DEGREES & PROGRAMS
Online Master's Degrees and Programs
What is A Master's Degree?
A master's degree is an academic degree given by universities or colleges upon completion of a course of study demonstrating mastery of a specific field or professional practice. An online master's degree from WGU requires previous study at the bachelor's level, either as a separate degree or as part of an integrated course from an accredited institution. Master's graduates are known to possess advanced knowledge of a specialized subject area and, in turn, have greater access to mid- and upper-level professional roles, leadership roles, and higher salaries.
Online Business Master's Degrees
Online Education Master's Degrees
Online Health Master's Degrees
Online IT Master's Degrees
“Master’s Degree” or “Master Degree”: Which Is Correct?
The correct way to spell master’s degree is with an apostrophe. The “s” in master’s indicates a possessive (the degree of a master), not a plural. If you’re referring to a specific degree—Master of Science or Master of Arts for example—you should capitalize master and remove the apostrophe to avoid creating a possessive. The same rules apply when referring to a bachelor’s degree.
How Many Years Is a Master’s Degree?
Master's degrees generally take two years to complete, but the time frame can vary based on the program and the individual. Some master’s degree programs such as law school or medical school take three or four years. Other master’s programs may take just one year. Depending on your degree program and whether you're attending school full-time or part-time, it could take you less time to get your master's degree or more. WGU’s competency-based programs allow students to advance in their coursework when they demonstrate mastery of the material, so they can move through their degree at a faster pace. While students in traditional master’s programs must adhere to in-person lectures and rigid deadlines, WGU students finish their online master's degrees in around 18 months on average.
1-4+ Years
What Are the Four Types of Degrees?
There are four major categories of college degrees:
1
Associate's Degree
A two-year undergraduate degree typically awarded by community colleges, vocational schools, and some colleges and universities. These degrees consist of general education classes like in the sciences and humanities.
2
Bachelor's Degree
The most sought-after college degree. Bachelor’s programs consist of general education courses in addition to specialized classes in a chosen field of study. These degrees traditionally take four years to complete at in-person colleges and universities but can be earned in as little as two years in online, competency-based programs at institutions like WGU.
3
Master's Degree
Typically a two-year graduate degree, master's programs are the next step after a bachelor's degree. These programs contained specialized courses to build on past education and career experience, preparing students to advance their career. With a competency-based program like WGU, many students can finish their program in just a year.
4
Doctorate Degree
The highest and most specialized of the college degrees a student can attain. This degree is for those who already hold a master’s degree and seek an expert-level command over their subject matter. Earning a doctorate—which usually takes four to six years, or as many as eight years—is very difficult and requires a significant level of research and extensive demonstrations of that research through papers, presentations, and more.
A professional doctorate degree is degree that helps you meet certain requirements for career advancement. The professional doctorate (also called an “applied doctorate” or “terminal doctorate”) is a degree that focuses on the real-world application of a subject. This degree has a few specific uses. For example, it’s required for some high-level corporate jobs. It can also help an individual establish teaching credibility within an industry or build a consulting business.
Online Master's Degree Programs at WGU
Business Master's Degrees
Business
Master of Business Administration
The flexible MBA program you need, focused on business management,...
The flexible MBA program you need, focused on business management, strategy, and leading teams:
- Time: Graduates can finish in 12 months.
- Tuition: $4,755 per 6-month term.
- Courses: 11 total courses in this program.
Sample careers and jobs this business degree will prepare you for:
- President and CEO
- Vice president
- Executive director
- Chief strategic officer
Our competency-based model gives you an innovative learning experience you won't find anywhere else—and our MBA grads tell us they loved accelerating their program to see a faster ROI.
Business
Management and Leadership – M.S.
An online master's degree focused on change management, innovation, and...
An online master's degree focused on change management, innovation, and leading teams:
- Time: 70% of graduates can finish in 20 months.
- Tuition: $4,755 per 6-month term.
- Courses: 10 total courses in this program
Sample careers and jobs this business degree will prepare you for:
- President
- Vice president
- Director of operations
- Executive director
Develop a comprehensive suite of leadership skills and your confidence to navigate changing business structures.
Business
MBA Healthcare Management
Prepare for a career leading private or public healthcare organizations....
Prepare for a career leading private or public healthcare organizations.
- Time: Graduates can finish within 12 months.
- Tuition: $4,755 per 6-month term.
- Courses: 11 total courses in this program.
Some careers and jobs this business degree will prepare you for:
- President and CEO
- Vice president
- Administrative director
- Chief financial officer
- Other executive-level roles
Healthcare is big business in today's complex economy. Steer your career with this specialty MBA.
Compare online business degrees
This program is not the only online business degree WGU offers that is designed to create leaders in the field of healthcare. Compare our health leadership degrees.
Business
MBA Information Technology Management
Earn the online college degree that can move your career into IT upper...
Earn the online college degree that can move your career into IT upper management:
- Time: Graduates can finish in 12 months
- Tuition: $4,755 per 6-month term
- Courses: 11 total courses in this program
Sample careers and jobs this business degree will prepare you for:
- Chief technology officer
- Director of IT services
- Senior systems administrator
- Management information systems director
- Computer and information systems manager
Learn to navigate emergencies, execute strategies, and optimize systems with the competencies within this specialty MBA.
Business
Accounting – M.S.
Become better qualified to pursue a greater variety of public and private...
Become better qualified to pursue a greater variety of public and private accounting positions:
- Time: 72% of grads finish within 24 months.
- Tuition: $4,755 per 6-month term.
- Courses: 10 total courses in this program
Some careers and jobs this business degree will prepare you for:
- Accountant
- Accounting manager
- Internal audit manager
- Senior accountant
- Other specialized finance roles
This MAcc program is designed to prepare you for the CPA exam and also the CMA or CIA exams.
Business
Marketing – M.S.
Two online marketing master's degree options with a focus on either...
Two online marketing master's degree options with a focus on either digital marketing or marketing analytics.
- Time: 72% of graduates finish WGU master's programs in 24 months.
- Tuition: $4,530 per 6-month term.
- Courses: 11 total courses in this program
- Program Options: Students choose from two degrees to focus their marketing studies on digital marketing or marketing analytics.
Sample careers and jobs this business degree will prepare you for:
- Marketing manager
- Marketing analyst
- Marketing director
- SEO manager
- SEM manager
- Email manager
A marketing master's degree will help you prepare for a wide range of exciting marketing careers.
Business
Human Resource Management – M.S.
A SHRM-recognized master's degree in human resource management...
A SHRM-recognized master's degree in human resource management
- Time: 72% of graduates finish similar programs within 23 months.
- Tuition: $4,755 per 6-month term.
- Courses: 10 total courses in this program.
Sample careers and jobs this business degree will prepare you for:
- DE&I Manager
- Learning and Development Manager
- HR Director
- Vice president of HR
Earn your M.S. in Human Resources and help companies create excellent cultures.
Technology
Accelerated Information Technology Bachelor's and Master's Degree
Earn both your bachelor’s in IT and master’s in IT management at a faster...
Earn both your bachelor’s in IT and master’s in IT management at a faster pace with fewer courses.
- Time: Approximately 5 years.
- Tuition: $3,735 per 6-month term for the bachelor's degree; $3,940 per term for the master's portion.
- Courses: 42 total courses in this program.
Certifications included in this program at no additional cost:
- CompTIA A+
- CompTIA Network+
- CompTIA Security+
- CompTIA IT Operations Specialist
- CompTIA Secure Infrastructure Specialist
- Amazon AWS Cloud Practitioner
- ITIL®*^ Foundation Certification
- PMI CAPM
- LPI Linux Essentials
This program allows students to earn their bachelor's degree in IT and move directly into a master's degree in IT management, cutting down on the total number of courses to complete.
Technology
Data Analytics – M.S.
Lead businesses with strong analysis skills:...
Lead businesses with strong analysis skills:
- Time: 70% of graduates finish within 23 months.
- Tuition: $4,055 per 6-month term.
- Courses: 11 total courses in this program.
There are many careers this degree program may prepare you for, including:
- Data Analyst
- Data Administrator
- Business Analyst
- Data Engineer
- Business Intelligence Analyst
- Information Research Scientist
- Advanced Analytics Expert
Master data mining, visualization, and SQL—and lead analytics at the business of your choice.
Health & Nursing
Master of Healthcare Administration
A master's focused on managing comprehensive, value-based care, directly...
A master's focused on managing comprehensive, value-based care, directly in line with innovations in health and healthcare.
- Time: 81% of grads finish within 24 months.
- Tuition: $4,755 per 6-month term.
- Courses: 12 total courses in this program.
Examples of careers and jobs this degree will prepare you for:
- Managed care executive
- Director of integrated care management
- Health center manager/clinic manager
- Director of integrated facilities
Your rich experience in a health-related field can mean more when you bring a master's level of understanding to the problems that organizations need to solve.
Compare degrees
This program is not the only degree WGU offers designed to create leaders in the field of healthcare. Compare our health leadership degrees.
Education
Education Technology and Instructional Design – M.Ed.
The M.Ed. in Education Technology and Instructional Design from WGU is for...
The M.Ed. in Education Technology and Instructional Design from WGU is for instructional designers tasked with creating engaging and immersive virtual learning experiences that can substitute for on-ground instruction.
No teaching license required.
- Time: 73% of grads finish similar programs in 18 months
- Tuition: $3,975 per 6-month term
- Courses: 12 total courses in this program.
This program includes two tracks for students to choose from:
- The K-12 pathway
- The Adult Learner pathway
Careers you will be prepared for after earning this degree include:
- Instructional coordinator
- Instructional designer
- Curriculum developer
- Instructional technologist
- Learning engineer
- Learning architect
- Instructional design coordinator
- Academic technologist
- Learning experience designer
- Distance education administrator
- Director of instructional design
- Online course designer
- Online course developer
- Corporate training
Develop training and instruction expertise to help you in the classroom, in educational settings, or in corporate world.
Technology
Information Technology Management – M.S.
A degree for experienced IT professionals ready to lead....
A degree for experienced IT professionals ready to lead.
- Time: 72% of graduates finish within 20 months.
- Tuition: $3,940 per 6-month term.
- Courses: 10 total courses in this program.
Included in your program—at no extra cost—is the opportunity to earn the valuable PMI Certified Associate in Project Management (CAPM) certification.
There are many job titles this degree can prepare you for, including:
- CIO/CTO
- IT manager
- IT director
- Information systems manager
Maximize the opportunities that your IT career path has afforded you—earn your master's and keep moving up.
Education Master's Degrees for Aspiring Teachers
Education
Teaching, Elementary Education – M.A.
An online master's of arts in education degree and teacher certification...
An online master's of arts in education degree and teacher certification program for aspiring elementary school teachers who already have a bachelor's degree in a non-teaching field.
Leads to a teaching license. Specific grade levels will vary depending on teaching certification in your state.
- Time: 83% of graduates finish within 24 months.
- Tuition: $3,975 per 6-month term.
- Courses: 26 total courses in this program.
Candidates for this master's of arts in education degree program often include:
- Aspiring elementary teachers who currently hold a bachelor's degree but lack a teaching license
- Substitute teachers
- Career-changers
- School paraprofessionals
- Others who feel the call to teach
This online teacher's degree requires in-classroom observation and a term of full-time student teaching.
Education
Teaching, Special Education (K–12) – M.A.
An online master's degree for current or aspiring teachers looking to...
An online master's degree for current or aspiring teachers looking to further their careers with a focus on K–12 special education.
- Time: 73% of grads finish similar programs in 21 months.
- Tuition: $3,975 per 6-month term.
- Courses: 26 total courses in this program.
This program is ideal for students who already have a bachelor's degree in a non-teaching field and are looking to earn their initial teaching license.
Graduates of this program are prepared to teach in a variety of schools including:
- Inclusionary K–12 classrooms
- Middle/junior high schools
- High schools
- Private and charter schools
Find a rewarding career teaching students with diverse challenges and special learning abilities with this teaching master's degree.
Education
Teaching, Mathematics Education (Middle Grades) – M.A.
An online teaching master's degree and teacher certification program for...
An online teaching master's degree and teacher certification program for aspiring middle school math teachers who already have a bachelor's degree in a non-teaching field.
Leads to teacher licensure. Specific grade levels will vary depending on licensure in your state.
- Time: 66% of graduates finish this middle school math teaching degree within 24 months.
- Tuition: $3,975 per 6-month term.
- Courses: 22 total courses in this program.
Candidates for this master's in math education degree often include:
- Aspiring junior high math teachers who currently hold a bachelor's degree but lack a teaching license
- Substitute teachers
- Career-changers with a passion for math
- School paraprofessionals
- Others who feel the call to teach
This M.A. Teaching program in middle grades math education requires in-classroom observation and a term of full-time student teaching. It differs from the M.A. Teaching, Mathematics Education (Secondary) program in that it does not require courses in upper levels of calculus, including advanced calculus and mathematical modeling. The curriculum of this online math degree is designed to prepare middle school math teachers for success.
Education
Teaching, Mathematics Education (Secondary) – M.A.
An online teaching master's degree and teacher certification program for...
An online teaching master's degree and teacher certification program for aspiring middle school or high school math teachers who already have a bachelor's degree in a non-teaching field.
Leads to teacher licensure. Specific grade levels will vary depending on the teaching certification in your state.
- Time: 71% of graduates finish this high school math teaching degree within 24 months.
- Tuition: $3,975 per 6-month term.
- Courses: 23 total courses in this program.
Candidates for this high school math education program often include:
- Aspiring junior high and high school math teachers who currently hold a bachelor's degree but lack a teaching license
- Substitute teachers
- Career-changers with a passion for math
- School paraprofessionals
- Others who feel the call to teach
This online teaching degree in secondary math education requires in-classroom observation and a term of full-time student teaching. This program differs from the M.A. Teaching, Mathematics Education (Middle Grades) program in that it includes courses in upper levels of calculus, including advanced calculus and mathematical modeling. Graduates from this secondary math degree program will be eligible for a teaching license in any of the 50 states.
Education
Teaching, English Education (Secondary) – M.A.
An online teaching master's degree and teacher certification program for...
An online teaching master's degree and teacher certification program for aspiring middle or high school English teachers who already have a bachelor's degree in a non-teaching field.
Leads to teacher licensure. Specific grade levels will vary depending on licensure in your state.
- Time: 88% of graduates finish this online English degree program within 24 months.
- Tuition: $3,975 per 6-month term.
- Courses: 19 total courses in this program.
Candidates for this high school English teaching program often include:
- Aspiring junior high and high school English teachers who currently hold a bachelor's degree but lack a teaching license
- Substitute teachers
- Career-changers with a passion for English
- School paraprofessionals
- Others who feel the call to teach
This online English degree prepares students for teaching certification in any of the 50 states.
Education
Teaching, Science Education (Secondary) – M.A.
An online master's teaching degree and teacher certification program for...
An online master's teaching degree and teacher certification program for aspiring middle or high school science teachers who already have a bachelor's degree in a non-teaching field.
Leads to teacher licensure. Specific grade levels will vary depending on licensure in your state.
- Time: 70% of graduates finish this secondary science teaching degree within 24 months.
- Tuition: $3,975 per 6-month term.
- Courses: 20 total courses in this program.
Candidates for this high school teaching degree program often include:
- Aspiring junior high and high school science teachers who currently hold a bachelor's degree but lack a teaching license
- Substitute teachers
- Career-changers with a passion for science
- School paraprofessionals
- Others who feel the call to teach
This program requires in-classroom observation and a term of full-time student teaching. You'll be prepared to teach in middle school or high school settings, based on teaching certification in your state.
Education Master's Degrees for Current Teachers
Education
Educational Leadership – M.S.
An online master's degree for current teachers looking to move into a...
An online master's degree for current teachers looking to move into a school or district leadership position, like principal, vice principal, or administrator.
- Time: 61% of grads earned this degree within 21 months.
- Tuition: $3,975 per 6-month term.
- Courses: 13 total courses in this program.
This program is for licensed teachers who are ready to take the next step in their education career.
Graduates of this program are prepared for careers in a variety of places, including:
- Elementary schools
- Middle schools
- Junior high schools
- High schools
- Private and charter schools
- District-level positions
Put your leadership skills to good use—in the service of America's children—with this education master's degree.
States that do not accept this program: Alabama, Connecticut, Georgia, Hawaii, Iowa, Kansas, and Minnesota.
Education
Science Education (Middle Grades) – M.A.
An online master's degree for current teachers who want to specialize in...
An online master's degree for current teachers who want to specialize in teaching science to middle school students.
Available in all states that offer a middle-grades general science endorsement.
- Time: 66% of grads earned this degree within 18 months.
- Tuition: $3,975 per 6-month term.
- Courses: 14 total courses in this program.
This program is for currently licensed teacher who want to add middle-grades science to their license.
Graduates of this program are qualified to teach in a variety of schools including:
- Inclusionary K–12 classrooms
- Middle/junior high schools
- High schools
- Private and charter schools
Propel your career as a middle school or junior high science teacher with this M.A. degree.
Education
Science Education (Secondary Chemistry) – M.A.
An online master's degree for current teachers who want to specialize in...
An online master's degree for current teachers who want to specialize in teaching chemistry to middle or high school students.
- Time: 91% of grads earned this degree within 24 months.
- Tuition: $3,975 per 6-month term.
- Courses: 14 total courses in this program.
Graduates of this program are qualified to teach in a variety of schools including:
- Inclusionary K–12 classrooms
- Middle/junior high schools
- High schools
- Private and charter schools
Propel your career as a junior high or high school chemistry teacher with this education master's degree.
Education
Science Education (Secondary Earth Science) – M.A.
An online master's degree for current teachers who want to specialize in...
An online master's degree for current teachers who want to specialize in teaching earth science to middle or high school students.
- Time: 91% of grads earned this degree within 24 months.
- Tuition: $3,975 per 6-month term.
- Courses: 12 total courses in this program.
This program is designed for already-licensed teachers who want to add secondary earth science to their license.
Be prepared to teach in a variety of schools including:
- Inclusionary K–12 classrooms
- Middle/junior high schools
- High schools
- Private and charter schools
Propel your career as a junior high or high school geoscience teacher with this education master's degree.
Education
Science Education (Secondary Biological Science) – M.A.
An online master's degree for current teachers who want to specialize in...
An online master's degree for current teachers who want to specialize in teaching biology to middle or high school students.
- Time: 88% of grads earned this degree within 24 months.
- Tuition: $3,975 per 6-month term.
- Courses: 13 total courses in this program.
This program is designed for already-licensed teachers who want to add secondary biology to their license.
Graduates of this program will be prepared to teach in a variety of schools, including:
- Inclusionary K–12 classrooms
- Middle/junior high schools
- High schools
- Private and charter schools
Propel your career as a junior high or high school biology teacher with this education master's degree.
Education
Science Education (Secondary Physics) – M.A.
An online master's degree for current teachers who want to specialize in...
An online master's degree for current teachers who want to specialize in teaching physics to middle or high school students.
- Time: 88% of grads earned this degree within 24 months.
- Tuition: $3,975 per 6-month term.
- Courses: 13 total courses in this program.
This program is designed for already-licensed teachers who wish to add secondary physics to their licensure.
This program prepares teachers to work in a variety of schools, including:
- Inclusionary K–12 classrooms
- Middle/junior high schools
- High schools
- Private and charter schools
Propel your career as a junior high or high school physics teacher with this education master's degree.
Education
Mathematics Education (Middle Grades) – M.A.
An online master's degree for current teachers who want to specialize in...
An online master's degree for current teachers who want to specialize in teaching math to middle school students. Available in states that offer a middle-grades math teaching endorsement.
- Time: 86% of grads earned this degree within 24 months.
- Tuition: $3,975 per 6-month term.
- Courses: 14 total courses in this program.
This program is designed for current teachers who are looking to add middle grade math to their license.
Coursework in this program includes:
- College algebra
- Finite mathematics
- Trigonometry and pre-calculus
- Mathematics learning and teaching
- College geometry
- Probability and statistics
- Calculus
- Algebra for secondary mathematics teaching
Focus your teaching passion on instilling in junior high students a love of math with this education master's degree.
Education
Mathematics Education (K–6) – M.A.
An online master's degree for current teachers who want to specialize in...
An online master's degree for current teachers who want to specialize in teaching math to elementary school students.
- Time: 82% of grads earned this degree within 18 months.
- Tuition: $3,975 per 6-month term.
- Courses: 10 total courses in this program.
This program is for current teachers who are looking to add K-6 math education to their license.
Graduates of this program are qualified to teach in a variety of schools including:
- Inclusionary K–12 classrooms
- Middle/junior high schools
- High schools
- Private and charter schools
Focus your teaching passion on instilling in elementary-age students a love of math with this education master's degree.
Education
Mathematics Education (Secondary) – M.A.
An online master's degree for current teachers who want to specialize in...
An online master's degree for current teachers who want to specialize in teaching math to middle and high school students.
- Time: 86% of grads earned this degree within 24 months.
- Tuition: $3,975 per 6-month term.
- Courses: 18 total courses in this program.
This program is designd for current teachers who are looking to add secondary math to their license.
Coursework in this program includes:
- Trigonometry and pre-calculus
- College geometry
- Calculus
- Probability and statistics
- Algebra for secondary mathematics teaching
- Mathematics history and technology
- Mathematical modeling and applications
Focus your teaching passion on instilling in junior high or high school students a love of math with this education master's degree.
Education
English Language Learning (PreK–12) – M.A.
An online master's degree for current teachers whose next career goal...
An online master's degree for current teachers whose next career goal includes a focus on teaching in ELL or ESL settings.
- Time: 62% of grads earned this degree within 17 months.
- Tuition: $3,975 per 6-month term.
- Courses: 11 total courses in this program.
This program is for current teachers who are looking to add ELL or ESL to their license.
Graduates of program are prepared to teach in a variety of schools including:
- Inclusionary K–12 classrooms
- Middle/junior high schools
- High schools
- Private and charter schools
Grow your teaching career on a commitment to ensuring language barriers don't become a barrier to learning with this education master's degree.
Education
English Language Learning (PreK–12) Endorsement Prep
An online program for currently licensed elementary and secondary school...
An online program for currently licensed elementary and secondary school teachers who desire to be licensed to teach in ELL or ESL settings.
Become highly qualified in ELL or ESL, increase your career opportunities, earn re-licensure points, and possibly become eligible for lane changes leading to increased salary.
- Time: 79% of grads finish within 18 months.
- Tuition: $3,975 per 6-month term.
- Courses: 8 total courses in this program.
This program is for current teachers who are looking to earn an ELL/ESL endorsement.
Graduates of this program are prepared to teach in a variety of schools including:
- Inclusionary K–12 classrooms
- Middle/junior high schools
- High schools
- Private and charter schools
Advance your teaching career and help ensure language barriers don't become a barrier to learning.
Other Education Master's Degrees
Education
Education Technology and Instructional Design – M.Ed.
The M.Ed. in Education Technology and Instructional Design from WGU is for...
The M.Ed. in Education Technology and Instructional Design from WGU is for instructional designers tasked with creating engaging and immersive virtual learning experiences that can substitute for on-ground instruction.
No teaching license required.
- Time: 73% of grads finish similar programs in 18 months
- Tuition: $3,975 per 6-month term
- Courses: 12 total courses in this program.
This program includes two tracks for students to choose from:
- The K-12 pathway
- The Adult Learner pathway
Careers you will be prepared for after earning this degree include:
- Instructional coordinator
- Instructional designer
- Curriculum developer
- Instructional technologist
- Learning engineer
- Learning architect
- Instructional design coordinator
- Academic technologist
- Learning experience designer
- Distance education administrator
- Director of instructional design
- Online course designer
- Online course developer
- Corporate training
Develop training and instruction expertise to help you in the classroom, in educational settings, or in corporate world.
Education
Curriculum and Instruction – M.S.
An online master's degree for those who have educational experience and...
An online master's degree for those who have educational experience and are looking to further their careers with a graduate program focused on curriculum development and design.
- Time: 61% of grads earned this degree within 13 months.
- Tuition: $3,975 per 6-month term.
- Courses: 10 total courses in this program.
Graduates of this program are prepared for a variety of careers including:
- Private Learning Center Instructor
- Instructional Coach
- Area Superintendent
- Curriculum Director
- Academic Advisor
- Learning and Development Coordinator
- Private Tutor
- Corporate Trainer
Help schools create engaging, meaningful, and memorable learning experiences to improve learning outcomes for all students with this M.S. degree.
WGU’s School of Education provides a path for students to become licensed/certified teachers in each U.S. state and territory. In some cases, our program has already been approved for direct licensure/certification in your state. In other cases, you may apply for licensure/certification through reciprocity. Your Enrollment Counselor can give you specific information on your program of interest and how you may ultimately earn a license in your state. Please note that some programs do not have a corresponding license in certain states.
Nursing Master's Degrees Online (students must possess an active RN license to be eligible for all MSN programs at WGU)
BSN-to-MSN Programs
Health & Nursing
Nursing – Leadership & Management (BSN-to-MSN) – M.S.
For registered nurses with a bachelor's degree who are ready for...
For registered nurses with a bachelor's degree who are ready for additional career opportunities.
- Time: 68% of grads finish within 24 months.
- Tuition: $4,795 per 6-month term.
- Courses: 15 total courses in this program.
This program is ideal for current RNs who have a BSN and are ready for the next step in their education.
Sample careers and jobs this degree program will prepare you for:
- Director of Nursing
- Chief Nursing Officer
- Quality Director
- Clinical Nurse Leader
- Project Manager
The Bureau of Labor Statistics projects employment of medical and health services managers to grow 17% by 2024, much faster than the average for all occupations.
Compare degrees
This program is not the only degree WGU offers designed to create leaders in the field of healthcare. Compare our health leadership degrees.
Health & Nursing
Nursing – Nursing Informatics (BSN-to-MSN) – M.S.
A nursing degree program that empowers data-driven nurses who already have...
A nursing degree program that empowers data-driven nurses who already have a BSN but seek the success a master's can bring:
- Time: 72% of grads finish within 18 months.
- Tuition: $4,795 per 6-month term.
- Courses: 14 total courses in this program.
Some careers and jobs this degree will prepare you for:
- Chief Nursing Informatics Officer
- Informatics Director
- Nursing Informatics Specialist
- Informatics Analyst
The trajectory of data and informatics in healthcare will continually open opportunities for nurses who take this path.
Health & Nursing
Nursing – Education (BSN-to-MSN) – M.S.
A master's in nursing education program for nurses with BSNs....
A master's in nursing education program for nurses with BSNs.
This degree will prepare you to teach the next generation of nurses.
- Time: 64% of grads finish within 24 months.
- Tuition: $4,795 per 6-month term.
- Courses: 15 total courses in this program.
This program is ideal for RNs who already have their BSN and are ready to progress in their career.
Some careers and jobs this degree will prepare you for:
- Nurse Educator
- Nursing Faculty
- Program Director
- Academic Clinical Nurse Educator
Hospitals and other facilities need nurse educators. Earn your MSN – Education and step into a role inspiring and empowering caregivers.
RN-to-MSN Programs
Health & Nursing
Nursing – Leadership & Management (RN-to-MSN) – M.S.
This program for RNs includes a BSN component and is a substantial leap...
This program for RNs includes a BSN component and is a substantial leap toward becoming a nurse leader.
- Time: 75% of RN-to-MSN grads finish within 42 months.
- Tuition: $4,685 per 6-month term during undergraduate portion and $4,795 per 6-month term during graduate portion.
- Courses: 32 total courses in this program.
Some careers and jobs this degree will prepare you for:
- Director of Nursing
- Chief Nursing Officer
- Quality Director
- Clinical Nurse Leader
- Project Manager
If you're driven to lead, this online nursing degree will provide you everything needed to make that career a reality. This program is ideal for current RNs who are interested in earning both their BSn and MSN in an accelerated program.
Compare degrees
This program is not the only degree WGU offers designed to create leaders in the field of healthcare. Compare our health leadership degrees.
Health & Nursing
Nursing – Nursing Informatics (RN-to-MSN) – M.S.
A nursing program that empowers data-driven nurses with a BSN and MSN...
A nursing program that empowers data-driven nurses with a BSN and MSN component, allowing them to go from RN to MSN.
- Time: 67% of RN-to-MSN grads finish within 36 months.
- Tuition: $4,685 per 6-month term during undergraduate portion and $4,795 per 6-month term during graduate portion.
- Courses: 31 total courses in this program.
This program is ideal for currently licensed RNs who are looking to earn a bachelor's degree and a master's degree at an accelerated pace.
Some careers and jobs this degree will prepare you for:
- Chief Nursing Informatics Officer
- Informatics Director
- Nursing Informatics Specialist
- Informatics Analyst
The trajectory of data and informatics in healthcare will continually open opportunities for registered nurses who take this path.
Health & Nursing
Nursing – Education (RN-to-MSN) – M.S.
This MSN – Education online nursing program for RNs includes a BSN program...
This MSN – Education online nursing program for RNs includes a BSN program component and is a substantial leap forward for an aspiring nurse educator.
- Time: 73% of RN-to-MSN grads finish within 42 months.
- Tuition and fees: $4,685 per 6-month term during undergraduate portion, and $4,795 per 6-month term during graduate portion.
- Courses: 32 total courses in this program.
This program is ideal for current RNs who are looking to earn both their BSN and MSN in a single, accelerated program.
Sample careers and jobs this online nursing degree will prepare you for:
- Nurse Educator
- Nursing Faculty
- Program Director
- Academic Clinical Nurse Educator
Given the growing nurse educator shortage, earning your MSN with a focus in education is both a rewarding decision and a solid career move.
Nurse Practitioner Programs
Health & Nursing
Family Nurse Practitioner (BSN-to-MSN) – M.S. Nursing
This program for BSNs who have an active, unencumbered RN license prepares...
This program for BSNs who have an active, unencumbered RN license prepares you to become a board-certified Family Nurse Practitioner.
- Locations: Due to the clinical requirements of this degree program, the FNP is currently NOT available to students who have a permanent residence in the following states: California, District of Columbia, Louisiana, Maryland, Massachusetts, New York, North Dakota, Oregon, Washington.
- Time: 2½ years.
- Tuition: $6,525 per six-month term.
- Courses: 16 total courses in this program.
Students must have a permanent and active license from a state that is not listed above, must complete the internships in that state, and intend to obtain initial APRN licensure in that state. See more state-specific information related to nursing licensure. Compact licenses must be endorsed by your state of residence. More about compact licenses.
Health & Nursing
Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (BSN-to-MSN) – M.S. Nursing
This program for BSNs who have an active, unencumbered RN license prepares...
This program for BSNs who have an active, unencumbered RN license prepares you to become a board-certified Mental Health Nurse Practitioner.
- Locations: Due to the clinical requirements of this degree program, the PMHNP program at WGU is currently NOT open to students who have a permanent residence in the following states: Arizona, California, District of Columbia, Louisiana, Maryland, Massachusetts, New York, North Dakota, Oregon, Tennessee, Washington, and Wisconsin.
- Time: 2½ years.
- Tuition and fees: $6,625 per six-month term.
- Courses: 17 total courses in this program.
This program is for current RNs who have earned their BSN and are ready to move forward in their career. This MSN program prepares students to become licensed as a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in select states.
Students must have a permanent and active license from a state that is not listed above, must complete the internships in that state, and intend to obtain initial APRN licensure in that state. See more state-specific information related to nursing licensure. Compact licenses must be endorsed by your state of residence. More about compact licenses.
Healthcare Master's Degrees Online
Health & Nursing
Master of Healthcare Administration
A master's focused on managing comprehensive, value-based care, directly...
A master's focused on managing comprehensive, value-based care, directly in line with innovations in health and healthcare.
- Time: 81% of grads finish within 24 months.
- Tuition: $4,755 per 6-month term.
- Courses: 12 total courses in this program.
Examples of careers and jobs this degree will prepare you for:
- Managed care executive
- Director of integrated care management
- Health center manager/clinic manager
- Director of integrated facilities
Your rich experience in a health-related field can mean more when you bring a master's level of understanding to the problems that organizations need to solve.
Compare degrees
This program is not the only degree WGU offers designed to create leaders in the field of healthcare. Compare our health leadership degrees.
Business
MBA Healthcare Management
Prepare for a career leading private or public healthcare organizations....
Prepare for a career leading private or public healthcare organizations.
- Time: Graduates can finish within 12 months.
- Tuition: $4,755 per 6-month term.
- Courses: 11 total courses in this program.
Some careers and jobs this business degree will prepare you for:
- President and CEO
- Vice president
- Administrative director
- Chief financial officer
- Other executive-level roles
Healthcare is big business in today's complex economy. Steer your career with this specialty MBA.
Compare online business degrees
This program is not the only online business degree WGU offers that is designed to create leaders in the field of healthcare. Compare our health leadership degrees.
Education
Education Technology and Instructional Design – M.Ed.
The M.Ed. in Education Technology and Instructional Design from WGU is for...
The M.Ed. in Education Technology and Instructional Design from WGU is for instructional designers tasked with creating engaging and immersive virtual learning experiences that can substitute for on-ground instruction.
No teaching license required.
- Time: 73% of grads finish similar programs in 18 months
- Tuition: $3,975 per 6-month term
- Courses: 12 total courses in this program.
This program includes two tracks for students to choose from:
- The K-12 pathway
- The Adult Learner pathway
Careers you will be prepared for after earning this degree include:
- Instructional coordinator
- Instructional designer
- Curriculum developer
- Instructional technologist
- Learning engineer
- Learning architect
- Instructional design coordinator
- Academic technologist
- Learning experience designer
- Distance education administrator
- Director of instructional design
- Online course designer
- Online course developer
- Corporate training
Develop training and instruction expertise to help you in the classroom, in educational settings, or in corporate world.
Post-Master's Nursing Programs Online
Health & Nursing
Nursing Education – Post-Master's Certificate
A specialty certificate in nursing education for nurses with MSNs....
A specialty certificate in nursing education for nurses with MSNs.
This program will prepare you to teach the next generation of nurses.
- Time: 12 months.
- Tuition: $4,795 per 6-month term.
- Courses: 8 total courses in this program.
Some careers and jobs this degree will prepare you for:
- Nurse Educator
- Nursing Faculty
- Program Director
- Academic Clinical Nurse Educator
Hospitals and other facilities need nurse educators. Earn your Post-Master's Certificate in Nursing Education and step into a role inspiring and empowering caregivers. This program will prepare you to sit for the National League for Nursing Certified Nurse Executive (CNE) exam.
Health & Nursing
Nursing Leadership and Management – Post-Master's Certificate
A certificate for registered nurses with a master's degree in nursing who...
A certificate for registered nurses with a master's degree in nursing who are ready for greater responsibility in a leadership and management role.
- Time: 12 months.
- Tuition: $4,795 per 6-month term. The cost to sit for the NAHQ Certified Professional in Healthcare Quality (CPHQ) exam is included in tuition.
- Courses: 8 total courses in this program.
Sample careers and jobs this degree program will prepare you for:
- Director of Nursing
- Chief Nursing Officer
- Quality Director
- Clinical Nurse Leader
- Project Manager
The Bureau of Labor Statistics projects employment of medical and health services managers to grow 17% by 2024, much faster than the average for all occupations.
Health & Nursing
Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner – Post-Master's Certificate
This program is for current RNs who already have earned an MSN and are...
This program is for current RNs who already have earned an MSN and are wanting to become a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner through a post-master's certificate program.
- Locations: Due to the clinical requirements of this degree program, the PMHNP post-master's certificate program at WGU is currently NOT open to students who have a permanent residence in the following states: Arizona, California, District of Columbia, Louisiana, Maryland, Massachusetts, New York, North Dakota, Oregon, Tennessee, Washington, and Wisconsin.
- Time: 2 years or less
- Tuition and fees: $6,625 per six-month term.
- Courses: 11 total courses in this program.
This program is for current RNs who have earned their MSN but are wanting to add a specilization to become a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. This post-master's certificate program is only available in select states.
Students must have a permanent and active license from a state that is not listed above, must complete the internships in that state, and intend to obtain initial APRN licensure in that state. See more state-specific information related to nursing licensure. Compact licenses must be endorsed by your state of residence. More about compact licenses.
Health & Nursing
Family Nurse Practitioner – Post-Master's Certificate
This is a program for individuals who already have an MSN and are looking...
This is a program for individuals who already have an MSN and are looking to now become a family nurse practitioner with a post-master's certificate program.
- Locations: Due to the clinical requirements of this degree program, the FNP is currently NOT available to students who have a permanent residence in the following states: Arizona, California, District of Columbia, Louisiana, Maryland, Massachusetts, New York, North Dakota, Oregon, Tennessee, Washington.
- Time: 2 years or less
- Tuition: $6,252 per six-month term.
- Courses: 10 total courses in this program.
Students must have a permanent and active license from a state that is not listed above, must complete the internships in that state, and intend to obtain initial APRN licensure in that state. See more state-specific information related to nursing licensure. Compact licenses must be endorsed by your state of residence. More about compact licenses.
Information Technology Master's Degrees
Technology
Cybersecurity & Information Assurance – M.S.
Become the authority on keeping infrastructures and information safe....
Become the authority on keeping infrastructures and information safe.
- Time: 70% of graduates finish within 22 months.
- Tuition: $4,555 per 6-month term.
- Courses: 9 total courses in this program.
Certifications in this program at no additional cost include:
- CompTIA Cybersecurity Analyst (CySA+)
- CompTIA PenTest+
- CompTIA Advanced Security Practitioner (CASP+) Optional Voucher
- ISACA Certified Information Security Manager (CISM) Optional Voucher
- (ISC)² Certified in Cybersecurity (CC)
The curriculum is closely aligned with the National Initiative for Cybersecurity Education (NICE) Workforce Framework. The program was designed in collaboration with national intelligence organizations and IT industry leaders, ensuring you'll learn emerging technologies and best practices in security governance.
Technology
Data Analytics – M.S.
Lead businesses with strong analysis skills:...
Lead businesses with strong analysis skills:
- Time: 70% of graduates finish within 23 months.
- Tuition: $4,055 per 6-month term.
- Courses: 11 total courses in this program.
There are many careers this degree program may prepare you for, including:
- Data Analyst
- Data Administrator
- Business Analyst
- Data Engineer
- Business Intelligence Analyst
- Information Research Scientist
- Advanced Analytics Expert
Master data mining, visualization, and SQL—and lead analytics at the business of your choice.
Technology
Information Technology Management – M.S.
A degree for experienced IT professionals ready to lead....
A degree for experienced IT professionals ready to lead.
- Time: 72% of graduates finish within 20 months.
- Tuition: $3,940 per 6-month term.
- Courses: 10 total courses in this program.
Included in your program—at no extra cost—is the opportunity to earn the valuable PMI Certified Associate in Project Management (CAPM) certification.
There are many job titles this degree can prepare you for, including:
- CIO/CTO
- IT manager
- IT director
- Information systems manager
Maximize the opportunities that your IT career path has afforded you—earn your master's and keep moving up.
Technology
Accelerated Information Technology Bachelor's and Master's Degree
Earn both your bachelor’s in IT and master’s in IT management at a faster...
Earn both your bachelor’s in IT and master’s in IT management at a faster pace with fewer courses.
- Time: Approximately 5 years.
- Tuition: $3,735 per 6-month term for the bachelor's degree; $3,940 per term for the master's portion.
- Courses: 42 total courses in this program.
Certifications included in this program at no additional cost:
- CompTIA A+
- CompTIA Network+
- CompTIA Security+
- CompTIA IT Operations Specialist
- CompTIA Secure Infrastructure Specialist
- Amazon AWS Cloud Practitioner
- ITIL®*^ Foundation Certification
- PMI CAPM
- LPI Linux Essentials
This program allows students to earn their bachelor's degree in IT and move directly into a master's degree in IT management, cutting down on the total number of courses to complete.
Business
MBA Information Technology Management
Earn the online college degree that can move your career into IT upper...
Earn the online college degree that can move your career into IT upper management:
- Time: Graduates can finish in 12 months
- Tuition: $4,755 per 6-month term
- Courses: 11 total courses in this program
Sample careers and jobs this business degree will prepare you for:
- Chief technology officer
- Director of IT services
- Senior systems administrator
- Management information systems director
- Computer and information systems manager
Learn to navigate emergencies, execute strategies, and optimize systems with the competencies within this specialty MBA.
Is It Hard to Get a Master’s Degree?
A master’s degree is one of the highest academic accolades a person can pursue. While it can be a joy to study what you love, improve your leadership skills, and work toward your career goals, earning a master’s is not generally considered to be an easy feat. In fact, not everyone who attempts a master's program will be able to complete the degree. Below are some common hurdles students face in finishing their master’s degrees.
Procrastination
Most master’s degree programs require a substantial amount of reading and writing. Students will quickly find that the constant high volume of reading, writing, and research demands that they stay on track. Chronic procrastinators in particular may have to change study habits or adjust their lifestyle or mindset in order to keep up with the work. Students that have to maintain a job or care for their family may find that going to school on top of that is overwhelming. This is why WGU’s master’s degree programs are designed to allow students to move through online coursework and assessments at the pace that works best for their professional and personal lives. Procrastination strikes everyone from time to time, which is why at WGU, you’ll also have your own personal Program Mentor that helps encourage you to stay the course.
Inadequate Advising
A positive mentoring relationship can be the special ingredient for a student’s success in their master’s program. No matter who you are, you’re bound to experience challenges during your education. The support of an academic advisor can help you through those moments to keep you on course. At WGU, you have access to an entire team of faculty members whose #1 job is empowering you toward success so that you can focus on the important stuff: your program, your goals, and your path. There’s also a robust network of peers at WGU that can help students succeed both in their education and in their career.
Cost
America is home to some of the best colleges in the world—as well as the steepest tuition costs. The fees associated with getting a master’s degree are prohibitive for many Americans and can be a deciding factor in whether or not a student finishes their degree. At WGU, students pay per six-month term (not per credit or course) and are allowed to take as many classes as they can complete during that time, empowering them to keep their costs lower. The average yearly master's tuition at WGU is $8,444. Utilizing scholarships, federal aid, and military benefits, many WGU students earn their degrees without taking out a single loan.
Quality of Life
Getting an advanced education can be all-consuming. Between seemingly endless pages of reading, exams, and coursework, it’s easy to get overwhelmed by your graduate study and let your personal life and self-care routine fall to the wayside. The rigorous nature of traditional college causes stress that can have a negative effect on a student’s quality of life. This is why WGU takes a competency-based approach to our curriculum, which means that students move through their coursework at whatever pace works for them and only take exams when they feel ready, allowing them to earn their degree on their own terms and protect their quality of life.
Do I Need to Have a Bachelor's To Get a Master's?
Specific requirements vary from program to program, but all master’s degrees require the completion of a bachelor’s degree and usually require a minimum undergraduate GPA of 3.0. Some master’s programs also require applicants to pass tests like the GRE or the GMAT and submit writing samples and letters of recommendation.
Online Master's Degree Programs Designed to Help You Succeed
WGU offers fully online master's programs focused on helping students boost their résumé and become a leader in their profession. Our online master's degrees are affordable and accredited, ensuring that students gain valuable credentials and get the skills they need to thrive in their chosen career. Ideal for those looking for a raise, promotion, or a change to a new career, WGU online master's degrees are geared to help students succeed. There are many elements to WGU online graduate programs that make them a great fit for most students, including:
- Flexible schedule. Our online graduate degree programs are entirely online, enabling you to do your coursework any where, at any time. There are no classes to log in to and no due dates for assignments—you are in control of your education.
- Accelerate progress. Our educational model lets you move through your courses as quickly as you can master the material. You don't have to wait for the end of a term to move forward—you are in charge of your schedule.
- Credibility. WGU's master's degree programs are regionally accredited, meaning they have high academic standards and will be valued by your employer. Accreditation means that your degree is respected.
- Experienced faculty. Faculty members at WGU have often worked in the very career field they teach, ensuring you get relevant experience. Our curriculum for each master's degree program was designed by industry experts to ensure you're prepared to thrive.
- Affordable. At WGU our tuition is charged per-term instead of per-credit, so finishing faster actually saves you money. And we also offer federal financial aid and scholarships to make your degree as affordable as possible.
