with a median salary of $61,600.

4. Actuary

With strong math skills, you could quantify just about anything – even risk. The role of an actuary is to calculate risk by looking at economic data and running complex calculations. Most actuaries work for either an insurance company or a financial institution.

While a math major can prepare students for an actuary career, students interested in becoming an actuary may also pursue a specialized degree in actuarial science.

Median Salary

The median salary actuaries earned in 2021 was $105,900, the BLS reported. Actuarial science is such a lucrative career path that the top 10% of earners in the field made upwards of $206,820. The lowest-paid 10% of earners reported salaries below $63,260.

Among the top employment industries for this field, the government paid the most, with a median salary of $110,590. Only 3% of the field works for the government. The finance and insurance industry, which employed 74% of actuaries in the U.S., reported a median salary of $110,000.

Salaries in the professional, scientific and technical services industry and the management of companies and enterprises industry – which employed 13% and 4% of the occupation, respectively – paid very close median salaries of $101,600 and $101,510.

5. Data Scientist

Despite the job title, a data scientist is more a math professional than a scientist, at least compared to scientist jobs that first come to mind. The role of data scientists is to analyze data. This is another role that combines mathematical knowledge, statistical methods of analysis and the knowledge of computers needed to write algorithms that support machine learning.

Median Salary

Data scientists reported a median salary of $100,910 in 2021, the BLS reported. For the best-paid scientists in this career, earnings are in excess of $167,040 per year. At the lowest end of the pay scale are salaries below $59,430.

All of the top employment industries for the data scientist profession paid salaries within the range of $100,000 to $102,000. The scientific research and development services, which employed 5% of the occupation, paid a median salary of $102,750.

The 15% of the field working in the computer systems design industry reported a median wage of $102,600. For both the management of companies and enterprises industry and the management, scientific and technical consulting services – which employed 10% and 7% of the profession, respectively – the median salary for data scientists was $101,000. For the 9% of the profession working for an insurance company, the median salary was $100,360.

6. Statistician

Statistics is a data-centric discipline of analysis. Statisticians can apply methods of statistical analysis to calculate the statistical probability of many different outcomes or events in virtually any imaginable industry. Science, medicine and business are some examples of the fields that rely upon statistical methods.

Median Salary

As a whole, statisticians enjoy a near-six-figure median salary of $95,570, the BLS reported. The best-paid 10% of statisticians earned upwards of $157,300 per year, but the lowest-paid 10% of statisticians reported earnings under $50,000.

In the best-paid of the top employment industry – scientific research and development – statisticians earned a median salary nearly $20,000 higher than the median wage for the occupation as a whole. This industry accounts for 14% of employment in the profession and pays a median salary of $114,770. The median salary among statisticians working for federal government agencies, as 15% of the occupation does, amounted to $114,050.

In the rest of the top employment industries for statisticians, earning potential is significantly lower. Insurance carriers employed 6% of statisticians and paid a median salary of $83,820. The 8% of the profession employed in the healthcare and social assistance industry reported a median salary of $79,060. Nearly one in 10 statisticians worked for colleges and universities, which paid a median salary of $77,750.

7. Personal Financial Advisor

An important area of finance is managing wealth. A personal financial advisor, including those with the Certified Financial Planner credential, helps clients manage, plan, save, invest and grow their wealth.

Personal financial advisors don’t make recommendations based on hunches. Rather, they analyze available financial data and past patterns to predict what will happen in financial markets.

Nearly one-fifth of all personal financial advisors are self-employed, the BLS reported. Self-employed financial advisors may also manage their own financial firms.

Median Salary

Earnings vary a great deal among personal financial advisors, for whom the BLS reported a median salary of $94,170 in 2021. While the best-paid 10% of the field reported earning more than $208,000, the lowest-paid 10% of the occupation reported salaries under $47,570.

Personal financial advisors who worked in the securities and financial investments industry – as 59% of the field does – earned a median salary just shy of six figures, at $99,970. The personal financial advisors employed in the remaining top employment industries earn substantially less, amounting to a difference of $20,000 to $30,000 per year.

The management of companies and enterprises industry employed just 1% of personal financial advisors but paid a median salary of $79,780. Close behind is the credit intermediation industry, which employed 15% of the profession and paid a median salary of $76,620. For the 3% of personal financial advisors working for insurance carriers, the median salary was $69,410.

8. Financial Analyst

As the name suggests, a financial analyst analyzes financial data. There are many types of financial analysts, including:

Investment analyst
Financial risk specialist or financial risk analyst
Fund manager
Portfolio manager
Securities analyst
Ratings analyst
Buy-side analyst
Sell-side analyst

Financial analysts often look at past market data and trends and companies’ financial statements. An investment analyst, for example, often develops financial models and advises an employer’s financial team on investment opportunities that are likely to pay off.

Median Salary

The overall median salary the BLS reported for financial analysts in 2021, $95,570, is slightly skewed because this occupation includes two roles with median wages more than $8,000 apart. For financial and investment analysts specifically, the median wage was $91,580, while the median salary for financial risk specialists hovered a bit higher, at $100,000.

The highest-paid 10% of financial and investment analysts earned upwards of $166,560, while the highest-paid financial risk specialists made more than $171,000. Financial and investment analysts in the 10th percentile made less than $57,900, while financial risk specialists in the 10th percentile earned below $59,370.

The securities, commodity contracts and other financial investment activities industry was the highest-paying industry for both financial and investment analysts and financial risk analysts, with median salaries of $100,800 and $127,110, respectively.

For financial and investment analysts, the professional, scientific and technical services industry followed, with a median wage of $96,600. The management of companies and enterprises industry paid a median salary of $83,990, followed by the insurance industry, which paid a median wage of $81,150. In the credit intermediation industry, financial and investment analysts earned a median salary of $79,910.

The management of companies and enterprises industry is the second most lucrative among the top employment industries for financial risk specialists, paying a median salary of $102,750. In the credit intermediation industry, the median salary was $98,320, closely followed by the $98,250 median salary reported for the professional, scientific and technical services industry. Insurance carriers paid financial risk analysts a median salary of $91,770.

9. Operations Research Analyst

An operations research analyst uses mathematical modeling methods and calculations to solve all kinds of practical problems organizations face, from making pricing decisions for goods and services to coordinating the supply chain, production schedules and resource allocation.

Median Salary

The BLS reported a median salary of $82,360 for operations research analysts. The best-paid operations research analysts earned considerably more. For the top 10% of earners in this role, salaries were in excess of $160,850. However, the lowest-paid 10% of operations research analysts made less than $48,690.

Although the federal government employed only 6% of the field, it paid the most, with a median salary of $120,950. The 28% of operations research analysts who worked for the professional, scientific and technical services industry reported a median salary of $99,790.

In the manufacturing industry, where 5% of the profession worked, the median salary was $98,040. For the 8% of the occupation working in the management of companies and enterprises industry, the median salary was $94,070.

The finance and insurance industry, which accounted for one-quarter of the profession, paid a noticeably lower salary of $79,450.

10. Market Research Analyst

A market research analyst uses mathematical and statistical methods to analyze market data. Through their work analyzing economic trends, a market research analyst is able to help organizations make decisions on what products to offer, how to price them and how to market them successfully to consumers.

Median Salary

Market research analysts as a whole earned a median salary of $63,920 as of 2021, the BLS reported. The highest-paid 10% of market research analysts earned more than twice that much, with salaries above $128,320. The 10% of the operations research analyst occupation with the lowest earnings made less than $37,570.

The management of companies and enterprises industry, which employed 7% of the profession, paid the highest median salary among the top employment industries: $79,640. The 4% of the field working for the publishing industries earned nearly as much, with a median wage of $79,450. In the finance and insurance industry, where 10% of the field worked, median pay amounted to $76,650.

The median salary in the wholesale trade industry, which employed 7% of market research analysts, reported a median salary of $64,090. For market research analysts working in the management, scientific and technical consulting services, which amounted to 11% of the occupation, the median salary was $62,650.

What to Expect as a Math Major

If you want to prepare for one of the highest-paying jobs for math majors, you’re going to need to take numerous math courses. Math majors study mathematical theory, methods and applications. In the course of pursuing a four-year math degree, students are likely to study mathematical analysis, linear algebra, abstract algebra, modern algebra, multivariate analysis, calculus, number theory, differential geometry and topology.

Math majors will also be exposed to methods for applied mathematics. As part of their bachelor’s degree studies, a math major may also complete a minor or elective coursework in an area of interest, such as business or computer technology, to help them develop a knowledge base that will help them in an applied mathematics career.

Other Majors to Consider If You’re Good at Math

Math degrees aren’t the only options for students with strong math skills. If you want to apply your knowledge of mathematical concepts and equations to real-world issues, it might make sense to pursue a bachelor’s degree in an area relevant to the career path you plan to pursue.

Computer Science

If you want to become a cryptographer or work in another role in cyber security, pursuing a bachelor’s degree in computer science may be the right choice. Computer science and mathematics have more in common than many people realize. In fact, mathematical principles inform the computation theories and methods of statistical analysis that are critical parts of bachelor’s degree studies in computer science.

In a bachelor’s degree program in computer science, students typically take classes in data structures and algorithms, computer programming, computer architecture, systems programming and computational science and theory.

Engineering

If you want to use your knowledge of mathematical equations to design solutions to real problems, a career as an engineer may appeal to you. Engineers work in numerous disciplines – mechanical engineering, civil engineering, chemical engineering and electrical engineering, to name a few – and find employment in environments like engineering firms, technology companies, government agencies, colleges and universities and other settings.

Students pursuing a bachelor’s degree in engineering take enough math courses, along with basic science courses, to develop a strong math and science background that they can apply to work in engineering design.

Finance

The area of business that is most closely related to mathematics is finance, which revolves around the management of wealth. Students who pursue a bachelor’s degree in finance typically study corporate finance, investment analysis, futures and options, securities analysis and portfolio management, international finance and financial management.

What Level of Education Do You Need for the Highest-Paying Math Jobs?

For most of the highest-paying math jobs, at least some level of college education is required. The BLS lists actuary, operations research analyst and data scientist among the math jobs with a bachelor’s degree required. A bachelor’s degree is also considered the entry-level education needed for many business jobs for math majors, such as financial analyst and personal financial advisor.

Although professionals with strong math skills and a relevant bachelor’s degree can do well in a variety of career roles, there are some positions for which a bachelor’s degree alone may not be enough. Some professionals working in math jobs go on to pursue a graduate degree, such as a master’s degree, or to earn a doctoral degree like a PhD.

Generally, a master’s degree is most likely to come in handy when you are pursuing a high-level role in research and development or in management. Some of the master’s degree programs that may be of interest include mathematics, business administration, finance, computer science, data science and engineering.

You don’t have to go for your master’s degree straight after completing your bachelor’s degree program. Many students apply to entry-level jobs for math majors after graduation, through which they gain experience and on-the-job training that can help them plan their career trajectory.

For some of the highest-paying math jobs, work experience and on-the-job training are sufficient preparation for advancement on their own, while for other roles, having a master’s degree can be invaluable.

The Most In-Demand Skills for Math Majors

Any math job requires strong mathematical skills, but there are specific related skill sets that can prove valuable in a high-paying math career.

Analyze Data

Most of the math jobs on our list involve at least some analytical component. Having strong analytical skills is valuable not only for jobs that revolve around analysis specifically but also for jobs that involve any sort of strategic decision-making.

Whether you’re using methods of statistical analysis or simply applying logic and reasoning to better understand and solve problems, your analytical skills are essential to success in a math career. Due the need to analyze not only mathematical equations but also how to apply mathematical methods to real-world problems, math majors develop excellent analytical skills in the course of earning their bachelor’s degree or advanced degrees.

Solve Problems

A math major solves problems, but the types of challenges they overcome aren’t limited to arriving at the answer to a tricky equation or figuring out the value of a variable. The business, financial, risk, cyber security and other problems that are the focus of math jobs are often best addressed in similar ways, such as organizing a problem logically, analyzing each aspect and modeling solutions.

Studying math equips students with strong problem-solving skills – and that’s a skill set that almost every job requires.

Interpret Financial Reports

It takes only basic arithmetic skills and accounting knowledge to prepare financial statements, but making meaning out of financial reports is much more challenging. With their thorough grasp of mathematical concepts and theories, math majors are well-suited to make meaning and glean insights out of financial and economic data.

For Further Reading:

What Are the 5 Best Careers in Environmental Science?

Learn more about Arizona State University’s Online Bachelor’s of Information Systems

The post Top 10 Paying Jobs That Involve Math appeared first on DegreeQuery.com.

The 20 Best Online Bachelor’s Degrees In Information Systems

jmc — Tue, 18 Mar 2025 01:16:44 +0000

In 2021 and beyond, information is the new gold. Virtually any business in operation today runs on information–be it the financial information of daily operations, customer engagement information, or market logistics information. But the information itself is a neutral-value asset. It is the ability to glean valuable insight from information that confers its extreme value.

Thus the fields of information science, data science, and information technology have exploded in recent years to take prominent positions in the world economy. The industrial revolution changed the world forever, and we are in the midst of a similar revolution now–one fueled by information rather than coal.

Information systems professionals work at the forefront of this revolution. They develop new uses and modalities for existing information systems, and even develop new models of information systems and IT–with the goal being to improve on the system’s ability to collect, process, store, and distribute information. These professionals can work in a wide range of professional settings, however given the high-tech nature of the field, opportunities tend to congregate in tech-hubs and city metropolises.

The burgeoning field of information systems has only come into focus after many professionals already dove into their careers. As such, many people–both first-time students and professionals looking for a career change–are now looking to build a career in information systems. Thankfully, there are more options to do so than ever before. Many of which are offered online, and have been designed from the ground up to accommodate adult learners and working students, and transfer students. Our researchers have compiled the best online bachelor’s of information systems programs according to metrics that matter most to you: graduation rate, average tuition costs, financial aid, as well as the overall recognition of the program in respected publications such as US News & World Report, The Financial Times, and The Princeton Review.

1 Arizona State University

Average Cost of Tuition after Aid: $8,840

Arizona State University (ASU) continuously distinguishes itself as one of the most innovative institutions in higher education. With more than 530,000 alumni and a measured economic impact of more than $4.6 billion, ASU is quickly becoming the premier online University of the United States. A whopping 79 degree programs have received recognition and accolades from top publications. In short, when considering an online degree, ASU is always a great place to begin your search.

ASU’s Online Bachelor’s of Information Systems is built around positioning graduates for success in the job market after graduation. Students are introduced to foundational subjects, while trained in managerial and leadership skills. The program is both affordable and flexible, allowing students to progress through the program while holding down employment.

To get a better idea of the program’s curriculum, consider these featured courses:

Introduction to Information Systems
Business Information System Development I
Business Information System Development II
Business Database Systems Development
Managing Cyber Risks in Enterprise Business Processes
Web Technologies for the Enterprise
Mobile Platforms for Business
Capstone in Information Systems

2 Western Governors University

Average Cost of Tuition after Aid: $2,500

Western Governors University (WGU) has earned its spot on this list by combining a tremendously affordable tuition with an efficient, career-focused curriculum that is meant to position graduates to capitalize on opportunities in the job market. This is an excellent combination for adult learners and working students who want to enter the job market in an efficient manner that won’t break the bank. Another distinguishing element of WGU is that its programs represent the needs of the job market, often combining specialized tracks with certification options to best prepare students for competition in the job market.

WGU offers a fully online Bachelor of Data Science Analytics / Data Management that delves into the technical aspects of information systems. Students will earn a number of notable professional certifications including CompTIA and CIW. Additionally, students will earn a Data Analyst Nanodegree from Udacity. And what’s more–69% of students complete the entire program in just 24 months.

Curriculum is based around investigations into the following subjects:

General Education
IT Fundamentals
Network and Security
Scripting and Programming
Data Management
Business of IT
Spreadsheets
General Science
Data Science
Data Analytics
Technical Communication
Web Development
Software
Computer Science
Capstone

Learn more about Western Governors University’s Online Bachelor’s of Information Systems

3 Northwestern State University of Louisiana

Average Cost of Tuition after Aid: $11,049

Northwestern State is a branch of the University of Louisiana System that offers highly specialized degrees that is meant to represent the current market. The Computer Information Systems at Northwestern State has received countless accolades and awards since its inception in 1999. This makes it simultaneously one of the most well-recognized programs of its kind as well as one of the oldest of its kind. This means that the program has fine tuned its approach through iterations, evidenced by the awards received year after year.

Specifically students can earn a fully online Bachelor of Science in Computer Information Systems (CIS). The program’s curriculum is built around investigations in both the theoretical and practical modalities. The CIS program offers four concentrations paths: Application Development, Networking & Systems Management, Web Development, or Cyber Security.

Students also have the option of earning a number of professional certifications and certifications, depending on their particular career goals and interests.

The program’s course load prepares students to excel in the following areas:

Database
Networking
Cloud Computing
Programming
Cyber Forensics
Internet Web Design and Development
Information Security
Mobile Application
Development and Systems Analysis & Design

Learn more about Northwestern State University’s Online Bachelor’s of Information Systems

4 Bellevue University

Average Cost of Tuition after Aid: $12,055

Bellevue University has carved out a name for itself by catering to adult learners and working students who value affordable, efficient degree programs that base education programs around real-world industries. As such, its programs often come with various options for specializations and professional certifications. Bellevue’s online programs are helmed by faculty who are willing to go the extra mile to engage students and cultivate professional aspirations.

Bellevue University offers a fully online Bachelor of Science in Computer Information Systems. As the name of the program suggests, the curriculum is framed within the context of computer science and computer-based projects, however foundational subjects within the larger information systems field are explored as well. Students also choose an area of emphasis from the following options: applications development, business intelligence, cybersecurity, or networking.

Learn more about Bellevue University’s Online Bachelor’s of Information Systems

5 Fort Hays State University

Average Cost of Tuition after Aid: $12,340

Fort Hays State University (FHU) is quickly becoming one of the world’s premier hubs for online education at the undergraduate level. A distinguishing element of FHU’s approach is that faculty are specially trained to work with online students, and are trained to maximize student engagement and to facilitate a smooth education experience. This is a great selling point for students who might be concerned about the trade-offs involved in choosing online education over traditional on-campus education, as FHU works to ensure that there are little or no trade-offs.

FHU offers a Bachelor of Science in Computer Science that is completed entirely online through 120 credit hours of coursework. The program offers a number of entry points to the program for transfer students, and second-time undergraduates–making it an excellent option for adult learners. The program delivers a comprehensive curriculum based on computer science and technology as well as foundational studies in:

Survey of Computer Science (3 Credit Hours)
Computer Science I (3 Credit Hours)
Computer Science II (3 Credit Hours)
Object-Oriented Programming (3 Credit Hours)
Foundations of Computing (3 Credit Hours)
Data Structures (3 Credit Hours)
Assembly Language (3 Credit Hours)
Operating Systems (3 Credit Hours)
Programming Languages (3 Credit Hours)
Computer Graphics (3 Credit Hours)
Software Engineering (3 Credit Hours)
Seminar (3 Credit Hours)

Learn more about Fort Hays State University’s Online Bachelor’s of Information Systems

6 American Public University

Average Cost of Tuition after Aid: $9,718

As many universities look to break into the market for online education, American Public University (APU) stands as one of the leaders in the industry. With more than 200 fully online degree programs, APU stands as an industry leader whose success many schools are seeking to replicate. APU’s School of Science, Technology, Engineering & Math offers online students some of the most flexible course formats and schedules available, offered with cutting-edge digital learning technology.

Specifically the APU School of Science, Technology, Engineering & Math offers a fully online Online Bachelor of Science in Information Technology Management. The program offers a combination of a foundational curriculum combined with a robust selection of electives, meant to empower students to customize their route of study. The core curriculum is based on inquiries in these courses:

Principles of E Business 3 credits
Fundamentals of Programming 3 credits
Database Concepts 3 credits
Management Information Systems 3 credits
Networking Concepts 3 credits
IT Security: Risk Management 3 credits
Introduction to Computer Science 3 credits
Application Software Integration 3 credits
Law, Privacy, and Digital Data 3 credits
Information Technology Project Management 3 credits
Project Management Using MS Project 3 credits
Virtual Management 3 credits
Ethics in Information Technology 3 credits
Introduction to Web Analytics 3 credits
Web eCommerce Development 3 credits

Learn more about American Public University’s Online Bachelor’s of Information Systems

7 Mercy College

Average Cost of Tuition after Aid: $19,941

Mercy College offers more than 40 fully online degree programs, helmed by 231 full-time faculty who are meant to enable small class sizes where online students can each receive the care and attention needed to facilitate a smooth education process. Students come from all around the world, more than 51 countries to be specific.

Mercy College offers a fully online Computer Information Systems program. The program’s curriculum distinguishes itself through providing subjects in the context of business inquiries and investigations. This program is an ideal option for students who want to delve into the technical side of computer information systems framed in the context of business and industry.

Graduates of the program go on to find success in positions like the following:

Programmer
Web administrator
Helpdesk specialist
Systems analyst
Database administrator
Network engineer

Learn more about Mercy College’s Online Bachelor’s of Information Systems

8 Indiana University Purdue University

Average Cost of Tuition after Aid: $10,987

The Indiana University Purdue University (IUPU) Purdue School of Engineering & Technology offers a number of top-tier technology and engineering degrees. A distinguishing factor of the School’s mission is that it looks to position students to capitalize on the increasingly globalized technology and engineering markets. Particularly in the case of technology, working at the forefront of the industry often requires collaboration with teams around the world.

Students at the Purdue School of Engineering & Technology have one of two options for earning their undergraduate degree in Computer and Information Technology. Students can either enroll in a Bachelor of Science in Computer and Information Technology, or they can enroll in a five year program BS / MS in Computer and Information Technology. Students in the Bachelor of Science program can also choose from a number of specialization options:

Networking Systems
Information Security
Web Development
Data Management

Learn more about Indiana Purdue University’s Online Bachelor’s of Information Systems

9 LeTourneau University

Average Cost of Tuition after Aid: $22,105

The LeTourneau University College of Arts and Sciences offers a combination of on-campus and online degree programs. While the tuition costs of these programs are higher than others on this list, its programs are recognized for top-tier faculty, academic rigor, and the impressive career-outcomes of graduates.

Students at LeTourneau University have the choice of one of two program paths: either a fully online Bachelor of Science in Computer Information Systems, or a on-campus program–Bachelor of Science in Information Systems. The CIS program is managed by faculty who have worked at the absolute cutting-edge of their careers (fullbright scholars and Fortune 500 professionals). One distinguishing element of this program is that the curriculum is framed within the context of a Christian world-view, which represents a rare combination of a top-tier program with religious morality.

Learn more about LeTourneau University’s Online Bachelor’s of Information Systems

10 Southeast Missouri State University

Average Cost of Tuition after Aid: $13,113

Southeast Missouri State University represents a unique combination of a large University with a rich history dating back to 1873 that has positioned itself to expand into new and modern technology. Today, students can earn a variety of degrees entirely online where students work closely with faculty and advisors to develop a plan of study that matches a student’s individual interests and career goals. This is ideal for students who wish to earn a degree online while holding down a job or while managing family responsibilities.

Students can earn a Bachelor’s of Computer Science that can be completed entirely online. The department offering the degree boasts a 100% rate of employment or enrollment in graduate school among the graduates of the program. Students also have the choice of enrolling in a specialized track in one of the following concentrations: cybersecurity, artificial intelligence, and business administration.

Learn more about Southeast Missouri State University’s Online Bachelor’s of Information Systems

11 Florida Institute of Technology

Average Cost of Tuition after Aid: $8,651

Florida Institute of Technology has specialized in offering degree programs specifically designed for working students and adult learners. These programs are efficient, flexible, and perhaps most importantly, affordable. The university has been recognized as one of the best universities in the nation by US News and World Report. And moreover, 90% of full-time faculty hold a doctorate or the highest degree relevant to their field, meaning that students are learning from some of the best of the best.

Students can earn a fully online Bachelor of Science in Computer Information Systems that is in alignment with the Association for Computing Machinery curriculum guidelines. The program is designed to be flexible, so that students can progress through the program while maintaining employment. The program is based around studies in the following areas: network theory, programming, system administration and database management systems.

Learn more about Florida Institute of Technology’s Online Bachelor’s of Information Systems

12 Post University

Average Cost of Tuition after Aid: $9,857

Post University sports a robust history that stretches all the way back to the 1890s. Post University has demonstrated extensive work in reaching out to adult learners, and has recently expanded into online education. Today, a number of its most successful degree programs now have online variants. Faculty and advisors work closely with each online student to ensure that they are getting the most out of their online programs.

Post offers a fully online Bachelor of Science in Computer Information Systems that is designed to prepare students for a future in careers such as the following: systems analyst, systems programmer, database analyst, network technician, or technology manager. Students can further customize their experience of the program by choosing from one of the following four concentrations:

General Computer Information Systems
Cybersecurity
Networking
Software Development

Learn more about Post University’s Online Bachelor’s of Information Systems

13 Austin Peay State University

Average Cost of Tuition after Aid: $13,018

Austin Peay State University prides itself on offering student-centric programs that can meet each student on their terms. As such, many of its degree programs offer generous transfer policies and financial aid packages to accommodate first-time students, second-time students, transfer students, and military students. Particularly in the case of the computer information systems, faculty hold over 30 years of experience and hold published works in their respective area of specialization.

Specifically students can earn a Bachelor’s of Computer Science and Information Technology that can be completed entirely online. Students of the program work closely with faculty and advisors to ensure learning objectives are being met and exceeded. Despite being an online program, students will work together in collaborative projects as well as through peer-to-peer tutoring programs.

Learn more about Austin Peay State University’s Online Bachelor’s of Information Systems

14 Champlain College–Champlain College Online

Average Cost of Tuition after Aid: $35,549

Champlain College is a unique example of a College that really does invest in students’ success. Undergraduates students will benefit from the Fast Start Formula Career Course, which is designed from the ground up to position students for success after graduation. The Fast Start course trains students in vital skills that are often missed in degree programs: how to make the most out of interviews, how to tailor resumes, and overall–how to improve one’s standing in the job market.

Students can earn a bachelor’s degree in computer information systems that can be completed entirely online. Inline with the College’s larger mission, the program constantly updates its curriculum and course schedules to reflect the ever-changing demands of the job market. But specifically, graduates of the program will be prepared to compete for top-positions in the following areas:

Application Developer
Business Systems Analyst
IT Systems Manager
Network Administrator
Programmer Analyst
Software Developer
Systems Analyst
Systems Engineer

Learn more about Champlain College’s Online Bachelor’s of Information Systems

15 Saint Leo University

Average Cost of Tuition after Aid: $19,545

Saint Leo University demonstrates a unique combination of a forward-facing University that infuses its degree programs with the tenets of the Jesuit mission. Regardless of the individual program chosen, students learn how to develop themselves professionally, academically, and spiritually. Beyond this, each degree program frames its curriculum in terms of community service and societal impact. Saint Leo will be an ideal option for students who want to expand their focus beyond simple coursework to larger problems impacting communities large and small.

Saint Leo University offers a fully online Bachelor of Science in Computer Information Systems. Students can enroll in additional coursework in order to earn a degree emphasis in data analytics or cybersecurity. The program’s curriculum is designed to position students to find success in one of the following areas: web developer, computer network architect, cybersecurity analyst, or information assurance engineer.

Learn more about Saint Leo University’s Online Bachelor’s of Information Systems

16 College of St. Scholastica

Average Cost of Tuition after Aid: $23,232

College of St. Scholastica offers a number of degree programs that combine a Catholic Bendectine value-set with forward-facing, career-focused degree programs. Students who are interested in infusing their studies with a religious moral structure will likely find these programs to be a perfect fit. The College of St. Scholastica is consistently recognized for offering some of the nation’s best undergraduate degree programs.

The College offers both a Bachelor of Arts and Bachelor of Science in Computer Information Systems (CIS) which is completed through 128 credits over 2 to 3 years. Students can earn one of the following concentrations: business analysis, cyber security, data analytics, health informatics or software development. Moreover, the program distinguishes itself by offering a build-your-own concentration option for students who want to pursue a niche area of study.

Learn more about College of St. Scholastica University’s Online Bachelor’s of Information Systems

17 Central Washington University

Average Cost of Tuition after Aid: $15,175

Central Washington University (CWU) positions both itself and its students to excel in a world that becomes increasingly reliant on global business and industry. At CWU, students benefit from a robust network of more than 30 colleges and universities around the world. As such, CWU has earned numerous accolades for programs that benefit from an international network, as well as for programs that are built upon the tech industry.

CWU offers a unique degree program, specifically a Bachelor of Science in Information Technology and Administrative Management (BS-ITAM). Students can further tailor the degree program to match interests by pursuing one of three degree specializations: Administrative Management (ADMG), Cybersecurity, or Retail Management and Technology (RMT).

Learn more about Central Washington University’s Online Bachelor’s of Information Systems

18 Columbia College

Average Cost of Tuition after Aid: $24,148

Columbia College looks to provide a balanced approach in providing education programs for both traditional and nontraditional students. The focus of the college is providing students with innovative degree programs that reflect the realities of the job market, packaged in a liberal arts model of study. As such, programs are meant to facilitate students’ creativity, curiosity, and sense of ethics.

Columbia College offers a fully online Computer Information Systems Major that prepares students for going on to successful careers or a graduate program. The program introduces students to the core subjects and theories of computer technology and information systems.

Learn more about Columbia College’s Online Bachelor’s of Information Systems

19 University of Maryland Global Campus

Average Cost of Tuition after Aid: $13,672

The University of Maryland Global Campus (UMGC) is quickly becoming a premier hub for various online degree programs. UMGC offers programs that have been nationally recognized for affordability and academic value, however the most notable accolade is that of having a high ROI–that is the return on investment in one’s career as compared to what one invests in their degree.

UMGC offers a fully online Bachelor of Science Information Systems Management which is designed to position graduates to take on positions of leadership and management after graduation. Core courses within the curriculum are as follows:

Information Systems in Organizations
Foundations of Information Systems Management
Ethics in Information Technology
Cybersecurity for Leaders and Managers
Software and Hardware Infrastructure Concepts
Enterprise Architecture
Business Intelligence and Data Analytics
Telecommunications in Information Systems
Information Systems Project Management
Systems Analysis and Design
Trends and Practical Applications in Information Systems Management

Learn more about University of Maryland Global Campus’ Online Bachelor’s of Information Systems

20 Colorado State University Global

Average Cost of Tuition after Aid: $12,556

Colorado State University Global (CSUG) offers a robust selection of industry-aware degree programs that are designed for both adult learners and working students who need affordable programs that do not waste students’ time or money. Its online degree programs are designed with flexibility and comfort in mind–students can access coursework anytime, anywhere and will have many resources to help them make the most of their education.

CSUG offers a fully online Bachelor of Science in Management Information Systems and Business Analytics. This program is one of few that combines the curriculum of information systems management with business analytics. This program is ideal for students who want to lean into the business-side of the information systems industry.

Learn more about Colorado State University Global’s Online Bachelor’s of Information Systems

The post The 20 Best Online Bachelor’s Degrees In Information Systems appeared first on DegreeQuery.com.

15 Degrees That Are Perfect for Becoming Your Own Boss

Krystle Dodge — Tue, 18 Mar 2025 00:51:44 +0000

Do you dream of being your own boss? Whether you want to work solo and make your own hours and business decisions or build a company from the ground up, you’re probably considering self-employment.

Some careers are friendlier to that entrepreneurial spirit than others. If the opportunity to eventually run your own business is important to you, then you need to start your career with the right education. The following 15 degrees can prepare you for the kind of jobs where workers are most likely to be self-employed.

1. Associate’s or Bachelor’s Degree in Agriculture

A college degree in agriculture, agricultural business or agricultural sciences prepares students for success in the world of farm management. Most agriculture and related degree programs combine studies in business and science with a focus on framing. Coursework in farm management, agricultural economics, sustainable farming practices, plant breeding, dairy science and animal science is common, the United States Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) reported. Graduates of agriculture degrees will understand the process of running a farm or a group of farms as a business, from its financial operations to its marketing strategies. They develop familiarity with the laws and policies that govern farming. Some agriculture degree programs include opportunities to gain hands-on experience managing college-run farms and selling the produce. Some programs include a special focus on sustainability in farming. Agriculture degree programs are available at both the associate’s and bachelor’s level and are offered both on campus and online.

An agriculture degree is excellent preparation for a job as an agricultural manager. These professionals oversee the daily operations of farms, ranches and greenhouses. The vast majority of agricultural managers – 70 percent – are their own bosses. In fact, agriculture degree programs often offer required or elective courses in farming entrepreneurship. As bosses, agricultural managers make the decisions about what the farm produces, how it is run and where and for how much to sell the product. While a college degree isn’t an absolute requirement for this job – which often starts with professional experience as a farm worker – an education is becoming increasingly important, the BLS reported. Both efficient farming and effective business management has become more complicated, resulting in the need to know more about both subjects than what can be easily taught on-the-job. Some agricultural managers seek the Accredited Farm Manager certification from the American Society of Farm Managers and Rural Appraisers to demonstrate their knowledge.

Most Likely Job Title: Agricultural Manager

Salary: $64,170

Self-employment by the numbers: 70 percent

Alternative Degree Paths: Sustainable Farming

2. Bachelor’s Degree in Art

When you earn a college degree in art, you take foundational through advanced courses in studio art of various kinds. Coursework often includes study in creating art through drawing, two-dimensional and three-dimensional design, painting, photography, sculpting, printmaking and digital design. Creating an extensive portfolio of your work is integral to success in an art degree program as well as your professional life after college, the BLS reported. A strong portfolio contains a collection of the artist’s best work, but it must have pieces that are distinct enough to show the breadth and depth of the artist’s skills and styles. In addition to taking a multitude of art and design classes, students take core general education courses required for graduation. Undergraduate studio art degrees can be categorized as either Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) degrees or Bachelor of Fine Arts (B.F.A.) degrees. Some art students choose to go on to graduate school and pursue a Master of Fine Arts (MFA) degree.

What can you do with an art degree? You can work for yourself – and still make a decent living doing so. Two of the most entrepreneurial and profitable art jobs are art director and multimedia artist and animator. Half of all art directors and more than half of all animators are self-employed. Some work from home, but many work in the offices of motion picture production companies, advertising agencies, publishing companies and design services companies. Art directors, who earn higher salaries, develop the big-picture design and style of the visual elements used in film, magazines, newspapers and advertising campaigns. They oversee the artists who create those images and visual elements. Multimedia artists and animators, on the other hand, create effects, models and animations used in movies, television shows and video games. Animators work on a project from the storyboard phase to the finished sequences of animation and computer generated images.

Most Likely Job Title: Multimedia Artist, Animator or Art Director

Salary: $63,970 – $89,760

Self-employment by the numbers: 50 percent

Alternative Degree Paths: Computer Graphics, Graphic Design

3. Associate’s Degree in Mortuary Science

Degree programs in mortuary science cover the technical skills needed to prepare bodies for memorial services and burials, including restorative techniques and embalming. They also include coursework in the laws and ethics of the funeral services business as well as grief counseling strategies to help funeral service workers in their interactions with bereaved family members. Mortuary science degree programs are available on campus at junior colleges as well as online. Many mortuary science degree programs require students to complete a one-year internship or mandatory clinic embalming assignments in order to gain hands-on work experience as well as prepare for common state licensing requirements. More than 50 mortuary science degree programs are accredited by the American Board of Funeral Service Education, which is important because a degree from an accredited program is required for licensure in most states. Associate’s degrees in mortuary science are more common, but bachelor’s degree programs in the subject are also available, the BLS reported.

A mortuary science degree is a good choice for those who aspire to be their own bosses because half of the 60,400 funeral workers in the United States are self-employed, according to the BLS. They may run the business in its entirety, managing the day-to-day operations of the funeral home and handling business decisions like financial planning and staff recruitment and training. They also do the work of meeting with families to plan the memorial service and the burial or cremation, filing legal documents such as death certificates, embalming or otherwise preparing the body of the deceased and writing obituaries. Since funeral service workers are often on call in the evenings and on weekends and must be able to make preparations quickly following a death, being your own boss is beneficial in this industry because it allows for a flexible work schedule to accommodate the needs of the business and its clients.

Most Likely Job Title: Funeral Service Manager or Funeral Director

Salary: $53,390

Self-employment by the numbers: 50 percent

Alternative Degree Paths: Funeral Service

4. Exercise Physiology

If you pursue a bachelor’s degree in exercise physiology, you’ll take a variety of classes in science and health subjects, including anatomy, physiology, biology, chemistry, statistics, biomechanics, nutrition and kinesiology. Specific courses in subjects such as introductory exercise physiology, sports injury management, exercise pathophysiology, sports epidemiology and principles of strength and conditioning are common, as well. Programs that have earned accreditation from the Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs often include required clinical hours in a setting such as a cardiac and pulmonary rehabilitation facility. A number of schools offer master’s and even Ph.D. programs in exercise physiology and related studies. While most states don’t currently require exercise physiologists to be licensed, a number of states are considering implementing licensing requirements, the BLS reported. However, graduates from exercise physiology degree programs can seek the Exercise Physiologist Certified certification from the American Society of Exercise Physiologists or the Certified Clinical Exercise Physiologist or Registered Clinical Exercise Physiologist credentials from the American College of Sports Medicine.

Given that around half of all exercise physiologists working in the United States are self-employed, a degree in exercise physiology is a great choice for those with an entrepreneurial spirit, a knack for science and a passion for fitness. The reason exercise physiologists need such a strong background in science and health subjects is that their job responsibilities differ significantly from that of a fitness instructor or athletic trainer. Exercise physiologists are part of the healthcare industry. Doctors often refer patients who have chronic medical conditions to exercise physiologists for the purpose of developing a fitness routine that will help them improve their overall health and work toward recovery. To accomplish this work, an exercise physiologist must understand the patient’s medical history and use medical equipment to conduct tests, check vital signs and develop an exercise plan that works with the patient’s limitations and achieves the necessary health goals, like increasing cardiovascular function.

Most Likely Job Title: Exercise Physiologist

Salary: $47,010

Self-employment by the numbers: 50 percent

Alternative Degree Paths: Kinesiology, Exercise Science

5. Music

Degree programs in music can take a number of forms. There are programs in music theory, music composition, music performance and music conducting. Programs exist at the undergraduate and graduate levels. A degree program in music theory encompasses music analysis and research as well as hands-on training in music skills. Composition degree programs include music training and studies in the elements of music and composition techniques with the goal of preparing students to create original music of their own. Degrees in applied music or music performance focus on cultivating a professional level of performance skills in one or more musical instruments. Orchestral conducting degree programs, which are often master’s degree programs, tend to involve a lot of study of musical scores, private lessons in leadership and rehearsal techniques and hands-on experience conducting actual professional choirs and orchestras. Music programs at the college – and especially the graduate – level can be very selective, particularly since these degree programs often include some form of private music lessons.

A degree in music isn’t necessary for all music careers. You don’t need a piece of paper to write a popular hit song or start a band that does local gigs. However, you do need more than a good ear. Professionals who work in the music field need training – like the hands-on music training offered in music degree programs – to learn to play their instruments well. A solid understanding of music theory and the elements of good music composition, whether gained through formal or informal education, is also essential for success at writing original songs. While two out of every five musicians, singers, composers and music directors work for themselves, having a music degree is often essential to get respected and well-paying work in music. For example, musicians who perform classical pieces, sing opera or direct a choir typically need a bachelor’s degree in music, while orchestral conductors often need a master’s degree, the BLS reported.

Most Likely Job Title: Music Director, Musician

Salary: $49,820

Self-employment by the numbers: 40 percent

Alternative Degree Paths: Dance, Theatre

6. Doctoral Degree in Psychology

There are different kinds of psychology degrees that can prepare candidates for different roles. Most psychologists need a doctorate, which typically requires five to seven years of study, to officially use the title “psychologist,” the BLS reported. A Ph.D. in psychology, which is the traditional doctoral degree in the field, focuses heavily on research and studies in experimental procedures and statistics. Students must design the procedures for and conduct their own original psychological research and then present those findings in a written doctoral dissertation. On the other hand, students who want to focus on working with patients in clinical settings may prefer to pursue a Psy.D., a professional program that focuses more on experience through practical work and exams and a yearlong internship. Some professionals in the field of psychology instead pursue a master’s degree, which can often be completed in just two years and typically focuses on clinical psychology, counseling psychology or industrial/organizational psychology.

About one-third of the 173,900 psychologists in the United States are self-employed, the BLS reported. Psychologists who run their own practices manage the business aspects of the practice as well as the clinical or counseling work. They may handle administrative tasks like handling billing procedures, insurance company paperwork and appointment scheduling themselves or delegate those tasks to the employees they hire and train. Besides being the boss, self-employed psychologists are responsible for working with patients. Clinical psychologists do the work of diagnosing and treating the mental and emotional health conditions of their patients. Counseling psychologists use the counseling strategies they have cultivated in school and through work experience to help patients cope with and work through problems in their life and relationships. Since psychology professionals without a doctoral degree typically must work under the guidance of licensed psychologists, those with a Psy.D. and a focus on clinical or counseling psychology are most likely to become their own bosses.

Most Likely Job Title: Psychologist

Salary: $72,580

Self-employment by the numbers: 33 percent

Alternative Degree Paths: Counseling, Marriage and Family Therapy

7. Doctor of Chiropractic

A Doctor of Chiropractic, or D.C., degree is what trains chiropractors in the art of spinal adjustment and manipulation for health benefits. Earning a D.C. usually takes students four years of full-time study. A D.C. is both a professional and postgraduate degree program, the BLS reported. As a professional degree, it prepares students for practical application of chiropractic techniques in a healthcare setting. You might be surprised to learn that, even though it’s a postgraduate degree program, you don’t necessarily have to have a bachelor’s degree to earn your Doctor of Chiropractic degree. Applicants to D.C. programs need just 90 semester hours, or three years of full-time study, at the undergraduate level to apply. However, many chiropractors do complete their bachelor’s degrees before they begin their chiropractic studies. While there’s no specific major students should pursue to prepare for a D.C. program, studying biology, physics, chemistry and the liberal arts can be helpful. The relatively few Doctor of Chiropractic degree programs that have earned accreditation from the Council on Chiropractic Education include coursework in biology, anatomy and physiology as well as clinical training in diagnosing and assessing spinal problems and using spinal adjustment techniques.

One out of every three chiropractors is self-employed, the BLS reported. There are definitely benefits to running your own private chiropractic practice. Many chiropractors offer flexible appointment schedules, including evening and weekend appointments, for the convenience of their patients. A self-employed chiropractor can set his or her own hours and determine what days and times the practice should be open. Chiropractors who are their own bosses can also decide if they want to offer additional services, like rehabilitative exercise and massage therapy, and if they want to sell health and wellness products, like sports braces, in their practice. They must also be able to hire, train and oversee the staff working in their office. In order to prepare students for the challenges of running a practice as well as providing chiropractic services, some Doctor of Chiropractic degree programs incorporate coursework in business, particularly in management, finance and billing practices, in addition to traditional chiropractic subjects of study.

Most Likely Job Title: Chiropractor

Salary: $64,440

Self-employment by the numbers: 33 percent

8. Hospitality

Hospitality management is a great field to go into if you want to work in tourism and develop your leadership skills. A hospitality degree program will often combine coursework from a number of disciplines, ranging from business management to laws and ethics and even food safety and nutrition. However, you can’t learn everything there is to know about tourism management from a book or a lecture in the classroom. Because many of the skills needed for success in the tourism industry – and in business management – are practical skills, most hospitality degree programs include hands-on training. Some programs require students to complete internships at hotels, restaurants and tourism destinations. Others run their own on-campus or off-campus lodging and dining establishments, where students can gain hands-on experience in every role of hospitality management. Depending on the school you choose to attend, your hospitality degree program could be part of a business college, human services department, agriculture and life sciences school or even its own distinct department or division.

A hospitality degree can prepare you for a variety of different jobs in the tourism industry, but two of the most common hospitality occupations are also among the most likely to be their own boss. Lodging managers are the professionals who oversee the operations of hotels and resorts. Food service managers run the business sides of restaurants, cafes, and other eating establishments. In both of these vocations, one in three professionals is self-employed, the BLS reported. While a college degree isn’t necessary to work in food service or in a hotel, the business and management skills you learn in a hospitality degree program are invaluable. When you run your own hotel or restaurant, in particular, it’s essential that you know how to make sound financial decisions, keep accurate financial records and manage staff, customer expectations and business logistics. You must also understand the importance of all of the roles involved in the day-to-day operations of a restaurant and hotel – a kind of familiarity you won’t develop just by working as a host, wait staff or concierge.

Most Likely Job Title: Lodging Manager or Food Service Manager

Salary: $48,690 – $49,720

Self-employment by the numbers: 33 percent

Alternative Degree Paths: Hotel Management or Food Service Management

9. Film

In a good film and media arts degree program, your coursework will prepare you for a career in the entertainment industry. Coursework often includes studies in subjects such as introduction to film studies, film history, screenwriting, film theory, television, new media, cinematography and video editing software. Some degree programs or concentrations within those programs focus more heavily on cultural topics, like how race and gender are depicted in film, while others emphasize stylistic techniques in film or storytelling through screenwriting. It’s not unusual for a film degree program to incorporate coursework that covers the theoretical foundations and practical applications involved in every part of the filmmaking process, from writing the script to doing makeup and wardrobe and from decorating the set to directing the action on stage or before the camera. Many schools provide students with the opportunity to develop their skills through real experience – as well as their professional portfolios – while working on campus television stations or short film projects and challenges.

A film degree is an excellent starting place if you want to become a director or work as a film and video editor or camera operator. Film editors and camera operators are more likely than directors and producers to become their own bosses. About 30 percent of film and video editors are self-employed, the BLS reported, compared to just 20 percent of directors. Directors and camera operators and video editors work in the film and entertainment industry, but each serves a different role. Directors determine the creative choices that go into producing a motion picture or television show, overseeing the actors and personalities who appear in front of the camera as well as the behind-the-scenes work that goes into bringing the script to life. As the job title implies, camera operators and video editors do the work of actually recording the stories being told in the film and skillfully editing shots and sequences to tell that story in a meaningful way.

Most Likely Job Title: Film and Video Editors and Camera Operator, Director

Salary: $55,740 — $68,440

Self-employment by the numbers: 20 to 30 percent

Alternative Degree Paths: Broadcasting, Acting, Journalism, Communications

10. Dental School Degree

Completing dental school results in the award of one of three possible degrees: the Doctor of Dental Surgery (D.D.S.), the Doctor of Medical Dentistry (D.M.D.) or the Doctor of Dental Medicine (D.D.M.). Whether you choose a D.D.S., D.M.D. or D.D.M. degree program, dental school requires a solid background in the sciences, including undergraduate coursework in chemistry and biology. A competitive score on the Dental Admission Test (DAT) is often necessary to gain acceptance into a program accredited by the American Dental Association’s Commission on Dental Accreditation. Once admitted, students learn about anatomy, radiology, use of local anesthesia for dental procedures and periodontics, the study of oral health and diseases, the BLS reported. Learning doesn’t just take place in the classroom. Dental school students attain clinical experience by diagnosing and treating real patients under the guidance of experienced dentists. After earning their dental school degrees, aspiring dentists must attain a license to practice in their state. Those who wish to specialize must also spend two to four years completing a residency in their intended dental specialty.

One in four dentists – more than 37,800 total – run their own private dental practice, the BLS reported. Some self-employed dentists work alone in their solo practices. Others hire reception staff and dental hygienists to assist with administrative duties and patient care. Still others manage group practices, where they work with partner and associate dentists. A dentist who is self-employed makes the big-picture business decisions. He or she may handle overseeing the day-to-day operations of the practice personally, or may delegate administrative, billing, bookkeeping and staff recruitment and training tasks to an office manager. While the dentist’s primary responsibility is caring for patients’ oral health by fixing and removing damaged teeth and using imaging equipment to check for problems, you can’t ignore the administrative duties when you are the one in charge of keeping the business running smoothly. Opportunities for dentists – and for opening your own dental practice – are increasing rapidly. The BLS expects career opportunities for dentists to increase by 18 percent over a decade, compared just 7 percent job growth expected across all occupations.

Most Likely Job Title: Dentist

Salary: $158,310

Self-employment by the numbers: 25 percent

Alternative Degree Paths: M.D. in Oral Surgery

11. Interior Design

A degree program in interior design will teach you the fundamentals of developing indoor spaces that are both aesthetically appealing and functional. Most college degree programs in interior design include coursework in drawing and computer-aided design as well as the theories and applications of interior design principles. For example, interior design students may take courses in lighting and textiles to learn about the materials and light fixtures they can choose from when designing a space as well as classes in residential and commercial design practices. They learn to create two-dimensional designs on paper and three-dimensional digital models of their design ideas. As with other fields of study, whether a degree program has earned accreditation from a reputable agency can speak to the quality of the program. The National Association of Schools of Art and Design, the Council for Interior Design Accreditation and the National Kitchen & Bath Association are all agencies that accredit interior design degree programs, the BLS reported.

One-quarter of all interior designers in the United States are self-employed, according to the BLS. Perhaps that’s because several aspects of the career lend themselves to the flexibility of being your own boss. For one thing, interior designers often work non-standard hours, like evenings and weekends, for the convenience of clients who may have a more rigid work schedule. They also need to travel to the space they are designing to understand the location and its advantages and limitations. Interior designers’ success has a great deal to do with the quality of their people skills and design work, so skilled interior designers are often able to make a living working for themselves. As in other art and design careers, interior designers need to show their skills to get paying work – and that means compiling a portfolio of their most impressive designs. Of course, self-employed interior designers still need to handle the management and administrative tasks of keeping their business running.

Most Likely Job Title: Interior Designer

Salary: $48,840

Self-employment by the numbers: 25 percent

Alternative Degree Paths: Industrial Design

12. Master of Business Administration (MBA)

A Master of Business Administration degree program typically includes graduate-level courses in a variety of business subjects, including accounting, business law, economics, finance, international business, management and marketing. Often, an MBA degree program will provide students with the chance to specialize in an academic track or concentration that’s of interest of to them in addition to taking core general business courses. MBA programs may combine studies of business theory with practical problem-solving skills developed both in business scenarios explored in the classroom and through hands-on internship experiences. While two years is the typical length of time to complete a full-time MBA degree program, some schools offer accelerated one-year programs, while others offer part-time study options that allow working students to learn at their own pace without leaving the workforce. In addition to traditional MBA programs where classes take place on campus, online MBA programs have become popular among busy students juggling family and work responsibilities.

Of course, studying business management is an excellent idea if you’re going to run a business of your own. Such a degree program can teach you important skills, like how to manage your company’s finances, use sound accounting processes to keep accurate financial records, publicize your business to draw in new clients and handle the complicated logistics of coordinating work schedules and supply delivery. However, an MBA degree is particularly valuable for students who aspire to be self-employed because it can also prepare you for profitable business careers that lend themselves to entrepreneurship, like management consultant and management analyst. These professionals use their extensive knowledge of effective business practices to help companies improve efficiency, decreasing wasted time and money and increasing profits. One in five management consultants works for themselves, the BLS reported. They set their own hours and spend much of their worktime with clients at the sites of the businesses they are trying to improve.

Most Likely Job Title: Management Consultant, Management Analyst

Salary: $81,320

Self-employment by the numbers: 20 percent

Alternative Degree Paths: Bachelor’s Degree in Business

13. Bachelor of Architecture

In the United States, top Bachelor of Architecture degree programs are accredited by the National Architectural Accrediting Board. In dozens of states, having earned your degree from an accredited program is a requirement for obtaining an architecture license after graduation. Undergraduate architecture programs blend studies from a variety of subjects. When earning a Bachelor of Architecture, you can expect to study everything from the liberal arts to the physical sciences, from math to design. Of course, aspiring architects also study more specialized subjects, like construction methods, building structures, foundational theories of architecture, building design, architectural history and the use of computer-aided design software. While what you learn in the classroom is important, much of an architecture student’s development occurs in the design studio, as students develop their own building designs through sketches and three-dimensional models. Unlike most bachelor’s degree programs, a Bachelor of Architecture degree is designed to take five years of full-time study.

Of the 112,600 architects who are working across the United States, 20 percent happen to be their own bosses, the BLS reported. A benefit to entrepreneurship is that self-employed architects get to set their own schedules, which is a substantial advantage in an occupation that often includes tight deadlines and long hours. They may also choose to work from a home office, cutting out the daily commute and making it easier to work odd hours when necessary. Architects already need to be able to balance multiple job duties, such as interacting with clients, creating functional and visually appealing designs, collaborating with other professionals involved in the project and traveling to construction sites to assess the work being done. Those who are also running their own company must expand these existing multitasking and time-management skills to make sure that both the big-picture business decisions and the company’s daily operations are going smoothly.

Most Likely Job Title: Architect

Salary: $76,100

Self-employment by the numbers: 20 percent

Alternative Degree Paths: Landscape Architecture, Engineering

14. Graphic Design

In an undergraduate degree program in graphic design, students take a variety of basic art and design courses. Common coursework ranges from design principles to printing techniques and studio art to computerized design, the BLS reported. Due to the importance and prevalence of computer graphics and design layout software systems, many graphic design programs involve courses that make use of these technologies. Coursework in color theory, typography, digital layouts and web design are also popular. Graphic design students often complete courses to develop their business knowledge, marketing skills and writing abilities, as well. For many graphic design students, cultivating a portfolio of professional-quality designs is nearly as important as the principles and practices they learn in the classroom. The portfolio is what will convey the student’s skills and artistic style to potential employers and clients after graduation. Graphic design degrees are offered at associate’s and bachelor’s degree levels, both on campus and in distance learning formats.

One in five graphic designers is self-employed, the BLS reported. Graphic design and entrepreneurship often go well together. Graphic designers develop the visual elements of publications, advertisements and product packaging. They create the art that conveys meanings and the layouts that organize the visual elements on the page. While some graphic designers are part of a team at a publishing company, advertising firm or design agency, it’s not unusual for a graphic designer to work alone. Graphic designers do, however, meet with clients directly to discuss new projects and the progress of ongoing projects. Being self-employed is an asset in these instances, because the graphic designer is free to alter his or her work schedule as necessary to fit in meetings with clients. Graphic designers who run their own firm often devote at least some time to finding new business by searching for and applying for new jobs, presenting their skills and ideas to potential clients and bidding on contracts for paid work.

Most Likely Job Title: Graphic Designer

Salary: $46,900

Self-employment by the numbers: 20 percent

Alternative Degree Paths: Art

15. Doctor of Veterinary Medicine

Earning a Doctor of Veterinary Medicine (D.V.M. or V.M.D.) degree isn’t an easy task. To even be admitted to one of these competitive doctoral degree programs, you will most likely need an undergraduate education with a background in science courses such as anatomy, animal science, biology, chemistry, microbiology, physiology and zoology. In a degree program that has earned accreditation from the American Veterinary Medical Association Council on Education, you will spend four years on your veterinary studies. For the first three years, your learning will take place in the classroom, in the lab and in clinical settings. During the fourth and final year of veterinary school, you will gain hands-on experience as you perform clinical rotations at a veterinary hospital, the BLS reported. Students in a Doctor of Veterinary Medicine degree program learn about that anatomy and physiology of various kinds of animals. They receive the training needed to prevent diseases and diagnose and treat medical conditions in pets, livestock and other types of animals.

About one in six veterinarians chooses to become their own boss, according to the BLS. Like doctors who work with human patients, self-employed veterinarians often run private solo practices. Some open group practices where they work with partner veterinarians or hire associate dentists. Self-employed veterinarians may set their own hours, often including occasional weeknight or evening appointments for the convenience of the human owners of their animal patients. Some veterinarians, particularly those who work with farm animals rather than exclusively with companion animals, may have to travel to owners’ homes or workplaces to care for animals that can’t be easily transported, like horses, or with groups of animals, like a brood of chickens. Though rewarding, the work of a veterinarian can be demanding and even hazardous. Sick and injured animals might not react tolerantly to being examined, while interacting with distressed pet owners can be emotionally draining. However, candidates who have an entrepreneurial spirit as well as a love for animals can make the most of a career as a self-employed veterinarian.

Most Likely Job Title: Veterinarian

Salary: $88,490

Self-employment by the numbers: 17 percent

Editor’s Note: Of course, no degree or occupation guarantees success in entrepreneurship. However, the degrees and careers listed above are associated with high self-employment rates. Being your own boss can be both challenging and rewarding. For more information on any of the occupations listed in this article, visit the United States Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), which was the source for salary, career outlook, education and self-employment data. You can also learn more about entrepreneurship from the BLS Career Outlook article Self-Employment: What to know to be your own boss.

Related Resources:

Do I Need a Degree to Be an Interior Decorator?

Where Are the Best Paying Jobs With a Degree in Interior Design?

What Is the Difference Between a Degree in Interior Design and Interior Architecture?

What Degree Do I Need to Become a Lighting Designer?

What Are My Degree Choices to Be a Film/TV Producer?

How Long Does It Take to Become a Psychologist?

Best Major for Dentist: What Major Do You Need to Be a Dentist?

For Further Reading:

How Much Can I Make With a Degree in Digital Marketing?

What Are the 5 Best Careers in Environmental Science?

Which Degree Is Best for a Software Engineer?

How Many Jobs Are Available in Finance?

What Is an Interior Designing Degree?

Architect vs Engineer: What Is the Benefit of an Engineering Degree Over an Architecture Degree?

The post 15 Degrees That Are Perfect for Becoming Your Own Boss appeared first on DegreeQuery.com.

The 20 Best Masters in Cyber Security Online

jmc — Tue, 18 Mar 2025 00:24:44 +0000

Cyber security is quickly becoming one of the most crucial, understaffed sectors of our economy. Any organization that relies on digital information (which is virtually all of them) either has, wants, or will need professionals that protect them from cyber attacks and other compromising calamities. If you want to join the ranks of qualified cybersecurity professionals, a graduate degree from one of the best online schools for cyber security can get you started on a new career path.

Why Pursue an Online Masters in Cyber Security?

Cyber attacks have been rapidly rising in recent years. In 2022, the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s Internet Crime Complaint Center (IC3) received 800,944 complaints of cybercrime. The total losses arising out of these crimes amounted to more than $10.3 billion, according to the FBI’s 2022 Internet Crime Report. The upshot of all this cybercrime is the high demand for skilled professionals to fill cybersecurity jobs.

Some of the best cybersecurity jobs are reserved for candidates with a master’s degree in cybersecurity. It’s possible to work in the cybersecurity field with only a bachelor’s degree. However, the coursework in a cybersecurity master’s degree program can help students develop an advanced knowledge of cybersecurity risk management and the technical skills to protect organizations from cyber threats.

Right now, there is a dearth of qualified cybersecurity professionals in America and worldwide. It’s not easy to become a cyber security worker, much less prepare for advanced careers in cybersecurity management. That’s where the online programs with the best masters in cyber security degrees come in.

The Benefits of a Master of Science Degree in Cybersecurity

Cybersecurity professionals need strong technical skills, a solid foundation in the workings of computer systems and some specialized knowledge of the cybersecurity industry. Many students find that the best way for them to acquire this interdisciplinary but highly technical skill set is by earning a master’s degree in cybersecurity.

Cybersecurity careers exist even for candidates with only a bachelor’s degree. Students interested in cybersecurity careers often pursue a bachelor’s degree in a field like computer science or computer engineering. Although these bachelor’s degree programs may offer a cyber security concentration, many schools still don’t offer undergraduate degrees dedicated to cybersecurity. A degree program in cybersecurity is more likely to be a master’s degree than a bachelor’s degree. It’s also more likely to cover advanced coursework in cybersecurity risk management.

Cybersecurity degrees differ from traditional liberal arts programs –and even computer science programs – in key ways. They bring together studies across numerous disciplines, like law and justice, along with technical computer skills. As such, cybersecurity master’s programs are challenging courses of study. Upon successful completion of an online master’s degree program in cybersecurity, though, you can secure yourself a stable, high-paying career. Earning a master’s in cybersecurity degree also allows you to do your part to solve this growing problem.

What Makes an Online Master’s in Cybersecurity Worth It?

It’s no coincidence that some of the best cybersecurity master’s programs are available online. Because cyberthreats concern the digital world, online learning lends itself well to both the study and practice of cyber security management. Further, aspiring cybersecurity professionals should have strong computer skills and be comfortable with online learning.

There are several benefits of pursuing a cyber security online masters degree. The flexibility of online programs makes them ideal for working professionals and students juggling family obligations. Some online programs allow students to accelerate their education or to take courses on a part-time basis. In either case, the opportunity to work toward your master’s degree at your own pace is valuable.

Getting Into a Cybersecurity Master of Science Program

Who can pursue master’s degree in cybersecurity programs? To have the best chances of successfully completing a Master of Science in cybersecurity degree, you’ll likely need an undergraduate degree in computer science or a related field, some applicable work experience, or a combination of both.

What if your background doesn’t include a bachelor’s degree in computer science or computer engineering? Cybersecurity programs often include an interdisciplinary curriculum. Having a background in law and justice, business or another relevant subject may still be an asset. If you haven’t taken enough computer science courses to meet admission requirements or to develop the foundational tech skills needed for entrance to the program, you may need to complete some computer-related prerequisite courses.

As they explore individual cybersecurity master’s programs, prospective students should pay attention to other admissions requirements. Some cybersecurity master’s degree programs require students to submit GRE scores, a personal statement and letters of recommendation.

What Is the Best University for Cyber Security?

With the growing demand for cybersecurity professionals, the number of institutions offering cybersecurity master’s programs is on the rise. How do prospective students narrow down the best schools for cyber security?

There are a lot of factors to consider in choosing the best cybersecurity program. Fortunately, you don’t have to figure it all out on your own. We’ve ranked 20 of the best online cyber security graduate degrees to help you whittle down your options when applying. We’ve ranked the schools on this list based on factors like the following:

Special features
Affordability
Flexibility
National and regional rankings

To learn more about the 20 best cyber security masters programs, read on.

1) University of Denver

The University of Denver in Colorado is a private research university that dates back to 1864. The institution is known for its Sturm College of Law, its high level of research activity and, of course, its cyber security education. The University has landed impressive rankings on numerous U.S. News & World Report lists over the years, including the best value schools and the top national universities.

The Security Management Master’s Degree at the University of Denver

Denver offers an online Master of Science degree in Security Management. Students in this master’s program can choose from three concentrations:

Information security
Organizational Security
Emergency planning and response

Students in all concentrations take five core courses in pursuit of their Master of Science in Security Management degree:

Security Concepts Overview
Business Function of Security
Business Assets Protection
Research Practices and Applications
Security Management Capstone Project

Through these courses, University of Denver graduate students develop skills for strategic planning and management, the analysis of security issues and the evaluation of the financial impact of cybersecurity programs.

Students in the Information Security concentration study information security threats, integrated security systems and legal human factors in security. They also pursue coursework in legal and ethical issues that arise in security management.

In the Organizational Security concentration, students take classes in risk management, security administration, human factors in security and emergency planning.

The coursework required for the Emergency Planning and Response concentration includes emergency incident recovery, emergency planning, critical incident management and mitigation for emergency managers.

The curriculum of the cybersecurity Master of Science degree at the University of Denver aligns with recommendations from ASIS International, a longstanding professional organization for security management professionals. The online learning experience at the University of Denver includes audio and video tools and interactive discussion boards that allow for real-time collaboration with classmates. In these programs, students will study threats to security and how to solve them. You’ll use case studies, collaborative discussion and problem-solving, and significant research to do so.

The cybersecurity master’s program at the University of Denver can be completed in as little as 18 months. Another advantage of this program is that you don’t need to submit GRE or GMAT scores for admission. The University of Denver is also among the most affordable options on our list for graduate students.

Tuition: $38,688, Fall 2023

2) Boston University

Boston University is a private university based in Boston, Massachusetts. The school was established in 1839. With its undergraduate enrollment of 18,229 students as of the Fall 2021 semester, Boston University is among the largest independent nonprofit universities nationwide. The school’s programs in engineering, law, medicine, management and education have particularly strong reputations. U.S. News & World Report has ranked Boston University highly on its lists of national universities, best value schools and most innovative schools.

The Online Master of Science in Computer Information Systems at BU

Boston University’s master’s in cybersecurity program is a Master of Science in Computer Information Systems degree. Within this broader master’s degree program in computer systems, students may complete a concentration in security.

The program is certified by the Committee on National Security Systems. BU’s program prepares students for job roles like computer and information research scientists, information security analysts and computer and information systems managers.

Students develop their knowledge of computer systems through ten graduate courses – five core courses and five concentration courses.

Core courses for the Master of Science in Computer Information Systems degree at BU include:

Business Data Communication and Networks
Database Design and Implementation for Business
Information Systems Analysis and Design
IT Strategy and Management
Information Structures using either Java or Python programming language

For the Security concentration, graduate computer systems students at Boston University must complete the following three courses (as of 2023):

Introduction to Probability and Statistics
Enterprise Cybersecurity Management
Cybersecurity

For their remaining coursework, students can choose from options that include network security, database security, digital forensics and mobile forensics.

Students in Boston University’s program gain a comprehensive understanding of current threats to security and the solutions necessary to find, evolve, and deploy secure systems. This degree was designed to be completed in 18-24 months.

Tuition: $33,460–$35,140, 2023-2024 (part-time)

3) Dakota State University

Dakota State is a public university in Madison, South Dakota. It was founded in 1881 and is primarily focused on technology.

U.S. News & World Report has ranked the institution high on its list of the top public schools in America, as well as awarding it a spot on its ranking of the best regional universities in the Midwest. The most popular degree programs at Dakota State University include education, business, management and computer and information sciences, among others.

Dakota State University holds Centers of Academic Excellence Designations from the National Security Agency and the Department of Homeland Security. The institution’s Cyber Defense Consultative Regional Resource Center is one of just four university-based centers nationwide.

The Master of Science in Cyber Defense at Dakota State

The 100% online Master of Science in Cyber Defense degree equips students with skills for protecting data through cryptography and offensive and defensive security practices. Students also learn risk management methods for preventing network attacks, including vulnerability assessment and penetration testing, and for responding to internal and external cybersecurity incidents in the real world.

The curriculum of Dakota State University’s Master of Science in Cyber Defense program includes core coursework in data privacy, offensive security, managing security risks and network security monitoring and intrusion detection. From there, students can choose to pursue either a technical track or a track in security management and compliance. Between required concentration courses and elective options, students actually devote more of their coursework to their chosen track than to the core requirements for the major.

Coursework in the Technical Track encompasses studies in the following:

Cryptography
Computer forensics
Wireless security
Malware analysis

Students pursuing the Security Management and Compliance Track take the following classes:

Data privacy management
Compliance and audit
Incident response
Ethics and information technology

Graduating from this program requires successful completion of a comprehensive exam.

Applicants to this program should have a bachelor’s degree in computer engineering, software engineering or computer science from an accredited institution. Most applicants are also required to submit GRE scores. Students must complete the program within five years of enrolling.

Tuition: $5,225.40 for 9 credit hours (one semester), 2023-2024

4) National University

This private, veteran-founded nonprofit university located in La Jolla, California, was founded in 1971. National University is known for its colleges and schools of Arts, Letters and Sciences; Education; Business and Economics; Technology & Engineering; and Health Professions. U.S. News & World Report has ranked National University among its lists of the top regional universities in the West and the top performers on social mobility.

National University isn’t just one of the best cybersecurity master’s program options out there. It’s also an ideal choice for students hoping to accelerated their education. The program features four-week courses that allow students to focus on just one or two classes per month and, in turn, accelerated their progress through the degree program.

National University is another school with National Security Agency (NSA) designation claim to fame. The NSA has designated the institution a National Center of Academic Excellence in Cyber Defense, a recognition the school will hold through 2028.

The Master of Science in Cybersecurity at National University

National University’s Master of Science in Cybersecurity program encompasses nine required core courses, including:

Cybersecurity technology
Cybersecurity toolkit utilization
Threat modeling and intelligence
Wireless and mobile security
Network security monitoring and incident response
Cloud security
A series of Cyber security project courses (I-III)

In this program, graduate students are required to specialize in either Enterprise Cybersecurity Management or Ethical Hacking and Penetration Testing.

In the Enterprise Security Management specialization, coursework includes cybersecurity policy, cybersecurity governance, cybersecurity audit and assessment and cybersecurity program management.

The Ethical Hacking and Penetration Testing program includes Classes in red teaming, ethical hacking, advanced penetration testing and cybersecurity audit and assessment.

Students will analyze and evaluate cybercrime risk and security strategies. They learn how to protect systems, mitigate attacks and do critical research. To facilitate real-world success, the program features comprehensive projects where students can practice their skills in scenarios that simulate real problems they’d face in the workforce. You’ll also come to understand legal and ethical issues, ramifications, and requirements of cybersecurity professionals at the local, state, and federal levels.

Tuition: $442 per quarter unit, 2022

5) DePaul University

DePaul is a private university founded in 1898. It’s based in Chicago, Illinois. The school is known for its Colleges of Liberal Arts and Social Sciences, Business, and Education. Through a total of 10 colleges and schools, DePaul University offers more than 130 undergraduate majors and 170 graduate programs of study.

The school boasts a total enrollment of over 20,000 students. DePaul University bills itself as “the largest private university whose faculty members’ priority is teaching.”

U.S. News & World Report has ranked DePaul University among its lists of the best value schools, national universities, schools that emphasize service learning and best colleges for veterans.

The National Security Agency has designated this institution as a Center of Academic Excellence in Cyber Defense (CAE-CD). Deapul University is also home to the CyberCenter, which for two decades has helped advance science, practice and teaching in computer security.

The Master of Science in Cybersecurity at DePaul University

DePaul offers its Master of Science in Cybersecurity both on campus and online. Through this program, students can prepare for roles in fields like the following:

Network security administration
Incident response
Risk assessment
Computer forensics
Web development

The curriculum takes students beyond theoretical knowledge, with a focus on hands-on learning in the CDM Security Lab.

Cybersecurity graduate students at DePaul University choose from three concentrations.

Students in the Computer Security Concentration begin their coursework with introductory studies in the following:

Programming
Data structures
Systems
Discrete structures

Foundation courses cover topics like:

Distributed systems
Digital forensic techniques
Network security
Information security management
Object-oriented software development

Students complete advanced courses in areas like:

Artificial intelligence
Governance policies in information assurance
Cryptology
IT risk management
Theory and practice of safe systems programming

In the Governance, Risk Management and Compliance Concentration, students complete introductory courses in the following:

Network fundamentals
Computer and network systems
Host security
LAN technologies

Their foundation coursework includes studies in:

Auditing
Information security management
Human-centered cybersecurity
Computer networks and data systems

Advanced coursework commonly encompasses studies in:

Network security
Enterprise security infrastructure controls
Cybersecurity and data policy law

Introductory coursework in the Networking and Infrastructure Concentration includes:

Network fundamentals
Computer and network systems
Host security
LAN technologies

In their foundation coursework, students learn about the following:

Computer networks and data systems
Network security
Information security management
Digital forensic techniques

Advanced courses in this concentration include:

Upper-level network security studies
Security testing and assessment
Enterprise security infrastructure controls and regulatory compliance

A master’s thesis is optional in this program, but a capstone experience of some kind is required. DePaul University backs up the worth of its cybersecurity program with data. As of 2023, the school reported a 94% career outcome rate and a median salary of $87,500 for graduates six months after graduation.

Tuition: $918 per credit hour, 2023-2024

6) Maryville University

Maryville is a private university in St. Louis, Missouri. It was founded in 1872 by the Religious of the Sacred Heart to serve underprivileged youth and women. Today, Maryville offers more than 90 degrees at the undergraduate, master’s and doctoral levels – including more than 50 online degrees. The school has a total enrollment of 10,000 students.

U.S. News & World Report has ranked Maryville University on its lists of top national universities and top performers in social mobility.

The Online Master’s in Cybersecurity at Maryville University

The Online Master of Science in Cybersecurity features the following courses:

Controls for effective cyber defense
Ethical hacking
Cybersecurity incident response and examination
Domains of cybersecurity
Legal aspects of privacy and compliance
Information technology management

Students can customize their education by focusing on technical or business/leadership tracks.

Through this program, students can pursue professional industry certifications such as

C Council-Certified Security Analyst (ECSA)
Certified Cloud Security Professional (CCSP)
Certified Information Systems Auditor (CISA)
Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP)
EC Council-Certified Encryption Specialist (ECES)
Splunk Core Certified Power User

Students in this program can graduate in as little as 12 months. All of their coursework can be completed online, but that doesn’t mean you’ll miss out on hands-on learning experiences. Maryville’s Virtual Lab is a great way to hone your professional skills and experience. The curriculum also draws upon current events in cybersecurity. Utilizing case studies and project-based learning gives students the chance to apply their knowledge to the real world.

Tuition: $851 per credit, 2023-2024

7) Penn State World Campus

Penn State is a public research university spread out on campuses throughout Pennsylvania. It was established in 1855. Penn State has been nicknamed a “Public Ivy” institution because its excellence in public education is perceived as on par with private Ivy League schools.

U.S. News & World Report has ranked Penn State highly on its list of the best global universities, as well as nationally and in numerous subject areas. Its online wing, the Penn State World Campus, is highly respected among schools.

Penn State’s Master’s in Cybersecurity Program

The online cybersecurity master’s degree program at the Pennsylvania State University is a Master of Professional Studies (MPS) degree in Cybersecurity Analytics and Operations. The 33-credit curriculum includes studies in the following areas:

Foundations of Software Security
Network Management and Security
Cybersecurity analytics
Cybersecurity project management
Foundations of information security and assurance
Technologies for Web and e-commerce application security

Through electives ranging from crisis, disaster and risk management to the legal and regulatory environment of information sciences, students can customize their education. To earn their master’s degree, students must either participate in a capstone experience or complete a research paper or project.

Part-time students can complete this degree in as little as two years. Students will enjoy the program’s flexibility and interactive and collaborative courses. It’s also possible to concurrently complete a graduate certificate in Information Systems Cybersecurity.

Tuition: $1,017 per credit, 2023-2024

8) Western Governors University

WGU is a private university in Salt Lake City, Utah, founded in 1997. The nonprofit online school was founded by a group of 19 U.S. state governors to meet the needs of working adults and other nontraditional students.

One feature that sets Western Governors University apart is its competency-based learning model. Through this model, students can make progress toward a degree through online assessments when they’re already familiar with the course material. The program is ideal for students who already have a strong foundation in the field but need a formal academic credential as well as access to advanced coursework – or who otherwise want to accelerate their studies.

The Master of Science in Cybersecurity and Information Assurance at Western Governors University

WGU’s online graduate cybersecurity degree is its Master of Science in Cybersecurity and Information Assurance. The curriculum consists of 10 courses that cover the following subjects:

Security foundations
Hacking countermeasures and techniques
Penetration testing
Web and cloud security
Cybersecurity management
Risk management
Software design
Network design and management
Secure systems analysis & design
Cybersecurity graduate capstone

Students at WGU generally take courses one at a time. Students can take as many courses in a term as they can handle to finish their degree faster. There’s no extra cost for this, so you can save time and money expediting your degree. The majority of students finish their degree within 22 months. Another benefit of this program is the ability to earn industry certifications at no cost. These certifications include:

(ISC)² Certified in Cybersecurity (CC)
CompTIA Cybersecurity Analyst (CySA+)
CompTIA PenTest+
CompTIA Advanced Security Practitioner (CASP+) Optional Voucher
ISACA Certified Information Security Manager (CISM) Optional Voucher

Tuition: $4,555 for six-month term, 2023

9) Regis University

Regis is a private university in Denver, Colorado, that was founded in 1877. The school offers dozens of online graduate degrees.

U.S. News & World Report has ranked Regis University on its lists of top national universities, top performers on social mobility and, more specifically, the best online master’s in computer information technology programs.

Regis University is a leader in cybersecurity education. Not only has the institution been designated as a National Center of Academic Excellence in Cyber Defense by the National Security Agency and the Department of Homeland Security, but it was also awarded almost $1 million in grant funding in 2018 to devise a new curriculum used to train cybersecurity professionals nationwide.

Regis University’s Master of Science in Information and Cyber Security

The core coursework in the Online Master of Science in Information and Cyber Security program at Regis Univesity includes:

Digital transformation & enterprise architecture
Risk management
Managing a secure enterprise
Information technology concepts
Information technology research methods

Beyond their core coursework, students choose a specialization in either Cyber Security or Information Assurance Policy Management. To finish their degree, students must complete either a thesis, an information assurance practicum or a graduate capstone course. Throughout their education, students benefit from experiential learning opportunities that include hands-on simulations.

An eight-week term format and six start dates per year allow students to progress through this 36-credit program quickly. Students may complete their master’s degree at Regis in as little as 12 months. Graduates can prepare for several industry exams, including Cisco, ISACA, (ISC)2 and CISSP.

Tuition: $896 per credit hour, 2023-2024

10) Iowa State University

Iowa State University of Science and Technology is a public research university in Ames, Iowa. It was established in 1858.

U.S. News & World Report has ranked Iowa State University of Science and Technology highly on several of its lists, including best value schools, top public schools, national universities and best colleges for veterans.

Iowa State University has a long history of innovation in the computer and technology industry. The campus is considered the birthplace of the first-ever electronic digital computer in the late ’30s and early ’40s. It’s no surprise that the University is now home to one of the best cyber security masters programs.

The Master of Science in Cyber Security at Iowa State University

The online Master of Science in Cyber Security at ISU is offered through the computer engineering department. The 30-credit curriculum includes courses in areas like the following:

Computer security
Advanced computer networking
Information warfare
Ethical and legal issues in computer security
Wireless Security
Cryptography
Secure software engineering
Forensics

This program offers both thesis and non-thesis options. No GRE or GMAT scores are required for admission. The median time it takes students to finish the program is 1.9 years. The program’s asynchronous online delivery format offers plenty of flexibility for working students.

Tuition: $12,451 for in-state students or $29,303 for out-of-state students, 2023-2024 (annual tuition and fees)

11) Florida Institute of Technology

Florida Tech, as the Florida Institute of Technology is colloquially known, is a private institute that opened in 1958. The school is based in Melbourne, Florida, and was initially founded to train space industry workers at what became the Kennedy Space Center. Today, the institution continues to train STEM workers for the careers of today and tomorrow, offering upwards of 200 graduate and undergraduate programs of study.

U.S. News & World Report has ranked Florida Institute of Technology on its lists of the best value schools, national universities and best colleges for veterans, among others.

Florida Tech’s Master of Science in Information Assurance and Cybersecurity

Florida Tech offers an online Master of Science in Information Assurance and Cybersecurity. The program features 33 credits of coursework in subjects like:

Cyberthreats and vulnerabilities
Security architectures
Operating systems security mechanisms
Data mining and machine learning for cybersecurity
Encryption
Biometric technology
Security strategies and implementation

This flexible interdisciplinary program prepares students to work in many different positions – especially leadership roles – across the cyber security/information assurance landscape. Examples of career opportunities for graduates include security operations manager, computer forensic investigator and threat intelligence analyst. Through this program, students with an interest in high-level leadership positions can start on the path to a role like cybercrime technology director or chief information security officer. The online learning option at Florida Tech is ideal for working adults.

Tuition: $777 per credit hour or $25,641 for the program, 2023

12) Liberty University Online

Liberty University is a private Christian university in Lynchburg, Virginia. The school was founded in 1971. Today, Liberty University serves a significant portion of its students online. More than 115,000 students were studying online at Liberty in 2022. The school offers more than 700 programs of study – over 600 of which are available online.

U.S. News & World Report has ranked Liberty University on its lists of national universities and top performers on social mobility, among others.

Liberty University is a relatively affordable program. At most universities, tuition costs increase every year – but the nonprofit school’s tuition rates haven’t increased in eight years. Tuition for online students at Liberty University is among the most affordable rates nationwide.

The Master of Science in Cyber Security at Liberty University

The online Master of Science in Cyber Security degree at Liberty is part of the School of Business. The business school is also home to Liberty’s Center for Cyber Excellence.

Liberty’s master’s degree program includes coursework in areas like the following:

Overview of computer security
Web security
Issues in security, privacy and anonymity
Ethics, legal issues & policy
Security engineering
Secure software engineering
Applied network security
Applied cryptography
Digital forensics
Ethical hacking
Advanced topics in computer security

Students round out their education with a capstone project. By the time they graduate, students are equipped with the skills to pursue careers like security engineer, penetration tester, ethical hacker, information security specialist and digital forensics specialist.

On average, students complete this online program in 1.5 years. Liberty University is a particularly appealing option for students with prior college credit who are seeking degree completion programs. Students can transfer up to 50% of the 36 credits required for graduation.

Tuition: $565 per credit hour, or $20,340 for the program, 2023

13) Our Lady of the Lake University

Our Lady of the Lake University is a private Catholic institution in San Antonio, Texas. The school was founded in 1895. Although the institution offers on-campus studies at three different campuses, the school offers online programs in areas like business, social work and counseling.

U.S. News & World Report has listed Our Lady of the Lake University on its rankings of national universities and top performers on social mobility.

The school has also achieved designation as a National Center of Academic Excellence in Cyber Defense Education (CAE-CDE) from the National Security Agency and the Department of Homeland Security. The school is also home to the Center for Cyber Leadership and a student organization called CyberSaints.

The Master of Science in Cybersecurity at Our Lady of the Lake University

The cybersecurity master’s program at Our Lady of the Lake University is offered through the School of Business and Leadership. As such, it’s accredited by the Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs (ACBSP). The school also offers a cybersecurity graduate certificate, if you’re not sure you’re ready to commit to a full master’s degree program.

The 30-credit curriculum includes coursework in the following topics:

Cybersecurity principles
Networking and cloud computing
Basic scripting and programming
Hardware and software platforms
Database management systems
Cybersecurity planning and management
Penetration testing
Information assurance compliance and auditing
Digital forensics
Special topics in information systems

To streamline the curriculum, courses are unsequenced, allowing students to take them in any order. Students without a background in computer technology can catch up by taking a separate six-hour foundation course that gets them up to speed on all things IT.

Our Lady of the Lake University students who study full-time can complete their master’s in cybersecurity degree in as little as 12 months.

Tuition: $981 per credit hour, 2023-2024

14) Sam Houston State University

Sam Houston State University is a public university founded in 1879. The school is based in Huntsville, Texas and is a member of the Texas State University System.

SHSU is a Doctoral University of High Research Activity, as designated by the Carnegie Classification of Institutions of Higher Education. Among the University’s eight colleges are the College of Osteopathic Medicine and the College of Science & Engineering Technology – home to the school’s cybersecurity programs.

U.S. News & World Report has ranked Sam Houston State University on its lists of national universities, top public schools and top performers on social mobility.

The Master of Science in Information Assurance and Cybersecurity at SHSU

Sam Houston State University offers a fully online Master of Science degree in Information Assurance and Cybersecurity. This 30-credit master’s program is intended for students with a strong tech background.

Coursework in the program includes studies in the following areas:

Network and cyber security
Database security
Operating system security
Principle & policy – information assurance
Business continuity management
Directed management & development project

The inclusion of 12 elective credits allows students to customize their curriculum.

By the time they finish their studies, students will have marketable skills in planning for network security and the security of digital files, analyzing cyber threats and conducting forensic investigations. Graduates are qualified for cybersecurity roles in industry, government and business organizations.

Tuition: $5,764.50 for Fall and Spring terms (9 credits each), 2023-2024

15) Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University

Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University is a private university headquartered in Daytona Beach, Florida, that dates back to 1926.

Don’t be fooled by the inclusion of “aeronautical” in the institution’s name. The school offers highly-respected programs of study in areas outside of aviation, too. In fact, Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University offers more than 60 programs of study that span areas like engineering, business, computers and security as well as aviation and space.

U.S. News & World Report has ranked this STEM school on numerous lists, including regional universities in the South, best value schools most innovative schools and best colleges for veterans.

Cybersecurity Master’s Degrees at Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University

If you want to study cybersecurity at ERAU, you’ve got options. Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University offers three distinct master’s degree programs in cybersecurity.

If you are interested in the aviation industry, consider Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University’s specialized Master’s in Aviation Cybersecurity. This fully online program includes 30 credits of study in areas like the following:

Security engineering and management
Cybersecurity standards, laws and regulations
Foundations of aviation cybersecurity
Aviaton cybersecurity threats, actors, tools and techniques
Aviation cybersecurity risk management and resilience
Cybersecurity applications in space
Uncrewed and autonomous systems cybersecurity
Operational technology risks in aviation
Aircraft maintenance management
The air transportation system

In the Master of Science in Cybersecurity Engineering program, students focus on engineering secure networked systems. The Industry Advisory Board of the Department of Electrical, Computer, Software and Systems Engineering oversees the M.S. in Cybersecurity Engineering program curriculum and its research activities. Students in this program complete six core courses:

Computer security
Software security assessment
Software engineering discipline
System safety and certification
Applied cryptography
System exploitation and penetration testing

Students can choose from thesis or non-thesis tracks. The curriculum of the non-thesis tracks allow for more open electives than the thesis track. Students who aren’t writing a thesis can opt to take an extra elective course or complete a cybersecurity engineering capstone project to meet their degree requirements.

The Master of Science in Cyber Intelligence and Security is Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University’s best option for aspiring leaders in the world of cybersecurity. This 30-credit program is part of the College of Business, Security and Intelligence and aligns with National Security Agency and the Department of Homeland Security recommendations. Core coursework in this master’s in cybersecurity program includes studies in the following :

System security and architecture
Cyber intelligence and information systems security
Advanced analytical and research methodologies

Students take 15 credits of cyber intelligence and security electives. Options range from threat intelligence and advanced network forensics to cyber policy, legal, ethics and compliance. To meet their graduation requirements, students must complete a master’s thesis, a comprehensive exam or a cyber security graduate project.

Tuition: $32,309 (tuition and fees), 2023-2024

16) University of Maryland Global Campus

The Global Campus is a public university and the online wing of the University of Maryland. The University of Maryland was founded in 1947, and is headquartered in Adelphi, Maryland. The school was formerly known as the University of Maryland University College (UMUC).

The University of Maryland Global Campus serves tens of thousands of students all over the world. The online institutions offers a diverse catalog of degrees and courses.

U.S. News & World Report has ranked both the University of Maryland, College Park campus and the University of Maryland, Baltimore County campus on its lists of national universities, top public schools and best value schools.

The UMGC Cybersecurity Master’s Degree

Prospective students will find numerous UMGC masters programs in cybersecurity to consider. Relevant UMGC master programs include:

Cybersecurity Technology
Cybersecurity Management & Policy
Cyber Operations
CyberAccounting
Digital Forensics & Cyber Investigation
Cloud Computing Systems
Information Technology: Information Assurance

These diverse options let students specialize in many pertinent areas of the field of cybersecurity. Each of the cybersecurity-related graduate-level UMGC majors has its own distinct curriculum. UMGC masters programs in cybersecurity range from 30 credits to 36 credits. Whichever UMGC cyber security program you choose, you will be poised to acquire the most in-demand technical skills needed for real-world applications.

Tuition: $524 per credit (in-state) and $659 per credit (out-of-state), 2023

17) Lewis University

Lewis is a private university in Romeoville, Illinois. The a Roman Catholic school was founded in 1932 as an aviation technology school. Since then, the institution of higher learning has expanded dramatically. It now offers more than 80 undergraduate programs and 35 graduate programs.

U.S. News & World Report has ranked Lewis University on its lists of the best value schools, best regional universities in the Midwest and best colleges for veterans, among others.

Lewis University has been designated as a Department of Homeland Security Center of Academic Excellence in Cyber Defense since 2011.

The Master of Science in Cybersecurity at Lewis University

Lewis University offers a fully online Master of Science in Cybersecurity program.

The 33-credit program encompasses core courses in the following areas:

Network security essentials
Cyber security essentials
Advanced cyber security
Encryption and authentication
Operations and organization security
IT governance and compliance
Information security strategies and risk management
Disaster recovery & business continuity planning
Legal & ethical issues in information security
Securing operating systems
Cybersecurity project

Lewis University’s Master of Science in Cybersecurity program is intended for students with a technical background. Applicants without this background begin their studies by taking the following foundation courses:

Computer organization
Operating systems
Programing fundamentals
Communications and networking

Tuition: $845 per credit hour, 2023-2024

18) Norwich University Online

NU is a private military school in Northfield, Vermont. The institution is the oldest military school in the country, dating back to 1819. Norwich University bills itself as the “birthplace of ROTC.”

U.S. News & World Report has included the institution on rankings lists such as best value schools, best colleges for veterans and regional universities in the North.

Norwich was “one of the earliest institutions” to earn the Center of Academic Excellence in Information Assurance Education designation from the National Security Agency and the Department of Homeland Security.

The Master of Science in Cybersecurity at Norwich University

Norwich offers a 100% online Master of Science in Cybersecurity in six areas of concentration:

Computer Forensic Investigation and Incident Response Team Management
Vulnerability Management
Critical Infrastructure Protection and Cyber Crime
Cyber Law and International Perspectives on Cyberspace
Project Management
Procurement and Government Contract Management

This program is ideal for students who want to develop their business and management skills as well as their technical skills. Small class sizes characterize online studies in Norwich University’s cybersecurity master’s program. The maximum number of students per class is 15.

On average, students complete this program within 18 months.

Tuition: $799 per credit hour ($550 for active-duty military personnel, veterans and first responders)

19) Northeastern University

Northeastern is a private school based in Boston, Massachusetts, that founded in 1898.

U.S. News & World Report has listed Northeastern University on several of its ranking lists, including national universities, best value schools and most innovative schools. In 2022, U.S. News ranked Northeastern Unviersity #1 in the nation for co-ops and internships.

The school receives generous research grants from the Departments of Homeland Security, Energy and Defense each year and has been designated as a Center of Academic Excellence in Information Assurance/Cyberdefense, IA Research and Cyberoperations by the National Security Agency and the Department of Homeland Security.

Northeastern University’s Master of Science in Cybersecurity

Northeastern University’s online Master of Science in Cybersecurity program starts with foundational courses in cyberspace technology and applications and the foundations of information assurance. Students complete courses in both the Technical Track and Contextual Track of the program.

Examples of Technical Track courses include:

Applied cryptography
Software security practices
Network security practices
Wireless and mobile systems security

Coursework that falls under the Contextual Track includes:

Security risk management and assessment
Cyberlaw: Privacy, ethics and digital rights
Decision making for critical infrastructure
Information systems forensics

Overall, this program aims to equip students with skills and knowledge of cybersecurity management, law and social sciences, all through the lens of information technology. Students may even pursue a concentration in criminology.

Experiential learning is a bit part of the curriculum. Through co-op opportunities, graduate students can acquire up to 12 months of professional experience in the field while working toward their master’s degree.

The online Master of Science in Cybersecurity program at Northeastern University takes two to three years to complete, depending on whether you study full-time or part-time. This master’s degree is a great option for students considering doctoral study, because it can lead into Northeastern’s PhD in Information Assurance program.

Tuition: $52,000 for the program, 2023-2024

20) The New Jersey Institute of Technology

The New Jersey Institute of Technology in Newark, New Jersey, is a public research school founded in 1881. Today, the institution encompasses six specialized schools and offers upwards of 125 degree programs at the undergraduate and graduate levels.

U.S. News & World Report has ranked the New Jersey Institute of Technology on its lists of best value schools, top public schools, national universities and best colleges for veterans.

NJIT’s Master of Science in Cyber Security and Privacy Program

In its 30-credit Master of Science program, the New Jersey Institute of Technology includes coursework in the following areas:

Security and privacy in computer systems
Internet and higher-layer protocols
Network protocols security
Counter hacking techniques
Cryptography and security
Operating systems design
Data structures and algorithms
Data management system design

Thesis, project and course-only tracks are available. Regardless of which track students pursue, they will develop skills for building secure infrastructure, analyzing vulnerability data and implementing security protocols.

Tuition: $1,143 per credit, 2023

If you’re interested in cyber security, there’s so much more to learn about – and Degree Query is here to help. We’ve answered a host of important questions about degrees and careers in cyber security, information assurance and other related topics.

Related Resources:

The post The 20 Best Masters in Cyber Security Online appeared first on DegreeQuery.com.

The 20 Best Online Marketing Degrees (Bachelor’s)

jmc — Tue, 18 Mar 2025 00:14:44 +0000

The constant barrage of demands on our attention from digital, mobile and social media campaigns push consumers in endless directions. Organizations of all sizes want to stand out in the crowded marketplace that is modern marketing. That means they need skilled marketing experts.

Marketing professionals need to have an education that accounts for the constant changes in the field and in our lives. Knowledge of traditional advertising methods is still important. However, new marketers must have the skills to create new campaigns that deal with saturated markets and consumer fatigue. For marketing efforts to find success today, they must feel more authentic, organic and relevant to people than ever before. An online bachelor’s degree in marketing from one of the top schools in the country can equip you with these skills.

Earning a Bachelor’s in Marketing online paves the way for a career in a field that boasts stable wages and job growth. You can set yourself apart by earning a degree with a curriculum that aligns with the current obstacles and opportunities in this sector.

The United States Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) noted the following about employment and earnings in marketing:

Market research analysts and marketing specialists made a median annual wage of $68,230 as of 2022
Marketing managers earned a median annual salary of $140,040 in 2022. Advertising and promotions managers earned a median salary of $127,830. The typical entry-level education for these roles was a bachelor’s degree with some work experience in the field.
There were 389,000 advertising, promotions and marketing managers in 2022. Between 2022 and 2032, the BLS expected jobs in this occupation to increase by a faster-than-average rate of 6%. Such an increase would lead to the creation of 24,300 new jobs.

What Are the Best Online Marketing Degrees at the Bachelor’s Level?

For this of the best online marketing degrees, we’ve selected schools based on factors like:

The quality of their marketing degree curriculum
The flexibility and adult support they offer
Their reputation
The unique features that separate them from comparable programs

Let’s check out the 20 best bachelor’s in marketing online programs:

1. Colorado State University

If we have to choose one school as offering the best marketing degree online, it’s Colorado State University (CSU). This public university, based in Fort Collins, CO, was founded in 1870.

Today, CSU offers close to 300 distinct programs of study through its eight colleges and 15 academic departments. The school’s 2022 student population amounted to 33,455.

Colorado State University is a leading research university. In 2015, Colorado State University became the first college in the U.S. to achieve a STARS Platinum rating for sustainability. At the graduate level, CSU is known for its degree programs in education, business and engineering.

Colorado State University is regionally accredited by the Higher Learning Commission. The school’s business programs are accredited by the Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs (ACBSP).

CSU Global offers online educational programs to Colorado residents and people around the world. Its academic offerings include dozens of online programs.

Studying Marketing Online at Colorado State

For students interested in the best online marketing degrees, there’s one CSU Global program in particular that stands out. The school’s online Bachelor of Science in Marketing degree covers every aspect of the marketing process. Students learn how products and services are developed, priced, promoted, sold and distributed. Students will become well-versed in market research and management. They gain theoretical knowledge, methods for practical application and technical skills.

A Bachelor of Science in Marketing already tends to be a more specialized program than a Bachelor of Business Administration degree with a marketing concentration. However, the 30 distinct specializations available through this program allow students to develop even more specialized knowledge. These specializations include:

Marketing
Digital marketing
Public relations
Data management and analysis
Web application development
Communication
Business administration
International business
Fundraising
Project management
Operations management and supervision
Organizational leadership
Public and nonprofit management

Whatever specialization you choose, you can expect to take online marketing courses in topics like the following:

Introduction to marketing
Strategic marketing
Market research
Consumer behavior
Promotion and public relations
Product and brand management
International and multi-cultural marketing
Digital marketing
Leadership principles for marketing

Students are also encouraged to complete a marketing practicum. They are required to complete a capstone course in marketing.

2. Liberty University

Next on our list of the best online marketing degrees is Liberty University. Liberty University is a private nonprofit research university in Lynchburg, Virginia. The Christian institution of higher learning was founded in 1971 by a reverend. The curriculum still includes some Christian and biblical coursework.

The primarily online school serves over 100,000 students, so online learners here are in good company. The massive online student population makes the institution one of the largest nonprofit colleges in America. Liberty University’s long history of offering distance education programs dates back to 1985.

The school offers upwards of 300 degree programs. Liberty University is regionally accredited by the

Majoring in Marketing at Liberty

Liberty offers a number of marketing-related specializations as part of its ACBSP-accredited online Bachelor of Science in Business Administration program. In this online degree, the specializations you can pursue include:

Advertising and digital marketing
Marketing analytics
Professional selling

The Strategic Marketing Management program includes coursework in:

Consumer behavior
Marketing research
Marketing brand management
Promotion strategy

The Digital Marketing and Advertising specialization encompasses classes in:

Customer retention through digital marketing
Conversion and optimization
Digital marketing in the virtual world

Featured coursework in the Marketing Analytics program includes marketing research and applied marketing analysis.

Students in all specializations take core business classes in areas like the following:

Economics
Business research methods
Business computer applications
Organizational behavior and management
Managerial principles
Finance principles
Marketing principles
International business
Strategic planning
Operations strategy
Business policy
Legal and ethical business concepts for decision-making
Business analytics
Financial statement analysis
Human resource management

Students complete this program in three and a half years, on average. Students who already have some prior college education can graduate even faster. Students may transfer in up to 75% of the 120 credits required for graduation.

3. Old Dominion University

Prospective students will find another of the best marketing degrees online at Old Dominion University. This public research university in Norfolk, VA, was founded in 1930.

Old Dominion University is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges. The institution serves more than 24,000 students on campus and online and is one of the larger distance-learning schools in the country. The school’s more than 165,000 alumni live all over the United States and in 52 countries. In this military-friendly university, one-quarter of the student population is affiliated with the military in some capacity.

ODU has a strong research emphasis, especially as it pertains to entrepreneurship. Through its business and research incentives, Old Dominion University contributes $2.6 billion to Virginia’s economy annually.

Of the school’s 175 degree programs, 120 degrees are offered online, including its online marketing degree.

Online Marketing Studies at Old Dominion

Old Dominion University offers an online Bachelor of Science in Business Administration (BSBA) in Marketing. This program combines core business classes with major coursework in marketing. The curriculum gives students both breadth and depth of knowledge. Through the program, students learn how to analyze complex data and glean meaningful insights from the current marketing environment. They get to know marketing strategies and systems. Graduates of Old Dominion University’s online bachelor’s degree in marketing program understand how to solve marketing problems and create successful campaigns.

Old Dominion University offers this online in both a traditional format for new college students and a degree completion format for students with prior college credit. The school’s generous transfer policy allows students to apply up to 90 credits earned elsewhere toward their bachelor’s degree. The degree requires a total of 120 credits of college-level coursework. Students in the degree completion program must take at least 30 credits at ODU.

The core business courses in the curriculum include studies in:

Microeconomics
Macroeconomics
Managerial economics
Business analytics
Business policy and strategy
Operations management
Principles of Financial Accounting 3
Contemporary organizations and management
Legal environments of business
Introductory financial management
Managerial accounting principles
Marketing principles
Principles of information technology

Marketing students’ required major coursework includes classes in:

Consumer behavior
Marketing policy and strategy
Marketing research
Multinational marketing

Students further customize their education by taking four marketing electives of their choice. Elective options include:

Sales management
Advertising strategy
Retail marketing
Marketing for services
Social media marketing
The art of persuasion

4. The University of Alabama-Birmingham

Another school with an excellent online bachelors degree in marketing is the University of Alabama at Birmingham. This public university was founded in 1969 and serves more than 21,000 total students.

The institution is regionally accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges. This highly respected research university has produced a number of Marshall, Fulbright, Truman, and Rhodes scholars. The school is divided into 12 distinct schools and colleges, including schools of medicine, dentistry and optometry.

If you want more from your online education than video lectures to watch and, ultimately, a piece of paper – that is, your degree – that proves you have graduated, the University of Alabama-Birmingham’s program is a good fit for you. The school has a reputation for offering students ample opportunities for internships, resume-building and significant research involvement, even as undergraduates.

UAB’s Online Marketing Degree

The online Bachelor of Science in Marketing program at the University of Alabama-Birmingham is accredited by the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB). The program covers the use of current communication technologies to drive growth and build a sustainable, long-term career in marketing. The University of Alabama-Birmingham’s online marketing degree program prepares students to become market research analysts, sales managers, social media marketers, public relations specialists and more.

Foundational and business core coursework in UAB’s marketing bachelor’s degree program includes the following topics:

Business foundations
Financial literacy
Legal environment of business
Microeconomics
Macroeconomics
Accounting principles
Quantitative analysis
Business communications
Survey of marketing basics
Fundamentals of financial management
Management processes and behavior
Operations management
Management information systems
International marketing

Marketing students, in particular, take a full array of core marketing classes. Students study sales techniques, marketing communications, e-commerce and digital media and multinational business practices, among many other topics. This major coursework includes:

Marketing research
Integrated marketing communication
Distribution management
Professional selling
Retail marketing
Entrepreneurship and marketing planning

Electives in areas like social media marketing and sales management give students more opportunities to explore their interests. They also complete a capstone course in strategic marketing through which they develop and demonstrate skills for solving problems that arise in marketing management roles.

Students get the best of both worlds in this program: the flexibility of a 100% online format plus benefits like collaborative networking opportunities and access to scholarships and other forms of financial aid.

5. Regent University

Students can find another example of the best marketing degree online at Regent University. This private interdenominational Christian research university was established in Virginia Beach, VA, in 1977.

Regent University is regionally accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges. The school serves 13,000 students pursuing education at the associate degree, bachelor’s degree, master’s degree and doctoral degree levels. Regent is known for its programs in business, education, nursing, accounting, computer science, engineering and cybersecurity.

The institution offers more than 150 degree and certificate programs on campus. More than 100 of these programs are also available online. Online courses take the form of eight-week classes. This condensed term format allows online students to focus on fewer courses at a time while rapidly making progress toward their degrees.

Compared to other private universities, Regent boasts an affordable tuition rate, made even more affordable through the possibility of receiving scholarships and other forms of financial aid.

Online Marketing Education at Regent

The online bachelors marketing degree program at Regent University confers a Bachelor of Science in Marketing degree. The curriculum is accredited by the Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs. Through the marketing curriculum couched in a Christian outlook, undergraduate marketing students develop an understanding of why consumers make the choices they do.

Core courses in Regent University’s marketing program draw from core business subjects and more specialized marketing classes. The curriculum includes studies in the following:

Business law
International business
Strategic management
Financial management
Introductory accounting
Macroeconomics
Marketing principles
Consumer behavior
Advertising and promotion
Sales management
Retail management
Marketing research
Public relations
Communication for public relations and marketing
Digital marketing strategy
Social media marketing
E-commerce

Regent University also offers several related degrees, including multiple communication studies bachelor’s programs, a Bachelor of Science in Business with an emphasis in marketing and an MBA in marketing.

6. New Mexico State University

New Mexico State University, too, offers one of the best marketing degree online programs. This public university in Las Cruces, NM, was founded in 1888. Today, the school serves more than 21,000 total students.

The institution is regionally accredited by the Higher Learning Commission. New Mexico State University is best known for its programs in education, engineering and business. However, the school offers programs of study in many other fields. Undergraduate students can choose from 180 majors and 170 minors. Graduate students may pursue more than 120 programs of study. All told, New Mexico State University offers more than 4,400 courses through its 54 academic departments.

Another claim to fame is New Mexico State University’s Chile Pepper Institute, which undertakes research, education and promotion pertaining to New Mexico’s state vegetable.

Studying Marketing Online at New Mexico State

The online marketing program at New Mexico State University is a Bachelor of Business Administration in Marketing program. The AACSB-accredited online program includes required major courses in marketing research and marketing strategy and policy. Students also complete 18 credits of upper-division elective coursework in marketing, choosing from topics such as Internet marketing, sports marketing, advanced sales and special topics in marketing. These marketing courses build upon core business coursework in areas like strategic management, accounting, financial analysis, organizational behavior and marketing principles.

On-campus marketing programs at New Mexico State University allow students to pursue specializations in strategic marketing, advertising, professional selling or PGA Golf management. The online marketing program, on the other hand, is a less specialized bachelor’s in marketing program. Still, graduates of this online bachelor’s in marketing program will be prepared to match customer needs and desires with different products, services, and concepts.

7. Florida International University

Students can find another of the best marketing degree online programs in the country at Florida International University. FIU is a public research university in Miami. It was founded in 1972. Florida International University is regionally accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

Over 55,609 total students, 45,688 of whom were undergraduates, attended Florida International University in 2022. Around 67% of undergraduate students at FIU are Hispanic or Latino, a statistic that makes Florida International University one of the top schools in the country for granting bachelor’s degrees to Hispanic students.

Florida International University prioritizes engaging in research and enhancing the lives of local and global communities. Through its nine schools and colleges, FIU offers more than 280 programs, including more than 70 fully online programs. Among the school’s most popular majors are marketing, business, management, psychology, social sciences, interdisciplinary studies, communication and journalism.

FIU’s Online Marketing Degree

The bachelor’s in marketing program available online through Florida International University is a Bachelor of Business Administration in Marketing degree. This marketing-focused business administration program prepares students to work in many different aspects of the field, including the following:

Communications
Logistics
Marketing research
Advertising
E-marketing
Sales management

Offered through the R. Kirk Landon Undergraduate School of Business, this 120-credit program encompasses both core business courses and marketing major courses. Business classes cover topics such as:

Organization and management
Strategic management
Financial management
Business analytics
Legal environment of business
Applied business statistics
Introduction to information systems management
Introduction to marketing

The marketing courses for this degree program include required coursework in consumer behavior, personal selling, marketing research, marketing strategy and marketing oneself in the job market. For their elective marketing courses, students can choose from topics such as digital marketing, social media marketing, business-to-business sales and marketing, customer relationship management and marketing of small business enterprises. Students may also gain experience through a marketing internship.

Florida International University’s program is accredited by the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business. The school also offers an online Master of Science in Marketing program for prospective students interested in graduate school.

8. Huntington University

One of the best marketing degree online programs for working adult students is found at Huntington University.

This private Christian university in Huntington, Indiana, was founded in 1897 by the Church of the United Brethren in Christ. The school still maintains its Christ-centered focus today, with required general education coursework in religious studies and the Christian faith.

This small university serves a student body of just 1,375 as of 2022, including undergraduate and graduate students. The online student population at Huntington University amounts to just over 50 students. A large percentage of the student body at Huntington University volunteers in the community or serves abroad, often through the school’s Friesen Center for Service & Experiential Learning. Despite its small size, the liberal arts institution offers more than 75 distinct undergraduate majors and 10 graduate programs of study. Up to 80% of students have historically received financial aid to make their education at Huntington University more affordable.

Huntington’s Online Marketing Program

In Huntington University’s online Bachelor of Science in Marketing program, students can’t begin their business core coursework until they take prerequisites in business math, accounting principles and introduction to computer applications. The business core consists of more than a dozen courses in topics such as:

Macroeconomics
Microeconomics
Business law
Business ethics
Management concepts
Principles of leadership
Group and organizational behavior
Organizational change
Communication in organizations
Strategic planning
Managerial accounting
Managerial finance
Statistics for managers
Diversity in the workplace
Introduction to marketing

Students in all business degree programs also complete a business capstone course. Marketing courses at Huntington University cover topics like the following:

Market Research
Consumer behavior
Brand and content management
Advertising
Public relations

Graduates of this online bachelor’s in marketing program will work to understand consumers, conduct and interpret market research and figure out how brands and consumers interact in mutually beneficial ways.

9. Kennesaw State University

Other highly respected schools also offer Bachelor of Business Administration in Marketing online programs. One such school is Kennesaw State University.

Kennesaw State University is a public research university with campuses in Kennesaw and Marietta, Georgia. This institution is part of the University System of Georgia and is regionally accredited by the

KSU was founded in 1963. The school has two main campuses located in Kennesaw and Marietta, Georgia.

Kennesaw State University is known for its programs in education, computing, business, arts, engineering, health, and human services, among others. The school prizes public service, research, contributions to economic development, and service to local communities. The more than 42,000 students enrolled at KSU represent more than 100 countries around the world.

Kennesaw State University encompasses 11 schools and colleges. The institution offers more than 180 programs of study, including courses at the certificate, undergraduate and graduate levels of study. Two dozen programs are available online.

Online Marketing Studies at Kennesaw State

Kennesaw State University’s online Bachelor of Business Administration program with a major in marketing prepares students to work in areas like retail store management, advertising, marketing research and industrial selling. Marketing graduates go on to work in both for-profit and nonprofit environments.

The 120-hour program, offered in both fully online and hybrid formats as well as a face-to-face on-campus format, is both flexible and practical. Gaining hands-on experience is part of the curriculum. In addition to their general education requirements, students complete coursework in the following areas:

Microeconomics
Macroeconomics
Legal and ethical environment of business
Management and behavioral sciences
Operations management
Strategic management
Information systems management
Business statistics
Accounting principles
Finance principles
Marketing principles
Marketing strategy
Marketing research
Consumer behavior
Professional selling
International marketing

Through marketing courses at Kennesaw State University, students will learn to assess competitive markets, control and manage merchandise, create and deliver sales presentations and manage sales forces. They develop familiarity with marketing methods like direct mail as well as the theories and applications of public relations and techniques for modern advertising.

10. Temple University

Temple University in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, is home to another of the best marketing degree online programs.

Temple is a public research university that dates back to 1884. This highly respected institution is known for its schools of business and management, law, medicine, engineering and education. It serves a total student population of 33,606, of which nearly two-thirds are Pennsylvania residents. Among full-time undergraduate students, 84% received financial aid. Temple University also employs a faculty that numbers 3,671.

The large university encompasses 17 schools and colleges, including five professional schools. Through these schools, Temple offers more than 160 undergraduate majors, 175 master’s programs and 60 doctoral programs.

Temple’s Online Marketing Degree

Online marketing degrees at Temple University take the form of a Bachelor of Business Administration in Marketing. Marketing is one of 16 undergraduate majors for students pursuing a BBA. Within the program, students can choose from four areas of specialization:

Digital marketing
Consumer insights
Retailing
Sales force effectiveness

Regardless of their specialization, marketing majors at Temple take the following major courses:

Marketing strategy
Marketing research
Consumer and buyer behavior
Consumer data analytics

Students also choose marketing electives in areas like digital marketing, service marketing, sustainable consumer-centric innovation and integrated marketing communications. Online marketing students at Temple University benefit from building skills that apply throughout a variety of marketing positions.

11. University of Wisconsin Whitewater

One of the best Bachelor of Business Administration in Marketing online programs is offered through the University of Wisconsin-Whitewater.

UW-Whitewater is a public college located in Whitewater, WI. The school was founded in 1868 and is part of the University of Wisconsin system.

The University of Wisconsin-Whitewater is home to six schools and colleges: the College of Arts and Communications, College of Business and Economics, College of Education and Professional Studies, College of Letters and Sciences, College of Integrated Studies and School of Graduate Studies. More than 10,494 students (undergraduates and graduate students) attend Whitewater.

An Online Marketing Degree at UW

Whitewater offers an online marketing major within its Bachelor of Business Administration program. The AACSB-accredited fully online program includes 120 credits of coursework in general education, business core studies, marketing major courses and electives. Students are required to take the following four courses:

Marketing management and policies
Marketing research
Principles of selling
Introduction to digital marketing

From there, students choose four marketing electives, with options such as:

Business-to-business marketing
Services marketing
Experiential marketing
Sports marketing
Omnichannel marketing
Marketing analytics and artificial intelligence
Integrated marketing communications for social enterprises
Advanced digital marketing

The program also offers an optional digital marketing emphasis. Students who pursue this emphasis must take courses in advanced digital marketing and social media and content marketing.

Through this program, students develop knowledge of product design, pricing, marketing research, analysis, promotion, distribution and overall marketing strategy.

12. Grand Canyon University

Grand Canyon University in Phoenix, AZ, is home to another of the best marketing degree online programs. This private nonprofit, non-denominational Christian university was established in 1949.

The school is home to nine colleges, through which it offers more than 330 programs of study. As of 2023, the school’s on-campus enrollment amounts to approximately 25,800. Another 92,000 online students raise the total GCU student body to a massive 118,000.

Grand Canyon University is best known for its biology programs, which include emphases in pre-medicine, pre-pharmacy and pre-physician assistant. The school also offers programs of study in fields that range from art design and animation to screenwriting, web design and, of course, marketing.

Studying Marketing Online at GCU

Grand Canyon University’s online marketing program is a Bachelor of Science in Marketing and Advertising. Offered both online and on campus, the BS program blends creativity and business skills. The curriculum is perfect for prospective students looking to prepare for entry-level marketing and advertising positions.

Core courses in GCU’s marketing program include studies in the following areas:

Business statistics
Economics
Ethical and legal issues in business
Strategic management
Organizational behavior and management
Production and operations management
Fundamentals of accounting
Fundamentals of business finance
Introduction to marketing
Buyer and consumer behavior
Marketing research and reporting
Digital marketing and advertising
Promotion and advertising
Marketing management

Students will study general business practices, communication strategies, information literacy and data analysis. By the time they graduate, they will have the skills to create marketing plans, develop customer relationships, determine strategies that lead to sales and much more.

Online courses are offered over eight-week sessions. Students with prior college coursework can transfer up to 90 credits into the 120-credit program.

13. Arizona State University

Arizona State University offers both an online bachelor’s in marketing and a traditional face-to-face program on its Tempe campus. With five campuses in Phoenix, plenty of regional centers throughout Arizona and a robust online school, ASU is one of the largest public universities in the country.

The institution was founded in 1885. Today, the school serves upwards of 140,000 students, including close to 80,000 students attending classes on one of its campuses and 65,000 online students. The school offers more than 800 degree programs, including more than 350 undergraduate majors and more than 450 graduate programs.

ASU’s online offerings include undergraduate, graduate, and doctoral degrees in business, legal studies, nutrition, English, electrical engineering, behavioral health, health leadership and more. Online students at Arizona State benefit from lessons taught by the same faculty responsible for on-campus learning, success coaches and the flexibility of six start dates throughout the year.

ASU’s Online Bachelor’s in Marketing

The Bachelor of Science in Marketing program at Arizona State University is part of the W. P. Carey School of Business. The program encompasses both general business administration studies and more specialized marketing courses.

Business administration classes include:

Mathematics for business analysis
Business statistics
Microeconomics
Macroeconomics
Accounting
Finance
Global supply operations
Management and leadership principles
Business law and ethics for manager
Business and society
Business communication

Marketing-focused major courses encompass areas of study such as:

Marketing research
Applied marketing management and leadership
Consumer behavior
Business writing
Competitive marketing strategy
Business-to-business marketing strategy
Services marketing strategy

Students also build more specialized knowledge and skills through upper-division marketing electives. Options include global marketing management, retail management, customer-centric brand development and more.

Whether they study online or on campus, marketing students at Arizona State University can take advantage of internships, career programs and dozens of business clubs and organizations.

14. University of Massachusetts-Amherst

For a great online Bachelor of Business Administration in Marketing program, consider the University of Massachusetts-Amherst.

UMass Amherst is a public research university that dates back to 1863. The school serves more than 23,000 undergraduate students, not counting the more than 6,500 students enrolled in its master’s and doctoral degree programs. Students at the University of Massachusetts-Amherst can choose from more than 100 bachelor’s degree programs, 78 master’s programs and 48 doctoral programs.

The University of Massachusetts-Amherst is part of the prestigious Five College Consortium, which includes Smith College, Mount Holyoke College, Amherst College, and Hampshire College. The institution has been designated by the Carnegie Foundation as a school with the highest level of research activity.

A Marketing Degree at UMass

UMass Amherst’s online marketing degrees are part of the Isenberg School of Management. Through its AACSB-accredited curriculum, the Bachelor of Business Administration in Marketing program aims to produce innovative storytellers and marketers.

Core business coursework includes studies in financial and managerial accounting, management, corporate finance, business policy and strategy, management principles, data analysis and marketing fundamentals, among other topics. Students in the marketing major take courses in areas like marketing research, Internet marketing, social media marketing, marketing for sustainable business and marketing analytics. To round out their education, students can choose electives in finance, management, accounting, hospitality and tourism management, operations and information management, sports management and more.

15. Indiana Wesleyan University

Another of the best marketing degree online programs can be found at Indiana Wesleyan University. IWU is a private evangelical Christian university that is part of the Wesleyan Church. The Marion, IN-based school was founded in 1920.

With a total student headcount of 13,285, IWU is the largest private college in the state of Indiana. It’s also a member – the largest member – of the Council for Christian Colleges and Universities.

IWU is known for catering to working adults who want to earn a new degree to advance their careers. Although some of IWU’s programs of study revolve around its religious affiliation, with degrees in biblical literature, youth ministries and Christian worship, the school offers programs in a variety of liberal arts and professional areas of study. Marketing, public relations, computer science and accounting are just a few examples of the more than 80 undergraduate majors available.

IWU’s Online Marketing Degree

The Bachelor of Science in Marketing program at IWU includes core courses in the following areas:

Foundations of marketing
Ethical and legal business concepts
Economic principles for managers
Management perspectives
Leadership perspectives
Statistics for marketers
Information technology for marketers
Accounting and financial concepts of business

Students can choose one of four specializations:

Marketing analytics
Social media
Service and nonprofit marketing
Digital branding, advertising and promotions

The ACBSP-accredited curriculum utilizes a problem-solving approach and helps students develop skills in critical thinking, business analysis and the application of global perspectives to business decision-making. Through their coursework, students develop the capability to reach and communicate with diverse, engaged audiences to promote products and services effectively.

16. Saint Leo University

An excellent choice for a business administration in marketing degree is Saint Leo University. The private, nonprofit institution in Saint Leo, FL, was founded in 1889 as a Roman Catholic school.

Saint Leo University serves 2,400 students on campus and even more online, with a total enrollment of 15,300. In addition to being one of the oldest Catholic institutions of higher education in Florida, Saint Leo was also among the first American colleges to provide distance learning opportunities. In 1973, the school offered distance-learning courses to military members serving in the Vietnam War. Students can choose from more than 60 programs of study, including degree programs in fields like business administration, education, criminal justice, theology and more.

Studying Marketing at Saint Leo

Saint Leo offers an online Bachelor of Arts in Business Administration program with a specialization in marketing. Students in this program cultivate a deep understanding of marketing functions and concepts. The curriculum requires studies across multiple areas of business, including:

Economics
Business law
Financial and managerial accounting
Management principles
Marketing
Finance
Business information systems

All students in the marketing specialization take courses in social media marketing and data-driven strategic marketing. They further customize their education by choosing marketing courses in fields like the following:

Digital storytelling
Gamification
Consumer behavior
Personal selling
Data and web analytics
Marketing innovation and new product development
Integrated marketing communication

Students also prepare for and attain two marketing certifications. Graduates go on to work in areas like:

Advertising
Marketing management
Consumer relations
Sales
Small business operations

17. Concordia University-Saint Paul

One of the best marketing degree online programs for adult learners is at Concordia Univesity-Saint Paul. This private liberal arts school in Minnesota was established in 1893. The school now serves upwards of 5,000 total students (undergraduates and graduate students).

Concordia University is known for its competitive pricing. The institution offers an assortment of more than 100 degree programs.

Online Marketing Degrees at Concordia

The online Bachelor of Science in Digital Marketing degree at Concordia University-Saint Paul utilizes a project-based learning format. Through their studies, students develop practical skills and build their marketing portfolio. The 120-credit program includes 30 credits of business core coursework and 15 credits of specialized digital marketing courses. The core business coursework includes studies in the following areas:

Organizational leadership
Project management
Leadership, influence and negotiations
Principles of human resource management
Business ethics
Accounting
Finance
Data analytics
Modern marketing
Digital communications

The digital marketing coursework includes studies in:

Marketing analytics
Digital brand storytelling
Artificial intelligence in marketing
Social media content strategy
Customer mapping for digital marketing

This digital marketing degree program is ideal for busy adults who need flexibility. Full-time and part-time options are available. Students may also transfer up to 90 credits of prior college study. During the course of their studies, students can also earn certificates in related areas like e-commerce and data analysis.

18. Linfield University

Next on our list of the best online bachelor’s in marketing program options is Linfield University. This private, four-year school in McMinnville, OR, was established in 1858.

Over 1,700 students now attend Linfield, about a third of whom are students of color. There are more than 50 undergraduate majors for students to choose from, plus five graduate programs.

Linfield’s Online Bachelor’s Degree in Marketing

Linfield offers an online marketing bachelor’s program as either a Bachelor of Arts or Bachelor of Science degree. All marketing majors take courses in:

Strategic management
Financial management
Organizational behavior and management
Business law
Accounting
Analytics

Students can customize their program through optional courses in areas like:

Sport marketing
Promotions management
International marketing
Special topics in marketing

19. Penn State World Campus

The prestigious Pennsylvania State University is home to one of the best marketing degree online programs.

Penn State is a public research university that dates back to 1855. The institution is known as a “Public Ivy” because of its strong academic reputation. Penn State serves 90,000 students and employs a faculty and staff that numbers 20,000.

Through its incredible online school, the Penn State World Campus, the institution provides the esteemed Penn State education to students around the world. Penn State has been offering online courses since 1998.

Penn State’s Bachelor’s Degree in Marketing

The online Bachelor of Science in Marketing at Penn State is a 120-credit program. The curriculum equips students with knowledge of both traditional marketing methods and cutting-edge trends in marketing. Graduates of the AACSB–accredited program are ready to develop in-depth, results-centered strategic marketing plans. The curriculum includes studies in:

Marketing research
Global marketing
Consumer behavior
Services marketing
Business-to-business marketing
Advertising and sales promotion
Marketing for electronic commerce

20. Minot State University

Completing our list of the 20 best marketing degree online programs is Minot State University in North Dakota. The public university, which dates back to 1913, now serves more than 2,700 students from more than 55 countries.

Students at Minot State University can choose from more than 100 programs of study.

Studying Marketing Online at Minot State

Minot State University’s online Bachelor of Science with a Major in Marketing program includes coursework in:

Marketing strategy
Consumer behavior
integrated marketing communications
International marketing

Students who complete the program develop an understanding of the evolving field of modern marketing. They learn how social media, public relations and the timing of advertising efforts fit into marketing efforts.