Maryland Master’s Programs Online: Reviewing Schools

Comparing Maryland’s Online & Hybrid Master’s Programs

Top Fields of Study for Your Master’s Degree

In Maryland’s economy and job market, you’ll find several fields for master’s graduates with high returns on investment (ROI). Below are five of the top fields to consider, based on job growth projections, salary potential, and the prevalence of strong programs in Maryland’s universities.

Business Administration 

An MBA or master’s in management is a versatile degree with strong ROI in Maryland’s thriving business and government sectors. Management occupations are projected to grow faster than average, with about 1.2 million openings each year nationally. These roles command high salaries, too. The median annual wage for management jobs is about $117,000. 

In Maryland, opportunities abound in federal agencies, biotech firms, and Fortune 500 companies that seek skilled managers. An MBA equips students with the leadership, finance, and strategy skills to advance into roles such as project manager, business analyst, or executive. With Maryland’s proximity to Washington, DC, MBA graduates can also find roles in consulting and government contracting, making this field a top choice for career changers and aspiring leaders.

Computer Science & Information Technology (IT) 

Maryland is a national hotspot for technology and cybersecurity, making computer science and IT master’s degrees highly valuable. The state is home to federal cyber hubs like the National Security Agency (NSA) and U.S. Cyber Command, on top of a growing tech startup scene. 

Job growth is robust: information security analyst positions are projected to grow 33% by 2033 and data scientists 36% by 2032. A master’s in computer science, cybersecurity, or data analytics can significantly boost your expertise and hiring prospects. 

Many Maryland universities offer these programs online, such as UMGC’s Master of Science (MS) in Cybersecurity and Johns Hopkins’ Engineering for Professionals degrees. These often align with industry certifications. Students can gain advanced skills in programming, software development, machine learning, and network security. 

Healthcare & Nursing

Healthcare is one of Maryland’s largest and fastest-growing industries. The state contains many prominent hospital organizations, such as Johns Hopkins Hospital and the University of Maryland Medical Center, research institutions, and public health agencies. An online master’s in a healthcare field offers excellent job prospects and a chance to make a positive impact on your community. 

Nurse practitioners in particular are in extreme demand, with a projected 45% job growth nationally from 2022 to 2032. Maryland also has significant shortages of advanced practice nurses and primary care providers. Similarly, medical and health services managers (healthcare administrators) are projected to grow around 29% by 2033 as healthcare systems expand. Earning a master’s prepares you for roles like nurse practitioner, healthcare manager, or public health analyst, often with salaries well above the state average. 

Education & Teaching

Education is a foundational field in Maryland, and a master’s degree can yield significant benefits for teachers and education professionals. Maryland faces persistent teacher shortages, with more than half of new teachers hired from out-of-state, and many high-need subject areas remain unfilled. An MEd or Master of Arts in Teaching (MAT) can fast-track your career advancement. For example, teachers with a master’s often earn higher salaries on district pay scales and qualify for roles like curriculum specialist or instructional coordinator. 

Maryland encourages advanced training through initiatives like the Maryland Educator Shortage Reduction Act of 2023, and many local universities offer online master’s programs for certified teachers to deepen their skills. The ROI is evident in leadership roles, as K-12 education administrators in Maryland earn a median salary of around $100,000. 

A master’s is typically required for positions like principal or instructional lead. Furthermore, a master’s in education equips you with expertise in pedagogy, curriculum design, and educational technology, which are critical areas for schools adopting online learning and new curricula. 

Engineering & Applied Sciences

Maryland’s strong presence in aerospace, defense, and biotechnology makes engineering and applied science master’s degrees valuable in this region. The state hosts major employers like the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) Goddard Space Flight Center, Northrop Grumman, Lockheed Martin, and funded research labs, all of which seek engineers with advanced skills. 

A master’s in engineering with a specialization (like electrical, mechanical, or systems engineering) or a master’s in applied science fields (biotechnology or engineering management) can lead to leadership and research and development (R&D) roles. While growth rates for engineering jobs vary by specialty, the demand in Maryland remains steady and strong for specialized engineers. For instance, electrical and computer engineers are heavily recruited due to the region’s defense and tech industries.

Accreditation: A Quality Measurement for Master’s Programs

When evaluating online master’s programs in Maryland, accreditation is a key quality marker. Most of Maryland’s universities, both public and private, are accredited by the MSCHE, a U.S. Department of Education-recognized body. This accreditation ensures an online degree holds the same credibility as on-campus programs and is respected by employers and other institutions. 

Additionally, many programs have specialized accreditations. These programmatic accreditations signal that the curriculum aligns with industry and professional standards. For example, nursing master’s programs in Maryland often are accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE) for nursing education quality. 

Prospective students should verify a program’s accreditation. This not only guarantees a level of quality and rigor but is also important for credit transfer, licensure, and tuition reimbursement.

Understanding the Different Online Master’s Programs

Online master’s programs in Maryland come in a variety of formats to suit different needs. You’ll find full-time programs, which mirror the intensity of on-campus study, part-time programs for those balancing work or family, programs that waive the Graduate Record Examinations (GRE) requirement, and accelerated programs that allow you to finish sooner. 

Each type has its pros and cons, from the time commitment required to the pace of learning. Understanding these options can help you choose a format that aligns with your schedule and goals.

Maryland’s Full-Time Master’s Programs

Full-time online master’s programs require a substantial time commitment each week, just as with a traditional in-person graduate schedule. You’ll take a heavier course load (typically three or more courses per term), enabling you to graduate faster. As a full-time graduate student, you can often finish in 12 to 18 months. 

The benefits of this format are an immersive learning experience and the chance to enter the workforce with your new degree sooner. However, balancing full-time study with employment can be challenging, so many full-time online students either study exclusively or have flexible work arrangements. 

Examples of Full-Time Online Programs:

• University of Maryland — Master of Professional Studies (MPS) in Data Journalism
• Johns Hopkins University — Master of Science in Bioinformatics

Maryland’s Part-Time Master’s Programs

Part-time online master’s programs are designed for working professionals or those with busy personal lives. Students typically take one or two courses per term, extending the program length (often two to three years for completion) but allowing a more manageable weekly workload. Part-time students spend roughly ten to twenty hours per week on coursework and can scale up or down as needed. 

The flexibility of part-time study lets you continue working full-time and immediately apply new knowledge on the job. The trade-off is a longer time to graduate compared to full-time. This format is ideal if you need to balance family, work, and school, as you can adjust your course load each semester. 

Examples of Part-Time Online Programs:

• Johns Hopkins University — Master of Arts (MA) in Communication
• Towson University — MEd in Early Childhood Education

Maryland’s No-GRE Master’s Programs

If standardized tests aren’t your strength, the good news is that many of Maryland’s online master’s programs have dropped the GRE requirement. No-GRE programs evaluate applicants based on other factors, such as your undergraduate GPA, professional experience, letters of recommendation, and personal statement rather than a test score. This lowers the barrier to entry and can speed up the application process. 

Choosing a no-GRE program means you can focus on assembling strong essays and references instead of months of test prep. Rest assured, the rigor and quality remain high since admissions committees still carefully vet each applicant. 

Examples of No-GRE Online Programs:

• Johns Hopkins University — MS in Artificial Intelligence
• University of Maryland Global Campus — MS in Accounting & Financial Management

Maryland’s Accelerated Master’s Programs

Accelerated online master’s programs allow students to complete their degree in a shorter-than-normal timeframe, often by taking courses year-round or doubling up on credit loads. In Maryland, these programs can be as short as one year. They are an excellent option if you are highly motivated and want to enter the workforce or pursue a further degree quickly. 

However, the curriculum in an accelerated program is intensive. Expect a fast pace and heavy workload. These degrees condense what is typically 18 to 24 months of material into about 12 to 15 months. The payoff is entering the job market or increasing your earning potential sooner. 

Examples of Accelerated Online Programs:

• Goucher College — Master of Arts in Teaching (MAT)
• University of Maryland Global Campus — MS in Homeland Security Management

Funding Your Future: Master’s Degree Costs in Maryland

Tuition for Maryland’s online master’s programs varies by school and sector (public versus private) but generally follows a per-credit pricing model. For in-state students at public universities, tuition can be relatively affordable at around $500–$700 per credit for many programs. Out-of-state public tuition is higher, although some online programs charge the same rate for all.

Private universities in Maryland have higher tuition; you can expect to pay around $600–$900 per credit at smaller private colleges, and over $1,700 per credit at elite institutions like Johns Hopkins.

Keep in mind these figures exclude fees. However, while online students may pay technology fees, they often save on commuting and housing costs. Financial aid and scholarships for online graduate students are also available, and many Maryland employers offer tuition assistance for job-related degrees. 

 Below is a comparison of a few sample schools:

Quick Guide: FAQs for Master’s Students

Q1: Do employers recognize and respect online master’s degrees from Maryland universities?

A: As long as your degree comes from an accredited institution, employers regard an online master’s from a Maryland school as equivalent to on-campus. Your transcripts and diploma likely won’t even specify “online.” Additionally, Maryland’s major universities have strong reputations, and their online programs maintain the same curricula and faculty. 

Employers in Maryland and other states in the country are growing increasingly familiar with online education and the value of the skills and self-motivation required to succeed in an online master’s. Many Maryland schools also have established industry partnerships and alumni networks, which can enhance job prospects and help you build your professional network. To maximize employer respect, choose a program that is regionally accredited and, if applicable, professionally accredited.

Q2: Can I get financial aid or scholarships for an online master’s program in Maryland?

A: Indeed, online master’s students in Maryland are usually eligible for federal financial aid (loans and grants) by filing the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA), just like traditional students. Most universities also offer institutional aid or scholarships that online students can apply for. As an example, UMGC provides scholarships and an interest-free payment plan to help with affordability. 

Many Maryland schools also include graduate assistantships or tuition discounts for certain populations, such as military personnel, teachers, or employees of partner organizations. It’s also worth exploring external scholarships specifically for graduate or online learners. 

When budgeting, keep in mind that while you’ll save on campus housing and meal costs, you should account for technology fees or course material costs (though some programs use free e-resources). Start your financial aid process early by contacting the financial aid office at your chosen Maryland university, as they can guide you on available options, deadlines, and how to maintain aid eligibility as an online student.

Q3: Is it feasible to work full-time while pursuing an online master’s degree?

A: Yes, and many students do. It’s one of the primary advantages of online programs. Maryland’s online master’s degrees are often designed with working professionals in mind, offering part-time tracks and asynchronous classes to accommodate busy schedules. 

If you work full-time, a part-time enrollment is a common approach that allows you to devote around ten to fifteen hours a week to studies. This might extend your program length, but it makes the workload manageable alongside a nine-to-five job. 

Time management and discipline are key. The most successful students often carve out specific study times and communicate with their employers about their school commitments. 

Q4: Do I need to live in Maryland or come to campus to enroll in a Maryland online master’s program?

A: You do not need to reside in Maryland to enroll in most of the state’s online master’s programs. Maryland institutions have authorization to offer online education across state lines. Keep in mind, however, that if you’re out-of-state, tuition may be higher at public universities since in-state residents get a discount, though some online programs do offer flat rates. 

As for campus visits, this depends on the program. Fully online programs require no campus attendance, and all coursework, discussions, and projects are completed remotely. However, hybrid programs or certain fields might have minimal on-site requirements. An online MBA might include an orientation weekend, or a science program could require a short lab residency. 

In Maryland, a few hybrid master’s (like some Johns Hopkins engineering programs) offer optional on-campus labs for hands-on experience, but often you can arrange an equivalent experience near you or opt for fully online coursework. 

Q5: What kind of support and resources can online master’s students in Maryland expect?

A: Online master’s students at Maryland universities have access to a wide array of support services comparable to those on campus. Academically, you’ll typically be assigned an advisor who can help plan your course sequence and navigate any issues. Professors typically hold virtual office hours and are reachable by email or video chat to answer questions. 

Most schools provide all-day tech support, which is critical if you have issues with the learning platform at odd hours. For instance, UMGC advertises an online classroom with twenty-four-hour technical support. For writing or tutoring help, many programs have online tutoring services or writing centers to assist with papers and assignments. 

Beyond academics, online students can use career services. Look for virtual career fairs, one-on-one career counseling sessions, resume reviews, and alumni networking. Lastly, if your program has group projects, they’ll facilitate collaboration tools for you to meet and work virtually.