Minnesota Master’s Degrees Online: Finding the Right Program

In Focus: Online Master’s Programs in Minnesota

The Five Best Master’s Fields to Pursue in Minnesota

1. Healthcare & Nursing

Healthcare is a booming field in Minnesota, driven by renowned institutions like the Mayo Clinic and large health systems. The state projects over 41,000 new jobs in healthcare and social assistance by 2032, which is more than double any other sector. 

Earning an advanced degree like a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) or MPH can open doors to high-demand roles such as nurse practitioner, healthcare administrator, or public health director. These roles offer a strong ROI, too. Minnesota nurse practitioners earn about $127K annually, 7% above the U.S. average. Online master’s programs in nursing and healthcare administration are plentiful in Minnesota, often including local clinical placements, and are typically designed to meet licensing requirements in specialized fields.

2. Business Administration & Management

Minnesota is home to 17 Fortune 500 companies, fueling demand for skilled managers and executives. An MBA or specialized master’s in fields like human resources (HR), analytics, or finance is a top choice due to the state’s robust corporate sector. 

Graduates see strong career outcomes. In fact, Minnesota ranks second in the nation for average master’s degree ROI (around $15,400), partly thanks to competitive salaries in its business community. 

Master’s programs in Minnesota emphasize practical leadership and often include networking opportunities with the Twin Cities’ business network. With part-time and online MBA options widely available, working professionals can boost their credentials and advance into leadership roles in Minnesota’s thriving economy.

3. Computer Science & Information Technology (IT)

With both health tech startups and giants like Medtronic and Thomson Reuters, Minnesota’s tech scene is growing fast. Minneapolis’ tech sector grew 25% in the last five years, and the city ranked among the top 10 U.S. cities for tech job growth in 2023. 

Master’s degrees in computer science, data science, cybersecurity, and related IT fields are in high demand. These programs develop advanced skills for software engineers, data analysts, and IT managers. Many of these roles command high salaries, too. Minnesota graduates in computer science fields are among the top earners in the state. 

Online master’s programs in computer science and IT are great options for those with backgrounds in these fields, as they allow professionals to upskill in areas like machine learning or information security. With strong industry partnerships and a diverse economy, Minnesota offers IT and computer science graduates ample career opportunities, making them strong choices to consider for prospective master’s students.

4. Engineering & Technology

Engineering is a consistently strong field in Minnesota. This is thanks to major employers in manufacturing, medical devices, agribusiness, and renewable energy in the region. Graduates who majored in engineering earn some of the highest wages in Minnesota and find themselves in high-demand occupations. 

Advanced degrees such as a Master of Engineering (MEng) are particularly valuable in specialized areas like electrical engineering, biomedical engineering, and civil/environmental engineering. The state’s leaders have pushed for infrastructure development and clean energy, creating the need for skilled engineers with graduate training. 

Many universities (like the University of Minnesota) offer online or hybrid engineering master’s programs aimed at working professionals, often featuring project-based learning. An engineering master’s not only boosts expertise and leadership skills but also can lead to licensure as a professional engineer (PE).

5. Education & Leadership

Minnesota has long valued education, and while recent K-12 rankings have fluctuated, the state still invests heavily in its schools and educators. Earning a master’s in education, educational leadership, or a specialized teaching field can yield multiple benefits, especially if you already have a background in teaching. Teachers with a master’s degree in Minnesota earn on average about $7,000 more per year than those with a bachelor’s, and many school districts offer pay bumps for graduate credits. 

Moreover, a master’s is often required for leadership positions like school principal, curriculum coordinator, or counselor. With a looming wave of retirements among veteran educators, Minnesota needs qualified leaders in K-12 and higher education. The combination of a relatively low cost of living in the state and strong support for public school systems means educators with master’s degrees can see a solid ROI and make a broader impact on Minnesota’s communities.

Finding Accredited Programs in Minnesota

Accreditation works as a signifier that a program or institution meets established academic standards. When evaluating Minnesota’s online master’s programs, verifying accreditation is an important step. 

Schools in Minnesota are typically accredited by regional bodies like the Higher Learning Commission (HLC), which evaluates the overall institution (for example, Saint Mary’s University is accredited by HLC). You’ll find that many programs also carry field-specific accreditations: business schools may have Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB) accreditation, education programs often have Council for the Accreditation of Educator Preparation (CAEP) approval, and nursing programs seek Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE) or Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN) accreditation. 

These endorsements matter because they affect credit transferability, eligibility for professional licensure, and employer confidence. As you decide on which master’s program to enroll in, make sure to look for both institutional and program-specific accreditation.

Learning the Different Online Master’s Program Formats

Online master’s programs come in a variety of formats to suit different needs, and this is equally true for Minnesota’s schools. Minnesota universities offer everything from traditional full-time pathways to flexible part-time and accelerated options. Some of these programs even waive Graduate Records Examinations (GRE) admission requirements, improving accessibility for returning students. Understanding these formats can help you choose a program that fits your schedule and career goals. 

Below is an overview of each program type and what to expect:

Programs with Traditional Full-Time Schedules

Full-time online master’s programs in Minnesota are ideal if you want to complete your degree quickly, typically in about 12 to 18 months of intensive study, and have the time and commitment for a full-time schedule. Students take a full load of courses each term, usually at least three courses, and should expect to devote 30 to 40 hours per week to their coursework. 

The benefits of full-time enrollment are that your online experience will follow a traditional, immersive academic schedule and you’ll graduate in a timely matter. On the flip side, full-time enrollment leaves less room for full-time work or other obligations.

Examples of Full-Time Online Programs in Minnesota:

• Minnesota State University, Mankato — Master of Science (MS) in Criminal Justice
• University of Minnesota — Master of Arts (MA) in Science Education

Programs with Flexible Part-Time Schedules

Part-time online master’s programs allow you to balance graduate school with work and personal commitments. In Minnesota, many working professionals choose part-time pacing so they can continue their careers while studying. However, this flexibility means a master’s might take two to three years or more to finish. The advantage is the workload is more manageable, with usually about ten to twenty hours of coursework per week. 

Part-time students often apply what they learn in real-time at their jobs. Most Minnesota universities (public and private) support part-time online enrollment, with evening and weekend course options and asynchronous learning. Combining part-time study with asynchronous learning means you can study on your own schedule.

Examples of Part-Time Online Programs in MN:

• St. Cloud State University — Master of Business Administration (MBA)
• Capella University — MS in Information Technology

Programs with No GRE Requirements

Many Minnesota master’s programs have dropped the GRE or Graduate Management Admission Test (GMAT) requirement, making admissions more accessible. This is especially advantageous for online students who may have been out of school for a while. “No GRE required” means your application is evaluated on factors like undergraduate GPA, work experience, and letters of recommendation instead of test scores. 

If you decide to enroll in a “no GRE” program, expect the graduate school admissions process to still be selective; demonstrating your academic readiness through your transcripts, application material, and professional achievements is key. 

Examples of Online Programs (No GRE Required) in MN:

• St. Mary’s University — Master of Public Health (MPH)
• Concordia University, St. Paul — Online MBA

Programs with Intensive Accelerated Schedules

Accelerated online master’s programs are structured with a focus on speedy completion, allowing you to earn a graduate degree in as little as one year. These programs compress coursework into shorter terms or increase course loads each semester. You might encounter seven- or eight-week intensive course formats, year-round scheduling (including summer enrollment), or combined bachelor’s/master’s programs. 

Minnesota schools offer accelerated options in fields like business, education, and nursing. The upside to these programs is you enter the workforce with your new credentials faster. Keep in mind the pace is intense, as accelerated students must juggle a heavier workload and quick deadlines. For motivated students, though, the opportunity to save time (and sometimes tuition) makes these programs very attractive.

Examples of Accelerated Online Programs in MN:

• University of Minnesota — MEd in Elementary Education
• Minnesota State University, Mankato —Master of Accounting (MAcc)

A Cost Overview of Online Master’s Degrees

The cost of an online master’s program in Minnesota depends on several factors, including the school type (public or private), the number of credits required, and any online-specific fees. Tuition is often charged on a per-credit basis, so programs with more credits will cost more overall. 

Public universities generally offer lower per-credit rates for Minnesota residents, while out-of-state students may pay more. However, some online programs charge in-state rates to all distance learners, so keep an eye out for this option. In addition to tuition, expect modest technology fees or distance learning fees (for example, a flat fee per online course). These are often used to support online platforms and services. 

Below is a snapshot comparison of costs at three accredited Minnesota schools:

Common Questions from Online Minnesota Master’s Students

Q1: Are online master’s degrees respected by Minnesota employers?

A: Employers in Minnesota usually recognize an online master’s as equivalent to a degree earned on campus. In fact, your diploma usually won’t state “online.” Minnesota’s universities ensure online programs follow the same curricula and rigor as face-to-face programs, so there is no stigma to your online degree. 

Many of Minnesota’s employers are familiar with online degrees and value the dedication it takes to juggle graduate study with other responsibilities. This has become especially true after the COVID-19 pandemic made remote learning more necessary. 

If you’re concerned, look for programs that include internships for master’s students or capstone projects with Minnesota companies to build networking and demonstrate hands-on experience. Also, always verify that your program has received the proper accreditation. 

Q2: What support will I have as an online master’s student?

A: Online students in Minnesota enjoy extensive support. You will interact with professors via email, discussion boards, video lectures, and virtual office hours. Many instructors are very responsive online, as remote learning has become more of the norm. 

Universities also provide resources like online tutoring, writing centers, and library services. You’ll typically be assigned an academic advisor who can assist with course planning. Importantly, most schools offer tech support for the online platform, which can help you overcome any technical difficulties. Many programs even provide career services to online learners, such as virtual career fairs, resume workshops, and one-on-one career counseling.

Q3: How can I manage work, family, and an online master’s program effectively?

A: Thousands of Minnesotans successfully balance online grad school with other commitments. They do so through careful time management and effective study habits. If you would like to join them, consider choosing a part-time program or one with asynchronous classes. 

To help balance your obligations, set a weekly study schedule. For example, try dedicating evenings or early mornings and a chunk of weekend time to coursework. Communicate with your employer about your programs, as some offer flexible hours or tuition assistance for employees in school. Take advantage of tools like calendars, task apps, and the structured modules your program provides to stay on track with assignments. 

It also helps to lean on your support network and resources. Let family or friends know when you’ll need extra help (like childcare during exam week). Minnesota’s online programs are designed for working adults, meaning instructors typically understand when life happens, but it’s important to stay proactive and disciplined.

Q4: Do online master’s programs in Minnesota lead to good job outcomes?

A: Online graduates in Minnesota indeed have strong career outcomes, which are comparable to on-campus grads. What matters most is the degree field and the school’s reputation, not the delivery format. 

Many online programs report high job placement rates. For instance, one University of Minnesota online MEd cohort saw a 97% full-time teaching placement within a year of graduation. That said, you should leverage the career resources of your university. Attend virtual networking events, engage with alumni groups, and complete any practicum or capstone experiences offered. 

Minnesota’s healthy job market eagerly hires candidates with master’s degrees. Nationally, master’s holders have around 1.9% unemployment, and Minnesota trends similarly.

Q5: Can an online master’s from a Minnesota school qualify me for licensure or certification (such as teaching or counseling)?

A: Yes, many online programs in Minnesota are specifically structured to meet licensure requirements. For example, there are online teaching master’s that include the coursework and student-teaching components needed for a Minnesota teaching license. Similarly, online counseling or social work master’s often align with state board requirements for clinical practice. 

The important factor to achieving licensure is that you verify that the program is approved by the relevant Minnesota licensing board or accredited by the professional body. Keep in mind that fully online licensure programs will sometimes still require in-person practicums, such as a supervised internship in your local area. This is normal to ensure you get hands-on training. 

Always check with your program advisors about the licensure process and learn what you need to do to get to this next stage of your career.