Explore the most useful master’s degrees to advance your career and achieve long-term success. This guide covers key aspects of the top online master’s programs.
With over 1,000 universities offering master’s programs in the country and 800,000 master’s degrees awarded in 2023-2024, choosing the right degree is crucial for standing out. While a master’s degree can significantly enhance career prospects, its value depends on alignment with personal interests and professional goals. With so many graduates entering the workforce, pursuing a degree that develops in-demand skills and leads to tangible career outcomes becomes essential. Whether it’s STEM, healthcare, business, or education, selecting a program that aligns with industry trends and long-term ambitions ensures the investment is worthwhile. Evaluating factors like job growth, earning potential, and passion for the field helps identify the most useful master’s degrees for personal fulfillment and career success.
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Featured Online Masters Programs
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National University
PROGRAM: Best Online Masters Programs
National University, headquartered in San Diego, California, was founded in 1971 to provide educational opportunities for adult learners and working professionals. It offers over 190 degree programs, including bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral degrees, with flexible online and on-campus courses. Serving around 40,000 students and over 240,000 alumni, the university is recognized for its support of U.S. military members. Accredited by the WASC Senior College and University Commission (WSCUC), National University is committed to accessible and transformative higher education.
FindBestDegrees.com is an advertising-supported site. Featured or trusted partner programs and all school search, finder, or match results are for schools that compensate us. This compensation does not influence our school rankings, resource guides, or other editorially-independent information published on this site.
Southern New Hampshire University
PROGRAM: Best Online Masters Programs
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.
We’re proud to provide affordable, accessible education that students can pursue on our 300-acre campus in Manchester, NH, or via our innovative online platform.
SNHU has earned the GetEducated.com Best Buy and Best of Business – Best Online Degree awards and is consistently ranked as a top Military Friendly® School by G.I Jobs®.
What Are the Most Useful Master’s Degrees?
Here is a list of the top most useful master’s degrees:
What Universities Offer the Most Useful Master’s Degrees?
Here is a list of Universities that offer the most useful master’s degrees:
- National University
- South New Hampshire University
- Stanford University
- Sam Houston State University
- University of Pennsylvania
- Duke University
- Northwestern University
- Carnegie Mellon University
- Yale University
- University of Southern California (USC)
- Johns Hopkins University
- New York University (NYU)
- Western Governors University
- Walden University
- Syracuse University
Most Useful Master’s Degrees: Details
There are many factors that play a significant role in determining why some master’s are useful to obtain. These factors include:
- Availability: Accessibility of the program, including online, hybrid, and in-person learning options.
- Duration: Alignment of the program with current industry demands and future job market trends.
- Accreditation: Accreditation by recognized bodies ensures the program meets high-quality educational standards.
- Flexibility: Scheduling options like part-time, evening, or self-paced formats to accommodate diverse lifestyles.
- Career Prospects: Employment rates and earning potential for graduates in the chosen field of study.
- Reputation: The university’s ranking and the program’s prestige within its discipline.
- Cost: Affordability, including tuition, financial aid options, and return on investment.
- Faculty Expertise: Access to experienced professors and professionals with real-world knowledge.
- Networking Opportunities: Availability of strong alumni networks and industry partnerships.
- Specializations: Diverse concentrations or tracks within the program to cater to specific career interests.
Here are the most useful master’s programs based on these factors:
1.Business Administration
A Master’s in Business Administration (MBA) offers students advanced leadership, strategic management, and decision-making knowledge. It enhances finance, marketing, operations, and entrepreneurship skills, preparing graduates for executive roles. The program fosters critical thinking, networking opportunities, and global business insights, equipping students to excel in competitive industries.
Courses: Business Analytics, Marketing, Finance, and Business Communication
Duration= 1 to 2 Years
Potential Careers & Salaries
Financial Manager: $156,700
Management Analyst: $99,410
Marketing Manager: $156,580
2.Cybersecurity
A Master’s in Cybersecurity equips students with advanced skills in protecting digital systems, managing cyber threats, and implementing secure infrastructures. It offers in-depth knowledge of network security, ethical hacking, cryptography, and risk management. Graduates are prepared for leadership roles, safeguarding critical data in finance, healthcare, and government industries.
Courses: Hardware Security, Machine Learning, Network Security, Systems Security, and Security & Privacy
Duration= 1 to 3 Years
Potential Careers & Salaries
Information Security Analyst: 120,360
Computer and Information Systems Managers: $169,510
3.Computer Science
A Master’s in Computer Science provides students with expertise in advanced computing topics such as algorithms, artificial intelligence, data science, and software engineering. It fosters critical problem-solving skills and innovation, preparing graduates for high-demand technology, research, and development roles across diverse IT, finance, and healthcare industries.
Courses: Computer Networks, Database Management, Analysis of Algorithms, Operating Systems and Computer Language Theory
Duration= 1 to 2 Years
Potential Careers & Salaries
Computer Systems Analysts: $103,800
Computer and Information Systems Managers: $169,510
4.Nursing
A Master’s in Nursing equips students with advanced clinical expertise, leadership skills, and specialized knowledge in family practice, gerontology, or nursing education. It prepares graduates for roles as nurse practitioners, administrators, or educators, enhancing patient care, influencing healthcare policy, and addressing the growing demand for skilled nursing professionals.
Courses: Advanced Pathophysiology, Advanced Pharmacology, Teaching Practice, Adult-gerontology and Health informatics
Duration= 1 to 2 Years
Potential Careers & Salaries
Registered Nurses: $86,070
Nurse Anesthetists, Nurse Midwives, and Nurse Practitioners: $129,480
Physician Assistants: $130,020
5.Psychology
A Master’s in Psychology gives students an advanced understanding of human behavior, mental health, and cognitive processes. It prepares graduates for counseling, research, or organizational development roles, equipping them with skills to analyze psychological challenges, design interventions, and apply evidence-based practices to support individuals, groups, and communities effectively.
Courses: Developmental psychology, Organizational psychology, Psychopathology, Health psychology and Psychological research
Duration= 1 to 2 Years
Potential Careers & Salaries
Psychologists: $92,740
Marriage and Family Therapists: $58,510
6.Healthcare Administration
A Master’s in Healthcare Administration equips students with leadership skills and knowledge of healthcare systems, policy, and management. Graduates gain expertise in overseeing operations, improving patient care, managing finances, and navigating regulatory compliance. This degree prepares professionals to lead healthcare organizations effectively and adapt to the industry’s evolving demands.
Courses: Organizational Behavior and Management in Healthcare, Health Economics and Quality, Patient Safety, and Performance Improvement
Duration= 1 to 2 Years
Potential Careers & Salaries
Health Information Management Manager: $107,440
Healthcare Provider Network Manager: $117,000
7.Finance
A Master’s in Finance provides students with advanced knowledge of financial markets, investment strategies, risk management, and corporate finance. Graduates develop analytical and decision-making skills to navigate complex financial challenges. This degree prepares professionals for roles in banking, asset management, financial planning, and other high-demand sectors within the global finance industry.
Courses: Corporate Finance, International Finance, Investments and Options and Future
Duration= 1 to 2 Years
Potential Careers & Salaries
Financial Analysts: $99,890
Financial Managers: $156,100
8.Human Resources
A Master’s in Human Resources equips students with advanced skills in talent management, organizational development, and labor relations. It focuses on strategic planning, leadership, and legal compliance, enabling graduates to manage workforce dynamics effectively. This degree prepares individuals for senior HR roles, fostering a positive workplace culture and driving organizational success.
Courses: Organizational Systems and Change Management, Compensation and Benefits Strategies, Recruitment, Selection and Retention Labor Relations
Duration= 1.5 to 2 Years
Potential Careers & Salaries
Human Resources Specialists: $67,650
Human Resources Managers: $136,350
9.Data Science
A Master’s in Data Science provides students with data analysis, machine learning, and statistical modeling expertise. It emphasizes practical skills in programming, data visualization, and big data technologies. Graduates can extract insights from complex datasets, enabling data-driven decision-making across healthcare, finance, and technology industries
Courses: Big Data Architecture, Data Mining Foundations and Practice, Data Science Methods for Quality Improvement and Effective Communication
Duration= 1 to 2 Years
Potential Careers & Salaries
Data Scientists: $108,020
Data Science Manager: $161,229
10.Artificial Intelligence
A Master’s in Artificial Intelligence equips students with advanced knowledge of machine learning, natural language processing, and robotics. It focuses on developing AI-driven solutions, ethical considerations, and cutting-edge research. Graduates are prepared to innovate in autonomous systems, healthcare, and finance, contributing to transformative advancements in technology and society.
Courses: Rule-based expert systems, Uncertainty management, Fuzzy systems, Evolutionary computation, Software engineering principles and Image analysis
Duration= 2 Years
Potential Careers & Salaries
Machine LearningEngineer: $130,195
Data Scientists: $108,020
11.Marketing
A Master’s in Marketing gives students expertise in consumer behavior, market research, branding, and digital strategies. It focuses on innovative tools and techniques to create effective campaigns and build strong brands. Graduates are equipped to analyze market trends, engage audiences, and drive business growth in competitive global markets.
Courses: Marketing Management, Business Fundamentals for Market, Advertising & Promotion, and Customer Experience Management
Duration= 1.5 to 2 Years
Potential Careers & Salaries
Sales Manager: $138,360
Digital Marketing Analyst: $65,127
12.Public Administration
A Master’s in Public Administration prepares students for government, nonprofit, and public service sector leadership roles. It offers expertise in policy analysis, budgeting, program management, and organizational leadership. Graduates gain skills to implement policies, manage public resources, and address societal challenges, fostering effective governance and community development.
Courses: Policy and governance, Economics and quantitative analysis, and Public ethics and political institutions
Duration= 2 Years
Potential Careers & Salaries
Administrative Services and Facilities Managers: $104,900
Political Scientists: $ 132,350
13.Software Engineering
A Master’s in Software Engineering equips students with advanced skills in designing, developing, and maintaining software systems. It covers algorithms, data structures, software architecture, and quality assurance. Graduates are prepared for leadership roles in software development, with expertise in managing complex software projects and ensuring high-quality product delivery.
Courses: Maintenance, Evolution and Reengineering, Software Project Planning and Management. Software Quality Assurance and Software Security
Duration= 1 to 2 Years
Potential Careers & Salaries
Software Engineering Manager: $161,030
Software Developers, Quality Assurance Analysts, and Testers: $130,160
Computer Programmers: $99,700
14.Communication
A Master’s in Communication provides students with advanced knowledge in communication strategies, media, and organizational communication. It focuses on developing writing, public relations, digital media, and interpersonal communication skills. Graduates are prepared for careers in corporate communication, media relations, marketing, and leadership roles where effective communication is essential.
Courses: Social Responsibility in Communication, Applied Communication Theory and Research, and Digital Media Strategies
Duration= 1 to 2 Years
Potential Careers & Salaries
Public Relations Specialists: $66,750
Technical Writers: $80,050
15.Construction Management
A Master’s in Construction Management equips students with advanced skills in project management, cost estimation, contract negotiation, and construction law. It prepares graduates to oversee construction projects, manage teams, and ensure projects are completed on time and within budget. Graduates pursue construction management, project coordination, and real estate development careers.
Courses: Claims and dispute resolution, Construction accounting and financing, Construction equipment and methods, and Construction laws and regulations.
Duration= 1 to 2 Years
Potential Careers & Salaries
Construction Managers: $104,900
Civil Engineers: $95,890
Universities That Offer Most Useful Master’s Degrees: Details
Many universities offer master’s programs, but identifying those with the most useful degrees is crucial for students. Key factors include affordable tuition, program flexibility, shorter durations, and expert instructors. Accredited institutions with financial aid, multiple intakes, and online and on-campus learning options enhance accessibility. Programs with excellent student support services, variable curriculums, and specialization options cater to diverse needs. The teams at FBD have researched the most useful master’s programs using our proprietary methodology and compiled the following list.:
National University, founded in 1971 by David Chigos, is a private, nonprofit university headquartered in San Diego, California. Designed for adult learners, it offers flexible academic programs on campuses across California, a Nevada satellite, and online. With four-week classes, blended learning, and virtual classrooms, it caters to working professionals seeking accessible higher education.
- Common Title: NU
- Established: 1971
- Type: Private not-for-profit
- Student Enrollment: 19,924
- Accreditations: WASC Senior College and University Commission
- Popular Programs: Master of Science in Computer Science , Master of Science in Nursing
| Univ | Address |
| National University |
Universities and programs are ranked by various factors, such as affordability, curriculum and coursework, reputation and availability, program length, statistics, the potential of employment, and return on investment for the students. For a more in-depth analysis, please read about our rankings methodology page.
Additional Resources for Students Looking for the Most Useful Master’s Degrees
Best Online Masters:
Explore top-rated online master’s programs recognized by employers worldwide. Advance your career with flexible, high-quality education that fits your lifestyle.
Affordable Online Masters:
Get a quality education without the hefty price tag. Discover affordable online master’s programs that make earning a degree within reach.
1-Year Online Masters:
Complete your master’s degree in just one year! Find out which online programs offer an accelerated path to graduation.
Fastest Online Masters:
Need to finish quickly? Discover the fastest online master’s degrees designed for those who want to accelerate their education and career.
Easiest Online Masters:
Pursue your master’s with ease. Explore online programs designed for a smoother academic experience without compromising quality.
Free Masters Online:
Yes, free master’s degrees are possible! Check out online programs offering no-cost education for those seeking advanced degrees on a budget.
Highest Paying Masters:
Invest in your future with a master’s that leads to high-paying careers. Explore the programs that offer the best salary potential.
Online Masters No GRE:
Skip the GRE! Explore online master’s programs that don’t require standardized test scores for a hassle-free admissions process.
Self-Paced Masters:
Take control of your education with self-paced online master’s degrees. Study on your own schedule while earning a valuable degree.
Masters Without Bachelors:
Didn’t finish your bachelor’s? Discover master’s degree programs that don’t require a prior undergraduate degree, opening new pathways for advanced study.
PH.D’s Without Master’s:
Pursue a Ph.D. directly without needing a master’s degree first. Find programs that allow you to jumpstart your doctoral journey.
Ivy League Online Masters:
Access world-class education from Ivy League institutions online. Explore top-tier master’s programs offered by prestigious universities in the U.S.
FAQs About the Most Useful Master’s Degrees
Why should I choose an accredited university?
The most valuable master’s degree typically aligns with high-demand fields, offering strong salary potential and career advancement opportunities. Industry growth, specialized skills, and employer recognition significantly influence value. Degrees focusing on emerging technologies, management, or essential services often provide a competitive edge and long-term professional benefits.