Inside Online Master's Programs in Colorado: Reviewing Schools

Inside Looks at Popular Online Master’s Programs

In-Demand Master’s Degree Focus Areas for Students

Business Administration (MBA)

Business is a top choice for Colorado grad students and is the most popular master’s degree in Colorado by search interest, and managers in Colorado earn some of the highest salaries — often into six figures — especially in Denver’s thriving economy.​

Grads with an MBA have leadership, finance, and strategy skills that are in demand at major companies from aerospace firms to tech startups. Strong job growth in corporate and nonprofit management, combined with the versatility of an MBA, makes this field a smart investment for career changers and aspiring executives alike.

Computer Science and Software Engineering

Colorado’s tech sector is booming, making computer science and software engineering degrees highly rewarding. Denver is ranked a top 10 US city for tech careers, and Colorado continues to carve its niche as a tech hub​ with companies in software development, cybersecurity, AI, and aerospace. 

An online master’s in this field can lead to roles like software developer, data scientist, or IT manager — all in high demand. Computer and information research scientists in Colorado earn a median annual salary over $131,000​. Given the strong job growth and salaries (plus robust local networking opportunities), tech is one of Colorado’s top fields for online learners.

Education (Early Childhood & K-12)

As Colorado grapples with a shortage of qualified teachers​, schools are actively seeking educators with advanced training. A master’s degree in an education field, such as early childhood education, can be both a passion and a practical choice. Earning your MA or MEd in Education can enhance your teaching skills or prepare you for leadership roles like curriculum coordinator or principal. 

A master’s in education is also an excellent pathway for career changers: if your bachelor’s was in another field, a master’s plus licensure can help you transition into teaching​. Colorado educators with master’s degrees often qualify for higher salaries and roles with greater responsibility. 

Nursing and Healthcare (MSN)

Healthcare is one of Colorado’s fastest-growing sectors, and an online Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) is a top pick for those in nursing looking to advance. An MSN elevates a registered nurse into advanced practice, administrative, or educator roles. 

MSN-prepared nurses including nurse practitioners, nurse anesthetists, or nurse leaders are in high demand to fill the gap. You’ll build leadership skills and qualify for higher-paying roles, often with salaries significantly above an RN with a bachelor’s. Nurse practitioners in Colorado earn a mean annual wage of about $122,000 and can make a tangible impact on improving healthcare access while advancing their careers.

Sport Management and Administration

Colorado is a hub for the sports industry, so a master’s in sport management could be a good fit, preparing you for leadership roles from managing collegiate or professional sports teams to organizing major sporting events. The field blends business, marketing, and event management skills with a passion for sports. The economic relevance is significant: sports tourism and organizations contribute strongly to Colorado’s economy with skiing, pro sports teams, and Olympic training facilities. 

Graduates with this specialization often find roles as athletic directors, event managers, or facility administrators with solid salaries from $50k to six figures, depending on the organization.

Why Accreditation Matters for an Online Master’s Program

When evaluating online master’s programs, accreditation is one of the most important quality checks. Accreditation means a school or program has been reviewed by an official agency to ensure it meets high academic standards. In Colorado and other states, universities are typically accredited by entities like the Higher Learning Commission (HLC) that accredits major Colorado institutions like CU and CSU. 

Accreditation matters because employers and other universities only recognize degrees from accredited schools, and accreditation is required for students to receive federal financial aid. Many programs have additional specialty accreditation like AACSB accreditation for business education NASPAA accreditation for an MPA​.

Knowing the Different Types of Online Master’s Programs

Online master’s programs in Colorado come in a variety of formats to fit different lifestyles. Whether you want to study intensively or just one course at a time, there’s an option for you. Choose full- or part-time study or an accelerated schedule for some programs.

Here is an overview of program types and examples of each:

Full-Time Online Master’s Programs in Colorado

Full-time online master’s students typically take a heavier course load (about two-three courses per term) to complete the degree in the standard timeframe of 12-24 months. This option is ideal if you want to finish your degree quickly or are able to dedicate significant time each week to studies. Full-time online programs in Colorado often mirror the pace of those on campus, but offer flexibility to attend class from anywhere. For example, Colorado State University’s Online MBA can be completed in about 21 months by taking two courses each 8-week term​.

Accelerated full-time tracks, like the University of Colorado Denver’s one-year accelerated MPA option, have an intensive course load​ for students seeking faster time to graduate. Some private programs, like Colorado Technical University’s online MBA, can be completed in as little as 12 months for full-time students​

Part-Time Online Master’s Programs in Colorado

Part-time programs are designed for students who need to juggle work, family, or other commitments alongside school. You might take one course at a time, or just a few courses per year, extending your graduation timeline but making each term manageable. 

Many online master’s programs in Colorado allow part-time enrollment and offer schedule flexibility so you can adjust course load up or down as life demands. It’s common to finish in three to four years part-time (versus one to two years full-time). Programs are often asynchronous and project-based, allowing you to log in around your work schedule, making graduate education achievable for busy adults.

No-GRE Online Master’s Programs in Colorado

No-GRE programs remove a potential barrier, speeding up your application process and reducing cost (no prep or test fees). Many online master’s programs in Colorado have no GRE requirement, instead focusing on your past academic performance and professional experience. Colorado State University Global, for example, does not require GRE scores for any of its online master’s degrees, including in tech fields like the MS in AI & Machine Learning​. Another example is the University of Colorado — Colorado Springs Online MA in Communication that does not ask for GRE scores for admission​.

These programs assess candidates holistically — looking at GPA, letters of recommendation, and work history instead of a test, great for applicants who have been out of school for a while or who feel their strengths aren’t reflected by standardized tests. 

Accelerated Online Master’s Programs in Colorado

Accelerated programs are perfect if you’re eager to graduate sooner and willing to take an intensive course load or year-round classes. An accelerated online master’s compresses the schedule — sometimes letting you finish in as little as 12-18 months — without sacrificing credits. Schools achieve this through shorter terms or allowing course overlap. In Colorado, you’ll find several accelerated options including CSU Pueblo’s Online MBA with an accelerated track that can be completed in around one year​ and Colorado Technical University’s accelerated MS in Computer Science that can be finished in about one year of full-time study​

Accelerated programs require you to be focused and organized (expect a lot of coursework in a short time), and may require continuous enrollment through summer. You’ll earn your master’s degree sooner with this intense coursework which can be ideal for a promotion or timely career switch.

How to Pay for Your Online Master’s Degree

Most master’s programs range from 30 to 45 credits and tuition is typically charged per credit, so multiply the cost per credit by the total for a tuition estimate. At public universities, Colorado residents often pay a lower in-state rate than out-of-state students, though many schools participate in the WICHE Western Regional Graduate Program, offering regional students in-state tuition or discounts​. Some institutions, like CSU Global and many private universities, charge one flat rate for all online students regardless of residency.

Beyond tuition, online students should budget for fees, usually a few hundred dollars per term, and course materials like e-books or software. You’ll likely save on relocation or commuting costs by studying online, and many programs allow pay-as-you-go per course. Financial aid and scholarships are available for online students, so be sure to fill out the FAFSA and check for any employer tuition benefits or scholarships through the school.

Here are three examples of Colorado online master’s tuition rates:

Note: Costs above are for illustrative purposes (tuition only) based on 2024–25 rates​.

FAQs from Prospective Online Master’s Students

Are online master’s degrees respected by employers?

If your degree is from an accredited university, employers will recognize it as equivalent to a traditional degree. In Colorado, many reputable universities offer online programs, so it’s common in the workforce. Employers are more interested in the reputation of the school and the skills you bring than the delivery format. During interviews, talk up the discipline it took to earn an online degree while juggling other commitments demonstrating your time management and dedication, which employers value.

Can I work full-time while pursuing an online master’s?

You can, in fact, the majority of online master’s students work full-time. Online programs are designed with flexibility for working professionals — you can watch lectures on your own schedule (often evenings or weekends) and usually have a window of a few days to complete weekly tasks.

Many programs offer part-time tracks specifically so you can take one course at a time. Expect to dedicate about 10-15 hours per week per course. Some Colorado employers offer tuition assistance, and it helps to communicate with your employer and family about your study schedule.

Do online students pay in-state or out-of-state tuition for Colorado programs?

Tuition varies by school with public universities in Colorado typically charging in-state residents a lower rate than out-of-state students for online graduate programs. There are many exceptions, though, and some public programs participate in the WRGP/WICHE regional exchange, which allow students in Western states to pay the Colorado resident rate.​

Always check the tuition page or ask an advisor about tuition rates and additional fees for your program.

What kind of support will I have as an online student?

Colorado’s universities extend robust support services to online master’s students. You will have access to academic advisors who can help plan your courses and keep you on track to graduate. Faculty have virtual office hours to answer questions one-on-one via email, video chat, or phone, and schools also offer online tutoring, writing centers, and library services. Technical support is usually 24/7 to assist with any platform issues.

You’ll also have ways to network and engage. Many programs organize virtual group projects, discussion boards, and even occasional in-person meetups or optional intensives. Career services are available remotely too including resume reviews, job postings, and virtual career fairs.

The key is to proactively use these resources. Successful online graduate students log in frequently, ask questions, and take advantage of the help offered.

Can I change careers with an online master’s degree, even if my bachelor’s was in a different field?

A master’s can definitely help you change careers, and many online programs in Colorado welcome students from diverse undergraduate backgrounds. You may be required to complete some foundational courses if your bachelor’s didn’t include them. In some cases, schools offer “bridge” courses or graduate prep modules online..

An online master’s is a great way to gain expertise in a new field while still working in your current one. The flexibility of online study means you can even intern or volunteer in your target field while taking classes to build experience. Ensure the program you choose is geared toward non-majors and take advantage of offers to connect with internships or mentors in your new industry.