California Master's Programs Online: Finding the Right School

Online Master’s Program Break Down: 3 Popular Schools

A Look at the Top Fields of Study in California

California’s diverse economy and innovation hubs drive demand for certain graduate degrees. Below are five top fields for earning a master’s in California, based on job growth, salaries, and program availability in the state:

Healthcare and Physician Assistant Studies

Healthcare is booming in California, making it a top field for master’s degrees. In particular, Physician Assistants (PAs) are in high demand due to the state’s healthcare provider shortage. A master’s in Physician Assistant Studies is required to become a PA, and this role offers excellent rewards. California PAs earn a median annual salary around $130,000 with a projected growth rate of 28%, which is much faster than average. This high growth is driven by aging populations and expanded healthcare access. Many California universities (e.g. USC, Stanford) now offer accredited PA master’s programs, preparing graduates for licensure in a field with strong job security and impact.

Technology and Computer Science (Software Engineering)

With Silicon Valley and the tech industry centered in California, Computer Science and Software Engineering are among the most popular master’s fields. A graduate degree isn’t always required to work in tech, but it can significantly boost one’s competitiveness for senior or specialized roles. Software developers enjoy a median salary of about $130,000 with an expected growth of 17%, which is faster than average. Master’s programs in subjects like software engineering, data science, and artificial intelligence are widely available (such as at USC, UC Berkeley, and Stanford). These programs provide advanced skills in coding, algorithms, and project management, helping professionals access leadership positions in California’s thriving tech sector.

Business and Economics

Business administration and economics remain top choices for graduate study in California due to strong ROI and versatile career paths. An MBA or master’s in a business field can open doors to higher management roles and consulting opportunities in California’s robust economy. For example, economists—who often hold a master’s in economics or finance—have a median pay around $115,730 nationally. California’s global business environment (from Silicon Valley startups to Hollywood media firms) fuels demand for advanced skills in analytics, finance, and strategy. Graduate programs like the UCLA Anderson MBA or UC Berkeley’s Master of Financial Engineering offer specialized training that can lead to lucrative roles in banking, tech management, or economic policy.

Law and Compliance (Legal Studies)

California’s complex regulatory environment creates a need for experts in legal compliance and regulatory affairs. Earning a master’s in fields like Legal Studies, Compliance, or Public Policy is a smart choice for those looking to lead in government, healthcare, finance, or tech sectors. Compliance officers can earn around $75,000 annually. Employers offering roles such as compliance manager and contracts administrator often prefer candidates with graduate credentials in law-related studies. Programs such as University of San Diego’s MS in Law Enforcement & Public Safety Leadership or Loyola Law School’s Master of Compliance and Enterprise Risk Management equip professionals with knowledge of laws and ethics. In a state known for stringent laws, an advanced degree in this field positions graduates as valuable experts ensuring organizations meet legal standards.

Education Administration

California’s large school systems and universities need qualified leaders, making Education Administration a top field for master’s degrees. Principals, district administrators, and higher education managers typically must hold a master’s (often an MA in Educational Administration or Leadership). These roles come with both influence and strong compensation, as K-12 school principals have an average annual salary around $103,460. Master’s programs in education leadership (offered by schools like CSU Long Beach and UC Berkeley) cover school finance, curriculum development, and leadership skills aligned with California’s education standards. With ongoing needs to improve student outcomes and implement reforms, the demand for skilled educational leaders remains robust. Earning an advanced degree in this field prepares educators to step into leadership roles and shape the future of California’s education landscape.

The Importance of Accreditation for Online Master’s Programs

When choosing an online master’s program in California, accreditation is essential. It verifies that a school meets established quality standards. Most California universities receive regional accreditation from the WASC Senior College and University Commission (WSCUC). Many programs also have specialized accreditation from field-specific organizations, such as CSWE for social work or AACSB for business programs. Accreditation for online graduate school programs is crucial because it affects:

• Credit transfer options
• Graduate school admission
• Professional licensure eligibility
• Employer recognition

Always verify both institutional (WASC) and program-specific accreditation to ensure your degree will be respected throughout California and beyond.

Types of Online Master’s Programs for Students

Online master’s programs come in many forms to suit different needs. In California, you’ll find full-time programs, part-time options, no-GRE admissions, and accelerated tracks. Each type offers a unique balance of intensity, flexibility, and speed. Below, we break down the four most common formats for California’s online master’s degrees:

Full-Time Programs

Full-time online master’s programs offer average-duration degree completion, typically requiring 20-50 hours of weekly study time. Students can graduate in 12-18 months, but managing this intensive schedule with work can be challenging. Many choose to reduce work hours or study between jobs. It’s important to note that full-time enrollment often provides better access to financial aid. While demanding, this format allows complete immersion in your subject and faster achievement of your educational goals. 

Examples of full-time online programs in CA include:

• California State University, Northridge—Master of Social Work
• University of California, Berkeley—Master of Information and Data Science
  

Part-Time Programs

Part-time online master’s programs offer the flexibility to continue working full-time or handling other obligations while studying. In California, many online students choose part-time schedules, taking fewer courses per semester. This extends the program length (often 2.5 to 4 years for a master’s) but makes the workload more manageable. The typical approach is to adjust your course load term-by-term based on your schedule. The advantage is you can immediately apply what you learn at work and maintain your income, though you’ll be in school longer. Part-time programs usually have the same curriculum as full-time, just spread out. 

Examples of part-time online programs in CA include:

• Stanford University—MS in Management Science & Engineering (Honors Co-op)
• California State University, Dominguez Hills—M.S. in Quality Assurance
  

No-GRE Requirement Programs

Many California universities have dropped the GRE/GMAT admissions requirement for online master’s admissions, focusing instead on undergraduate GPA, professional experience, and essays. No-GRE programs remove the barrier of standardized testing, which is great for applicants who want to fast-track the process or who don’t test well. These programs are identical in quality to those requiring GRE; the difference is in admissions. This can save time and money when applying, but expect schools to weigh other parts of your application more heavily (like work experience or interviews). 

Examples of no-GRE online master’s programs in CA include:

• California State University, Long Beach—M.S. in Emergency Services Administration
• University of California, Berkeley—Master of Information and Data Science

Accelerated Programs

Accelerated online master’s programs let students earn their degrees faster than the usual two to three years. These intensive programs condense coursework into a shorter time frame, sometimes as fast as 12 months (two semesters). To achieve this, students take heavier course loads or study year-round. The upside is you enter the workforce with your new credentials sooner. However, the pace is rigorous, as accelerated students must be prepared for a challenging workload. This format often works best for those who can commit full-time to studies for a year or who have an academic background in the field. 

Examples of accelerated online master’s programs in CA include:

• University of California, Riverside—Master of Engineering
• University of Southern California—Master of Social Work

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

Costs for online master’s programs in California vary widely based on the type of school and program. Generally, public universities offer lower tuition for in-state residents, while private universities have higher per-credit rates. For example, Cal State Online programs average about $7,200 per year for California residents. In contrast, a high-ranked private school like USC charges around $2,354 per credit, which can total $50k–$100k+ for the entire degree.

Online students often pay lower fees than on-campus students but may incur technology fees. Financial aid options include federal aid, state grants, and employer tuition assistance. Consider part-time study to spread costs across more terms. For additional financial insights, OMD offers a list of the most affordable online master’s degrees. You can also explore guides such as how to fund your online master’s degree and how to pay for your master’s degree.

Below is a snapshot of tuition costs at three example schools:

Note: Costs are for tuition only as of the 2024–25 academic year; always verify costs and fees with the school.

Answering Potential Master’s Student Questions

How interactive are online master’s courses?

Today’s online master’s courses offer substantial interaction through various channels. Most programs combine asynchronous elements (discussion boards, pre-recorded lectures) with synchronous components (live video sessions, group projects). Faculty hold virtual office hours, and many programs incorporate collaborative assignments. Some courses use innovative technologies like simulation software or virtual labs to enhance engagement and replicate hands-on experiences.

What support services are available for online master’s students?

Online master’s students typically access the same support services as on-campus peers; they’re just delivered virtually. These include academic advising, career counseling, library resources with digital collections, tutoring services, and technical support. Many programs assign a dedicated student success coach who provides personalized guidance throughout the program. Most universities also offer online networking opportunities and virtual access to student organizations.

Are online master’s programs in California cheaper than on-campus alternatives?

While tuition often matches on-campus programs, online students save on commuting, housing, and campus fees. The flexibility to continue working while studying represents a significant financial advantage for many students, making online programs financially attractive despite similar tuition costs. However, be sure to factor in all costs (tuition, fees, books, etc.) and look into financial aid.

Do I have to live in California to enroll in a California online master’s program?

Most California online master’s programs welcome students from across the U.S. and internationally. You don’t need California residency, though two considerations apply: live sessions follow Pacific Time, and public universities sometimes charge higher tuition for non-residents. Private universities generally maintain uniform rates regardless of location. Always verify if your program has state-specific restrictions, especially for degrees leading to professional licensure in fields like healthcare or education.

How long does it take to finish an online master’s program in California?

Online master’s programs in California typically require two years for full-time students, but offer considerable flexibility. Accelerated master’s options with heavier course loads can be completed in 12-18 months, while part-time students taking one to two courses per term might need three years or more. Universities usually set maximum completion timeframes of five to seven years. Your pace can be customized based on work commitments and personal circumstances.