Do you need a bachelor’s to get a master’s? No. Some universities offer pathways to a Master’s Without a Bachelor’s degree. Explore this page to pursue a master’s degree without a bachelor’s.
Typically, applicants to master’s programs are expected to hold a bachelor’s degree in a relevant area of study. However, many students pursue master’s degrees in fields unrelated to their undergraduate studies, with MBA programs being a common example. Additionally, some institutions offer combined bachelor’s and master’s programs, allowing students to earn both degrees in an integrated format. Beyond these, certain master’s programs waive the bachelor’s degree requirement entirely, focusing on professional experience, certifications, or prior learning. This guide explores all these options for pursuing a master’s without bachelor’s.
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Southern New Hampshire University
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Southern New Hampshire University is a private, nonprofit, accredited institution with more than 3,000 on campus students, over 170,000 online students, making it one of the fastest growing universities in the nation. Founded in 1932, we’ve been relentlessly reinventing higher education ever since and have gained national recognition for our dedication to helping students transform their lives and the lives of those around them.
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Universities that offer Master’s without Bachelors
Several universities offer pathways to earn a master’s without requiring a bachelor’s degree. These include combined bachelor’s-master’s programs, master’s degrees for students with unrelated bachelor’s degrees, and standalone master’s programs that don’t require a bachelor’s. Each option caters to diverse educational and professional backgrounds. Below is a list of universities offering such programs.
- University of Pennsylvania
- Columbia University-Graduate School of Arts and Sciences
- Boston University
- New York University(Wagner)
- Northwestern University
- Duke University
- The University of Chicago
- Drexel University
- University of Maryland
- Johns Hopkins University
- Case Western Reserve University
- Franklin University
- Florida State University
- Rochester Institute of Technology
- Kent State University
- Miami University
- Baylor University
- Florida Atlantic University
Master’s Without Bachelor’s Programs – Details
Pursuing a master’s degree without a bachelor’s opens up various options, each falling into distinct categories. This section will explore these paths in detail, offering a deeper understanding of the opportunities available for those looking to skip the traditional bachelor’s degree.
Master’s Without Bachelor’s – Combined Programs
A combined program, often called an “accelerated” or “dual” degree, allows students to work toward both a bachelor’s and master’s degree simultaneously rather than completing them separately. This streamlined approach reduces time and often combines the curriculum of both degrees into one extended program.
Integrated master’s programs are gaining popularity, with numerous options available across the United States.
Here is the list of Universities offering such programs in Detail:
University of Pennsylvania
The University of Pennsylvania (Penn), an Ivy League research university in Philadelphia, combines rich history with academic innovation. Founded by Benjamin Franklin, Penn offers integrated bachelor’s and master’s programs in fields such as Education, Culture, and Society; Education Policy; Higher Education; and Urban Education. Other programs include Intercultural Communication, Learning Sciences and Technologies, and Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages. With 12 graduate and professional schools, Penn is a leader in interdisciplinary education and research.
Columbia University-Graduate School of Arts and Sciences
Columbia University’s Graduate School of Arts and Sciences (GSAS), founded in 1880, oversees Columbia’s graduate programs in the humanities, social sciences, and natural sciences. Offering MA and PhD degrees in over 78 disciplines, GSAS pioneered graduate education at Columbia, including opening its programs to women earlier than many other schools. GSAS provides combined bachelor’s and master’s pathways in African-American Studies, Political Science, Human Rights Studies, and Quantitative Methods in the Social Sciences, fostering interdisciplinary research and academic excellence.
Boston University
Boston University (BU), a private research institution in Boston, Massachusetts, was founded in 1839 and is a member of the Association of American Universities. With over 38,000 students and 4,000 faculty, BU offers bachelor’s, master’s, doctoral, and professional degrees across 17 schools and colleges. Renowned for its research contributions, BU also provides combined bachelor’s and master’s programs in education, business, and sciences. BU’s vibrant urban campuses foster innovation and academic excellence.
New York University(Wagner)
New York University’s Robert F. Wagner Graduate School of Public Service (NYU Wagner) is a leader in public service education. Situated in New York City, it offers master’s and doctoral programs in public administration, public policy, urban planning, and health policy. Wagner is known for its interdisciplinary focus and practical impact. Its innovative combined programs include BA-MPA and BA-MUP degrees with NYU’s College of Arts and Science, Gallatin School, Global Liberal Studies, Tandon School, and NYU Abu Dhabi.
Northwestern University
Northwestern University (NU), founded in 1851, is a private research university in Evanston, Illinois, with campuses in Chicago, Coral Gables, San Francisco, Doha, and Washington, D.C. Known for excellence in fields like business and engineering, it houses 11 schools, including the Kellogg School of Management and McCormick School of Engineering. Northwestern offers combined bachelor’s and master’s programs in Computer Science, fostering advanced interdisciplinary education.
Duke University
Duke University, a private research university in Durham, North Carolina, was founded in 1838 by Methodists and Quakers. Renamed in 1924 to honor benefactor James Buchanan Duke’s father, the university spans 8,600 acres with Gothic and Georgian architecture. Duke offers combined bachelor’s and master’s programs in Economics, Computer Science, and Engineering. It operates globally with Duke-NUS Medical School in Singapore and Duke Kunshan University in China and has affiliations with 16 Nobel laureates.
The University of Chicago
The University of Chicago, founded in 1890, is a private research university in Hyde Park, Chicago. Renowned for its academic rigor and interdisciplinary approach, it houses divisions in Biological Sciences, Humanities, Physical Sciences, and Social Sciences alongside eight professional schools, including the Booth School of Business and the Law School. UChicago offers joint bachelor’s and master’s programs in Divinity, Public Policy, Financial Mathematics, and Middle Eastern Studies, emphasizing intellectual innovation and leadership.
Drexel University
Drexel University, established in 1891 in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, is a private research institution known for its pioneering cooperative education (co-op) program, offering up to 18 months of paid, field-relevant work experience. With over 24,000 students, Drexel provides over 70 undergraduate and 100 graduate programs. It features combined bachelor’s and master’s degree options, including an accelerated BS/MBA program in Hospitality Management or Culinary Arts, enabling students to earn dual credentials in just five years.
University of Maryland
The University of Maryland, College Park (UMD), founded in 1856, is a leading public research university and the flagship of Maryland’s higher education system. Located near Washington, D.C., UMD fosters robust federal research partnerships, securing funding from agencies like NASA and NIH. Offering over 200 programs, including combined bachelor’s and master’s degrees in various fields.
Johns Hopkins University
The Johns Hopkins University (JHU), founded in 1876 in Baltimore, Maryland, pioneered the American research university model. Renowned for integrating teaching and research, JHU leads U.S. institutions in research expenditures, totaling $3.18 billion in 2021. Its Homewood campus houses the Zanvyl Krieger School of Arts and Sciences and Whiting School of Engineering, while graduate campuses span Maryland, D.C., Italy, and China. JHU offers combined bachelor’s and master’s programs in Public Health, Health Administration, and Environmental Health.
Case Western Reserve University
Case Western Reserve University (CWRU) in Cleveland, Ohio, was formed in 1967 by merging Western Reserve University and Case Institute of Technology. Renowned for research excellence, CWRU offers over 100 undergraduate and 160 graduate programs across STEM, medicine, arts, and humanities. It features combined bachelor’s and master’s programs in diverse fields.
Franklin University
Franklin University, based in Columbus, Ohio, was founded in 1902 to cater to adult learners and offers most of its courses online. It provides flexible educational opportunities through over 25 Midwest locations and partners with more than 135 community colleges for seamless credit transfers. Known for innovative programs, Franklin offers combined bachelor’s and master’s degrees in fields like cybersecurity, human resources, information technology, and public administration, making advanced education accessible for working professionals worldwide.
Florida State University
Florida State University (FSU), a public research university in Tallahassee, Florida, was chartered in 1851 and operated on Florida’s oldest higher education site. With 17 colleges and 58 research centers, FSU enrolled over 43,700 students in 2023 from 50 states and 135 countries. Known for innovation, it offers combined bachelor’s and master’s pathways in data science, computer science, accounting, and finance. FSU fosters collaboration with the Seminole Tribe and boasts 19 national athletic championships.
Rochester Institute of Technology
The Rochester Institute of Technology (RIT), founded in 1829, is a private research university in Rochester, New York. With over 19,000 students from all 50 states and 100+ countries, RIT excels in technology, arts, and sciences. It operates global campuses in China, Croatia, Kosovo, and the UAE. Classified as “R2: High research activity,” RIT offers combined bachelor’s and master’s programs in engineering, computer science, and business, fostering innovation and career readiness.
Kent State University
Kent State University (KSU), a public research university in Kent, Ohio, was established in 1910. It has over 34,000 students across eight campuses and offers 300+ degree programs. KSU is classified as an “R1: Doctoral Universities – very high research activity” institution. The university offers combined bachelor’s and master’s programs in various fields, including Accounting (B.B.A. + M.S.A.), Advertising (B.S. + M.A.), Aerospace Engineering (B.S. + M.S.), and Health Informatics (B.S. + M.S.).
Miami University
Miami University, located in Oxford, Ohio, was founded in 1809 and is the second-oldest university in Ohio. It offers over 120 undergraduate and 70 graduate degree programs across various fields, including Accountancy, Biology, Engineering, Social Work, and more. Miami is classified as an “R2: Doctoral Universities – High research activity” institution known for its Greek life, with one-third of undergraduates participating. It offers bachelor’s and master’s dual programs in Athletic Training, Business Analytics, and Mechanical Engineering.
Baylor University
Baylor University, founded in 1845 in Waco, Texas, is the oldest continuously operating university in the state. It is a private Baptist institution with a sprawling 1,000-acre campus. Baylor offers many programs, including combined bachelor’s and master’s degrees in Art History, Biochemistry, English, Environmental Studies, History, Mathematics, and Religion.
Florida Atlantic University
Florida Atlantic University (FAU), located in Boca Raton, Florida, is a public research university with satellite campuses in several cities. Established in 1964, FAU offers over 180 undergraduate and graduate programs across ten colleges. The university has grown to serve over 30,000 students from 180 countries. FAU offers combined bachelor’s and master’s degrees in History, Music, Business, and Engineering.
Master’s Without Bachelor’s – Without Any Bachelor’s
Some universities consider applicants for master’s programs without a bachelor’s degree, evaluating candidates based on alternative qualifications. Factors such as extensive professional experience, industry certifications, demonstrated expertise, prior academic achievements, or portfolios showcasing relevant skills are typically assessed. Fields like business, technology, fine arts, and public administration are more likely to accommodate such pathways. Programs may require applicants to complete prerequisite courses, provide strong recommendations, or submit comprehensive personal statements. This approach caters to experienced professionals seeking advanced education without following the traditional undergraduate route, offering flexible opportunities for career advancement in specific disciplines.
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Additional Resources For Students Looking for Masters Without Bachelors Programs
For students considering master’s programs without a bachelor’s degree, it’s important to conduct thorough research, as these programs often come with specific entry requirements and unique pathways. Many students leave college due to the time required to complete a traditional degree, making direct entry into a master’s program appealing. However, while some universities offer accelerated master’s programs for students without a bachelor’s, these often require significant work experience, prerequisites, or associate degrees. Associate degrees can offer a stepping stone by providing foundational knowledge and skills, but may not always align with the demands of a master’s program. The advantage is a shorter, more affordable path, but the disadvantage is the potential lack of in-depth knowledge in specialized fields.
Associate’s Degree vs. a Bachelor’s Degree vs a Master’s Degree: What is the Difference?
Associate Degree
An associate degree is typically a two-year program offered by community colleges. It provides foundational education and practical skills in various fields. The benefits include quicker workforce entry, lower cost, and the potential for credits to transfer to a bachelor’s program. However, it may limit specialization and earning potential compared to higher degrees.
Bachelor’s Degree
A bachelor’s degree takes around four years and provides a comprehensive education. It offers specialized knowledge and opens many career opportunities with higher earning potential. However, it requires a longer time commitment and a higher financial investment than an associate degree. It’s often the minimum requirement for many professions.
Master’s Degree
A master’s degree typically requires one to two years beyond a bachelor’s degree. It offers in-depth knowledge in a specific field, increases career advancement opportunities, and generally leads to higher salaries. However, it requires more time and financial investment, and the program can be demanding, especially for working professionals.
FAQs About Masters Without Bachelors Programs
What is a Master’s without a Bachelor’s degree?
A Master’s without a Bachelor’s degree allows students to pursue graduate education without a traditional undergraduate degree. These programs often emphasize professional experience, self-taught expertise, or preparatory courses to ensure foundational knowledge. They are more common in business, computer science, and creative disciplines. Eligibility varies by program.