Online Master’s Degrees in Delaware: Comparing Programs

Inside Popular Online Master’s Program Student Options

A Look at Delaware’s Top Fields of Study

Business Administration and Finance

Business is big in Delaware — the state’s strategic location and pro-business policies attract financial services and Fortune 500 companies. Financial managers in Delaware earn about $195,000 annually on average, reflecting the high demand in banking and corporate 

With Delaware emerging as a fintech hub, advanced business degrees open doors in finance, accounting, and analytics. An online MBA or MS in finance equips you with strategic skills prized by employers in Delaware’s robust financial sector.

Healthcare and Nursing

A master’s degree in nursing, public health, or healthcare administration positions you to lead in Delaware’s in-demand healthcare field. Nurse practitioners in Delaware earn around $131,000 per year and are increasingly in demand to provide primary care. 

Hospitals and clinics also need managers and administrators to navigate an evolving landscape. Delaware’s aging population and expanding healthcare systems mean roles for those with advanced clinical or administrative training. Earning an MSN, MHA, or MPH online in-state offers both high salary potential and the chance to improve community health in Delaware’s cities and rural areas.

Education and School Leadership

Master’s degrees in education or educational leadership are often sought for career advancement, whether to become a curriculum specialist, principal or community college instructor. There’s steady demand for skilled educators and leaders, as schools strive to boost student outcomes and address teacher shortages. Local universities offer online MEd programs in areas like literacy, TESOL, and leadership, enabling teachers to earn required graduate credits or an administrative license while still teaching. With Delaware’s relatively small size, education grads often find close-knit professional networks and opportunities to impact local school communities.

Information Technology and Cybersecurity

Technology is a growing force in Delaware’s economy, intersecting industries from finance (fintech) to manufacturing. Earning a master’s in IT, data science, or cybersecurity can be a smart move as employers seek advanced tech talent. Software developers in Delaware earn about $131,650 annually, and roles in data analytics and cybersecurity are on the rise. The University of Delaware’s new FinTech Innovation Hub highlights the state’s focus on tech-driven financial services.

Likewise, government agencies and corporations in Delaware need cybersecurity experts to protect data. An online MS in cybersecurity or IT management provides cutting-edge skills (network security, AI, cloud computing) that meet this demand. 

Public Administration and Social Services

Delaware offers a range of careers in public service. Earning a Master of Public Administration (MPA) or Master of Social Work (MSW) can prepare you for leadership roles in government agencies, policy organizations, or community services. The need for skilled administrators and program managers is steady in health, housing, and youth services. An MPA curriculum covers budgeting, public policy, and management, ideal for roles in state and local government.

MSW graduates are sought in healthcare, schools, and mental health agencies to provide advanced clinical or supervisory expertise. With an online MPA or MSW, you can build the skills to make an impact in Delaware’s public and nonprofit sectors, all while benefiting from the state’s tight-knit professional community and relatively low cost of living for public servants.

Accreditation Details for Online Master’s Programs

Accreditation is a crucial quality check for any online master’s program. In Delaware, all major universities hold regional accreditation from the Middle States Commission on Higher Education, which means their online degrees meet rigorous standards recognized by the U.S. Department of Education. In addition, many programs have specialized accreditations like Delaware State University’s College of Business AACSB award, placing it among the top business schools globally.

Why does accreditation matter? Accreditation for your graduate program guarantee a level of academic excellence, which is important for credit transfer, employer tuition reimbursement, and federal financial aid.

Online Master’s Programs Degree Types

Delaware’s online master’s programs come in a variety of formats to suit different needs. Full-time or part-time options let you choose an intense or lighter course load. Some programs offer accelerated tracks or 4+1 combined degrees to earn a master’s faster, while others have no GRE requirement to simplify admissions. Whether you want to power through in a year or balance school with work, you’ll find a format for you. Below, we detail each type and provide examples from Delaware schools:

Full-Time Programs

Full-time online master’s programs typically mimic the pace of on-campus study — expect to take a full course load each term. This means a heavier weekly time commitment (usually 3-4 courses at once), which can lead to completing your degree faster (often in about 12-18 months). The upside is an immersive experience and quicker entry (or return) to the workforce with your new credentials. However, balancing full-time graduate study with a job can be challenging, so many students use savings, employer support, or take a pause from work. 

Examples:

• University of Delaware — M.S. in Cybersecurity (online, can be completed in about 18 months full-time)
• Wilmington University — MBA (Management) — 12-month accelerated track for full-time students
• Delaware State University — MBA (full-time accelerated option allows completion in 12 months by taking 5 courses per semester)

Part-Time Programs

Part-time online master’s programs are designed for flexibility, allowing students to take fewer courses per semester. This option is ideal if you’ll be working full time or managing other responsibilities while studying. Part-time pacing means it will take longer to finish (typically two to three years for a master’s instead of one to two), but you’ll likely experience less stress each term. Delaware universities often offer evening or asynchronous classes well-suited for part-timers. 

Examples:

• Delaware State University — M.Ed. in Educational Leadership (online, designed for working K-12 educators to take courses part-time)
• University of Delaware — Master of Public Administration (MPA) (online, flexible pacing for government and nonprofit professionals)
• Wilmington University — M.S. in Information Systems (evening and online courses available; many students take 1-2 classes per term while working)

Programs with No GRE Requirement

Many Delaware online master’s programs do not require the GRE or GMAT, lowering barriers for applicants. No GRE required means admissions will focus on your undergraduate GPA, professional experience, and other factors instead of test scores. This is great for students who have strong qualifications or years of work experience but don’t have time to prepare for a standardized exam. It also reflects the trend of universities recognizing that a holistic review can be more predictive of success than a test.

Examples:

• Wilmington University — Master of Business Administration (MBA) (no GRE/GMAT required for admission)
• University of Delaware — M.S. in Electrical & Computer Engineering (online program with No GRE required for applicants)
• Delaware State University — MPA (Master of Public Administration) (GRE not required; admissions based on undergraduate record and letters of recommendation)

Accelerated Programs

Accelerated online master’s programs let you earn your degree faster than the traditional timeline. One model is a 4+1 program, where current undergraduates take graduate courses senior year and complete a master’s with one extra year. Another model is an intensive graduate-only program completed in a short span — for instance, a 12-month master’s by taking courses year-round or an elevated full-time load. 

With accelerated learning, you can enter the workforce or move up with an advanced degree sooner. But accelerated programs are rigorous; expect a brisk pace and little downtime between courses. They work best for highly motivated students or those who have some credits/experience to fast-track. 

Examples:

• Delaware State University — MBA (Accelerated 12-Month Track) — Full-time online MBA can be finished in one year with five courses per semester
• Wilmington University — Accelerated RN-to-MSN Program — Allows registered nurses to earn an MSN faster by combining bachelor’s and master’s study
• University of Delaware — 4+1 BS/MS Programs — Combined bachelor’s/master’s tracks (e.g., BS in Engineering + MS in Engineering in 5 years) for current undergrads, showcasing an accelerated route to a master’s

How Much Does an Online Master’s Program Cost?

Delaware’s online master’s programs span a range of price points with tuition generally charged per credit. Most master’s programs are around 30–40 credits total, so you can estimate your tuition by multiplying. Keep in mind additional fees (tech fees, etc.), but online learners often save on housing or commuting. Financial aid, employer tuition assistance, and scholarships can also help offset costs. Below is a snapshot of tuition costs at three Delaware schools:

Note: Costs are approximate for illustration; actual program lengths and rates vary. Always check the latest tuition info.

Answering Questions About Online Master’s Programs

Are online master’s degrees from Delaware universities respected by employers?

Yes, as long as your program is accredited, an online master’s from a Delaware school is generally held in the same esteem as an on-campus degree. Delaware universities ensure online students get the same education and diploma as their campus counterparts. 

Employers often care more about the school’s reputation and your skills than the format of the degree. Many hiring managers recognize that juggling work and an online graduate program also shows dedication and time-management — a bonus in their eyes. 

Do I need to live in Delaware to enroll in an online master’s program, and will I pay in-state tuition if I don’t?

You do not need to reside in Delaware — out-of-state students are welcome in most online programs. Delaware institutions participate in NC-SARA, meaning they’re authorized to teach online students nationwide. Tuition policies vary by school with some offering a flat rate for all online students regardless of residency, and others extend in-state tuition to several neighboring states.

Check each program’s tuition page for special e-tuition or scholarships for non-residents. Even if you’re not in Delaware, you can take advantage of the state’s relatively affordable public school options or a private university with uniform pricing.

What is the online learning experience like — are classes live or self-paced?

Online learning in Delaware tends to be very flexible. Most programs are asynchronous, meaning you don’t have to log in at a set class time. Instead, you’ll use a learning platform (like Canvas or Blackboard) to access lectures, readings, discussion boards, and assignments on your own schedule each week.

Some courses include optional live sessions or office hours via Zoom, and a few programs (especially in fields like counseling or education) may have occasional synchronous components or required virtual practicums. Hybrid programs will have some on-campus sessions, but those are typically infrequent like a weekend residency once a semester. 

Expect a mix of pre-recorded video lectures, readings, projects, and online interaction. You’ll have deadlines each week, but when you complete the work is largely up to you — ideal for fitting studies around work or family.

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

Delaware universities strive to give online students robust support, similar to on-campus services. As an online master’s student, you can typically access academic advising to plan your courses and get help if you hit snags. You’ll also have a faculty advisor or program coordinator in your field. Technical support is usually available 24/7 or during extended hours — important if you encounter issues with the learning platform. Career services are another big perk: you can get virtual career counseling, resume reviews, and attend webinars or virtual career fairs.

Resources like online tutoring or writing centers are available, and online students often communicate with professors via email or video calls. You may also collaborate with classmates on group projects or form study groups via Zoom for peer interaction. 

What are the typical admissions requirements for an online master’s program in Delaware?

Admissions criteria are similar to on-campus programs. Generally, you’ll need a bachelor’s degree from an accredited college and official transcripts. You’ll typically provide letters of recommendation (2 or 3) from professors or employers who can speak to your abilities. A personal statement or essay is almost always required — this is your chance to explain why you’re pursuing the degree and how you’ll succeed. A current resume is also needed, especially if work experience is considered in lieu of test scores. As noted, many Delaware online master’s have no GRE/GMAT requirement. 

Certain programs might have prerequisites — check the specific program’s admissions page for more information.