Can you work full time while earning an online master's degree?

Yes, many students work full time while pursuing an online master’s, though balancing both can be challenging. Review your program’s demands and consider part-time or accelerated options to maintain flexibility.

Is an online master's degree worth it?

Ultimately, it's a personal decision, but to determine if an online master's degree is worth it, you should evaluate your professional aspirations, job outlook in your field, tuition cost, and salary potential.

How hard is it to earn a master's degree online?

Online programs require strong time management skills and digital literacy. A virtual program may be challenging if you’re not comfortable with tech or balancing commitments. However, most schools offer support resources even for online students.

Is an online master’s degree cheaper than in-person?

An online master’s degree may be more affordable than a traditional on-campus program. According to the National Center for Education Statistics, the median annual tuition for an online master’s program in 2020 was $7,920, compared to $9,880 for in-person programs. These figures reflect median yearly tuition. Depending on the school and program, most master’s degrees typically take 12–36 months to complete.

Do people with master’s degrees earn more money?

Yes, master's degree-holders usually have higher earning potential than bachelor's degree-holders. According to the BLS, in 2024, individuals with a master's degree earned a median weekly wage of $1,840, compared to $1,543 for those with a bachelor's degree and $1,099 for those with an associate degree.