What to Know About Online Degree Programs

The first thing you should know about pursuing a college degree online is that, while convenient, online courses aren’t “easy.” Students of legitimate, accredited online colleges need to meet the same sorts of admission and graduation requirements as students attending classes on campus.

For example, you need a high school diploma or a GED to be accepted into most online programs. In the best online degree programs, you will take the same rigorous coursework as on-campus students take. The only difference is that you complete your coursework in an online format, often on your own schedule and from anywhere in the world.

Another fact students should be aware of is that online learning isn’t always cheaper than studying on campus. Tuition for online degree programs certainly can be cheaper, especially if you are looking at institutions where you will be charged a higher out-of-state tuition rate. However, that’s not always the case. For many online students, the biggest source of savings isn’t the direct cost of tuition and fees but rather not having to live on campus or commute to school.

Finally, prospective online students need to be particularly vigilant about choosing accredited schools and programs to avoid investing their time and money in a degree that turns out to be worthless. Students should look for colleges and universities that are accredited by one of the seven regional accrediting organizations recognized by the Council for Higher Education Accreditation (CHEA):

1. The Accrediting Commission for Community and Junior Colleges (ACCJC) Western Association of Schools and Colleges

2. The Higher Learning Commission (HLC)

3. The New England Commission of Higher Education (NECHE)

4. The Middle States Commission on Higher Education (MSCHE)

5. The Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities (NWCCU)

6. The Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC)

7. The WASC Senior College and University Commission (WSCUC)

Aside from the regional accreditation status of the school as a whole, students should consider programmatic accreditation, or accreditation of individual degree programs. Programmatic accreditation is particularly important for degrees in certain subjects.

For example, students pursuing a degree in any branch of engineering should ideally choose a program accredited by ABET, the Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology. Earning an engineering degree from a program that isn’t ABET-accredited may prevent you from getting licensed later in your career. On the other hand, programmatic accreditation in degree programs that typically don’t lead to licensure is nice to have – because it demonstrates that the program meets high standards set by external organizations – but is less critical.

How Much Money Can Graduates of Online Programs Earn?

It’s true that virtually all of the highest-paying occupations in America, according to the United States Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), require more than a typical, fully online education. That’s because the vast majority of the most lucrative jobs in America are medical doctors in different areas of specialty or jobs – like nurse anesthetist or airline pilot – that otherwise require extensive clinical or hands-on training.

There are currently no fully online medical (MD or DO) degree programs that lead to licensure in the United States. While there are online degree programs in nurse anesthesia and aviation, these programs include a great deal of hands-on experience – clinical hours and flight hours – that you must complete in person.

RELATED: What Is the Difference Between an Anesthesiologist vs Nurse Anesthetist?

Still, online degree programs can put students on the path to a diverse array of lucrative jobs, many of which are in high demand. Some graduates of online degree programs even go on to eventually make upwards of six figures, and many earn salaries equal to or above the median annual salary for all occupations across the United States.

If you want to maximize your earning potential with an online education, you need to think carefully about your choice of college major. Certain programs of study are both closely connected to high-paying jobs and easily transferrable to online learning practices. These programs are the best online degrees to consider when it comes to salary potential.

What Are the 20 Highest-Paying Online Degrees?

Generally speaking, the highest-paying online degree programs tend to fit into either the field of business or STEM (science, technology, engineering and mathematics) subjects that don’t require a great deal of clinical experience. Management positions offer particularly high earning potential.

While most of the highest-paid positions you can get with online degrees require at least a bachelor’s degree, if not a master’s degree, some online programs at the associate’s degree level can also offer exceptional earning potential.

Below are 20 of the online programs with the highest earning potential.

1. Management Science

The more responsibility you hold in an organization, the higher your earning potential. As such, management skills are particularly valuable if you want to boost your salary. A degree in management science will prepare you for a breadth of different management positions.

These leadership-focused degrees can help you move up in the world of business administration or build upon your skills in another technical or specialized area so that you can take on a management role within your field. Coursework in master’s degree programs in management science commonly includes:

• organizational leadership in business operations and operations management
• methods of business analytics and data analysis

Some master’s degree programs in management science are more STEM-oriented, while others focus on business leadership skills more generally.

A master’s degree in management science can help you move into management positions of all kinds. Management roles in different occupations each have their own sets of distinct job duties and corresponding earning potential. In general, though, management occupations as a whole had the highest median annual salary of all occupational groups in 2021, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS). The median salary for all management roles amounted to $102,450.

The more senior or more specialized your role in management, the greater your earning potential. One less specialized – yet lucrative – group of management roles to look at is top executive, which according to the BLS encompasses both chief executives and operations managers.

In an operations or general manager position, you will typically focus more on the routine leadership and administration tasks that keep your organization running productively. Chief executive roles tend to involve more focus on strategic planning and determining the larger direction of the organization.

High-Paying Jobs With This Online Degree: Operations managers, general managers, chief executives, STEM managers and top executives

Median Earning Potential: $97,970 (for general and operations managers) to $179,520 (for chief executives)

2. Computer Science

If you’ve got strong computer skills or an interest in computer technology, you’re in luck. Several of the most lucrative jobs available to online college graduates are roles in the computer science or information technology field.

Computer science is a broad field related to computer technology that encompasses the theory, design and development of computers and computer programs. Online students of computer science focus more on computational theory than their peers in related areas like computer engineering and more on the design of networks, operating systems and software programs than their peers in the computer information technology or computer information systems fields.

Online degrees in computer science and related fields of study exist at both the bachelor’s degree and master’s degree levels. Among the areas you might study when pursuing online degrees in computer science are:

• algorithms
• computer programming languages
• artificial intelligence
• software development
• computer systems and networks
• cybersecurity
• databases
• numerical data analysis

RELATED: What Is the Benefit of a Degree in Cybersecurity vs. Network Security?

The median annual salary the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) reported for jobs in the computer and information technology field as of 2022 was $85,000.

Computer science management positions are some of the highest-paying roles you can get with this online degree. For computer and information systems managers, the BLS reported a median annual salary of $159,010 as of 2021.

It isn’t only management roles in computer science that pay well. Jobs that require strong analytical skills, too, tend to be lucrative. For example, the median salary the BLS reported for the computer systems analyst occupation as of 2021 was just barely shy of the six-figure range.

A computer systems analyst typically performs more analytical and technical work than professionals in computer and information systems management roles, whose work more commonly emphasizes managing computer-related projects and overseeing an organization’s computer technology workforce.

High-Paying Jobs With This Online Degree: Computer systems analysts, chief technology officers and other computer and information systems managers

Median Earning Potential: $99,270 (for computer systems analysts) to $159,010 (for computer and information systems managers)

3. Computer Information Technology

If you’re more interested in the practical applications of computer technology than the theoretical underpinnings of computer science, information technology (IT) may be a better fit for you.

Work in the field of information technology tends to emphasize the selection, installation and troubleshooting of existing computer technologies for practical purposes. As a computer information technology professional, you’re likely to be involved in setting up and configuring computer networks and systems to meet an organization’s technological needs rather than designing new hardware components or software programs yourself.

RELATED: What Degree Do I Need to Be a Computer Technician?

If you want to focus your online education more narrowly, you might consider majoring in computer information systems rather than information technology. Computer information systems emphasizes the use of computer technology for business purposes. Online degree programs in computer information systems management typically include more business coursework along with coursework in computers and information systems.

This background, like a degree in computer science, can prepare students to eventually advance to high-level management roles with lucrative median salaries. Earning potential for non-management roles in this field is still high, although perhaps not as high as roles that fit under the domain of computer science. For the job of computer systems administrator, for example, the BLS reported a median salary in the $80,000 range.

High-Paying Jobs With This Online Degree: Computer systems administrators, IT directors, chief information officers, and other types of computer and information systems managers

Median Earning Potential: $80,600 (for network and computer systems administrators) to $159,010 for IT directors, chief information officers and other types of computer and information systems managers

4. Computer Engineering

Another field with a great deal of overlap with computer science is computer engineering, which is essentially the application of engineering design principles to computer systems. Computer engineers design and develop computer hardware (physical components) and software (programs). Although their designs are informed by the principles and practices of math and science, computer engineers focus less on theory and more on practical design applications.

In a computer engineering online bachelor’s degree program, students will typically complete core coursework in general engineering as well as classes more specific to their major. Computer engineering is a subfield within electrical and electronics engineering.

Many online degree programs in computer engineering introduce students to the principles and practices of both computer hardware engineering and software engineering. Students interested in computer hardware engineering would pursue more coursework in areas like:

• computer hardware
• computer architecture
• microprocessor systems
• circuit boards and other components

For students interested in software engineering, courses in common computer programming languages and writing computer algorithms, including the programming of artificial intelligence software, are more relevant.

Both hardware engineering and software development are lucrative fields, although skilled hardware engineers report a slightly higher median annual salary than software engineering professionals, according to data from the BLS.

High-Paying Jobs With This Online Degree: Computer software developer, software engineer and computer hardware engineer

Median Earning Potential: $120,730 (for computer software engineers and developers) to $128,170 (for computer hardware engineers)

5. Electrical and Electronics Engineering

Computers are far from the only aspects of electrical and electronics engineering that you can pursue through an online program. The field of electrical engineering encompasses computers and much more, from electric motors and power generation equipment to communications equipment and navigation equipment.

In electrical and electronics engineering degree programs, students complete courses in information and signals, the foundations and applications of electric and electronic circuits and digital logic design. Often, students pursuing an online bachelor’s degree in electrical and electronics engineering have the opportunity to focus on a specific area of application, such as:

• energy, optics and photonics
• electronic devices
• security
• privacy
• circuits and systems

Electrical and electronics engineering is a lucrative branch of engineering, with a median salary at or above the $100,000 mark for engineers who hold at least a bachelor’s degree. Even at the associate’s degree level, an online degree program in electrical engineering can offer considerable earning potential.

RELATED: Top 10 Paying Jobs With an Associate’s Degree

An associate’s degree in electrical engineering technology can qualify you to work as an electrical and electronic engineering technologist or technician. The median annual salary for electrical and electronic engineering technologists and technicians in 2021 was $63,640, the BLS reported. That’s a considerable increase over the $963 per week, or $50,076 per year, that the BLS reported as the median earnings for American workers with only an associate’s degree.

High-Paying Jobs With This Online Degree: Electrical engineering technicians or technologists, electrical engineers and electronics engineers

Median Earning Potential: $63,640 (for electrical engineering technician or technologist) to $100,420 (for electrical engineers) and $104,820 (for electronics engineers)

6. Petroleum Engineering

A non-management median salary of over $130 with only a bachelor’s degree? It may sound too good to be true, but that’s what you can expect when you leverage your online college education to become a petroleum engineer.

As the name suggests, petroleum engineers apply science-based principles of engineering design to the petroleum industry, and particularly to safely and efficiently extracting oil and gas deposits from the Earth. Some of the common jobs in petroleum engineering, according to the BLS, include:

• drilling engineers
• completions engineers
• production engineers
• reservoir engineers

In an online program in petroleum engineering, students learn about the properties of reservoir rock and petroleum fluid and the practices of logging, testing and completing the construction of wells. Lecture and laboratory work, which may be done online using simulators, allow students to grasp the principles and practices of drilling engineering, production engineering and reservoir engineering.

High-Paying Jobs With This Online Degree: Petroleum engineers

Median Earning Potential: $130,850 (for petroleum engineers) to $165,480 (for petroleum engineers working in management)

7. Aerospace Engineering

Online programs in aerospace engineering, the application of engineering design principles to aircraft and spacecraft, are more popular at the master’s degree level than the bachelor’s degree level. Depending on which aspect of the field a student chooses to pursue after they complete their undergraduate degree, they may become aeronautical engineers, who design aircraft and related components, or astronautical engineers, who design spacecraft.

Students pursuing a master’s degree in aerospace engineering take courses in flight dynamics, rocket propulsion, orbital mechanics, space systems and airfoil and wing theory. They also build on their existing knowledge of mechanics and dynamics acquired during their undergraduate studies with intermediate to advanced coursework in fluid mechanics, dynamics and quantum mechanics.

With a median annual salary above $120,000, according to the BLS, aerospace engineering is among the highest-paying engineering fields. If your goal is to take online courses that allow you to make six figures even without advancing to a management role, aerospace engineering could be the degree for you.

High-Paying Jobs With This Online Degree: Aerospace engineer

Median Earning Potential: $122,270 (for aerospace engineers overall) to $128,020 (for aerospace engineers working in scientific research and development)

8. Chemical Engineering

Another engineering discipline with a median annual salary in the six-figure range, according to the BLS, is chemical engineering. Chemical engineers apply engineering principles to solutions and innovations that pertain to chemicals – materials, processes, manufacturing equipment, safe operations procedures for facilities and more.

Many online programs for chemical engineers are offered at the graduate level as an opportunity for working professionals in the field to develop advanced skills. Online students pursuing a master’s degree in chemical engineering will commonly take classes in areas like:

• chemical engineering analysis
• biochemical engineering
• advanced transport phenomena
• advanced thermodynamics
• chemical reaction engineering
• chemical engineering process modeling
• bioseparations
• polymer science
• materials processing

A few colleges and universities offer online undergraduate degrees in chemical engineering. In an online bachelor’s degree program in chemical engineering, students can expect to complete core engineering studies, general education coursework and major-specific classes in this discipline of engineering. Major coursework for aspiring chemical engineers may include:

• fundamentals of chemical engineering
• chemical product design
• chemical engineering thermodynamics
• chemical engineering reactor design
• transport phenomena
• process dynamics and control
• experimental design

Students should be aware that some online bachelor’s degree programs in chemical engineering require on-campus laboratory work – typically condensed into a short residency period of one to two weeks during the summer – even if the rest of the coursework is conducted online. For example, three major-specific laboratory courses in the University of North Dakota‘s online Bachelor of Science in chemical engineering program must be completed in person, while other laboratory coursework may be completed online.

High-Paying Jobs With This Online Degree: Chemical engineers

Median Earning Potential: $105,550 (for chemical engineers overall) to $152,430 (for chemical engineers working in the engineering services industry)

9. Biomedical Engineering

Taking online classes in biomedical engineering can prepare you to make a difference and a near-six-figure median salary. Biomedical engineers apply engineering principles – including the principles of all major engineering disciplines, from chemical and electrical to mechanical – to the development of healthcare solutions and innovations.

RELATED: Highest Paying Jobs With a Biology Degree – Degrees in Biology – Majors & Careers

As you might expect, skilled biomedical engineers – and their life-changing and often life-saving breakthroughs – are in high demand. The BLS predicts that job opportunities for bioengineers and biomedical engineers will grow by a faster than average rate of 10% between 2021 and 2031.

Online bachelor’s degree programs in biomedical engineering are interdisciplinary programs that bring together foundational coursework in areas like:

• electrical engineering
• mechanical engineering
• chemical engineering

Also, specialized coursework in:

• biomedical engineering problems
• biomedical instrumentation
• biochemical engineering
• biomaterials processing
• biomedical imaging

High-Paying Jobs With This Online Degree: Biomedical engineer

Median Earning Potential: $97,410 (for chemical engineers overall) to $108,690 (for chemical engineers working in the electromedical instruments manufacturing industry)

10. Engineering Management

Engineering roles as a whole are lucrative, but the highest-paying engineering careers are in the field of engineering management. Engineering managers earned a median annual salary above $150,000 as of 2021, according to the BLS. Engineering managers work in all disciplines of engineering, performing job duties such as project management and planning, hiring and supervising engineers and taking projects from concept to completion.

Online degrees in engineering management are most commonly found at the graduate level. Although you can become an engineering manager with only a bachelor’s degree, you also need considerable work experience as an established engineer. Becoming an engineer in the first place requires a bachelor’s degree in some discipline of engineering, so online students in an engineering management program typically already have a bachelor’s degree.

In online master’s degree programs in engineering management, students take classes in:

• engineering decision-making
• engineering economics
• strategic risk management
• project management
• facilities management
• systems in engineering management
• skills for managing engineering teams
• engineering law and ethics

Notably, unlike a Master of Science (MS) degree in any branch of engineering, the focus of a Master of Engineering Management (MEM) degree is less on developing technical skills and more on cultivating the skills and knowledge needed to successfully manage people and projects in the technical area of engineering design.

High-Paying Jobs With This Online Degree: Engineering manager, engineering program manager, project engineering manager, engineering director

Median Earning Potential: $152,350 (for architectural and engineering managers overall) to $187,240 (for engineering managers working in the scientific research and development services industry)

11. Construction Management

Related to the role of engineering manager is construction manager. A construction manager’s job is to plan and supervise a construction project – such as building a residential home, a development of residential homes, an industrial complex or a bridge – from start to finish. Although you may not think of construction as being a high-paying field, the median annual salary for construction management roles amounted to nearly six figures in 2021, according to the BLS.

In online bachelor’s degree programs in construction management, students typically begin their major coursework by studying the fundamentals of the construction industry. More specialized coursework includes construction project management and administration, planning and scheduling for construction projects, construction cost accounting and finance, building construction systems and codes, project building systems, building energy systems for construction managers and construction safety.

RELATED: Architect vs Engineer: What Is the Benefit of an Engineering Degree Over an Architecture Degree?

In addition to their major coursework in construction management, students pursuing this online bachelor’s degree should expect to complete general education courses in a variety of subjects.

An online education in construction management is a particularly good choice for experienced carpenters, masonry contractors and other construction workers who don’t yet have a bachelor’s degree. A bachelor’s degree is considered the minimum entry-level education for most construction manager roles, according to the BLS. By choosing an online education program to pursue their bachelor’s degree, experienced contractors can better balance work and their studies so that they can eventually advance to a management role.

High-Paying Jobs With This Online Degree: construction managers, general contractors, construction project managers

Median Earning Potential: $98,890 (for construction managers overall) to $100,260 (for construction managers working in nonresidential building construction) and $100,310 (for construction managers working in heavy and civil engineering construction)

12. Business Administration

Online degree programs in business administration are popular at both the undergraduate and graduate levels. Business administration is one of the best online degrees for its versatility. Generally, a degree program in business administration – whether offered at the bachelor’s degree or master’s degree level – encompasses core business studies across disciplines within the field of business as well as focused coursework in an area of concentration.

Two common online education programs in the field of business administration are the Bachelor of Business Administration (BBA) and the Master of Business Administration (MBA).

A bachelor’s degree in business administration can prepare you for entry-level positions in the field of business. Through your bachelor’s degree curriculum in business administration, you will learn the basics of business practices and build knowledge of business operations and the foundations of accounting, finance and financial management, marketing and business communications.

Elective courses in a business administration bachelor’s degree program might include international business and project management. Like other bachelor’s degree programs, BBA online programs typically take four years to complete.

In a Master of Business Administration program, students complete more advanced coursework in these areas. Core coursework in an online MBA program might include graduate-level studies in:

• quantitative business analysis
• managerial accounting
• information management
• international business economics
• management of teams and human capital
• marketing management
• supply chain management

Most full-time online MBA programs can be completed in two years. However, some master’s degree programs in business are accelerated, allowing for completion in as little as one year, while others are structured on a part-time basis that takes longer to complete.

One aspect that makes business administration ones of the best online degrees is the program’s ability to prepare students for a variety of high-paying roles. In the business field, some of the potential jobs you could find with this online education include:

• accountant
• management analyst
• financial manager
• marketing manager
• human resources manager
• chief executive

High-Paying Jobs With This Online Degree: Accountants, Management analysts, financial managers and chief executives

Median Earning Potential: $77,250 (for accountants) and $93,000 (for management analysts) to $131,710 (for financial managers) and $179,520 (for chief executives)

13. Finance

Business administration is the broad field of business study, but majoring in one of the subfields within business can be just as lucrative, if not more so. One of the most lucrative subfields of business you can study is finance, the area of business concerned with the management and growth of wealth.

Even non-management roles in finance, including in areas like financial analysis and personal financial management, have median salaries that approach the six-figure range, according to the BLS. The best-paying positions fit into the financial manager occupation.

Financial manager roles encompass jobs like controller, finance officer and treasurer, the BLS reported, and the median salary for these roles was more than $130,000 in 2021. A financial manager doesn’t necessarily need an advanced degree but typically does need at least five years of relevant work experience, the BLS reported.

In an online bachelor’s degree program in finance, students typically take courses in:

• financial analysis
• corporate finance
• international finance
• the foundations of financial management
• intermediate financial management
• financial markets and investment
• portfolio analysis

High-Paying Jobs With This Online Degree: Personal financial advisors, financial analysts, Financial managers, controllers, treasurers, finance officers, credit managers and cash managers

Median Earning Potential:
$94,170 (for personal financial advisers) and $95,570 (for financial analysts) to $131,710 (for financial managers overall) and $158,820 (for financial managers employed in the management of companies and enterprise industry)

14. Human Resource Management

Human resources isn’t one of the more lucrative areas of business, particularly at the non-management level, but skilled workers in this area are in high demand. Human resources manager roles are the most lucrative, with a median salary – $126,230 – that more than doubles the $62,290 median annual salary the BLS reported for HR specialists in 2021.

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

The field of HR is concerned with building and maintaining an organization’s workforce. Human resources specialists are involved in recruiting, hiring, and training workers, as well as resolving interpersonal conflicts among workers or between workers and management and overseeing efforts to retain employees. In some organizations, particularly smaller companies, human resources personnel are also involved in payroll and benefits administration.

Human resource management roles still prioritize the building and maintenance of the company’s workforce, but human resources managers focus more on overseeing an organization’s HR department and its efforts. HR managers supervise the work of human resources specialists and generalists while also working closely with senior management.

“Several” years of human resources work experience, along with a bachelor’s degree (and, for some roles, a master’s degree), are required for most HR manager jobs, the BLS reported.

In an online HR management program of study, students take classes in:

• the introductory concepts of human resources management
• employment law
• staffing and recruitment
• training and development
• compensation and benefits
• organizational development
• global HR management

High-Paying Jobs With This Online Degree: Human resources specialist, human resources generalist, human resources manager, human resources director

Median Earning Potential: $62,290 (for human resources specialists overall) and $76,920 (for human resources specialists in the professional, scientific and technical services) to $126,230 (for human resources managers)

15. Supply Chain Management

An online bachelor’s degree program in supply chain management prepares students for work in planning and coordinating the logistics of procuring, manufacturing and transporting materials for an organization.

Not all jobs in supply chain management are actually management roles. Rather, recent graduates of supply chain management programs often start out as logisticians, who focus on the flow of movement of the materials an organization needs and on the storage of those materials. Supply chain managers, on the other hand, oversee the supply chain more broadly, including but not limited to the logistics that a logistician coordinates.

Students in an online bachelor’s degree program in supply chain management typically study:

• logistics management
• supply chain strategy
• global supply operations and management
• business decision models
• planning and control systems for supply chain management
• lean and quality management
• research and negotiation

High-Paying Jobs With This Online Degree: Logisticians, supply chain managers and supply chain directors

Median Earning Potential: $77,030 (for logisticians overall) and $88,710 (for logisticians employed by the federal government) to $98,230 (for supply chain managers)

16. Marketing

Marketing is the area of business that refers to promoting a company or product. There are many aspects of work in business marketing, from the quantitative market research side to the creative side of crafting marketing messages and advertising campaigns.

The most lucrative roles in marketing are marketing management positions. A marketing manager oversees marketing efforts and personnel in the marketing department. Marketing managers may be involved in everything from identifying products and services to develop or expand and estimating the market and demand for these offerings to the development and implementation of marketing campaigns for these offerings. For marketing managers as a whole, the BLS reported a median salary above $135,000.

Among non-management roles in marketing, market research analyst is among the best-paying career paths. Market research analysts are concerned with the statistical analysis of data pertaining to business markets. By researching consumer needs, purchasing habits and attitudes, as well as competitors’ offerings and methods, market research analysts can provide insight on how (and whether) to develop, price and promote a company’s goods and services.

The median salary for a market research analyst is less than half of that of a marketing manager, the BLS reported.

Online students pursuing a bachelor’s degree in marketing will likely take courses in:

• marketing principles
• marketing strategy
• marketing research and consumer behavior
• business strategy
• business writing
• management concepts

High-Paying Jobs With This Online Degree: Market research analysts and marketing managers

Median Earning Potential: $63,920 (for market research analysts overall) and $79,640 (for market research analysts employed in management) to $135,030 (for marketing managers overall) and $155,470 (for marketing managers in the Professional, scientific and technical services industry)

17. Healthcare Administration

Many of the most lucrative careers in America are in the medical and healthcare industry, but roles like physician, physician assistant and nurse practitioner require a great deal of in-person clinical work. One of the best online degrees for working in healthcare facilities is healthcare administration.

This bachelor’s degree or master’s degree program emphasizes the development of both general and specialized knowledge to apply business administration principles and practices to the unique environment of healthcare facilities, the BLS reported.

Students in a healthcare administration program take classes like:

• health care policy and economics
• finance for health care
• information systems for health care
• strategic planning for health care
• organization and management for health care
• operational analysis
• quality improvement in health care
• health care leadership and ethics

High-Paying Jobs With This Online Degree: Healthcare administrators and healthcare executives

Median Earning Potential: $101,340 (for medical and health services managers overall) to $119,450 (for health administrators employed by hospitals)

18. Actuarial Science

Our list of the best online degrees has included numerous programs in science, technology and engineering, but there’s still the “M” in STEM: mathematics. Actuarial science is a field at the intersection of mathematics and business that focuses on the statistical and mathematical calculation of risk.

Actuary is a high-paid career with a six-figure median salary, and for a good reason. Becoming an actuary isn’t easy. Not only do actuaries perform complex mathematical calculations, but they also must pass a sequence of difficult professional certification exams over the course of their career, the BLS reported. A less challenging (although also less lucrative) career path you could pursue with a background in actuarial science is insurance underwriter, for which the BLS reported a median salary in the mid-$70,000 range.

In an online actuarial science program, students should be prepared to take a great deal of math coursework, including a sequence of calculus courses and studies in linear algebra and differential equations. Major coursework for actuarial science students blends math and business studies, with classes in:

• financial mathematics
• probability
• financial statistics
• business finance
• financial and managerial accounting

High-Paying Jobs With This Online Degree: Insurance underwriters and actuaries

Median Earning Potential: $76,390 (for insurance underwriters) to $105,900 (for actuaries overall) and $110,590 (for actuaries employed by the government)

19. Mathematics or Statistics

Actuarial science isn’t the only practical application of a mathematics education. If you’re interested in math, you can earn a surprisingly lucrative salary with an online mathematics or statistics degree. Mathematicians earn a median salary in the six-figure range, and statisticians earn almost six figures, the BLS reported.

If you major in mathematics or statistics as an online student, your major coursework will, obviously, be very math heavy.

Mathematics majors take a series of calculus courses along with classes in linear and modern algebra, abstract mathematics, mathematical models and real analysis. They are encouraged to take elective courses in areas such as:

• differential equations
• statistical techniques
• geometry
• number theory and topology
• computational methods
• finance

Statistics majors focus less on areas like calculus and algebra in their major coursework and more on methods of statistical analysis and their underlying concepts. An online statistics degree program might cover introductory coursework in mathematical statistics, probability theory, regression methods, experimental design and variance analysis and methods of statistical consulting. Popular electives among statistics majors include:

• statistical analysis system programming using languages like R and Python
• applications of statistical methods to data management, epidemiological research, clinical trials and genomics

High-Paying Jobs With This Online Degree: Statisticians and mathematicians

Median Earning Potential: $95,570 (for statisticians overall) and $108,100 (for mathematicians overall) to $114,770 (for statisticians employed in the scientific research and development industry) and $129,800 (for mathematicians employed in the professional, scientific and technical services industry)

20. Environmental Science

Rounding out our list of 20 high-paying online programs is an interdisciplinary STEM subject that allows graduates to make a difference in the world around them. Environmental science encompasses all aspects of the scientific study of the environment and the development of scientific solutions to environmental problems, including pollution and climate change.

RELATED: What Are the 5 Best Careers in Environmental Science?

Most online environmental science programs require students to build a background in the foundations of biology, chemistry, physics, math and statistics. Major coursework builds upon this basic science background in areas like:

• natural environmental systems
• ecology
• soil science and geology
• hydrology
• environmental policy
• environmental management
• environmental ethics

RELATED: Top 10 Online Bachelor’s Degree Programs in Environmental Science

High-Paying Jobs With This Online Degree: Environmental scientists, climate change analysts, industrial ecologists and environmental chemists

Median Earning Potential: $76,530 (for environmental scientists overall) to $103,530 (for environmental scientists working for the federal government)

Where Can You Work With an Online Education?

As you can see from our list of the best online degrees, online education prepares students for a variety of different fields and levels of seniority. New graduates without extensive work experience can use their online degrees to land their first entry-level positions in a field that requires a college education. As they gain experience, these professionals can advance to roles where they have more responsibility and, in turn, a higher earning potential.

For established professionals, online degrees can allow for career advancement without having to leave the workforce. This may be the case for workers who have experience in a technical area but no formal college degree or only a minimal level of study, such as an associate’s degree. Taking online classes offers working professionals in fields like engineering, construction, computer technology and business an opportunity to develop skills in leadership and project management while continuing to thrive where they are. That’s why many of the best online degrees are master’s degree programs.

Because graduates of online degree programs work in different fields and at different levels of seniority, the industries and environments where they may find work are almost limitless. Many graduates of online programs work for for-profit businesses in a variety of industries, including engineering services, the finance and insurance industry, construction and manufacturing. Some graduates of online education programs work for government agencies or nonprofit organizations. Your job opportunities with an online education are plentiful, and where you take your career depends on what you want to do.

For Further Reading:

What Degree Do I Need to Be a Policy Analyst?

What Degree Do I Need to Be an Intelligence Analyst?

The post Top 20 Highest-Paying Online Degrees appeared first on DegreeQuery.com.

1.) Brigham Young University-Idaho

Brigham Young university Idaho as a private institution located in Rexburg. BYUI is affiliated with the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints. Currently, the university enrolls almost 40,000 students and the student-to-faculty ratio is 19 to 1. According to Carnegie, BYUI is a baccalaureate college. In fact, all students enrolled are undergraduate students. BYUI is ranked regionally. According to the US news and world report, the institution is 16th in the region and highly for social mobility as well as undergraduate engineering programming. When it comes to academic offerings, BYU I offers programming in a wide variety of fields many of which are high demand including the fields of education, health and business. In recent years, BYUI has expand their programming to include online offerings. Associate- seeking and bachelors-seeking students may pursue a degree fully online.

Brigham Young University Idaho offers the online marriage and family studies degree. Students may pursue this program if they are interested in a range of human service professions especially those that serve children and youth as well as their families. According to the department of labor, these jobs are growing faster than the national average. In the first year students will focus on the following core courses: merit skills, family relations, and introduction to psychology, child development and others. In the second year students continue in those studies. Finally in the third and fourth year students may choose from one of the following areas of specialization: child and family advocacy, human services, or parent and family education,. The child and family advocacy specialization focuses on public speaking where are the human services certificate focuses on family and community as well as helping individuals cope with stress, drug abuse and more. The parent and family education certification helps couples navigate marriage difficulties and teaches parenting skills, parent education as well as early and middle child development. For more information about this online degree check out their website.

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2.) California State University- East Bay

California State University East Bay is a public four-year university located in Hayward, California. The institution offers bachelors, masters and doctoral degree’s and enrolls over 16,000 students. According to Carnegie, California State University East Bay is a Masters College. To support the success of the students the institution offers credit for life experiences. Their academic offerings are varied and include programming in ethnic studies, business, education, health, physical sciences, social sciences, and more. In recent years, CSU East Bay offers online degrees for undergraduate as well as masters seeking students. Some of their most popular programs other online bachelors in business and ministration, as well as their online educational masters degree in leadership.

The human development and women’s study department at California State East Bay offers a Bachelor of Arts in a wide variety of areas. Their online program is in human development. Each class in this program is online with occasional hybrid classes. Additionally, the online program offers concentrations in the following areas: early childhood development, women’s development, and adult development and gerontology. This program is suitable for transfer students. The curriculum includes course material in the following areas: research methods in human development, futures and careers for human development, theories of human development, mid life transitions, and much more. The curriculum will vary depending on your area specialization. For more information about their programming and to apply check out their website.

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3.) Arizona State University

Arizona State University is a public institution located in Tempe, Arizona and across the state of Arizona. ASU currently enrolls over 50,000 students and has a student to faculty ratio of 20 to 1. The institution offers bachelors masters and doctoral degrees as well as a number of professional certifications. According to the Carnegie Institution, ASU is classified as a doctoral university with very high research activity. In recent years, ASU has ranked number one in the nation for innovation according to the US News and World Report. This is largely due to their vast online offerings. In fact ASU offers hundreds of online degrees for undergraduate as well as graduate students. Students may pursue an online bachelors degree in urban planning for example as well as an online masters degree in speech communication and rhetoric. These are just some examples of the wide array of fields one may pursue through ASU online.

ASU Online offers an online Bachelor of Science in Family and Human Development. The total credit hour requirement is 120 and each class is 7.5 weeks long. In total students are required to complete 39 classes. Some of the courses that are included in the curriculum are family ethnic and cultural diversity, research methods, personal growth in human relationships, and human development. The human development and family degree focuses on cognitive and social as well as emotional development of individuals as well as families across their lifespan. Professionals in this area of work provide solutions that improve family relationships and outcomes. This program may lead to certified child life specialist designation. Although students do not receive this designation at ASU you may take a series of courses to meet the requirements for the CCLS eligibility. For more information and to apply check out their website.

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4.) Washington State University

Washington State University is a public four-year institution located in Pullman. Their current enrollment is over 30,000 and the student to faculty ratio 16 to 1. WSU offers bachelors masters and doctorate degrees as well as professional certifications. According to the US News and World Report, WSU ranks highly for veterans, value, engineering programming, computer science, and business programming. Additionally, to support student success the University offers credit for life experiences as well as distance learning opportunities for both undergraduate and graduate students. Some of their most popular programs by enrollment are in the field of family consumer science, engineering, and Business.

Washington State Online offers a bachelors degree in human development. This program is offered entirely online and may lead to a certificate in early childhood education or gerontology. The early childhood education certificate includes the following required courses: an introduction to early childhood, parent child relationships, child development, guidance in early childhood programming, and others. The gerontology certification offers course material in the following areas: family stress and coping, adult development, gerontology, families in poverty, cognition and memory, and more. For more information about these programs and to apply check out their website.

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5.) University of North Carolina-Greensboro (UNCG Online)

The University of North Carolina at Greensboro is a public university l that enrolls over 20,000 students. UNCG offers bachelor’s masters and doctoral degrees as well as professional certifications and maintains a student to faculty ratio of 16 to 1. According to Carnegie, UNCG is a doctoral university with high research activity. The US News and World Report ranks UNCG as a national university and highly for social mobility as well as public schooling business programming computer science and more. Additionally, UNCG offers a wide variety of online offerings for both undergraduate and graduate seeking students as well as those pursuing professional certification. Some of their most popular programs are in the field of education, family sciences and human development, and health.

Among their online programming is the Bachelor of Science in Human Development and Family Studies. This program is fully online though some of the programs take place during lunchtime or in the evenings. This program prepares you for a career in early childhood settings. Some of the course material includes courses in human development, family diversity, issues and parenting, infant and child development, and leadership in early childhood education. This program prepares students for North Carolina licensure to teach from birth to kindergarten with the birth to kindergarten teacher licensure program. For more information and to apply check out their website.

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6.) Colorado State University-Fort Collins

Colorado State University Fort Collins is a public institution that enrolls over 33,000 students. The university is well known for its innovation and wide variety of programming and according to Carnegie is a doctoral institution with very high research activity. The current student to faculty ratio it’s 14 to 1. To support student success the University offers academic and career counseling as well as credit for life experiences and distance learning opportunities. According to the US News and World Report Colorado State University ranks nationally and highly for value, social mobility, public schooling,engineering programming, business programming and computer science. Their distance learning opportunities include programming in business education engineering and more.

Colorado State University Online offers the human development and family studies bachelor of science in human development and family studies. Participants may choose from 1 to 5 concentrations: early childhood professions, leadership and entrepreneurial professions, pre-health professions, prevention and intervention sciences, and human development and family studies. Additionally, students have the option to minor in gerontology. In this program you’ll learn how to observe, develop and implement programming, write grants for success, Inform policy decisions and understand the cultural distinctions that make up a wide diverse array of populations. You will learn to engage with individuals from across the lifespan. The curriculum includes course material in family development, infant and child development, lifespan intervention and prevention, and couple and family studies.

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7.) University of Arizona

The University of Arizona is a public four-year institution located in Tucson. Arizona offers bachelors, masters, and doctoral degrees as well as a number of professional certifications. Their current enrollment is over 44,000 and the student to faculty ratio is 15 to 1. According to Carnegie, Arizona ranks as a doctoral university with very high research activity. According to the US News and World Report, the University of Arizona is the 97th top school in the nation and ranks highly for value engineering programming, business programming and computer science. To support the success of their students the University offers credit for life experiences, study abroad programs, academic and career counseling and distance-learning opportunities. Arizona offers distance learning opportunities for both undergraduate and graduate seeking students. Additionally students may pursue professional certifications entirely online.

The University of Arizona offers the bachelor of science and family studies in human development. If you are interested in a profession and devoted to improving quality of life for individuals across the lifespan and their families in this program may be for you. This major is a good fit for anybody interested in working in Social Work or other healthcare settings. Some of the example courses include the social science and human behavior adolescence infancy and child development, family studies and human development, and much more.

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8.) University of Texas of the Permian Basin

University of Texas Permian Basin is a public four-year institution located in Odessa, Texas. The student population is over 5000 and the student to faculty ratio is 19 to 1. UTPB offers bachelors and masters degrees as well as professional certifications. According to Carnegie, UTPB classifies as a masters college and university with larger programming. Their student services include academic and career counseling and distance learning opportunities. Students my pursue undergraduate or graduate level courses online. Some of their most popular programs are in the fields of business education and communication.

The University of Texas at Permian Basin offers the online Bachelor of Arts in Child and Family Studies. This undergraduate program will take about four years to complete. The program is 120 credits at least 30 of which must be completed at the UT Permian Basin. Students complete 37 credit hours of a child and family studies course work. Course material focuses on parent child education, curriculum development, social services, grant writing and more. For more information about this program and to apply check out their website.

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9.) Utah State University

Utah State University is a public four year institution located in Logan, Utah. USU offers associates, bachelors, masters and doctoral degree as well as professional certifications. The University currently enrolls nearly 30,000 students and it’s classified as a doctoral University with high research activity. The US News and World Report ranks USU nationally and highly for public education, social mobility engineering programming and more. To support the success of their students USU offers academic and career counseling as well as distance learning opportunities. In fact, associates and bachelors and Masters seeking students may all pursue programming online.

Among these online options is the undergraduate degree in Human Development and Family Studies. Students may complete either a Bachelor of Science or a Bachelor of Arts.. The program has four emphasis: family and community services, child development, family finance and human development lifespan. The family and community service program prepare students to work with families across the lifespan. The child development emphasis teaches about the physical and social emotional development of children. The family finance program prepares you to work with families teaching them to invest, budget, and create better financial opportunities. The human development lifespan looks at development across the ages. For more information about this program and to apply check out their website.

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10.) University of Alabama

The University of Alabama is a public institution located in Tuscaloosa. This institution enrolls over 38,000 students and has a student to faculty ratio of 20 to 1. The university offers bachelors masters and doctoral degree‘s and is currently listed as a doctoral University with very high research activity according to Carnegie. The University of Alabama is known for academic programming as well as athletic programming. The university boasts a wide range of opportunities for students both on campus and online. According to the US news and World Report the University of Alabama ranks as the 143rd best school in the nation as well as highly for veterans, value, public schooling, engineering and much more.

Bama by distance is the college of continuing studies offered through the University of Alabama. In recent years Bama by distance has grown to become one of the largest online presence is online higher education presence is in the world. Among their online offerings is there bachelor of science and human development and family studies with a concentration in child life. This program is 120 credit hours in length and is offered entirely online. As a child life specialist you’ll become an interdisciplinary member of the child’s healthcare team. Your help children and their families cope with living with the disability illness or hospitalization. I made your courses are 15 hours in length the total amount of course the time amount of hours required for the major is 15 and the child life concentration is an additional eight courses. The child life coordinate concentration the child life concentration includes course material and medical terminology, creative experiences for young children, centers and programs hospitalize children use, loss embarrassment, child life internship and a medical ethics perfect course. Additionally students will study anatomy and physiology along with general education classes. For information about this degree and to apply check out their website.

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11.) Stephen F. Austin State University

Stephen F Austin State University is a public four-year institution located in Nacogdoches, Texas. The university offer bachelors, masters and doctoral degrees and is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools. To support the success of their students SFASU offers academic and career counseling as well as credit for life experiences and distance learning opportunities. Both undergraduate and graduate students may pursue course material online. According to the US News and World Report Stephen F. Austin State University is the 298th top school in the nation and ranks highly for business programming as well as undergraduate engineering programming.

SFASU office the bachelor of science in human sciences with an emphasis in human development and family studies. This program takes an in-depth look at changing development for children and adults. The program” material and family and schooling parenting early childhood sexuality in the context of family and much more if you’re interested in child development in this program is for you for more information to apply check out their website.

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12.) University of Wisconsin-Stout

The University of Wisconsin Stout is a public four year institution located in Menomonie, Wisconsin. There are 8400 and students enrolled and their student to faculty ratio is 18 to 1. According to Carnegie, the University of Wisconsin- Stout is a masters college. The institution offers bachelors, masters, and doctoral degrees as well as professional certifications. Some of their most popular programs are in the field of business and education. In recent years, the university has grown to offer online programming for both undergraduate and graduate students. There are over a dozen programs from which to choose. The University of Wisconsin at Stout is ranked regionally and highly for engineering, veterans, value and computer science programming according to the US News and World Report.

The University of Wisconsin Stout office a Bachelor of Science in Human Development and Family Studies. If you enjoy helping other people than this program could be for you. The purpose of this program it’s to teach students how the developmental process across the lifespan affects human outcomes for individuals and families. This program features award-winning instructors as well as opportunities to apply learning in a professional networking environment. The program is 120 credit hours in length. The major studies are 62 credits and the concentration or minor is 15. Some of the major courses include human development: early childhood, lifespan sexuality, healthy couple relationships, critical cultural competence, family policy, family research and methodology, and abnormal psychology among others. For more information and to apply to this program check out their website. Additionally students have the opportunity to design their own emphasis or minor for an additional 15 credits

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13.) Concordia University- Saint Paul

Concordia University St. Paul is a private institution that enrolls over 5000 students. CSP offers comprehensive programming as well as professional certifications. The student to faculty ratio is 18 to 1. Concordia University of Saint Paul has been accredited by the Higher Learning Commission since 1959. To support the success of their students the institution offers academic and career counseling as well as credit for life experiences, and distance learning opportunities for both undergraduate and graduate students. In fact, the majority of their programming is offered online. Some of their most popular programs are in the fields of business administration, educational leadership, nursing practice, kinesiology and exercise science, psychology, and more.

CSP offers a Bachelor of Arts in Family Science. This is a 40 credit hour degree that covers development family systems as well as family law. The required courses include programming in family life, filming decision-making and resource management, family system structures in relationships, adolescent development, family science fieldwork experience, parent education, and culminates with the capstone experience. In addition, all bachelor seeking students must complete the general education requirements. For more information about this program and to apply check out their website.

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14.) Oregon State University

Oregon State University is a public institution located in Corvallis, Oregon. Their current student population is 31,000 and the student to faculty ratio is 18 to 1. OSU has been accredited by the Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities since 1924. To support the success of their students the institution offers academic and career counseling along with distance learning opportunities. According to Carnegie, Oregon state university is a doctoral university with very high research activity. In fact,the US News and World Reports ranks OSU nationally and highly for value, innovation and social mobility.

OSU offers an online Bachelors of Science in Human Development and Family Sciences. This is an 180 credit hour program that requires four years to complete. The format is online. 60 of the credit hours are upper division credit. Some of the courses you will take during this program include: adult development and infant, children and youth with disabilities, families in poverty, family studies, human sexuality, family violence and neglect, infant and child development, and much more. If you feel called to pursue a helping profession than this course may be for you.

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15.) American Public University

American Public University is a distance-learning institution that’s headquartered in Charles Town, West Virginia. The institution currently enrolls over 45,000 students and offers associates, bachelors, masters and doctorale degrees as well as professional certifications. APU is accredited by the Distance Education Commission as well as the Higher Learning Commission. The institution offers comprehensive programming for individuals seeking online degrees in a wide variety of fields including business, education, homeland security, parks and recreation, computer information sciences and more. American Public University is classified as a Masters College University with larger programming according to Carnegie.

APU offers an online Bachelor of Arts in Human Development and Family Studies. This program is 120 credit hours in length. Students may transfer up to 90 credits. East course is eight weeks long and starts monthly. This degree is broken down into the four following areas: general education requirements, major requirements, general electives, and the final program requirement. The major requirements include course material in child development, human sexuality, child and adolescent development, parenting, family development, research methods for sociology, human lifespan development, and more. The final program requirement is a senior seminar and child and family development. For more information and to apply check out their website.

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16.) Eastern Kentucky University

Eastern Kentucky University EKU is a public institution located in Richmond, Kentucky. The student population is 14,900 and the student to faculty ratio is 15 to 1.EKU offers comprehensive degree programming as well as professional certifications. Carnegie classifies EKU as a Masters College and University with larger programming. The university has been accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges in School since 1928. To support the success of their students in addition to high-quality academics the institution offers academic and career counseling, distance learning opportunities, and more. In recent years, EKU has expanded their programming to include online opportunities for both undergraduate and graduate students. Students may pursue an online bachelors degree in psychology as well as an online masters degree in criminal justice. As you can see there’s a wide range of opportunities available both on campus and online.

EKU offers a bachelors degree in child and family studies. There are multiple programs from which to choose including the bachelors degree in child and family studies with an emphasis in child development or the infant/toddler care education certification as an early childhood director. Terms are eight weeks long and their programming features personalized graduation planning. Credits that count towards the child development associate can be applied toward your state credential. This program has been ranked by the US and World Report among the best universities that offer online degrees. The bachelors in child development requires 120 to 125 credit hours to complete which includes curriculum on development across the ages. For more information and to apply just check out their website.

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17.) Kansas State University

Kansas State University is a public four year institution located in Manhattan, Kansas. The university offers comprehensive degree programming as well as professional certifications and currently enrolls over 20,000 students. According to a Carnegie, Kansas State is a doctoral University with very high research activity. According to the US News and World Report Kansas State University ranks as the 170th best school in the nation and highly for social mobility, public schooling, engineering, business programming, computer science and more. This program has been accredited by the Higher Learning Commission since 1916. To support the success of their students the university offers academic and career counseling as well as distance learning opportunities. Students may pursue an online bachelors, masters or doctorate degree as well as an online professional certification.

Kansas State University offers an online Bachelors degree in Human Development and Family Science. This program is 120 credit hours in length and is offered fully online. The curriculum includes course material in integrative health and human sciences as well as the professional core. The professional core includes courses such as middle child and adolescent human development and aging, family and diversity, working with parents, basically attrition, early childhood, and much more. Additionally students may pursue a number of areas of concentration or complete an HDFS internship. All students, culminate this degree with the capstone experience. For more information and to apply check out their website.

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18.) North Dakota State University

North Dakota State University is a public four-year institution located in Fargo, North Dakota. NDSU offers a bachelors, masters, and doctoral degree as well as professional certifications and currently enrolls over 13,000 students. The student to faculty ratio is 18 to 1. Since 1915, NDSU has been accredited by the Higher Learning Commission. According to Carnegie, NDSU is a doctoral university with high research activity. The US News and World Report ranks NDSU nationally and highly for social mobility, public schooling, undergraduate engineering, business programming and computer science. To support the success of their students NDSU offers a wide array of student support services including academic and career counseling and distance learning opportunities. In fact, NDSU offers online programming for both undergraduate and graduate students alike.

NDSU offers a Bachelor of Science in Human Development and Family Science. This program is for anyone who is interested in child development, adolescent development, gerontology, hospital child life, financial and consumer literacy, family life education and more. Like with many bachelors degrees this is a 120 credit hour program that may be completed across four years. Students must complete general education classes as well as major course requirements including in the following areas: human development and family sciences, diversity in multiculturalism, individual and family life, psychology, children and families in public policy, and more. Additionally students will complete a field experience. For more information about this program and to apply check out their website.

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19.) Amridge University

Amridge University is a private four-year institution headquartered in Montgomery, Alabama. This is a distance-learning institution that enrolls just over 800 students. The student to faculty ratio is 13 to 1. Amridge University offers Associate, Masters and Doctoral degree ‘s. The institution has been accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools since 1989.Amridge University offers online programming in the following fields: business management, family consumer science, health professions, homeland security, liberal arts and sciences, philosophy and religious studies, and theology and religion. The institution is affiliated with the Church of Christ.

Amridge offers a bachelor of science and human development. This program is designed to transition students into the master of science degree with a concentration in family therapy and counseling. The course requirements include general education classes electives as well as required courses. Some of the required courses focus on child development psychology abnormal psychology motivation and performance as well as diversity. This program is 128 semester credit hours 40 of those credit hours are devoted to general education classes and 40 are devoted to progress to civic courses. The remaining 48 classes are electives giving each student the opportunity to tell her their degree to meet Their interests. To be eligible for this program must have an average GPA up to .0 or higher. For more information or to apply check out their website.

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20.) Southern New Hampshire University

Southern New Hampshire University is a private four year institution that’s located in Manchester, New Hampshire. SNHU enrolls over 100,000 students and maintains a students to faculty ratio of 22 to 1. The university offers comprehensive degree programming as well as professional certifications at every stage. To support the success of their students SNHU offers credit for life experiences, dual credits, academic and career counseling, and distance-learning opportunities. In fact, the majority of students pursue programming online. SNHU has some of the largest online offerings of any institution in the world including a wide array of courses in business, education, family and consumer sciences, health, and much more. SNHU currently ranked number one in the region as the most innovative school in the north according to the US News and World Report.

As an SU offers an online bachelors degree in human services. This is a 120 credit our program where students may transfer up to 90 credits. Students may pursue one of the three following concentrations: a bachelor of arts and Child and family services, a bachelor of arts in gerontology, and a bachelor of arts and substance-abuse. The bachelor of arts and Child and family services concentration explore social issues that affect families. Upon completion you may become a case manager, a child focused advocate, a home visitor, community health worker and more. The gerontology option is for individuals who are interested in caring for the aging. You’ll look at wellness and disease issues and policies that affect the elderly long-term care anymore. The substance abuse concentration and focus is on addictions as well as prevention methods. For more information and to apply check out their website.

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The post The 20 Best Online Bachelor’s in Family Studies appeared first on DegreeQuery.com.

Working in the field of applied behavioral analysis can be fulfilling. Applied behavior analysts, the professionals responsible for implementing interventions that bring about significant behavior change, make a difference.

To work in the field of behavior analysis, you will need at least a master’s degree. Many aspiring behavior analysts choose ABA online masters programs for their flexibility and convenience.

RELATED: Should I Get a Master’s Degree in Applied Behavior Analysis?

What Is Applied Behavior Analysis?

The field of applied behavior analysis (ABA) can trace its roots back to B.F. Skinner, the founder of behaviorism.

Skinner claimed that, just like any other, animal humans can be trained through a series of reinforcements and punishments. Over the years, the field of applied behavior analysis has used these founding principles to create a systematic approach to learning. Modern ABA intervention plans are much more sophisticated than the behaviorism from Skinner’s day.

Modern Uses of Applied BehaviorAnalysis

Applied behavior analysis is an evidence-based approach to teaching. One reason you may have heard of applied behavior analysis (ABA) before is its popular use among children who have been diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder. Applied behavior analysis methods have been used to help children with ASD learn skills like the following:

• Communication skills
• Social skills
• Academic skills
• Fundamental life skills

RELATED: What Degree Do People With a Job in Treating Autism Have?

Today, ABA clinics across the nation use the natural environment and other less sterile settings as the backdrop for implementing interventions based on applied behavior analysis. This means that learning using ABA has moved away from the table time 1:1 model to a model that looks a lot more like how kids naturally play. The result is that everyone can benefit.

The applications of applied behavior analysis aren’t limited to this one population. In fact, ABA principles are used for learning applications that each one of us uses on a daily basis.

Studying Applied Behavior Analysis Online

Are you interested in learning about the science of behaviorism as it applies to working with children, teens and adults today? To qualify for professional employment in applied behavior analysis, you’re going to need an education and professional credentials.

Certification in Behavior Analytic Services

Practitioners in the field of applied behavior analysis are known as Board Certified Behavior Analysts, or BCBAs. Certification in the field of applied behavior analysis is granted by the Behavior Analyst Certification Board (BACB).

A Board Certified Behavior Analyst must hold a master’s degree. Either as part of their degree program or through a separate course of study, aspiring BCBAs must complete behavior-analytic coursework.

The most highly educated behavior analysts are designated as BCBA-Ds. They have a doctoral degree, such as a:

• Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) degree
• Doctor of Psychology (PsyD) degree
• Doctor of Education (EdD) degree

Despite the distinct BCBA-D designation, having a doctorate is not required for this role. BCBA-D is not a separate certification from BCBA, and BCBA-Ds fulfill the same role as BCBAs, according to the Behavior Analyst Certification Board. Both BCBAs and BCBA-Ds are independent practitioners of behavior-analytic services. Further, providers with either designation can oversee the work that Board Certified Assistant Behavior Analysts (BCaBAs) and Registered Behavior Technicians (RBTs) perform in implementing the treatment plans the BCBA develops.

RELATED: How Advanced Does My Degree in Behavior Analysis Need to Be to Get a Good Job?

Becoming qualified for BCBA certification requires a specialized education in applied behavioral analysis. It’s important to choose a program that meets one of two characteristics:

1. Has been accredited or recognized by the Association for Behavior Analysis International (ABAI), or
2. Utilizes a Verified Course Sequence as verified by the ABAI

Without taking coursework deemed eligible by the Association for Behavior Analysis International, you won’t meet the requirements for the BCBA credential.

RELATED: What Courses Will I Take to Become a Certified Behavior Analyst?

Online Education for a Career in Applied Behavioral Analysis

Fortunately for busy students, numerous colleges now offer online ABA programs that meet ABAI standards. Online students can earn a master’s degree and prepare to take the Behavior Analyst Certification Board’s BCBA Exam without the hassle of commuting to campus. Some online programs require attendance in live online classes, while others allow students to access course lectures, materials and assignments on their schedule. For working students, students juggling family responsibilities and other non-traditional students, online ABA programs are a flexible and convenient way to pursue graduate-level certification.

The Best Online ABA Certificate Programs and Degree Programs

An online master degree is an excellent option for preparing for a career in applied behavior analysis. Studying applied behavior analysis prepares online students for the BCBA Exam and certification. Online master’s degree programs in this field may be offered under different titles, departments, schools and colleges. Some of the online master’s programs in this field are specialized applied behavior analysis degree programs. Others are concentrations or specializations within special education programs. What these degree programs have in common is that they are all among the best ABA online masters programs in America.

RELATED: 50 Top Applied Behavioral Analysis Degree Scholarships

Check out our list below of the 20 best online master’s degree programs in ABA.

1. Arizona State University

Arizona State University isn’t just home to one of the best online masters in applied behavior analysis. The public school that dates back to 1885 is also one of the top schools in the world for innovation.

Why Study ABA at Arizona State University

Don’t take our word (or the institution’s own words) for Arizona State University’s reputation for innovation. U.S. News and World Report has recognized Arizona State University as leading the nation on its Most Innovative Schools list. The publication also ranked ASU well on its lists of national universities, top public schools, best value schools and best colleges for veterans.

Arizona State University, located in Tempe, Arizona, is known for its degrees in teaching, engineering, business, science, computer science, psychology and more.

To rank among the top schools in the nation for innovation, ASU excels in both on-campus and online learning. The school is home to some of the best online offerings anywhere.

ASU Online offers more than 300 online degrees and certificates for undergraduate students, graduate students, and non-degree students seeking an online certification. Online undergraduate degree programs at Arizona State University cover a wide range of subject areas, including:

• Global management
• Art
• Geography
• Health
• Philosophy
• Psychology
• Tourism and recreation

The online graduate programs at ASU are wonderful options for adults who are looking to advance their careers while maintaining their jobs and other responsibilities. Some of the online master’s programs Arizona State University has offered include the following programs:

• Master of Arts in Education
• Master of Arts in Global Security – Cybersecurity
• Master of Science in Graphic Information Technology
• Master of Science in Psychology
• Master of Arts in World War II Studies

Among ASU’s many offerings is the institution’s online Master of Arts in Special Education with an emphasis in Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA).

Coursework in Arizona State University’s Master of Arts in Applied Behavior Analysis Program

ASU’s online MA in Special Education program encompasses studies in areas like the following:

• Instructional design, planning and assessment
• Instruction and assessment for learners with exceptionalities
• Instructional methods for language and literacy
• Mathematics methods and assessment
• Language and communication methods and assessment
• Special education foundations
• Research and evaluation in education

The Applied Behavior Analysis Concentration utilizes research as well as experience to prepare students to work professionally with individuals who have special learning and behavioral needs. Through this ABA program, you will learn how to implement applied behavior analysis principles during instruction.

The curriculum of ASU’s Applied Behavior Analysis concentration constitutes a Verified Course Sequence, per the Association for Behavior Analysis International.

Some of the courses in this concentration include:

• Concepts & principles of applied behavior analysis
• Ethics of applied behavior analysis
• Behavior change procedures
• Personnel supervision and organizational behavior management in educational settings
• Philosophical foundations of applied behavior analysis in educational settings
• Measurement, data display, interpretation & experimental design
• Behavior analytic assessment
• Advanced applications of applied behavior analysis
• Verbal behavior
• controversial therapies, science, fad and pseudoscience in educational settings

Completing this coursework satisfies the course requirements for taking the BCBA Exam, although students may need to fulfill additional requirements to be deemed eligible to move forward with the certification process.

If you are passionate about working with special needs students and want to take your career to the next level by applying ABA skills in the classroom, ASU’s ABA online program is an excellent choice. You can also pursue this master’s degree on the path toward becoming a Board Certified Behavior Analyst.

View program details.

2. Ball State University

Next on our list of the top applied behavior analysis graduate programs is Ball State University. At this public institution in Muncie, Indiana, master degrees across numerous disciplines are flourishing both on campus and online.

Why Study ABA at Ball State University

Ball State University ranks among the top public schools in the nation. U.S. News & World Report has also included the university on its lists of national universities, best value schools, best colleges for veterans and best first-year experiences.

In recent years, Ball State has developed some of the best online offerings. Students who study online at Ball State learn from the same professors as on-campus students do.

Over the years, Ball State has increased its online offerings to include a wide array of online masters degrees and online undergraduate degrees. In fact, there are over 100 fully online programs to explore. Among Ball State University’s many online offerings is a Master of Arts in Applied Behavior Analysis.

Coursework in Ball State University’s Master of Arts in Applied Behavior Analysis Program

The Ball State ABA masters program is specialized, with an emphasis in autism. Not only does the 30-credit online master program incorporate an ABAI-Verified Course Sequence, but it also constitutes a QABA-approved training program. While graduates can apply the ABA skills they learn through this master’s degree to patients with other developmental disabilities, they will be particularly well prepared to work with children with autism spectrum disorder.

Coursework in this ABA program includes:

• Introduction to applied behavior analysis
• Professional issues in applied behavior analysis
• Behavioral consultation
• Advanced applied behavior analysis
• Verbal behavior
• Supervising human service staff in ABA
• Field-based experience in applied behavioral analysis
• Research methods for behavior analysis

The emphasis on autism consists of three focused courses:

• Introduction to persons with autism spectrum disorders
• Interventions and treatments for persons with autism
• Field-based experience in autism

Ball State University’s online applied behavior analysis (ABA)program is offered through the institution’s highly respected Teachers College. The Teachers College is accredited by the Council for the Accreditation of Educator Preparation.

This is the largest program in applied behavior analysis in the nation. However, small class sizes ensure that you can still receive individual attention from instructors. This program can be completed in less than two years.

If your focus is an ABA program that prepares you for the BCBA Exam, Ball State University’s program is for you. In fact, the first-time exam pass rate for Ball State graduates is among the best in the nation.

No matter what your educational background, this program works for you. For most applications, GRE scores are not required. Motivated students can complete this online program in less than two years.

View program details.

3. Drexel University

Another of the best ABA master programs online can be found at Drexel University. The Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, private institution dates back to 1891. More than 22,000 students attend Drexel.

Why Study ABA at Drexel University

Drexel is a global research university with a strong reputation. The University’s 15 colleges and schools offer a combined total of more than 200 degree programs.

U.S. News & World Report recognized Drexel University on its lists of the best value schools, most innovative schools, national universities and best colleges for veterans. As of 2023, the publication has ranked Drexel as the second-best school in the nation for co-ops/internships.

Drexel has offered online education since 1996. Today, more than 4,000 students attend Drexel University online. Drexel’s online degree options include bachelors degrees, masters degrees, doctoral degrees and certificate programs in fields like the following:

• Engineering
• Psychology
• Medicine
• Broadcasting
• Digital media
• Technology
• Special education

Of particular interest is Drexel University’s applied behavior analysis (ABA) online degree.

Coursework in Drexel University’s Master of Science in Applied Behavior Analysis Program

This Master of Science in Applied Behavior Analysis program is geared toward aspiring ABA professionals interested in working with children and adults with autism spectrum disorder. The program encompasses an ABAI-Verified Course Sequence and prepares students to take the BCGA Exam.

Drexel University’s ABA degree program is divided into two main components: core coursework and ABA concentrations. Core coursework for this online master’s degree includes:

• Fundamental elements of behavior change
• Applications of fundamental elements of behavior analysis
• Behavioral assessment and functional analysis
• Behavioral interventions
• Measurement and experimental design
• Consultation, systems change and supervision
• Ethical considerations and professional conduct

In the Advanced Topics in ABA Concentration, students take the following classes:

• Analysis of verbal behavior
• Therapeutic approaches using principles of behavior analysis
• Seminar in applied behavior analysis

The Autism Spectrum Disorders Concentration covers subject matter such as:

• Autism characteristics & methods
• High-functioning autism characteristics & methods
• Behavior & sensory support for autism spectrum disorders
• Communication & language interventions for autism spectrum disorders
• Teaching students with autism spectrum disorder

In the Social, Emotional and Behavioral Wellness Concentration, topics of study may include the following:

• Understanding social emotional disorders
• Social emotional wellness and evidence-based preventative school practices
• Evidence-based school interventions and trauma informed education/care
• Collaboration and community based practices to promote social emotional wellness

Students in Drexel’s online master’s program also complete a sequence of capstone courses in ABA.

View program details.

4. University of Kansas

Another of the best BCBA online masters programs is based out of the University of Kansas. The public university located in Lawrence, Kansas, was founded in 1865.

Why Study ABA at the University of Kansas

As of 2023, total enrollment at this research university amounted to close to 30,000 students. U.S. News & World Report has ranked the school well on several of its college rankings lists, including national universities, top public schools, best value schools and best colleges for veterans.

The University of Kansas offers a number of online programs for students – more than 80, in fact. KU online offers degrees, certificates, and courses for students who are either initiating their programming or heading back to school.

The online undergraduate offerings at the University of Kansas include online bachelor’s degrees in subjects such as:

• Communications
• Liberal arts
• Exercise science
• Nursing.

The University of Kansas also offers a number of online graduate degree programs through its School of Business, School of Education & Human Sciences, School of Social Welfare, School of Nursing and many more schools. Among the more than 400 programs of study at the University of Kansas is an online Master of Arts in Applied Behavioral Science.

Coursework in the Master of Arts in Applied Behavior Analysis Program at the University of Kansas

Although the campus-based Master of Arts in Applied Behavioral Science at the University of Kansas is ABAI-accredited, the online program is not yet accredited. Instead, the curriculum now constitutes an ABAI-Verified Course Sequence. In this 30-credit hour program, the curriculum encompasses required coursework in six content areas. Students must also complete elective courses, research courses, a practicum and a thesis to graduate.

Required courses for this ABA online program include:

• Principles of behavior analysis
• Conceptual foundations of behavior analysis
• Introduction to applied behavioral science
• Experimental analysis of behavior
• Within subjects research methodology and direct observation
• Ethical, legal and professional issues in applied behavioral science

This program is intended for students who have a background in psychology or education, ideally with some amount of clinical experience. GRE scores are not required for admission, although having strong scores may positively impact your application. While the coursework for this ABA program is offered online, the defense of the required master’s thesis must be conducted on campus.

View program details.

5. Penn State World Campus

The Pennsylvania State University, better known as Penn State, also offers an excellent online masters in ABA program. Penn State is a prestigious public university that dates back to 1855 and now educates close to 100,000 students annually.

Why Study ABA at Penn State

In recent years, the Penn State World Campus – the online division of the university – has grown to include more than 175 degrees and certifications. Whether you’re a transfer student, a military student or a returning student, Penn State World Campus offers programs of study to fit your needs. The comprehensive programming includes online degrees at the associate’s, bachelor’s, master’s and doctoral levels, as well as undergraduate and graduate certificates.

U.S. News & World Report has recognized Penn State’s main campus, University Park, on its lists of national universities, best value schools and top public schools. The publication has also included Pennsylvania State University–World Campus on numerous lists of the best online programs, including the best online bachelor’s programs, best online master’s in education programs and best online master’s in special education programs.

Among Penn State’s many online offerings is the Master of Education in Special Education through which students can acquire ABA skills.

Coursework in Penn State’s Master of Education in Applied Behavior Analysis Program

The online Master of Education in Special Education program at Penn State includes only two required courses, plus a capstone seminar. Most of the curriculum is devoted to an area of emphasis of students’ choice. The required courses are:

• Teaching learners with disabilities in inclusive settings
• Introduction to research in special education

What lands Penn State’s Master of Education in Special Education program a spot on our list of the best online ABA master’s programs is its optional emphasis in applied behavior analysis (ABA). The ABA Empahsis consists of 21 credits of ABAI-Verified Course Sequence coursework that amounts to 315 hours of preparation. Completing this ABA Emphasis satisfies the course requirements to sit for the BCBA Exam. Coursework in this concentration area includes:

• Current issues in special education
• Foundations of applied behavior analysis
• Concepts and principles of applied behavior analysis
• Behavioral change procedures and management
• Assessment of behavior in contexts
• Ethical considerations for special education populations
• Single-case research

The program also offers tracks in autism and in academic and behavioral supports. Most students take one and a half to two years to finish this 33-credit program.

View program details.

6. University of Nevada at Reno

Next on our list of the schools offering the best BCBA masters programs online is the University of Nevada at Reno. The University of Nevada Reno (UNR) is a public four-year institution founded in 1874.

Why Study ABA at the University of Nevada, Reno

The University of Nevada, Reno is a top-notch research university that enrolls more than 20,000 students. The institution offers nearly 500 programs of study in disciplines that range from business to science and criminal justice to psychology.

U.S. News & World Report has ranked the University of Nevada, Reno on its lists of national universities, top public schools and top performers on social mobility.

In recent years, the University of Nevada, Reno has expanded its online degree offerings to include more than 70 programs. Online courses of study at this school may culminate in bachelor’s degrees, master’s degrees, doctoral degrees and graduate and industry certifications. Among the online program offerings at the University of Nevada, Reno is the Master of Science in Behavior Analysis.

Coursework in the University of Nevada’s Master of Science in Behavior Analysis Program

The M.S. in Behavior Analysis program at the University of Nevada, Reno is offered through the Department of Psychology in the College of Science. This program is accredited by the ABAI and constitutes a Verified Course Sequence that makes it ideal for students preparing for the BCBA Exam.

This online program prepares students for ABA-related careers in the private, public and government sectors through coursework on the philosophies and applications of behaviorism. Required courses include:

• Principles of behavior
• Behavioral interventions
• Behavior management and consultation
• Behavioral & systems assessments
• Behavioral analysis of language and cognition
• Experimental analysis of behavior
• Research methods in applied behavior analysis
• Ethics in Psychology

Students also devote six credits to a master’s thesis and six credits to a behavior analysis practicum.

View program details.

7. University of South Florida

Don’t overlook the University of South Florida, located in Tampa, as an option for studying applied behavior analysis online. The public four-year institution currently enrolls more than 50,000 students.

Why Study ABA at the University of South Florida

The University of South Florida is a newer institution of higher education, having been founded in 1956. Still, the school has cultivated an excellent reputation. In 2023, the University of South Florida joined the prestigious Association of American Universities (AAU), making it one of the youngest institutions to be part of the Association. Just six members of the AAU have founding dates later than 1950.

U.S. News & World Report has recognized the school in its lists of top public schools, national universities, best value schools and best colleges for veterans, among others.

The University of South Florida offers comprehensive degree programming on campus and online. USF masters programs online include the Master of Arts in Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA).

Coursework in the University of South Florida’s Master of Arts in Applied Behavior Analysis Program

The online Master of Arts in Applied Behavior Analysis program is recommended for students with at least three months of work experience in a related role, like registered behavior technician or behavior specialist.

Over the course of just five semesters, students can complete the ABIA-Verified Course Sequence and complete 1,500 hours of supervised experience, helping them prepare for the BCBA Exam. Students are also equipped to seek certification from the International Behavior Analysis Organization and the Qualified Applied Behavior Analysis Credentialing Board (QABA).

Required courses for the program include:

• Behavior theory
• Applied behavior analysis basic principles
• Ethics in applied behavior analysis
• Functional assessment
• Applied behavior analysis in complex community environments
• Single case experimental design
• Applied behavior analysis and developmental disabilities Credit Hours: 3
• Supervision and training in applied behavior analysis C

Students also complete 12 credits of practicum seminar work and five credits of directed research. To graduate, students must pass a comprehensive exam that consists of a research literature review.

View program details.

8. University of Southern Maine

An online ABA program may also fall under the category of educational psychology. That’s the case at the University of Southern Maine, a public college located in Portland.

Why Study ABA at the University of Southern Maine

The University of Southern Maine is a regionally accredited institution that was founded in 1878. USM offers degrees for undergraduates as well as graduate students, including professional doctoral degrees.

U.S. News & World Report has acknowledged the University of Southern Maine on its lists of regional universities in the North, top public schools and top performers on social mobility.

The University of Southern Maine offers among its 300 programs of study 70 different undergraduate and graduate degree programs and certifications completely online. The institution’s online Master of Science in Educational Psychology program offers a concentration in Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) that prepares students for a career as a Board Certified Behavior Analyst.

Coursework in the University of Southern Maine’s Master of Science in Educational Psychology Program

In the University of Southern Maine’s online Master of Science in Educational Psychology program, students can pursue an ABA Concentration. The 36-hour program encompasses an ABAI-Verified Course Sequence of ABA courses. Required coursework for this program includes:

• Behavioral principles of learning
• Functional behavioral assessment
• Physical bases of behavior
• Consultation and collaborative problem-solving
• Special education regulations, procedures and IEP team
• Psychopathology
• Principles and procedures for instructional intervention
• Principles and procedures for behavior Intervention
• Supervision and performance management in applied behavior analysis
• Professional ethics in behavior analysis
• Research methods and techniques
• Single case research method

Students can complete this degree program in as little as two years or, if studying part-time, in three years. The University of Southern Maine also offers an online non-degree Certificate of Graduate Study in Applied Behavior Analysis for students who want to develop AMA skills but don’t need a master’s degree.

View program details.

9. University of West Florida

The University of West Florida is a public four-year institution located in Pensacola.

Why Study ABA at the University of West Florida

UWF offers associate’s, bachelor’s, master’s and doctoral degrees, as well as graduate certificate programs. More than 13,500 students attend the school, distributed across more than 1010 programs of study. The University of West Florida is known for the academic and career counseling services it offers, as well as for awarding credit for life experiences and advanced placement credits.

U.S. News & World Report has ranked the University of West Florida on its lists of the top public schools, best value schools and regional universities in the South.

UWF offers a number of online opportunities for undergraduate and graduate students. Through UWF Online, students can enroll in more than 600 online courses that lead to upwards of 50 degrees and certificates. Among these online degree offerings is UWF’s online Master of Arts in Exceptional Student Education.

Coursework in the University of West Florida’s Master of Arts in Applied Behavior Analysis Program

Students pursuing the University of West Florida Master of Arts degree can choose between two specialization areas: the Applied Behavior Analysis Specialization and the Special Education Specialization. Naturally, a student interested in becoming a Board Certified Behavior Analyst will gain more out of the ABA Specialization. The program prepares students to seek BCBA certification from the Behavior Analyst Certification Board or alternative professional certification, like the Qualified Behavior Analyst (QBA) and International Behavior Analyst (IBA) designations.

The University of West Florida Master of Arts degree with an ABA Specialization requires 30 to 33 credits. Required courses include:

• Foundations of applied behavior analysis
• Concepts of applied behavior analysis
• Exceptionalities
• Behavioral assessments
• Applied behavior analysis and system support
• Supervision and Management Fluency
• Measurement and Single Case Design
• Ethics in applied behavior analysis

Students who want to be deemed eligible to pursue the International Behavior Analyst credential should also take the Experimental Analysis of Behavior course.

Students also complete major electives in areas such as the following:

• Intensive intervention in autism and related disabilities
• Autism and the law
• Behavior analysis of performance
• Behavior analysis in organizations
• Behavior systems analyst
• Curriculum design for behavior analysis
• Applied single case design
• Advanced single case design

Students in this program typically finish their degree in 18 to 24 months.

View program details.

10. Western Connecticut State University

Western Connecticut State University is a public four-year institution located in Danbury, Connecticut.

Why Study ABA at Western Connecticut State University

Western Connecticut State University was founded in 1903. Today, more than 4,400 students attend the school.

U.S. News & World Report included Western Connecticut State University on its rankings of the top public schools in the nation, regional universities in the North and top performers on social mobility. Western Connecticut State University currently offers more than 60 programs of study for undergraduate and graduate students, including a number of online options. One of these options is the online masters degree in Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA).

Coursework in Western Connecticut State University’s Master of Science in Applied Behavior Analysis Program

The Master of Science in Applied Behavior Analysis at Western Connecticut State University is available online. Through this 30-credit program, students complete 330 classroom hours of graduate coursework. Of the 30 total credits required for this master’s degree, 22 credits are part of the Association for Behavior Analysis International Verified Course Sequence. Students can also complete just this Verified Course Sequence to qualify for a non-degree Certificate in Applied Behavior Analysis.

Coursework in the applied behavior analysis degree program at Western Connecticut State University includes:

• Introduction to concepts and principles of behavior analysis
• Methods and measurement in applied behavior analysis
• Behavior assessment
• Behavior change procedures
• Assistive Technology for Applied behavior analysis
• Advanced concepts and principles of behavior analysis
• Grant writing in applied behavior analysis
• Ethics and professional issues
• Capstone in applied behavior analysis

This Board Certified Behavior Analyst core coursework helps prepare students for the BCBA Exam.

View program details.

11. Endicott College

Endicott College is a regionally accredited private institution founded in 1939. At this college located in Beverly, Massachusetts, Master of Science in Applied Behavior Analysis is one of more than 80 programs of study.

Why Study ABA at Endicott College

U.S. News & World Report ranked Endicott College on its lists of best value schools, regional schools in the North, best colleges for veterans, best undergraduate teaching schools, and best schools for co-ops and internships.

Endicott College is a great option for working adults, parents and other students with busy lives. The Van Loan School at Endicott caters to working professionals and offers both fully online and blended degrees. Online learners have the same access to services as the on-site students.

Coursework in Endicott College’s Master of Science in Applied Behavior Analysis Program

Endicott College’s 40-credit hour online Master of Science in Applied Behavior Analysis offers five different pathways. Required coursework for the M.S. in Applied Behavior Analysis degree includes:

•  Basic principles of applied behavior analysis
• Conceptual issues in applied behavior analysis
• Behavioral assessment
• Behavior change procedures
• Measurement & experimental evaluation of behavioral interventions
• Supervision and management
• Ethical issues in behavior analysis

In the Childhood Clinical Disorders Track, students learn about psychiatric disorders, ABA for public school special education and collaboration in childhood clinical disorders.

The Organizational Behavior Management Track encompasses classwork in performance management, translating behavior analysis to the organization and applied organizational behavior management.

The Mental Health Track includes collaboration in mental health settings, using ABA interventions for psychiatric disorders and skill building for adults with psychiatric disorders.

Students in the Autism Track may study autism spectrum disorders, motivation and reinforcement, verbal behavior, treatment of severely challenging behavior and progressive applications in ABA.  

The ABA General Track allows students to combine elective coursework from any of these specialization areas.

View program details.

12. Bay Path University

Bay Path University in Longmeadow, Massachusetts, is home to another of the best applied behavior analysis masters programs online.

Why Study ABA at Bay Path University

Bay Path University is a private four-year institution that was founded in 1897. The school currently serves more than 2,700 students. In addition to offering upwards of 40 career-focused fully online associate’s degree, bachelor’s degree and certificate options through The American Women’s College, Bay Path University offers online and on-campus graduate degrees for both men and women in a dozen different fields, including applied behavior analysis.

U.S. News & World Report has recognized Bay Path University on its rankings lists of regional universities in the North and top performers on social mobility.

Coursework in Bay Path University’s Master of Science in Applied Behavior Analysis Program

Bay Path University actually offers several different programs in applied behavior analysis (ABA) online. The 48-credit Master of Science in Applied Behavior Analysis is the shortest such program. This ABA degree is intended for students who are interested in becoming Board Certified Behavior Analysts and prepares students for the BCBA Exam. Bay Path University’s other applied behavior analysis programs include 57-credit and 60-credit MS in ABA degrees with concentrations in areas like trauma-informed practice and applied verbal behavior. There’s also a 51-credit Educational Specialist (EdS) degree in ABA option.

In the 48-credit Master of Science in Applied Behavior Analysis program, coursework includes the following:

• Science of ABA concepts and principles
• Concepts and principles of advanced applied behavior analysis
• Behavioral assessment and ongoing evaluation
• Interventions & behavior change procedures
• Analysis of verbal behavior
• Personal & management in ABA
• Functional analysis history, methods and applications
• Research methods in ABA
• Ethical practice in applied behavior analysis

Students typically complete this program in 24 to 27 months. During this timeframe, students complete coursework that prepares them for the BCBA Exam and acquire 2,000 supervised independent fieldwork hours.

View program details.

13. Purdue University

Purdue University is a prestigious public institution located in West Lafayette, Indiana, so it’s no surprise that the school’s online masters in behavior analysis is worth checking out.

Why Study ABA at Purdue University

Purdue University’s long history stretches back to 1869. Today, more than 50,000 students are enrolled in the school’s 360+ undergraduate and graduate programs of study. The school offers more than 200 online and hybrid programs, including its online MS in ABA program.

U.S. News & World Report has ranked Purdue University highly on its lists of national universities, top public schools, best value schools, most innovative schools and best colleges for veterans.

Coursework in Purdue University’s Master of Science in Applied Behavior Analysis Program

Purdue’s Master of Science in Applied Behavior Analysis program prepares students to become Board Certified Behavior Analysts. This is a 30-semester-credit hour program that prepares students for the BCBA Exam and meets the Verified Course Sequence standards per the Association for Behavior Analysis International. Courses in this program include:

View program details.

14. Pennsylvania Western University California (Formerly California University of Pennsylvania)

Until 2022, Pennsylvania Western University, California – or PennWest California, as it’s better known – went by the name California University of Pennsylvania. Despite the name change, this public four-year institution has a strong history of academic performance. The school also offers an online special education program with an emphasis on applied behavior analysis.

Why Study ABA at PennWest California/California University of Pennsylvania

The institution now known as PennWest California was founded in 1852. In addition to offering student services that include academic and career counseling, employment services and the opportunity to earn credit for life experiences, the institution now offers online learning through PennWest Global Online.

For more than 20 years, students of this institution have enjoyed online learning options. Online students at PennWest receive the same quality education found on campus. The online programs are military-friendly and intended for busy, working adults.

U.S. News & World Report has ranked California University of Pennsylvania on its college rankings lists of regional universities in the North, top public schools and top performers on social mobility.

Coursework in PennWest’s Master’s in Special Education Program

PennWest offers a 36-credit online Master of Education in Special Education degree with an emphasis in Applied Behavior Analysis Autism. The program is accredited by the Council for the Accreditation of Educator Preparation (CAEP) and meets the requirements for the BCBA Exam. In addition to the ABA Concentration, the program also offers an Autism Concentration and an Applied Behavior Analysis and Autism concentration.

Core coursework for the Master of Education in Special Education program includes:

• Special education foundations and collaboration
• Special education history, theory and exceptionalities
• Assessment and prescriptive teaching
• Evidence-based practice in PK-12 special education
• Secondary transition

The general ABA Concentration includes courses in the following areas:

• Introduction to behavior analysis
• ABA interventions
• Concepts, principles and assessment of behavior
• ABA supervision and assessment
• Foundations of measurement and experiment design
• ABA research design
• Professional and ethical practice in behavior analysis

In the Applied Behavior Analysis and Autism Concentration, students take courses in areas such as:

• Introduction to behavior analysis
• ABA interventions
• Concepts, principles and assessment of behavior
• ABA supervision and assessment
• Foundations of measurement and experiment design
• ABA research design
• Professional and ethical practice in behavior analysis
• Nature and characteristics of autism spectrum disorder
• Communication and behavior in autism spectrum disorder
• Life transitions & ASD
• Navigating the social world & ASD

Aspiring special education teachers can also pursue a path that leads to teacher certification.

View program details.

15. The Chicago School of Professional Psychology

Next on our list of the best master of applied behavior analysis online is the Chicago School of Professional Psychology. This private nonprofit four-year institution offers bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral degrees.

Why Study ABA at The Chicago School of Professional Psychology

Unlike other other schools on our list, this entry is an institution with a special focus on health professions. Its academic offerings include programming in health, psychology, counseling, behavioral sciences and business. Of particular interest is the school’s online Master of Science in Applied Behavior Analysis.

Coursework in the Chicago School of Professional Psychology’s Master of Science in Applied Behavior Analysis

The online Master of Science in Applied Behavior Analysis prepares students for the BCBA Exam, Board Certified Behavior Analyst certification and a career in ABA. The online program, like the Chicago campus program, is accredited by the Association for Behavior Analysis International.

Students who complete this course may work with a wide variety of populations, including children, adults and seniors. Some of the coursework students take includes studies in the experimental analysis of behavior, concepts and principles in behavior analysis and diversity in clinical practice. Throughout the curriculum, students will touch on the different domains within the field of behavior analysis, including theory, application, service delivery and experimental analysis of behavior.

Full-time students can complete this program in two to two and a half years of study.

View program details.

16. Arcadia University

Arcadia University is a regionally accredited institution located in Glenside, Pennsylvania.

Why Study ABA at Arcadia University

U.S. News & World Report has ranked Arcadia University on its lists of regional universities in the North, best undergraduate teaching schools, best schools for study abroad and top performers in social mobility.

This private institution was founded in 1853. Today, the school is home to 65 fields of study, 1,900 undergraduate students and 1,200 graduate students. To support their students’ success, the college offers academic and career counseling. Arcadia University now offers more than a dozen online degrees and professional certifications. The Master of Education with a concentration in Applied Behavior Analysis is one such online program.

Coursework in Arcadia University’s Master of Education in Applied Behavior Analysis

Arcadia’s online Master of Education in Applied Behavior Analysis program encompasses an ABAI-Verified Course Sequence that prepares students to take the BCBA Exam and attain the Board Certified Behavior Analyst credential.

Required Concentration Courses include:

• Concepts and principles of applied behavior analysis
• Educational research & experimental design
• Functional behavior assessment and behavior change
• Behavior analysis and principles of development
• Behavioral consultation in homes, schools and communities
• Ethics and professionalism
• ABA training & supervising human service staff

Elective coursework may encompass studies in the following areas:

• Teaching methods for students with autism
• Characteristics of students with autism spectrum disorders
• Disability studies and special education law
• Positive behavioral approaches
• Special topics in autism

The program also includes 2,000 practicum hours and a required culminating activity.

Students can complete this 30-credit program in 18 months. They also have the option to complete the Online Graduate Certificate in Autism as they work their way through this program.

View program details.

17. McNeese State University

McNeese State University is a regionally accredited institution located in Lake Charles, Louisiana. This is a public institution that offers associate’s degrees, bachelor’s degrees, master’s degrees and graduate and undergraduate certificates.

Why Study ABA at McNeese State University

McNeese State University offers AP credits, credit for life experiences and academic and career counseling services.

U.S. News & World Report has ranked McNeese State University among its lists of regional universities in the South, top public schools and top performers on social mobility.

Recently, McNeese State University has started to expand its online offerings. The University offers online degrees for undergraduate and graduate students – including its Master of Arts in Psychology with a Concentration in Applied Behavior Analysis.

Coursework in McNeese State University’s Master of Arts in Applied Behavior Analysis

The ABA program at McNeese State University isn’t a dedicated ABA degree but rather a concentration within a psychology program. However, this program is an ABAI-Verified Course Sequence. It puts students on the path to taking the BCBA Exam and getting certified as a Board Certified Behavior Analyst.

This program is available online or on campus. The online option allows for a flexible schedule, which makes it a good fit for students who are working professionals. The curriculum of the applied behavior analysis degree at McNeese State University includes coursework in areas such as:

• Principles of learning and behavior
• Human growth and development
• Introduction to applied behavior analysis
• Conceptual foundations of behavior analysis
• Behavioral assessment
• Verbal behavior
• Applied behavior analysis interventions
• Advanced topics in behavior analysis
• Experimental analysis of behavior
• Applied research methods in applied behavior analysis
• Single-subject methodology
• Ethics for behavior analysts
• Professional standards for behavior analysts

McNeese offers a comprehensive curriculum and plenty of hands-on experience, integrating more than 1,500 hours of supervised practicum experience into the program.

View program details.

18. St. Cloud State University

Another of the best applied behavior analysis masters programs online is at St. Cloud State University. This public institution, located in Saint Cloud, Minnesota, was founded in 1869.

Why Study ABA at St. Cloud State University

U.S. News & World Report has ranked St. Cloud State University on its lists of best value schools, top public schools and regional universities in the Midwest.

St. Cloud State University offers comprehensive degree programming, with more than 260 programs of study. The 10,000 students at this institution benefit from student support services like credit for life experiences and academic and career counseling. The institution is also military-friendly.

St. Cloud State University offers online academic programming, including hundreds of online courses. Among the more than two dozen online programs available is St. Cloud State University’s Master of Science in Applied Behavior Analysis degree.

Coursework in St. Cloud State University’s Master of Science in Applied Behavior Analysis

St. Cloud State University’s Master of Science in Applied Behavior Analysis program is available both online and on campus. Students in the applied behavior analysis online program follow one of two plans. The thesis plan is a 45-credit program, and the comprehensive exam plan is a 46-credit program. The program is broken into three main components: core courses, electives and research.

Required core courses include:

• Behavioral assessment
• Behavioral applications
• Social bases of behavior
• Experimental analysis of behavior
• Advanced applied behavior analysis
• Ethics in psychology and behavior analysis

Through the elective courses they select, students can develop a greater depth of knowledge in areas like behavior therapy, developmental disabilities, autism spectrum disorders, functional analysis and experimental analysis of behavior.

All students complete nine credits of required internship work, which amounts to an on-site 750-hour clinical internship.

View program details.

19. Texas A&M University

For a great special education master’s in applied behavior analysis, look no further than Texas A&M University.

Why Study ABA at Texas A&M University

Texas A&M is a public university that offers bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral degrees. The school offers more than 140 programs at the undergraduate level and 270 graduate degree programs.

Founded in 1876, this institution was the first public college in Texas. It’s also a large institution. More than 69,000 study at the main Texas A&M campus in College Station, and the total enrollment in Fall 2022 amounted to almost 75,000.

U.S. News & World Report has ranked Texas A&M University on its lists of top public schools, national universities, best value schools, most innovative schools and best colleges for veterans.

In recent years, Texas A&M has expanded its online offerings. Today, the institution offers online degree options through 12 of its 16 academic colleges and schools. Online education at Texas A&M is designed with working professionals in mind. Among the school’s many online offerings is its Master of Science in Special Education.

Coursework in Texas A&M University’s Master’s in Special Education Program

In this 36-credit online master’s degree, students complete both coursework pertaining to special education and ABA therapy. Special education coursework encompasses studies in the following areas:

• Consultation in special education
• Transition education and services for individuals with disabilities
• Early literacy for students with diverse instructional needs
• Adolescent literacy across the content areas for students with disabilities
• Multicultural and bilingual special education

The coursework that prepares students for the BCBA Exam and certification includes:

• Introduction to applied behavior analysis
• Advanced applied behavior analysis
• Assessment in school settings
• Prevention, support, and intervention for students with emotional and behavior problems
• Leadership in applied behavior analysis
• Single-case experimental design
• Ethics and professional conduct in special education and applied behavior analysis

This program is excellent not only for preparing students to become Board Certified Behavior Analysts but also for students interested in roles like the following:

• Special education teachers
• General classroom teachers
• Therapists
• Counselors
• Behavior coaches

The program is best suited for students who have some professional experience working with individuals with disabilities, either in a teaching or clinical capacity. Aspiring teachers may need to pursue teaching certification elsewhere.

Students can complete this program in two years.

View program details.

20. University of Cincinnati

The University of Cincinnati is home to another excellent applied behavior analysis online program.

Why Study ABA at the University of Cincinnati

This public institution in Cincinnati, Ohio, serves a student body of nearly 48,000. The nationally ranked institution was founded in 1819.

U.S. News & World Report has named the University of Cincinnati on its lists of national universities, top public schools, most innovative schools and best colleges for veterans.

The University of Cincinnati now offers a number of online degrees and certification programs designed with working professionals in mind. One such program is the online Master of Education in Foundations in Behavior Analysis.

Coursework in the University of Cincinnati’s Master’s in Applied Behavior Analysis Program

In the University of Cincinnati’s 30-credit Master of Education in Foundations in Behavior Analysis, students prepare to become Board Certified Behavior Analysts. The ABAI-Verified Course Sequence helps students meet the requirements to sit for the BCBA Exam.

Ten courses are required for this applied behavior analysis degree:

• Applied behavior analysis I
• Applied behavior analysis II
• Applied behavior analysis-III
• Child development
• Frameworks for disabilities and disorders in childhood
• Behavioral supervision and management
• Functional behavioral assessment
• Working with cultural and linguistic diversity in schools
• Behavioral research and accountability methods
• Ethics for behavioral practice and research

Students at the University of Cincinnati can complete their applied behavior analysis degree in just five semesters, or 20 months.

View program details.

For Further Reading: 

Top 10 Graduate Degree Programs in Criminal Justice

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What Are the Highest Paying Manager Jobs?

The best management jobs – that is, the ones that pay the highest average salaries – aren’t easy, either to attain or to do. Most of the highest-paid manager jobs require a combination of formal education and years of experience. Holding the highest-paying business management positions can be stressful at times. You may be responsible for supervising personnel, guiding the direction of an organization or managing complex projects.

RELATED: What Are the Highest-Paying Business Entry-Level Jobs?

Average salary for manager positions depends on the level of role they hold, the specific duties they perform and the company and industry for which managers work. By median salary, the top-paying management jobs include the following.

1. Chief Executive Officer

If you really want to be the boss – not just a boss ­– then top executive is the career for you. These management professionals are personally in charge of making sure an organization achieves its goals.

What a Top Executive Does

As the name suggests, top executives are the managers at the top of a company. Given their senior-level status and big responsibilities, it’s no surprise that these top management jobs are also the best-paying manager jobs out there.

A chief executive officer sets goals and procedures for a variety of departments within the company. They decide which personnel will lead those departments. Depending on their position, chief executives may monitor finances and budgets, analyze statements to assess performance and determine ways to decrease costs.

Top executive roles take many forms. In most businesses and organizations, chief executive officers (CEOs) include job titles like the following:

• President
• Vice president
• Executive director
• Chief financial officer (CFO)
• Chief information officer (CIO)
• Chief operating officer (COO)
• Chief sustainability officer

At schools, top executives include superintendents and college presidents. Even cities and states have top executives. The top executives in these environments are known as city managers, county administrators, mayors and governors.

Chief executives are generally more concerned with big-picture strategy than day-to-day operations. In other top executive jobs, like operations manager and general manager, however, the manager would spend much of their time handling daily operations and administrative duties. General and operations managers handle many different administration and management duties.

RELATED: Top 10 Paying Jobs That Involve Math

How Much a Top Executive Makes

Which top executive role you work in can make a huge difference in your pay rate. The median annual salary the United States Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) reported for chief executive officers as of 2022 was $189,520 per year. The highest-paid 10% of chief executives in America make more than $239,200.

The manufacturing industry is the major employment industry that pays chief executives the most. The median annual salary for chief executives in this industry was $231,640 as of 2022. Chief executives in the professional, scientific and technical services industry also made a median wage above $200,000.

General and operations managers, the other top executives, made considerably less than their C-suite counterparts. Still, the $98,100 median annual salary far outstrips the median wage for all occupations as of 2022. The professional, scientific and technical services industry paid the best for these roles, with a median salary of $131,970.

Becoming a Top Executive

There’s no quick or easy route to a top executive role. A given company or organization only needs so many top executives, and the competition for these high-paying roles is fierce. You are likely to need some combination of education, experience and an exceptional reputation if you want to become a chief executive.

Many top executives start from the bottom and gradually advance through the ranks within their organization. Others develop their management skills and cultivate enough experience to get hired from outside the organization. Either way, you need to work hard and prove that you’re the best at what you do to cultivate the kind of reputation that gets you considered for chief executive positions.

In addition to gaining experience in management roles, candidates for top executive positions must develop excellent communication skills and leadership abilities. They need to become proficient – and confident – in making decisions and solving problems.

2. Computer and Information Systems Manager

If you want to work in technology, a career as a computer and information systems manager will allow you to make great money in a field you love. This is one of the best manager jobs in the tech field.

What a Computer and Information Systems Manager Does

Nearly all businesses and organizations today rely on computers to handle some aspect of their work. Computer and information systems managers play a crucial role in an organization’s computer systems.

Computer and information systems managers are sometimes called information technology (IT) managers or IT project managers. These professionals are responsible for figuring out what computer and IT professionals the organization needs on staff. They oversee the work of other IT professionals. Computer and information systems managers also manage the organization’s computer systems and technology. When its time to put in place new systems and technologies, computer and information systems managers are responsible for tasks like the following:

• Planning
• Installation
• Implementation
• Upgrades
• Security measures

The responsibilities of specific computer and information systems managers depend on their exact job titles, in addition to other factors.

For example, C-suite computer and information systems managers include chief information officers (CIOs) and chief technology officers (CTOs). A chief information officer will devote most of their time to devising the organization’s technology strategy. A chief technology officer will focus more on what new technology can do for the organization.

At a somewhat less senior-level of management are IT directors. IT directors lead IT departments. They often serve as the immediate supervisors for the organization’s IT personnel. IT security managers, on the other hand, focus more on the organization’s information security policies and safety measures designed to thwart a security threat.

How Much a Computer and Information Systems Manager Makes

Computer and information systems managers earned a median salary of $164,070 as of 2022, according to the BLS. The best-paid 10% of the IT manager field earned more than $239,200. All of the top five industries of employment report median annual salaries between $165,000 and $175,000, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. The information industry paid the best, with a median annual salary of $173,540.

Becoming a Computer and Information Systems Manager

If you want to become a computer and information systems manager, you will need a strong background in computer technology. Usually, this means a formal college degree, at least at the undergraduate level. Prospective IT managers often pursue a bachelor’s degree in computer or information science. This education provides you with the technical skills for the role, but you need more than just tech knowledge to be a good manager. Gaining some knowledge of the business world is valuable if you want to become an expert in business applications of technology. Stacking a Master of Business Administration (MBA) degree on top of your computer science undergraduate degree can help prove your capabilities.

3. Architectural and Engineering Manager

Another of the highest-paying management jobs is architectural and engineering manager. A lot of work goes into engineering and architecture projects, and someone has to oversee this work and supervise those who undertake it. That someone is an architectural or engineering manager.

What an Architectural and Engineering Manager Does

On any architectural or engineering project, there are various team members with different skill sets to hire and oversee. There are schedules to coordinate and budgets to set and follow. Without doing this work, projects won’t get done correctly, on time or within budget. Companies in industries like manufacturing and architectural and engineering services rely on experienced professionals to handle these big responsibilities.

As supervisors, architectural and engineering managers naturally oversee their employees, checking not only their work but also their methods. They also handle tasks like determining what materials, equipment and employees they need for a project and coordinating the work of various teams. However, these professionals aren’t completely removed from their engineering and architectural roots. Often, they create the overall concepts and designs for a product or project. They may lead the research and development teams whose findings inform the final design concepts. When problems arise, architectural and engineering managers need to solve them.

How Much an Architectural and Engineering Manager Makes

The median salary the BLS reported for architectural and engineering managers in 2022 was $159,920. The highest-paid 10% of the architectural and engineering manager profession made more than $221,550 per year. The scientific research and development services industry paid architectural and engineering managers the best, with the Bureau of Labor Statistics reporting a median annual salary of $175,670. The management of companies and enterprises industry wasn’t far behind, with a median salary of $169,140.

Becoming an Architectural and Engineering Manager

Architectural and engineering managers typically begin their careers as either architects or engineers. They may start in entry-level roles, but they don’t stay there long. They learn as much as they can on the job.

With time, these ambitious architects and engineers take on more and more responsibilities. They step up to solve problems, make decisions, lead teams and work on complex projects. In doing so, they get noticed and develop the skills an architectural or engineering manager needs.

To begin, aspiring architectural and engineering managers need the education that will land them their first job as an architect or engineer. This usually means a bachelor’s degree in engineering or a professional degree in architecture. Graduate school is a common path for aspiring managers in these fields. Depending on your skills and areas of interest, you might pursue one of the following graduate degrees:

• Master’s in Engineering Management
• Master’s in Technology Management
• Master of Business Administration

4. Natural Sciences Manager

Don’t think high-paying management jobs only belong in the business world. If science is your calling, you can put your leadership skills to use as a natural sciences manager.

What a Natural Sciences Manager Does

Natural sciences managers oversee employees, research projects and administrative policies in scientific research capacities. They collaborate with their organization’s senior executives to develop research goals. Then they determine how to best achieve those objectives through actionable steps.

Natural sciences managers figure out what personnel, equipment, materials and training are necessary for a particular project. They are also responsible for establishing a budget for that project. They oversee and assist the scientists and technicians in their research team.

Some natural sciences managers spend all or most of their time on administrative and supervisory duties. Their work keeps them largely out of the lab. Other natural sciences managers, known as working managers, conduct research of their own in addition to overseeing other scientists’ work. Laboratory managers focus particularly on managing the supplies needed for research.

Most natural sciences managers spend years working as scientists – chemists, biologists, physicists – before they advance to the highest-paying business management positions. During their careers, they gradually take on more responsibilities, such as overseeing teams of researchers and guiding the direction of research projects and experiments. The more experience scientists have, the greater their opportunities for independence.

How Much a Natural Sciences Manager Makes

The median salary the BLS reported for natural sciences managers as of 2022 was $144,440. The 10% of natural sciences managers with the highest earnings made more than $239,200. The median wages for natural sciences managers by industry varied considerably. Natural sciences managers in research and development in the physical, engineering and life sciences earned a median annual salary of $178,830, the Bureau of Labor Statistics reported. In the manufacturing industry, the median salary was $170,220.

Becoming a Natural Sciences Manager

Natural sciences managers must have a thorough foundation in their field of science. A scientific background is more important than formal management training or education for these high-paying manager jobs. Prospective natural sciences managers need at least a bachelor’s degree in a field like the following:

• Biology
• Chemistry
• Physics
• Natural science
• Engineering

A bachelor’s degree may be enough to land some entry-level jobs in natural sciences research. However, even for non-managerial roles, you will likely need to advance your education beyond the undergraduate level. Most natural sciences managers have a master’s degree or a PhD. Considerable experience working in laboratory research is also a requirement for most natural sciences manager roles.

5. Marketing Manager

Companies spend a fortune persuading consumers to buy their products or use their services. Marketing managers, another of the highest paying management jobs, play an important role in how companies use this money effectively to make the most sales possible and bring in revenue.

What a Marketing Manager Does

Marketing managers stay abreast of market trends to determine how much demand there is for a product or service and what markets that product might fit into well. A marketing manager uses data from market research surveys to predict who will purchase the product and what price they will be willing to pay.

Of course, marketing managers also perform a number of other job duties. Often, they are even involved in the product development process. They may lead teams of marketing personnel and oversee collaboration between teams of salespeople and public relations staff. In some roles, they may also handle responsibilities such as:

• Developing marketing plans
• Planning promotions or advertising campaigns
• Setting marketing department budgets
• Choosing advertising opportunities
• Negotiating prices

How Much a Marketing Manager Makes

For marketing managers, the BLS reported a 2022 median annual salary of $140,040. The best-paid 10% of the marketing manager profession made upwards of $239,200. The best paying-industries for marketing managers, management of companies and enterprises and finance and insurance, paid median salaries of $162,870 and $161,040, respectively.

Becoming a Marketing Manager

Marketing managers typically start out in lower-level roles in marketing and work their way up. Most marketing managers have at least a bachelor’s degree in a field like marketing or marketing management.

6. Financial Manager

Another of the highest-paying management jobs is financial manager. Every business and organization needs to be vigilant about its financial health. That’s what makes the work of a financial manager so critical.

What Does a Financial Manager Do?

Financial managers are the professionals who report on current finances, make decisions about investments and establish future goals and strategies. They prepare financial statements, summaries, reports and forecasts of all kinds for many different uses. They also weigh in on the organization’s financial decisions. These decisions include how the company can cut costs, increase profits, expand and acquire other businesses.

Like other types of managers, financial managers oversee lower-level workers. These managers supervise the work of less senior finance employees. Today’s financial managers now spend more of their time analyzing data and using those analyses to advise top-level executives on making financial decisions than they do simply creating reports.

There are several kinds of financial managers:

• Credit managers handle credit and collections.
• Cash managers oversee the organization’s cash flow.
• Risk managers work to minimize the likelihood that the organization will suffer a financial loss.
• Insurance managers decide what kinds of insurance, and how much coverage, is necessary to reduce any such losses.
• Controllers are primarily concerned with generating financial reports, especially special reports for government use.
• Treasurers and finance officers deal with budgets, mergers and investments.

How Much a Financial Manager Makes

The BLS reported a median annual salary of $139,790 for financial managers as of 2022. The highest-paid 10% of financial managers earned more than $239,200. The two top-paying industries, management of companies and enterprises and professional, scientific and technical services, both paid a median wage of more than $164,000 per year, the Bureau of Labor Statistics reported.

Becoming a Financial Manager

All kinds of financial managers need plenty of experience in the field. Most financial managers have spent at least five years gaining business and finance experience. Before they advance into a management role, they often start in positions like the following:

• Accountant
• Auditor
• Financial analyst
• Loan officer
• Securities sales agent

Financial managers usually start with a bachelor’s degree in a field like finance, accounting, business administration or accounting. At the graduate level, they may pursue a Master’s in Finance degree or a Master of Business Administration.

7. Sales Manager

You need the right personality to excel in another of the highest-paying management jobs, sales manager. If you enjoy the challenge of sales and the opportunity to motivate others, a career as a sales manager will let you earn a six-figure salary with your natural salesperson personality (and the right education and experience, of course).

What a Sales Manager Does

Industries like retail, wholesale trade, manufacturing and finance and insurance depend on sales managers. Sales managers typically oversee their company’s salespeople and sales strategies.

Sales managers don’t just establish goals for product sales. They also develop the strategies and plans to meet those sales goals. When conflicts arise, they resolve customer complaints.

They hire and train their organization’s sales personnel. Their role is to recruit strong candidates to the sales department and help them to perform at their full potential. Sales manager positions also have a quantitative side, with tasks that include:

• Overseeing budgets
• Establishing quotas and sales goals
• Appointing sales representatives to specific territories
• Analyzing sales data
• Predicting sales volumes and profits

How Much a Sales Manager Makes

A median salary of $130,600 is what makes sales managers one of the highest-paid management jobs. The BLS reported that the highest-paid 10% of sales managers made more than $239,200 as of 2022. The highest-paying jobs for sales managers were in the finance and insurance and the professional, scientific and technical services industry, both of which paid median salaries above $160,000.

Becoming a Sales Manager

Most sales managers have a college degree. Fields like accounting, economics, finance, business management, marketing and math are good majors for aspiring sales managers. However, it’s sales experience that really gives candidates for the highest-paying business management positions a competitive edge. Sales managers typically have at least one to five years of experience as sales representatives, purchasing agents or other similar roles.

8. Human Resources Manager

Next on our list of the highest-paying management jobs is HR manager. Workers play an integral part in every industry. Someone needs to recruit, train and communicate with those workers.

What Human Resources Managers Do

Human resources managers are the professionals who oversee an organization’s use of, and interactions with, employees. They interview job candidates and hire the most qualified workers. Human resources managers strategize to make the best possible use of employees’ skills. To do so, they ensure those employees have the training and tools to succeed. They resolve conflicts between workers and handle disciplinary actions when necessary.

Human resources managers also serve as the point of communication between employees and administration. They have input into organization policies and deliver employee services such as benefits and payroll. A human resources manager’s responsibilities include motivating and retaining great employees.

How Much a Human Resource Manager Makes

HR managers earned a median annual salary of $130,000 in 2022, according to the BLS. The top 10% of earners in the HR manager profession made upwards of $224,360. HR managers in the professional, scientific and technical services industry reported the highest median wage, $153,830, followed by those in the management of companies and enterprises industry, where the median salary was $144,640.

Becoming a Human Resource Manager

HR managers often have a bachelor’s degree in human resources or business administration. Graduate-level degrees like an MBA, a Master’s in Human Resources or a Master’s in Labor Relations are also common.

Experience, particularly in leadership roles, is a necessity for high-paying management jobs in a human resources department. Many HR managers begin as human resources or labor relations specialists. Over several years in the field, they develop – and display – the organizational, decision-making and management skills they need to advance to this career.

9. Public Relations Manager

An organization’s image matters – especially when it comes to fundraising for nonprofit organizations. Public relations managers are professionals who strategize how an organization, nonprofit or otherwise, will communicate with members of the public.

What Public Relations Managers Do

Public relations managers oversee the material organizations use to build and improve the public perception of their organization or client. They create content like press releases to get information out to the media and garner media coverage for stories and events.

They act as or designate a spokesperson who will act as the public face and voice of the organization. PR managers work with this spokesperson to provide information and support for media inquiries.

Public relations managers single out the audiences most crucial to the organization’s mission. That may mean choosing a target audience to sell to or potential donors to appeal to for fundraising purposes. They figure out which methods of communication are most likely to be effective at reaching these groups. With this in mind, they plan promotional and advertising campaigns to get their audience’s attention.

Everything a public relations manager does is to improve their organization’s image and public identity. PR managers also supervise the work of other public relations personnel.

In nonprofit organizations, in particular, professionals called fundraising managers play an important part in securing donations, grants and other forms of funding. They plan and implement new strategies to reach their organization’s fundraising objectives. Fundraising managers direct strategies to acquire more funds. They reach out to past donors and new potential donors to ask for contributions. They choose from a variety of fundraising techniques for different fundraising events and campaigns and submit applications for grants from the government and other sources.

How Much a Public Relations Manager Makes

What makes PR manager one of the highest-paying management jobs is its median salary of $129,430. The highest-paid PR managers made more than $239,200 per year as of 2022. Fundraisers make considerably less money, but this can still be a lucrative role. The median annual salary the BLS reported for fundraisers in 2022 was $107,390, and the highest-paid fundraisers made more than $205,230.

Becoming a Public Relations Manager

If your ultimate career goal is to become a public relations and fundraising manager, expect to be in it for the long haul. These professionals usually begin their careers in entry-level public relations specialist or fundraiser positions. A few years of work experience in the field, with increasing responsibilities, may be enough to qualify candidates for lower-level management positions. For roles like public relations director and fundraising director, though, candidates often need a minimum of five to 10 years of relevant work experience.

10. Training and Development Manager

Completing our list of the top 10 highest-paying management jobs is training and development manager. Across all industries, organizations want their workers to be as productive as possible. To perform at their best – and add the most value to their company – employees need the right training and the opportunity to develop their skills.

What Training and Development Managers Do

Training and development managers are the professionals who plan and oversee training opportunities. In addition to supervising lower-level training and development specialists, they determine what training and skills employees need to achieve the company’s goals and create and coordinate those experiences. Part of training and development managers’ job duties is to use resources well. That includes making and sticking to a budget.

Employee training can take many different forms. Training and development managers may be responsible for teaching classes themselves, or they may teach other instructors or managers how to effectively train employees. They acquire training materials from vendors but might also develop their own materials, including online learning materials.

How Much Training and Development Managers Make

Like the other best-paying management jobs, the training and development manager role pays a median wage well over $100,000. The BLS reported the median annual salary for this role as $120,000 as of 2022. The highest earners in this business management profession made more than $210,470 per year.

Becoming a Training and Development Manager

Like other management careers, training and development manager is not an entry-level position. A bachelor’s degree in human resources or business administration is helpful, but the degree alone won’t land you this job. You’ll need experience working as a training and development specialist, human resources specialist or teacher. You’ll also need some form of management experience.

Money isn’t everything. You need to consider other factors besides pay when choosing a career. If you have the ambition and leadership skills to manage projects and other workers, though, why not shoot for one of the top 10 highest paying management careers?

Editor’s Note: The source for the employment, education, training and salary information presented in this article is the United States Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS). While this federal agency is responsible for monitoring the labor market, including the many professions in it, students will find that job requirements, responsibilities and wages differ depending on employer, region and industry. This article is meant as a guide to help students start their own research into potential career paths.

For Further Reading:

Top 10 Paying Jobs With an Associate’s Degree

Top 10 Highest Paying Engineering Careers

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

How Long Does It Take to Become an Accountant?

What Are the 5 Best Careers in Environmental Science?

Highest Paying Jobs With a Biology Degree – Degrees in Biology – Majors & Careers

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