Best Online Master’s Programs in Massachusetts 2024

Badge for BEST ONLINE MASTER'S IN MASSACHUSETTS

By Dr. James Barham
Reviewed By Academic Influence Staff

Published: May 11, 2022
Updated: Dec 12, 2023

Key Takeaways

There are numerous colleges in Massachusetts that offer master’s degrees that can be completed entirely online.
Manufacturing and technical services are two of the biggest industries in Massachusetts, and there are a number of fully online master’s programs that can open career opportunities within these sectors.

Top 10 Online Master's Programs in Massachusetts

Boston University
Brandeis University
Boston College
University of Massachusetts Amherst
Babson College
Worcester Polytechnic Institute
University of Massachusetts Lowell
University of Massachusetts Dartmouth
Bentley University
Westfield State University

Boston University
Brandeis University
University of Massachusetts Amherst
Boston College
Worcester Polytechnic Institute
Babson College
University of Massachusetts Dartmouth
University of Massachusetts Lowell
Bentley University
Simmons University

University of Massachusetts Dartmouth 96%
Gordon College 92%
American International College 89%
Regis College 89%
Massachusetts Maritime Academy 89%
Bridgewater State University 88%
Curry College 88%
University of Massachusetts Lowell 86%
Fitchburg State University 86%
Lesley University 86%

University of Massachusetts Amherst 18 to 1
University of Massachusetts Lowell 17 to 1
Bridgewater State University 17 to 1
Babson College 16 to 1
University of Massachusetts Dartmouth 15 to 1
Gordon College 14 to 1
Westfield State University 14 to 1
Emmanuel College 13 to 1
Worcester Polytechnic Institute 13 to 1
Merrimack College 13 to 1

Boston College $64,176
Boston University $62,360
Brandeis University $62,322
Worcester Polytechnic Institute $57,096
Bentley University $56,500
Babson College $54,944
Merrimack College $49,196
Regis College $46,150
Curry College $44,920
Emmanuel College $44,908

Babson College $89,550
Boston University $61,050
Brandeis University $55,104
Bentley University $43,440
Boston College $33,912
Merrimack College $32,896
Worcester Polytechnic Institute $28,980
Simmons University $27,152
Fisher College $27,090
Regis College $24,968

Fisher College
Massachusetts Maritime Academy
Regis College
Curry College
Emmanuel College
American International College
Merrimack College
Anna Maria College
Fitchburg State University
Gordon College

Regis College
Anna Maria College
Fisher College
Curry College
Endicott College
American International College
Fitchburg State University
Massachusetts Maritime Academy
Gordon College
Emmanuel College

Boston University 14%
Boston College 17%
Babson College 22%
Brandeis University 39%
Worcester Polytechnic Institute 57%
Bentley University 58%
University of Massachusetts Amherst 64%
Anna Maria College 70%
Endicott College 73%
Fisher College 74%

Simmons University 7 to 1
Regis College 9 to 1
Brandeis University 10 to 1
Lesley University 10 to 1
Boston University 11 to 1
Fisher College 11 to 1
Boston College 12 to 1
Bentley University 12 to 1
American International College 12 to 1
Anna Maria College 12 to 1

Bridgewater State University $910
Fitchburg State University $970
Westfield State University $970
Massachusetts Maritime Academy $1,994
University of Massachusetts Dartmouth $14,179
University of Massachusetts Lowell $15,462
University of Massachusetts Amherst $16,186
Gordon College $27,040
Lesley University $31,364
Fisher College $34,150

Bridgewater State University $1,260
Westfield State University $1,775
Massachusetts Maritime Academy $2,710
Fitchburg State University $3,510
Gordon College $6,490
Anna Maria College $10,530
American International College $13,037
Endicott College $13,084
Emmanuel College $14,319
University of Massachusetts Amherst $14,364

Table of Contents

As the port of destination for the Mayflower, home to the Plymouth colony, and site of the Salem Witch Trials, Massachusetts looms large in United States history, but this most populous New England state isn’t just for history buffs. The Bay State is also known for its delicious cuisine, beautiful coastlines, and devout sports fans. Not to mention, it has over 100 colleges for students to choose from.

With a remarkable GDP of $543 billion, Massachusetts undoubtedly remains a magnet for professionals seeking not only career advancements but also the pursuit of advanced degrees such as master’s programs. This robust economic landscape, characterized by a diverse range of industries and a well-educated workforce, contributes to an environment ripe with opportunities for personal and professional growth.

Featured Programs

Colleges and Universities in Massachusetts

Some of the most talked about universities in Massachusetts are its private schools, including Boston University, Brandeis University, and Boston College, which are all in this list. Tuition for these prestigious schools runs around $60,000.

Prospective online graduate students in Massachusetts have access to some of the top programs in the country in fields such as biology, business, education, technology, and healthcare. The alumni from New England schools are equally as impressive, including Martin Luther King Jr., Bill Gates, and Ralph Waldo Emerson.

Find college admissions consultants in your state.

Find college admissions consultants in your state.

The public higher education institutes also boast top-notch online programs, allowing students to pursue master’s degrees in fields like finance, marketing, social work, and psychology. The University of Massachusetts Amherst, the state’s largest public university, offers tuition of around $16,000 and serves over 28,000 students.

Additionally, students who are interested in attending a religiously affiliated school have 17 options to choose from, most of which feature high graduation rates for their students. For future health professionals, Massachusetts also offers loan forgiveness programs for those working in underserved communities.

Find a program that’s right for you and explore the best schools Massachusetts has to offer.

What are Massachusetts’ Colleges & Universities?

Massachusetts’ Best Overall

How do we determine Massachusetts's best online master's degree programs?

Methodology

The people affiliated with a school are ultimately what make it great! If you are serious about finding the best colleges and universities for a bachelor’s degree, you should be asking where the most influential professors are teaching and whether their graduates are themselves advancing the school’s reputation for academic excellence in their fields of study.

Most ranking sites rely on an opaque combination of reputation surveys and arbitrary performance metrics. Concentrated Influence provides a ranking that is freer from bias, insulated from manipulation, and reflective of real-world educational outcomes.

To rank the influence of schools, we first determine the influence of scholars and professionals based on the number of citations and publications they have had over the past 10 years. In addition to publications and citations, we consider the web links to and from these sources, and the page views of those sources. We then match the influential people to their alma maters and institutions of employment, so that their influence is attributed to those schools. Our machine-learning Influence Ranking algorithm produces a numerical score of academic achievements, merits, and citations across Wikipedia, wikidata, Crossref, Semantic Scholar and an ever-growing body of data. If you are interested in exploring how and why we rank by influence, explore our methodology in more depth.

graduate student interns sitting in a meeting

Best Online Master’s Program in Massachusetts 2023

Why Pursue Advanced Studies in Massachusetts

Massachusetts is a very popular place for housing some of the world’s most competitive and prestigious higher education institutions. Each university has its own strengths and features, but most are research and development-focused, which makes it very attractive to professionals in cutthroat industries.

The state’s known rigor in academics means that prospective students have access to top-notch courses, distinguished instructors, and endless possibilities for cutting-edge R&D. Massachusetts offers some excellent master’s degrees, whether you’re interested in business administration, computer science, or healthcare management.

Massachusetts’s dominance in online learning is another remarkable aspect of its educational landscape. In recent years, the state has positioned itself as a leader in online education.

According to the National Center for Education Statistics (NCES), 21.3% of the total college student population in Massachusetts is exclusively enrolled in online learning, while 19.2% are enrolled in some online courses. Online students at regionally accredited colleges and universities are sure to receive the same level of academic rigor and opportunities as their on-campus peers.

Prospective master’s degree candidates have a distinct advantage thanks to the state’s strong emphasis on innovation and entrepreneurship. In Massachusetts, there are numerous colleges with solid connections to startups and large companies in various sectors, which fosters cooperation, internships, and research initiatives. In addition to gaining invaluable practical experience, students may help these rapidly expanding industries develop.

Furthermore, students pursuing master’s degrees benefit from the rich and varied population of Massachusetts. The state fosters an inclusive and internationally conscious community by drawing talent from all over the world. Massachusetts’s environment will ultimately help students develop the critical abilities necessary for success in a globalized society.

Finally, Massachusetts provides an exceptional standard of living. Because of its blend of energetic metropolises and quaint suburbs, as well as its steadfast dedication to cultural and recreational resources, both professionals and students may enjoy a work-life balance that improves their general well-being.

The Top Industries in Massachusetts

Massachusetts indeed hosts a diverse array of competitive industries, but within this dynamic landscape, certain sectors stand out as particularly fierce in terms of competition and innovation. If you want to help ensure a high ROI on the master’s degree that you are seeking, you should consider a degree that will be applicable to one of these competitive industry sectors.

The top five Massachusetts industries by 2022 GDP, according to IBIS World, are

Professional, Scientific, and Technical Services: This refers to high-skilled, knowledge-based work. It encompasses several industries, such as engineering, scientific research, legal services, and architectural design.
Real Estate & Rental and Leasing: This sector includes property management and related services. As we all know, Massachusetts has thriving urban centers like Boston, which has seen consistent demand in the real estate market. This sector is driven by both residential and commercial real estate developments.
Manufacturing: Specialized manufacturing areas, such as biotechnology and precision machinery, are particularly strong in Massachusetts. The state’s focus on innovation and technology has contributed to the resurgence of manufacturing in various niches.
Information: This sector covers businesses related to media, telecommunications, software development, and data processing. Massachusetts has a robust technology and information ecosystem that includes many software and IT companies, as well as digital media organizations.
Finance and Insurance: Massachusetts hosts a thriving finance and insurance industry, particularly in major financial hubs like Boston. This presence significantly contributes to the state’s GDP and underscores its stability and strength in financial services.

It’s generally recommended to pursue a master’s degree that matches your personal interests. However, if your goal is to transition into a new career and obtain the highest ROI possible, you should take into account the most thriving industries in the state.

Student Submitted Questions about Online Master’s Programs in Massachusetts

How much does an online master’s degree in Massachusetts cost?

In the United States, an online master’s degree costs about $40,000 for the average grad student. However, the cost of your online master’s degree in Massachusetts will depend on the type of grad school you attend.

In 2020-2021, the average cost for a year of in-state tuition in a public grad school was $12,394. The average cost for a year of tuition in private, nonprofit grad school was $28,445.

However, the cost of an online master’s program in Massachusetts is slightly more expensive than average. While students attending public universities in the state can expect to their tuition rates to be competitive, private colleges in Massachusetts hover around $50,000+.

Luckily most of the best online master’s programs in our list are from schools that offer financial aid opportunities for students that qualify.

An online master’s degree will usually cost about the same as a traditional master’s degree. Some schools will charge 5-10% more for online courses. This added cost pays for the technology and specialized training needed for online instruction.

But getting a master’s degree online can also help you save money. The costs above don’t include expenses like housing, transportation, or certain campus fees. As an online grad student, you can save a lot of money by avoiding these added expenses.

How long does it take to complete an online master’s degree in Massachusetts?

The length of an online master’s degree is typically the same as its on-campus program, which is usually 1-2 years. Due to the flexibility of online master’s degrees, some programs may take a longer or shorter amount of time.

Many online master’s degree programs are also accelerated. Most master’s degree programs are designed to be completed in two years, but you may be able to earn your online master’s degree in as little as 12-18 months with an accelerated program format.

What are the requirements for admission into an online master’s degree program in Massachusetts?

Admission requirements for online master’s degree programs can vary depending on the university, program, and specific field of study. However, there are some standard requirements you can expect when applying to most online master’s programs.

A bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution
Minimum GPA (common benchmark is 3.0 on a 4.0 scale)
Transcripts
Letters of Recommendation
Statement of Purpose
Resume or CV:
Standardized Test Scores
English Language Proficiency (international students)
Application Fee
Interview

What can I expect from an online college course?

If this is your first time taking an online course, the experience may require some adjustment. While you’ll generally learn the same content and take the same exams as your on-campus peers, the medium will likely require you to manage much of this experience independently.

You’ll be accountable for your own time management, your ability to harness the technology at your fingertips, and your ability to focus on the lectures, lessons, and assignments at hand. This means you’ll need to create a suitable workspace for yourself, maintain a realistic schedule, and take it upon yourself to build relationships with your instructors and classmates. With online college, your goal is to find a balance between independence and engagement.

How can I evaluate the value of an online master’s degree from an online program in Massachusetts?

Explore the university’s accreditation, read evaluations from students, and verify the program’s curriculum, staff qualifications, and support services to be able to evaluate the quality of the program.

Do online master’s programs in Massachusetts accept transfer credits?

Many online master’s degrees accept transfer credits as long as the credits are earned from a reputable, accredited four-year institution. However, credit transfer policies can differ significantly from one institution to another.

It is best to take your time and carefully research the particular policies and guidelines established by the university of your choice to find out if your current credits are transferable.

Will employers respect my online degree?

In most cases, as long you graduate from a well-regarded, regionally accredited online college, prospective employers won’t look sideways at your degree. In fact, unless you attend an exclusively online college or university, there will likely be no specific indicator on your degree, transcript or resume differentiating your school from its brick-and-mortar counterpart. This means that your employer will likely only differentiate between an online and in-person degree if you mention this distinction.

While some employers may express concern about adjusting online education to in-person workplace collaboration, many other employers will view your online degree as evidence of valuable 21st-century professional skills such as independence, self-motivation, time management, and tech-savvy.

What are the advantages of online classes?

The advantages of online classes are many. First and foremost, online courses give you the freedom and flexibility to attend class from anywhere that works for you, whether you’re at home, in a coffee shop, or a quiet conference room at work.

In many cases, you’ll also enjoy the convenience of asynchronous learning opportunities and educational experiences that you can complete on your schedule. This may include pre-taped lectures, ongoing chat-board discussions, and 24/7 access to digital materials.

And, of course, just as some learners prefer the energy of a live classroom, some learn best when working in their personal space, free from distractions. If this sounds like you, you might find the solitude of online learning to be a major advantage.

What are the disadvantages of online classes?

If you are a student who thrives on the dynamic energy of in-person discussion, who requires the physical surroundings of a classroom to feel engaged, or who considers the social aspects of education to be of equal importance to the actual content of your courses, online education will require some adjustment.

While there is much that can be supplanted or simulated through the online medium, some students may find that there is nothing that can replace the conversation, collaboration, and motivation that occur in an actual classroom setting. As you adjust to online education, one of the biggest challenges you will likely face is overcoming this difference in order to get the most out of your classes. Fortunately, we’ve got some great Tips for Online Education Beginners.

Can I still attend an online master’s program in Massachusetts if I live out-of-state?

If local in-state schools don’t align with your educational goals, consider out-of-state options, but be aware that these often come with higher tuition costs. Research tuition fees, explore financial aid, and consider the State Authorization Reciprocity Agreement (SARA) to minimize expenses.

Read our Guide to College Fees and learn more about this topic.

Massachusetts’s Best Grad Programs in Your Area Interest

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Best Online Master’s Programs in Massachusetts 2024

Key Takeaways

Top 10 Online Master's Programs in Massachusetts

Featured Programs

Colleges and Universities in Massachusetts

What are Massachusetts’ Colleges & Universities?

Best Online Master’s Program in Massachusetts 2023

Career Outlook for degree at Boston University

Online Degrees

Concentrations

Career Outlook for degree at Brandeis University

Online Degrees

Career Outlook for degree at Boston College

Online Degrees

Career Outlook for degree at University of Massachusetts Amherst

Online Degrees

Career Outlook for degree at Babson College

Online Degrees

Career Outlook for degree at Worcester Polytechnic Institute

Online Degrees

Online Degrees

Career Outlook for degree at University of Massachusetts Lowell

Online Degrees

Concentrations

Career Outlook for degree at University of Massachusetts Dartmouth

Online Degrees

Concentrations

Concentrations

Career Outlook for degree at Bentley University

Online Degrees

Career Outlook for degree at Westfield State University

Online Degrees

Career Outlook for degree at Lesley University

Online Degrees

Career Outlook for degree at Simmons University

Online Degrees

Career Outlook for degree at Bridgewater State University

Online Degrees

Career Outlook for degree at Endicott College

Online Degrees

Career Outlook for degree at Gordon College

Online Degrees

Career Outlook for degree at Fitchburg State University

Online Degrees

Career Outlook for degree at Anna Maria College

Online Degrees

Concentrations

Career Outlook for degree at Merrimack College

Online Degrees

Concentrations

Career Outlook for degree at American International College

Online Degrees

Concentrations

Career Outlook for degree at Emmanuel College

Online Degrees

Career Outlook for degree at Curry College

Online Degrees

Career Outlook for degree at Regis College

Online Degrees

Career Outlook for degree at Massachusetts Maritime Academy

Online Degrees

Career Outlook for degree at Fisher College

Online Degrees

Why Pursue Advanced Studies in Massachusetts

The Top Industries in Massachusetts

Student Submitted Questions about Online Master’s Programs in Massachusetts

How much does an online master’s degree in Massachusetts cost?

How long does it take to complete an online master’s degree in Massachusetts?

What are the requirements for admission into an online master’s degree program in Massachusetts?

What can I expect from an online college course?

How can I evaluate the value of an online master’s degree from an online program in Massachusetts?

Do online master’s programs in Massachusetts accept transfer credits?

Will employers respect my online degree?

What are the advantages of online classes?

What are the disadvantages of online classes?

Can I still attend an online master’s program in Massachusetts if I live out-of-state?

Massachusetts’s Best Grad Programs in Your Area Interest