Self Paced Master’s Degree Programs

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FBD Staff
Written By - FBD Staff

Looking for flexibility in earning a master’s degree? Self paced Master’s Degree Programs let you learn on schedule, balancing education with work or life commitments. Perfect for self-starters!

Self-paced master’s degree programs provide a flexible learning option for students seeking to balance education with personal and professional responsibilities. These programs allow individuals to progress through coursework at their own pace, making them suitable for self-directed learners who thrive on independence. Typically, they feature asynchronous online classes, enabling access to lectures, assignments, and materials anytime.

Self-paced programs cater to various fields, including business, education, and healthcare, and often utilize subscription-based or pay-per-course tuition models, which can be cost-effective. While these programs offer freedom and convenience, they require strong time-management skills and self-discipline. Before enrolling, prospective students should verify program accreditation and ensure alignment with their career goals to maximize the advantages of this flexible education format.

self paced masters degree programs

Table Of Contents

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.

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 Top Self Paced Master’s Degree Programs

Here’s a list of the best self-paced master’s degree programs, recognized for their academic quality and dedication to offering flexible, individualized learning opportunities tailored to diverse student needs.

  1. Master of Business Administration (MBA) Marketing
  2. Master of Science in Computer Science 
  3. Master of Education 
  4. Master of Science in Psychology 
  5. Master of Science in Nursing (MSN).
  6. Master of Science in Data Analytics 
  7. Master of Public Health (MPH) 
  8. Master of Social Work (MSW) 
  9. Master of Science in Criminal Justice
  10. Master of Arts in Public Administration

Which Universities Offer Self Paced Master’s Degree Programs

Here’s a list of universities offering self-paced master’s programs, providing unparalleled flexibility to accommodate diverse schedules and support students balancing professional and personal responsibilities.

  1. Capella University
  2. Western Governors University
  3. University of North Dakota
  4. Southern New Hampshire University
  5. Thomas Edison State University
  6. Purdue University Global
  7. University of Massachusetts Global (UMass Global)
  8. Walden University
  9. Liberty University
  10. National University

Self Paced Paying Master’s Degree Programs – Details

Self-paced master’s degree programs, unlike traditional programs, allow students to progress through coursework at their own pace, adapting to individual schedules and learning styles. These programs often use online platforms, providing access to materials, assignments, and assessments that can be completed whenever convenient. This model is ideal for working professionals or those with other commitments, as it allows learners to balance education with personal or professional responsibilities. While the pace is self-determined, most programs still follow a structured curriculum to meet key learning outcomes. Students can typically access resources like peer forums and academic support, creating a comprehensive learning environment despite the autonomy in pacing. These programs foster a personalized educational experience and enhance time management skills.

Here is the detailed list of the top self-paced master’s degree programs:

Master of Business Administration (MBA) Marketing

Job Title: Marketing Manager[1]
Median Salary: $156,580 per year
Job Description: Marketing managers analyze market demand and identify opportunities for products and services, working alongside product development, public relations, and sales teams. They create pricing strategies and tactics for customer acquisition and retention, aiming to maximize profits and market share while ensuring customer satisfaction. Their role drives organizational growth and competitive positioning.

Master of Science in Computer Science 

Job Title: Computer Programmers[2]
Median Salary: $99,700 per year
Job Description: Computer programmers write, modify, and test code to ensure software functions properly. They transform designs by developers into executable instructions, running tests to identify and fix errors. Working with programming languages like C++ and Java, they may design code libraries or work with SaaS applications, streamlining the development process across multiple platforms.

Master of Education

Job Title: High School Teachers[3]
Median Salary: $65,220 per year
Job Description: High school teachers prepare students for life after graduation by teaching academic subjects and essential skills. They plan lessons, assess student progress, and adapt instruction to meet individual needs. Teachers communicate with parents, supervise students, and help students prepare for standardized tests. They may specialize in core subjects or electives and use technology to enhance learning.

Master of Science in Psychology

Job Title: Psychologists[4] 
Median Salary: $92,740 per year
Job Description: Psychologists study behavior, emotions, and cognitive processes by observing and interviewing individuals. They diagnose disorders, conduct research, and develop treatment plans. Using testing and analysis, they identify patterns to predict behavior. Specializations include clinical, counseling, industrial-organizational, school, and forensic psychology, with some psychologists offering psychotherapy and research to improve mental health.

Master of Science in Nursing (MSN)

Job Title: Registered Nurses[5] 
Median Salary: $86,070 per year
Job Description: Registered nurses (RNs) provide patient care, assess conditions, and administer treatments. They collaborate with doctors, educate patients on managing health conditions, and offer emotional support to patients and families. RNs may specialize in cardiology, pediatrics, oncology, and public health, contributing to patient care and healthcare education.

Master of Science in Data Analytics 

Job Title: Management Analysts[6] 
Median Salary: $99,410 per year
Job Description: Management Analysts or Consultants advise organizations on improving efficiency and profitability. They gather and analyze data, observe operations, and suggest solutions for process improvement. Analysts recommend changes such as new systems, procedures, or organizational restructuring. They may work independently or as part of a team, often specializing in finance, healthcare, or telecommunications.

Master of Public Health (MPH) 

Job Title: Medical and Health Services Managers[7] 
Median Salary: $110,680 per year
Job Description: Medical and health services managers oversee healthcare facilities, departments, or practices. They ensure compliance with regulations, manage budgets, and supervise staff. Responsibilities include setting policies, recruiting, and organizing schedules. These managers must adapt to healthcare laws and technology changes while ensuring high-quality care and efficient service delivery.

Master of Social Work (MSW) 

Job Title: Social Workers[8] 
Median Salary: $58,380 per year
Job Description: Social workers assist individuals, families, and communities in overcoming illness, divorce, and unemployment. They assess client needs, advocate for resources, and provide psychotherapy services. Clinical social workers diagnose and treat emotional, behavioral, and mental health disorders, working in various specialties like healthcare, mental health, and child welfare.

Master of Science in Criminal Justice

Job Title: Police and Detectives[9] 
Median Salary: $74,910 per year
Job Description: Police officers and detectives protect lives and property, investigate crimes, and enforce laws. Officers respond to emergency calls and patrol areas, issue citations, and conduct arrests. Detectives gather evidence, investigate serious crimes, and prepare court cases. FBI agents handle federal cases, while other roles include fish and game wardens.

Master of Arts in Public Administration 

Job Title: Secretaries and Administrative Assistants[10] 
Median Salary: $46,010 per year
Job Description: Secretaries and administrative assistants handle clerical tasks, including scheduling, answering calls, preparing documents, and managing files. They assist in office operations by maintaining databases, arranging meetings, and handling correspondence. Specializations include executive, legal, and medical secretaries, each with unique responsibilities, such as preparing legal documents or managing medical records.

Universities That Offer Self Paced Online Master’s Degree Programs – Details

self paced masters degree programs

This curated list of self-paced master’s programs was developed after extensive research, evaluating key factors such as program flexibility, tuition affordability, graduation success rates, and career outcomes.

Capella University, based in Minneapolis, Minnesota, is a leading private, for-profit online university offering flexible self-paced programs, including an MBA, MS in Healthcare Administration, MS in Psychology, MS in Social Work, and MS in Education. Owned by Strategic Education, Inc., it provides 47 degree programs and over 1,600 online courses. With 41,401 students from all 50 U.S. states and 51 countries, the university supports diverse educational goals. Established in 1993 by Dr. Harold Abel and Stephen Shank, Capella focuses on accessible, innovative, and career-oriented learning opportunities.
Univ Address
Capella 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.

FAQs About Self Paced Master’s Degree Programs

What is a self-paced master’s degree program?

A self-paced master’s degree program allows students to complete coursework independently without fixed deadlines. These programs provide flexibility, making it easier for working professionals or those with busy schedules to pursue advanced education. They are typically offered online and may have a maximum time limit for completion.

Can I start a self-paced program at any time?

Can I take breaks during a self-paced program?

Can I transfer credits from other programs into a self-paced master’s degree?

Do I have to be in a specific location to enroll in a self-paced program?

Can I interact with classmates in a self-paced program?

What characteristics make an individual well-suited for self-paced master’s degree courses?

Are self-paced programs cheaper than traditional programs?

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