Cynthia Sullivan
Written By - Cynthia Sullivan

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In today’s fast-paced world, the proverb “time equals money” holds, especially for professionals seeking to enhance their careers. A master’s degree provides a solid foundation, offering an advantage in the job market. However, time constraints often hinder professionals from pursuing traditional on-campus programs. The emergence of online education addresses this challenge, with many universities offering online master’s degrees that can finished in less time. While conventional programs may take several years, universities now offer 1 Year Master’s Programs Online. Read this guide to explore these programs.

1-year master’s programs online

Table Of Contents

Featured Online Programs

Southern New Hampshire University

PROGRAM: Online Masters Degrees

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®.

Which Universities Offer the 1 Year Master’s Programs Online?

Here is a list of universities that offer the 1 Year Master’s Programs Online:

What Exactly are 1 Year Master’s Programs Online?

  • A 1-Year Master’s Degree Online is a predominantly online program
  • The coursework often schedules classes during evenings, weekends, and holidays. 
  • These programs are rigorous and fast-paced.
  • Students can complete the degree in approximately 12 months on average.

Navigating the Choice: 1 Year Master’s Programs Online

Choosing a 1-Year Master’s Degree can be tricky for many graduate students. They wonder, “Should I do it or not?” The decision is tough but depends on personal needs and career goals. Here are some questions to help you decide:

  • Do I need a 1-year master’s instead of a 2-year program?
  • I might give up evenings, weekends, and holidays for a 1-year program. Is that okay with me?
  • Can I balance my personal life (friends, family, kids, hobbies, routines, etc.) with my studies?
  • Am I sure why I want to do a 1-year master’s, or am I doing it because someone told me to?
  • Will my 1-year degree help me in my career or get promoted?

If any answer is an explicit ‘no,’ check our FAQs or talk to someone who completed a 1-year program to help decide.

Advantages and Disadvantages of 1 Year Master’s Programs Online

Pros:

  • Affordability: Cost-effective compared to traditional programs.
  • Flexibility: Offers adaptability of schedule for students.
  • Shorter Time to Graduate: Completing the degree in a shorter timeframe.
  • Knowledge & Skill Enhancement: Focused learning for quick skill development.
  • Career Advantages: Potential for increased salary and career advancement.

Cons:

  • Probable Lack of In-Depth Studies: Limited depth in subject exploration.
  • Could be Demanding and rigorous: Intensive workload and pace.
  • Fewer Networking Opportunities: Limited chances for building professional connections.

Why opt for 1 Year Master’s Programs Online?

Choosing a one-year online master’s program offers several key benefits. The accelerated timeframe allows students to earn a degree in just 12 months, swiftly enhancing their education and skills for academic or professional growth. These programs offer a convenient alternative for working professionals seeking flexibility and accommodating varied schedules. Here are reasons why a one-year accelerated online program is a favorable choice:

  • Efficient Graduation: Complete the program in a year, creating room for other opportunities.
  • Skill Enhancement: Acquire additional knowledge and skills relevant to the current profession.
  • Career Shift Possibilities: Explore new career paths with a streamlined educational approach.
  • Competitive Edge: Gain an advantage over colleagues by swiftly acquiring new knowledge.
  • Personal Fulfillment: Pursue learning for enjoyment or personal fulfillment.
  • Professional Advancement: Improve prospects for better salary and career progression.

The goal of 1 Year Master’s Programs Online

The primary aim of a one-year accelerated online master’s program is to expedite the completion of degrees for both students and working professionals, allowing them to pursue further studies, launch businesses, enter or advance careers, and enhance earning potential at an earlier stage. These programs prioritize flexibility and affordability without compromising on the quality of coursework and academic outcomes, aligning closely with traditional programs.

Online master’s degrees offer an efficient means for individuals to acquire advanced and practical knowledge in their respective fields. This approach allows students to delve into interesting topics, refining their research and communication skills. The result is significantly improved job prospects and increased earning potential for participants.

Accreditation for 1 Year Master’s Programs Online

Accreditation is essential for validating a program’s quality and standards and offering credibility to the program and the institution. Whether pursuing further education or entering the job market, accreditation is often a prerequisite. One-year master’s programs, accredited programmatically by recognized bodies, may also have regional accreditation. It is advisable for students to thoroughly understand accreditation by referring to our Accreditation Guide and preferably choose programs with both programmatic and regional accreditation for comprehensive assurance.

Independent agencies typically award programmatic accreditation in the relevant area of study, but some regional accreditation to look for are:

FAQs about Online 1 Year Master’s Programs Online

Q. What are the various 1 Year Master’s Programs Online?

Many universities now offer one-year online master’s accelerated programs across diverse fields such as Finance, Computer Science, Criminal Justice, Humanities, Psychology, Health Sciences, Accounting, Business, and Education. These programs provide a quick yet comprehensive pathway for individuals to advance their skills and knowledge in specific disciplines, catering to the demands of both working professionals and aspiring students.

Q.  Is it easy to finish 1 Year Master’s Programs Online?

Q. Are the 1 Year Master’s Programs Online accredited?

Q. Do 1 Year Master’s Programs Online maintain high quality?

Q. Are the 1 Year Master’s Programs Online widely accepted by employers?

Q. Can I still work while getting an 1 Year Master’s Program Online?

Q. Are the 1 Year Master’s Programs Online expensive?

Q. Is there a difference between 1 Year Master’s Programs Online and 2 Year Master’s Programs Online?

Q. What are the payment options for 1 Year Master’s Programs Online?

Q. Can I earn more money after graduating from 1 Year Master’s Programs Online?

Q. Are the 1 Year Master’s Programs Online worth it?

Q. Are there 1 Year Master’s Programs Online that do not require GRE or GMAT?

Q. Getting an online master’s degree in 12 months seems unreal. Is it possible?

Q. Where can I find the 1 year online master’s programs?

1 Year Master’s Online Programs translates to familiar programs

One-year online master’s programs now span various disciplines, encompassing fields from health sciences to psychology and beyond. Typically designed for completion within 12 months, these programs mirror the coursework of traditional on-campus counterparts. The faculty is often shared between online and offline formats, providing consistency across various program durations.

Whether individuals are seasoned professionals or early in their careers, one-year online master’s degrees deliver substantial value and benefits comparable to their two-year counterparts. Here, we highlight some popular and frequently pursued one-year online master’s degrees:

Accounting

In the realm of organizational operations, Accounting serves as a foundational function. Proficiency in this field demands a comprehensive understanding of accounting practices, financial regulations, taxation, compliance protocols, and adept numerical skills. A graduate degree in accounting allows accountants to enhance their expertise and pursue higher-paying roles within the industry.

Fundamental coursework typically includes:

  • Tax Research
  • Federal Income Taxation of Corporations and Shareholders
  • U.S. Taxation of Multinational Transactions
  • Accounting for Multi-Unit Enterprises
  • Strategic Management Accounting
  • Analysis and Design of Enterprise Systems
  • Accounting for Multiunit Enterprises
  • Advanced Enterprise Database Systems
  • Operation Management Accounting
  • Accounting Analytics
  • Organizational Leadership

Education

Master’s online programs in Education (M.Ed.) offer an excellent pathway for teachers, educators, coaches, and individuals from various sectors to enhance their leadership and pedagogical skills. This one-year accelerated master’s program is particularly well-suited for those already in education and instruction. However, individuals interested in pursuing careers related to education can also benefit from enrolling in a Master of Education program.

Typical coursework for a Master’s in Education includes:

  • Learning Design, Innovation, and Technology
  • Human Development and Education
  • Education Leadership, Organizations, and Entrepreneurship
  • Education Policy and Analysis
  • Teaching and Educational Leadership
  • Electronic Assessment for Teaching and Learning
  • Technology and Educational Leadership
  • Teaching and Learning K-12 Social Studies
  • Education Finance and Policy
  • Teaching School Subject Matter with Technology
  • Teaching Students Online
  • Classroom and Behavior Management in the Inclusive Classroom
  • Psychology of Classroom Discipline & Educational Leadership
  • Accommodating Differences in Literacy Learners
  • Writing Assessment and Instruction
  • Language Diversity and Literacy Instruction and Assessment
  • Engaging Diverse Students and Families
  • Leading Teacher Learning
  • Program Planning and Evaluation in Postsecondary Contexts
  • Secondary Reading Assessment and Instruction
  • Curriculum in Its Social Context
  • Diverse Learners and Learning Subject Matter
  • Teaching Science for Understanding
  • Elementary Reading Assessment and Instruction

Criminal Justice

The one-year accelerated master’s in Criminal Justice emphasizes practical skills and theoretical knowledge, focusing on the U.S. criminal justice system and policies. Students in a typical Master of Science in Criminal Justice program delve into the theoretical foundations of crime control, making it an ideal choice for those aspiring to advance their careers in federal security agencies such as the FBI or CIA.

Key coursework typically includes

  • Criminal Justice
  • Criminology
  • Research Methods in Criminal Justice
  • Applied Statistics in Criminal Justice
  • Correctional Theory and Policy
  • Correctional Rehabilitation
  • Community Corrections
  • Police Effectiveness
  • Theory and Practice of Crime Prevention
  • Theory and Practice of Law Enforcement
  • Applied Crime Prevention
  • Introduction to Crime Mapping
  • Computer Criminology: Cybercrime and Digital Security
  • Terrorism and Homeland Security
  • Seminar on White-Collar Crime
  • Biosocial Factors in Serial Offending

 Health Sciences

Online Master of Science in Health Sciences programs enhance students’ capacity to advance their research interests in health, preparing a new generation of researchers to understand and address contemporary health challenges. These interdisciplinary one-year accelerated programs offer opportunities for individuals interested in health to explore, research, and learn from various topics, including biomedical, epidemiological, community health, and eco-health.

Many colleges provide concentrations in Emergency Medical Care, Health Education, Healthcare Administration, Health Management Nutrition, and more within this program.

Typical coursework includes

  • Introduction to Research Methods in Education
  • Introduction to Health Systems
  • Biostatistics in Public Health
  • Research Methods in Health and Human Sciences
  • Educational Statistics
  • Family Theories
  • Organizational Leadership
  • Rehabilitation Theories and Applications
  • Theories of Child Development
  • Healthcare Administration

Management

The online Master’s in Management is a postgraduate degree designed for recent graduates or those early in their careers. This one-year accelerated master’s program offers comprehensive knowledge across various management streams such as Finance, Marketing, Consulting, Entrepreneurship, Supply Chain Management, and more. It is ideal for individuals seeking to switch careers early in life or venture into management.

One of the most popular master’s programs in management is the Master of Business Administration (MBA) program.

Typical coursework includes:

  • Business Strategy and Firm Leadership
  • Managing Business Operations in a Global Environment
  • Fundamentals of Behavior in Organizations
  • Economics for Successful Firm Management
  • Performance Evaluation through Cost Management
  • Management of Information Technology
  • Financial Reporting and Firm Analysis
  • Financial Management in a Global Environment
  • Marketing and Firm Performance
  • Organizational Leadership
  • Statistical Analysis for Management
  • Supply Chain Management
  • Supply Chain & Logistics
  • Human Resource Management
  • Project Management

Communication

One-year online Master of Science in Communications programs enable students to specialize in specific communication disciplines, like public relations or political communication, while imparting advanced skills necessary for team management and leadership roles.

Typical coursework includes:

  • Visual Communication Design
  • Public Relations
  • Social Media and Marketing Communication
  • Global Marketing and Advertising
  • Marketing and Communication Strategies
  • Multi-Channel Communications

Public Health

The Master of Public Health is a professional degree designed to equip students with the skills to address public health challenges in various professional settings, including local, state, or national public health agencies and healthcare organizations. This one-year online master’s degree encompasses the entire spectrum of public health, addressing issues in low, middle, and high-income countries.

Typical coursework includes:

  • Biostatistics
  • Community Health Sciences
  • Epidemiology
  • Environmental Health Sciences
  • Health Policy and Management

 Psychology

The one-year accelerated master’s program in Psychology provides students with a comprehensive understanding of human behavior and the fundamental principles of the psychology field. The program exposes students to essential psychological theory and practice, enabling them to enter the human services field, advance their career in a related field, or pursue doctoral study in psychology.

Typical coursework includes:

  • Industrial-Organizational Psychology
  • Diagnosis and Treatment of Mental Health Disorders
  • Interpersonal Skills and Group Therapy
  • Trauma in Diverse Populations
  • Theories of Counseling and Psychotherapy
  • Career Development Theory Techniques
  • Techniques of Counseling and Psychotherapy
  • Advanced Research and Scholarly Writing
  • Clinical Interventions with Children, Adults, and Adolescents

Computer Science

The Master of Computer Science program is designed for individuals seeking to expand and deepen their comprehension of computer science, develop skills, and acquire the knowledge required for pursuing doctoral studies or a professional career in the rapidly evolving fields of computing, technology, and artificial intelligence. In many cases, one-year accelerated programs in this subject provide multiple tracks and concentrations for students.

Typical coursework includes:

  • Artificial Intelligence
  • Computer Graphics
  • Computer Networks
  • Bio-visualization
  • Operating Systems
  • Machine Learning
  • Programming Language Design
  • Database Management Systems

Social Work

A Master’s in Social Work empowers students to comprehend and address various social issues, such as juvenile justice, poverty, substance abuse, violence against marginalized groups, formerly incarcerated people rehabilitation, housing discrimination, immigration issues, and more. This one-year master’s program prepares students for careers in various fields, including community-based healthcare, healthcare administration, public policy, mental health counseling, child protection, hospital care coordination, and advocacy.

Key coursework includes:

  • Introduction to Social Work Research
  • Human Behavior in the Social Environment
  • Foundations of Social Work Practice I
  • History and Philosophy of Social Work and Social Welfare
  • Organizational Leadership
  • American Racism and Social Work Practice
  • Project Management

Universities that offer the 1 Year Master’s Programs Online – Details

Numerous universities feature expedited one-year programs, and our ranking methodology considers key factors like tuition fees, graduation rates, college reputation, teacher-student ratio, and program flexibility. Below is a compilation of the top 25 schools providing accredited online one-year master’s programs.

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1. University of Texas, Rio Grande Valley

University of Texas, Rio Grande Valley

The University of Texas Rio Grande Valley stands at the forefront of leveraging technology to provide high-quality higher education to its predominantly Hispanic service area, covering the Rio Grande Valley of South Texas and the northeastern regions of Mexico. Additionally, the university extends its outreach to a diverse population, both geographically and culturally.

The institution boasts a range of online offerings, including minors, certificates, undergraduate, and graduate programs, available in accelerated, entirely online, or partially online formats. Notably, many programs are designed to be completed within one year. Delve into the details of the University of Texas Rio Grande Valley’s one-year master’s programs below.

  • Tuition – $9,538-$19,333
  • Graduation Rate – 47

List of one-year master’s programs:

2. University of Texas Permian Basin

3. University of North Texas

4. California Baptist University

5. Arkansas State University

6. Ball State University

7. Capella University

8. Auburn University

9. Anderson University

10. California State University, East Bay

11. Frostburg State University

12. Northeastern University

13. Boston University

14. Stetson University

15. University of Findlay

16. Central Washington University

17. Fontbonne University

18. Saint Leo University

19. Lamar University

20. Walden University

21. Cumberland University

22. Greenville University

23. Concordia University, Portland

24. Trine University

25. Clarkson University

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 unavailable

Additional Resources for students looing for 1 Year Masters Programs Online

For those exploring or pursuing 1-year online master’s degree programs, gathering comprehensive information is crucial for making informed decisions. OMC provides in-depth sections covering various aspects of one-year master’s programs, offering valuable insights and addressing common doubts. Here are some resources to aid master’s degree students:

  1. Accelerated Online MBA Programs Learn about the workings of accelerated online Master of Business Administration programs. Explore various concentrations and specializations available for business administration students. Understand coursework details, including supply chain, human resources, and project management.
  2. 1-Year Online MBA Programs Stay informed about the latest developments in 1-year Master of Business Administration programs. Gain insights into what online MBA programs entail, the pros and cons of one-year programs, and discover the best colleges offering Master of Business Administration degrees.
  3. Easiest Online Master’s Degrees Explore online master’s degrees that are considered easy to complete. Especially beneficial for students who feel academically challenged or are undecided about pursuing a degree in a specific discipline, many of these degrees are 1-year online master’s programs.
  4. Most Affordable Online Master’s Programs Cost is crucial when considering a master’s degree. Guides on scholarships, grants, and FAFSA can be beneficial. Discover and learn about some of the most affordable 1-year accelerated master’s programs in the United States.
  5. Best Online Master’s Programs For students undecided on a specific master’s degree and not prioritizing factors like cost, location, or subject, explore some of the best online master’s programs offered by various universities. Many of these programs are one-year online master’s degree programs.
  6. Free Master’s Programs Some universities offer free 1-year online master’s programs. Find out which universities provide free programs, understand why, and be aware of any caveats for students to consider.
  7. Online Master’s No GRE Programs Explore the popularity of online master’s No GRE programs. Understand different admission requirements and learn how graduate students can apply to these online one-year master’s programs without GRE requirements.
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