Online master’s degrees are designed for students who already have established careers. With the right program, these grad students can get a better return on their education investment.
PayScale says the highest-paying online master’s degree is a Master of Business Administration. This program helps students develop leadership, critical thinking, and decision-making skills.
Master of Business Administration
A Master of Business Administration (MBA) can help you advance your career. One of the best online master’s degrees gives you leadership abilities such as domestic and international management, effective team building, critical thinking, and problem-solving. An MBA can assist you in assuming leadership positions and motivating coworkers to give their best efforts.
Whether you want to advance in your current career or switch to a new one, an online MBA can provide the tools you need to succeed. It can also boost your resume and improve your chances of landing a higher-level position.
As an added benefit, online MBA programs offer flexible study options so you can fit them into your schedule. Plus, you can network with professionals from different industries and build connections to help your career.
You can find online MBA programs at universities nationwide, including prestigious institutions. Many of these programs have in-demand concentrations, such as cybersecurity management and healthcare administration, to help you specialize and open up new opportunities for your career.
Master of Science in Engineering
For working professionals already in the engineering field, a master’s degree offers a credential that can open up new career paths. Moreover, if desired, the research-based curriculum can also position graduates to move into a Ph.D. program.
Many pursue a master’s in engineering to leap into management or take on more challenging, complex projects. Moreover, an online master’s in engineering gives you the freedom to continue to work and earn a paycheck. At the same time, you complete your degree, allowing you to pay for your education without leaving your job or delaying your professional advancement.
If you’re considering an online master’s in engineering, select a program with ABET accreditation. It would be best to look for programs that offer flexible scheduling so you can fit coursework around your existing responsibilities and schedule.
Lastly, choose a program with a specialization that aligns with your professional goals. Many programs offer aerospace, biological and agricultural, architectural, biomedical, chemical, civil and environmental, electrical, and mechanical engineering specializations.
A graduate degree in engineering can give you the skills and confidence to tackle various engineering challenges and make a difference in the world. It can also open doors in the workplace and put you in a stronger salary-negotiating position when it comes to new opportunities or promotions.
Master of Science in Construction Management
A Master of Science in Construction Management is an excellent choice for those looking to develop their leadership skills while still working in the industry. The program teaches students how to manage the many aspects of building projects, from initial planning and resource management to implementation and evaluation. It also covers legal, financial, and business management components.
This STEM-designated degree attracts a diverse group of students. Some are experienced construction workers. Others have backgrounds in engineering, architecture, and even business. The curriculum includes two tracks: one geared towards those who want to enter the industry and the other focused on research and theory.
The coursework prepares students for various careers, from project manager to cost estimator to general contractor. Students are exposed to the latest technologies, software, and construction methods in a real-world environment. They learn to exercise leadership strategies and how to prioritize tasks in the face of limited resources and competing priorities.
Students are also exposed to a global perspective through Global Field Intensives, which brings them to different countries and regions to see firsthand how construction projects are undertaken in other parts of the world. It helps them understand the various building methods used globally and the variety of materials available for use in different kinds of structures.
Master of Science in Information Systems
A master’s degree is a great way to upgrade your skills and improve your job prospects. However, it is essential to choose a program that can fit in with your busy schedule. Many programs are available online, so you can take classes whenever and wherever you have time. Some also offer accelerated programs to help you finish your degree faster.
A Master’s degree in Information Systems can open up a lot of career paths for you. It can help you become a data analyst, a cybersecurity expert, or an IT manager. In addition, it can improve your earnings potential as you will likely be paid more than someone with a bachelor’s degree.
It is an excellent option for working professionals because it allows you to earn your degree while continuing to work full-time. It also allows you to gain practical experience in the field by participating in projects and boot camps. Additionally, this program is offered at a discounted rate for students who are already working in the IT industry.
