Online Master's Degrees in Arkansas: Comparing Programs

Inside Popular Online Master’s Programs in Arkansas

Top Fields for Arkansas Master’s Degrees

Below are five high-demand fields where an online master’s can yield strong career and financial rewards, based on job growth, salaries, and the state’s economic landscape.

1. Business Administration and Management

Why it’s a top field: Arkansas is home to major corporations like Walmart, Tyson Foods, and J.B. Hunt, creating strong demand for business leaders and managers. Earning an MBA or master’s in management can lead to mid- and upper-level management roles with solid salaries. Graduates often advance into executive positions or launch their own businesses, benefiting from Arkansas’s low cost of living and favorable business climate.

2. Education and Teaching

Why it’s a top field: Teachers who earn a master’s such as an M.Ed. or MSE can qualify for higher pay and specialist roles as curriculum coordinators, reading specialists, or administrators. A master’s in educational leadership or special education is typically needed for roles like principal or instructional facilitator. With online learning, educators in Arkansas can earn graduate credentials to meet licensure requirements for advanced positions while continuing to work.

3. Nursing and Healthcare

Why it’s a top field: Nursing shortages, an aging population, and rural healthcare gaps have made healthcare a high-growth sector in Arkansas. A master’s degree in nursing or health sciences prepares professionals for specialized and leadership roles that are in demand including nurse practitioners, nurse educators, and healthcare administrators. 

RNs can enroll in online MSN programs while continuing to work. A master’s in health administration or public health can equip graduates to manage hospitals, clinics, and community health programs. 

4. Computer Science and Information Technology

Why it’s a top field: As technology transforms every industry, Arkansas is prioritizing STEM education and tech workforce development. Careers in software development, data analytics, cybersecurity, and IT management are on the rise, and a master’s in computer science, information systems, or analytics positions students for these high-paying, in-demand jobs. 

Online MS programs (often designated as STEM) cover advanced topics like machine learning, network security, and database management. With companies in Northwest Arkansas and the growing tech startup scene in Central Arkansas, an IT-related master’s offers strong ROI and opportunities to innovate locally without leaving the state.

5. Public Administration and Social Services

Why it’s a top field: Arkansas’s communities and government agencies benefit greatly from leaders trained in public service. Earning a Master of Public Administration (MPA), Master of Social Work (MSW), or related degree prepares professionals to tackle societal challenges unique to Arkansas — from rural community development to healthcare policy to child welfare. These programs develop skills in policy analysis, nonprofit management, and public finance, which are valuable as Arkansas invests in infrastructure and social programs. 

Graduates pursue careers as city managers, nonprofit directors, policy analysts, or licensed clinical social workers. Demand is steady: local governments, healthcare systems, and nonprofits need qualified administrators and counselors, especially to serve underserved areas.

Arkansas, Accreditation, and You

When choosing an online master’s in Arkansas, accreditation is one of the most important quality checks. Accreditation means a program or school has been reviewed by an independent agency and meets established standards. All major Arkansas universities hold regional accreditation from the Higher Learning Commission (HLC), a U.S. Department of Education-recognized accreditor, ensuring your degree will be respected and that you’ll be eligible for federal financial aid. An accredited online master’s means you’re getting a legitimate, high-quality education, credits are more likely to transfer, and employers will recognize the degree.

Types of Online Master’s Programs: What to Know

You’ll find everything from intensive full-time tracks to flexible part-time schedules with Arkansas online master’s programs, as well as schools that waive standardized tests or offer accelerated pathways. Here are some common program formats:

Full-Time Programs

Full-time online master’s programs allow students to immerse themselves in graduate study, often completing the degree in the shortest possible time (about 12–18 months for many programs). Expect a heavier course load each term — roughly three or more classes at once. The upside is faster completion and a focused academic experience; you can launch your career or advancement sooner. However, juggling full-time coursework with employment can be challenging, so these programs are ideal if you can dedicate the bulk of your time to studies. 

Examples of Full-Time Online Programs in Arkansas:

• University of Arkansas — Advanced Standing MSW ​
• Arkansas State University — Online MBA (General)
• Southern Arkansas University — MBA With Social Entrepreneurship Emphasis
  

Part-Time Programs

Part-time online master’s programs are a good fit for those who need to balance school with work or family commitments. In a part-time format, students typically take one or two courses at a time, extending the program length to two-three years or more. The workload each term is lighter, which makes it manageable to continue working full-time while studying​. Students can continue to work, but it will take longer to earn a degree.

Examples of Part-Time Online Programs in Arkansas:

• Arkansas State University — MS in Education (Curriculum & Instruction)
• University of Arkansas — MS in Operations Management
• University of Arkansas at Little Rock — Online MS in Information Science

Programs with No GRE Requirement

Worried about taking the GRE or GMAT? Many online master’s programs in Arkansas do not require entrance exams, focusing instead on your academic record and work experience. This is great for students who have been out of school for a while or have strong qualifications that render test scores unnecessary. Universities recognize that an exam isn’t always the best predictor of success, especially for working adults. 

Always check the requirements, as some schools waive the GRE universally, while others offer waivers if you meet criteria (like a minimum GPA or prior graduate degree). 

Examples of No-GRE Online Programs in Arkansas:

• Arkansas State University — M.S. in Engineering Management
• University of Arkansas — Online M.Ed. in Educational Leadership
• Southern Arkansas University — MBA

Accelerated Programs

Accelerated online master’s programs are designed for speed, allowing you to earn your degree in a shorter time frame than usual. These may use condensed course formats, year-round scheduling, or combined degree pathways. Some Arkansas schools offer 4+1 programs where you begin graduate coursework in your senior undergraduate year, earning a bachelor’s and master’s in about five years. Other accelerated options might be a one-year master’s for those with specific prerequisites (such as an advanced standing MSW for students who already hold a BSW). 

Accelerated programs can be intense since you’re packing more courses into each term or short modules. They work well for highly motivated students or those who have a clear timeline. Arkansas’s universities support acceleration through online delivery, just be prepared for a brisk pace and stay organized. The payoff is shaving off months from your studies.

Examples of Accelerated Online Programs in Arkansas:

• Southern Arkansas University — BBA/MBA 4+1 Combined Program (earn a bachelor’s and MBA in 5 years through an integrated curriculum)​
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• Arkansas State University — Master of Social Work (Advanced Standing)
• University of Central Arkansas — MAT in Teaching (Middle Level)

How Much Do Online Master’s Programs in Arkansas Cost?

The cost of an online master’s in Arkansas depends on the school and program, but overall it tends to be lower than the national average, thanks to reasonable tuition rates and in-state discounts. Total tuition often ranges from around $10,000 to $20,000 for a 30-36 credit program. Most Arkansas public universities charge per-credit tuition for graduate courses and many schools extend in-state tuition to online students regardless of where you live. 

When budgeting, consider both fixed costs (tuition and mandatory fees) and variable costs. Online programs often have specific fees and some programs in business or engineering might charge a premium. Variable costs include books, supplies, and any travel for hybrid components (though many programs are 100% online, meaning no relocation or commuting costs). You might actually save money studying online by continuing to work and avoiding moving or campus housing expenses.

Financial aid can offset costs: online students in Arkansas are eligible for federal aid, scholarships, and sometimes graduate assistantships or tuition discounts (for example, military service members often get reduced tuition). 

Below is a cost snapshot for three Arkansas universities’ online master’s programs:

Note: Costs are based on 2024–2025 published rates for fully online programs. Always check the latest tuition info for your specific program.

FAQs from Arkansas Master’s Students

Do online master’s students pay in-state tuition at Arkansas universities, even if they live out of state?

Yes, in many cases online programs in Arkansas charge the in-state tuition rate to all students, no matter where you live. For example, University of Arkansas’s online students pay Arkansas resident tuition, and University of Central Arkansas’s fully online programs have a flat per-credit rate regardless of residency. This is great news for out-of-state students attracted to Arkansas schools — you can enroll online and avoid the usual non-resident surcharge. Always verify the policy for your specific program.

What kind of financial aid or scholarships can Arkansas online master’s students get?

Online master’s students in Arkansas are typically eligible for the same financial aid as on-campus students. This includes federal aid (Stafford loans, Grad PLUS loans) and filing the FAFSA, as well as any graduate scholarships or grants the university offers. Some schools have special scholarships for online learners or certain fields — for instance, Arkansas State provides a 50% tuition scholarship for active military and spouses, and other universities may have assistance for teachers or nurses pursuing grad degrees. Employers in Arkansas also sometimes offer tuition reimbursement if your degree relates to your job.

Check for state-specific programs, too. Certain programs especially in education or healthcare might have loan-forgiveness or stipend opportunities if you work in high-need areas after graduation. Finally, universities often have payment plans to spread out costs.

Will employers and organizations accept an online master’s degree from an Arkansas university?

Yes, as long as your degree comes from an accredited institution, employers will recognize it as equivalent to any other master’s. Coursework and requirements are the same rigor, and often the same professors teach both online and face-to-face sections. Arkansas schools ensure their online programs meet identical academic standards as on-campus programs.

Many employers are familiar with online education and value the discipline it takes to succeed remotely. To strengthen employer confidence, you can highlight skills gained from online study, like time management and tech proficiency. With regional and professional accreditations in place, your Arkansas online master’s degree will be respected by employers and certification boards alike.

Can I work full-time while pursuing my online master’s in Arkansas?

Yes, and Arkansas’s online master’s programs are designed for working professionals. Arkansas State’s online degrees use 7-week courses, so you might take one course at a time and still finish in a reasonable timeframe.

A full-time job plus graduate study will fill up your weeks, so be realistic about how many classes you take concurrently in order to succeed in grad school. Many students start with one course to gauge the workload. Some employers offer flexible hours or tuition assistance to accommodate working adults.

Do I ever need to visit campus during an online master’s program in Arkansas?

Most online master’s programs in Arkansas are 100% online, meaning you won’t be required to come to campus. However, there are a few exceptions, so it’s wise to check as certain programs might have brief residency or practicum requirements. For example, an online MSN could require a short on-campus lab or orientation​ or an education program might ask you to visit campus for a capstone presentation.

If a program includes an internship or clinical practice, you usually can do it in your local area, but you’ll need to arrange a suitable site. Arkansas universities strive to make even these components accessible using virtual simulations or via partnerships with entities near where students live.