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A master’s degree journey is a significant step toward professional growth, and the flexibility of online programs has revolutionized the pace at which individuals can achieve this milestone. While the common perception is that earning an online master’s degree requires a substantial time commitment, a realm of programs is designed to expedite the process. This guide contains the Fastest Online Master’s Degree programs, exploring 40+ programs accredited institutions offer. The list addresses the crucial factors of time and cost, uncovering opportunities for individuals to efficiently complete their master’s studies and advance in their careers.

140 fastest online master’s degrees

Table Of Contents

What are the Fastest Online Master’s Degree Programs?

Here is our list of universities that offer the fastest online master’s degree programs:

Types of Fastest Online Master’s Degree Programs

The fastest or the shortest online master’s degree programs offer flexibility in enrollment, allowing individuals to choose between full-time and part-time study. Full-time enrollment entails a more intensive schedule, helping one to fast-track online master’s degrees. This option provides an immersive educational experience concentrating on coursework, often allowing students to complete their master’s degree in as little as one year. 

On the other hand, part-time enrollment offers flexibility, allowing individuals to balance their studies with work or personal commitments. While it extends the duration of these programs, part-time study enables a more gradual progression through the coursework, typically ranging from two to three years for completion. 

The choice between full-time and part-time enrollment depends on individual circumstances and preferences, ensuring a tailored approach to the quickest online master’s degree completion within a specified timeline.

6-Month Programs

Six-month programs typically refer to educational or training programs that can be completed within six months. One may wonder why a 6-month online master’s is beneficial. These programs are designed to offer a focused and condensed curriculum to impart specific skills or knowledge to participants swiftly. They are often tailored to meet the demands of individuals seeking quick and targeted learning experiences for career enhancement or skill development.

Examples of 6-month programs include vocational training, certificate programs, short-term courses, and specific online or in-person workshops. These programs aim to provide practical and applicable knowledge within a short duration, making them suitable for individuals who are looking for efficient and time-sensitive educational options.

Students can check a list of 6-month Master’s Degree Online programs useful in our  6-month program guide.

 12-Month Programs

Twelve-month programs typically refer to educational or training programs that span one year. These programs are designed to provide a more comprehensive and in-depth educational experience compared to shorter-term alternatives. They cover a broader range of topics, allowing a more thorough exploration of the subject matter.

Some of the most useful 12-month programs found across colleges in the US are mentioned below. Students can also read more on our 1 year online master’s programs guide

14-Month Programs

Fourteen-month programs typically refer to educational or training programs for fourteen months. These programs aim to balance comprehensive learning and a manageable timeframe, providing participants with a more thorough understanding of the subject matter.

A few 14-month master’s programs include

15-Month Programs

Fifteen-month programs offer a middle ground between shorter-term options and more extended, traditional programs. They are designed to provide participants with a comprehensive and in-depth educational experience within fifteen months.

A few 15-month master’s programs include

16-Month Programs

The specific content, structure, and eligibility criteria of 16-month programs can vary based on the field of study, industry requirements, and the educational institution offering the program. These programs cater to individuals who seek a more extensive and immersive learning experience compared to shorter-term options but wish to complete their studies in a timeframe shorter than traditional two-year programs.

A few 16-month master’s programs include

18-Month Programs

18-month programs may encompass specific master’s degrees, postgraduate diplomas, or professional training courses. The elongated timeframe enables a more extensive curriculum, striking a balance between covering a broad range of topics and delving deeply into the subject matter.

A few 18-month master’s programs include

20-21 Month Programs

If you’re specifically looking for a 20-21-month master’s program, you may find such programs in specific fields, especially those with unique curriculum structures or additional requirements. Program durations, structures, and eligibility criteria can vary, and universities may have unique offerings that align with such individual timeframes. Some such degrees include

20 Month Programs

21 Month Programs

degree by subject

Find Fastest Online Master’s Degrees by Subject

Southern New Hampshire University

PROGRAM: Fast & Affordable Online Masters Programs

Southern New Hampshire University is a private, nonprofit, accredited institution with more than 3,000 on-campus students and over 60,000 online students, making us one of the fastest-growing universities in the country. 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, over our innovative online platform or at our regional centers in Manchester, Nashua, Portsmouth and Salem, NH, and Brunswick, ME.

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®.

40 Schools That Offer the Fastest Online Master’s Degree Programs

Amongst so many Master’s Degrees, it’s essential to recognize that not all programs yield the same financial returns. While numerous universities offer Master’s Degrees, this guide has specifically highlighted the highest-paid master’s degrees. Now, let’s delve further into the educational landscape by exploring the institutions that provide these lucrative programs.

This comprehensive overview will showcase the schools that offer the Highest Paid Master’s Degrees, emphasizing the critical intersection between advanced education and career potential.

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1. University of Alabama

University of Alabama

The University of Alabama, located in Tuscaloosa, is a prestigious public research university known for its academic excellence and rich history. Offering a diverse range of graduate programs, the institution is recognized for its commitment to providing quality education. Notably, the University of Alabama maintains an affordable option for in-state graduate students, with tuition and fees set at $11,900 for the 2023-2024 academic year. With a commendable graduation rate of 72%, the university emphasizes both accessibility and student success in its pursuit of fostering excellence in higher education.

Programs offered by the University of Alabama include

2. Southern New Hampshire University

3. University of Texas, Rio Grande Valley

4. University of North Texas

5. University of Texas Permian Basin

6. California Baptist University

7. Arkansas State University

8. Ball State University

9. Anderson University

10. Baker University

11. Colorado State University

12. Frostburg State University

13. Auburn University

14. California State University, East Bay

15. Boston University

16. Indiana Wesleyan University

17. Northeastern University

18. Fontbonne University

19. Benedictine University

20. Central Washington University

21. Stetson University

22. Saint Leo University

23. Lincoln Christian University

24. University of New England

25. University of Findlay

26. Capella University

27. Lamar University

28. Vermont State University

29. Walden University

30. Wheeling University

31. Cumberland University

32. Greenville University

33. University of Miami

34. Concordia University, Portland

35. Trine University

36. Clarkson University

37. Campbellsville University

38. University of Charleston

39. Independence University

40. Southwestern College

Source – Integrated Post Secondary Education Data System & University Data
*Tuition rates are for in-state and per year. Program-specific rates may apply.
**NA – data not available

FAQs about Fastest Online Master’s Degree Programs

How fast can you get a master’s degree?

The shortest duration to obtain a master’s degree typically ranges from 12 to 18 months, depending on the program and academic institution. Online master’s programs often provide flexibility, allowing students to pace within this timeframe based on their commitments and schedule.

Are the fastest online master’s degree programs accredited?

Yes, reputable online master’s degree programs that emphasize speed are accredited. Accreditation ensures that the program meets established academic standards, guaranteeing the quality and recognition of the degree by employers and other educational institutions.

Is the coursework hard?

The difficulty of coursework can vary between programs, but generally, online master’s programs maintain rigorous academic standards. While the challenge is subjective and dependent on individual strengths and experiences, these programs are designed to provide a high-quality education, demanding commitment, critical thinking, and engagement.

Are the fast-online programs taught synchronously or asynchronously?

Fast online master’s programs often offer a mix of synchronous and asynchronous learning. Synchronous sessions involve real-time interactions, while asynchronous elements allow students to access lectures and assignments conveniently. This flexibility caters to diverse schedules and enhances the accessibility of the programs.

Are the fastest online master’s programs affordable?

Affordability can vary, but many online master’s programs designed for speed are cost-effective. Tuition fees, accessibility, and the ability to continue working while studying can contribute to overall affordability. Financial aid options, scholarships, and grants may be available to support further students pursuing these accelerated programs.