Ohio Master’s Degrees Online: Finding the Right School

Inside 3 Popular Master’s Degrees in Ohio

Below, we’ll profile three Ohio-based universities with accredited online master’s degree programs. Each overview highlights the school’s online offerings and one specific master’s degree program, including key details like duration, format, cost, and admissions requirements.

In-Demand Online Master’s Specializations

Which master’s degree programs offer the strongest career prospects in Ohio? Below, we spotlight five high-demand fields for graduate study. Each field provides excellent job opportunities due to growth, employer demand, return on investment, and/or a strong industry presence in the state.

Health Care and Nursing

Health care is arguably the top field for pursuing a master’s degree in Ohio. An aging population and expanding hospital systems (like Cleveland Clinic and OhioHealth) drive the demand for advanced health care professionals. Roles such as nurse practitioners, physician assistants, health care administrators, and clinical nurse specialists typically require master’s-level training and are growing fast.

Ohio’s health care and social assistance sector is projected to add more jobs than any other industry, ensuring strong ROI for degrees like Master of Science in Nursing (MSN), Master of Health Administration(MHA), or Master of Public Health(MPH). Graduates often enjoy abundant job openings statewide. For example, hospitals in Columbus and Cincinnati frequently hire nurses and managers with master’s degrees. So, a master’s degree in a health field can open doors to fulfilling, well-paying roles that address critical community needs.

Business Administration and Management

Business remains a popular and versatile choice for Ohio graduate students. The state hosts 27 Fortune 500 companies(from Nationwide Insurance to Procter & Gamble) plus countless mid-sized firms and start-ups. Earning an MBA or a specialized master’s degree (in Finance, Marketing, Supply Chain, etc.) can provide a significant career boost. Ohio companies highly value advanced business skills in leadership, analytics, and strategy.

Job growth in corporate management and consulting is steady, and earning an MBA often leads to a substantial salary increase. For example, an MBA graduate might move into roles like marketing director or financial analyst at a major Ohio employer. (Cardinal Health, Progressive Insurance, and Kroger have headquarters in the state). Many Ohio MBA programs feature strong alumni networks and internship pipelines that help students translate a degree into local career opportunities.

As Ohio’s diverse industries — from manufacturing to banking — seek management talent, a master’s degree in business delivers broad ROI and flexibility.

Technology and Computer Science

In recent years, technology has become one of Ohio’s fastest-growing sectors. Cities like Columbus, Cincinnati, and Cleveland emerged as tech hubs that attract start-ups and IT investment. For instance, Columbus has a thriving fin-tech scene and was chosen for large projects like Intel’s new semiconductor facilities. Earning a master’s degree in fields such as Computer Science, Information Technology, Data Analytics, or Cybersecurity can position you for excellent job opportunities.

Ohio’s tech employers range from Fortune 500 companies that implement large IT initiatives to innovative start-ups in software development and data science. Graduates with an MS in Computer Science or IT often land roles as software engineers, data analysts, IT managers, or cybersecurity consultants. These positions offer high salaries and strong growth potential. Software-related occupations are projected to keep growing much faster than the average rate.

Beyond private companies, there’s also demand in health care IT, research labs, and government (e.g., smart city projects in Columbus). For students with a knack for technology, a master’s degree can unlock advanced roles in Ohio’s expanding digital economy.

Education and Educational Leadership

Education is a rewarding field with consistently strong demand in Ohio. School districts across the state need qualified educators and administrators, and many roles (like principal, curriculum coordinator, or educational technologist) require a master’s degree. Ohio faces a dire teacher shortage in certain regions and subjects, prompting initiatives to recruit and upskill educators.

The Ohio Department of Job and Family Services projects a 6.9% growth in demand for educators by 2030, which reflects an ongoing need for teachers. Schools like Kent State and the University of Dayton offer respected online MEd programs that let current teachers advance their credentials while they work.

A master’s degree in education is both a fulfilling and practical choice for students who are passionate about making an impact in Ohio’s schools.

Engineering and Manufacturing

Ohio’s long-standing strength in engineering and manufacturing is now combined with cutting-edge growth in areas like aerospace and semiconductors. Engineers with advanced expertise are continually sought for rules in the state’s manufacturing industry — from automakers in Toledo to polymer companies in Akron. A master’s degree in an engineering field (Mechanical, Electrical, Industrial, etc.) can lead to roles in R&D, product design, or plant management. Major new investments like Intel’s $20 billion semiconductor plants near Columbus promise thousands of high-tech engineering jobs in the coming years.

Ohio is also a hub for aerospace and defense engineering. (The Wright-Patterson Air Force Base is located in Dayton and NASA’s Glenn Research Center is located in Cleveland.) So, a master’s degree in these fields can accelerate career advancement. Programs like a Master of Engineering Management or an MS in Industrial Engineering are popular for engineers aiming for leadership positions.

Additionally, emerging sectors in Ohio — such as renewable energy technology and smart infrastructure — create a demand for engineers with specialized graduate training. Overall, whether it’s designing the next generation of jet engines at GE Aviation or optimizing production lines at a steel plant, Ohio engineers with master’s degrees enjoy robust opportunities and play a key role in the state’s economic innovation.

Analyzing Types of Online Master’s Degree Programs

These programs aren’t one-size-fits-all. Universities developed various formats to meet the needs of different students. In general, you’ll find part-time programs that spread out coursework for working professionals, accelerated programs that enable students to finish faster (sometimes in one year), and programs that do not require GRE scores for admission.

Below, we describe each type of program and give Ohio-based examples.

Work-Friendly (Part-Time and Flexible) Programs

Many online master’s degree programs in Ohio are designed to be part-time, which allows students to continue working full-time. In a part-time program, you might take one or two courses per term instead of a full load. This results in a longer period of time until graduation (often two to three years for a master’s degree). But, the workload is manageable alongside a job and/or family duties. The advantage is maximum flexibility — you can study on evenings or weekends, and most courses are asynchronous (with no set class times).

Ohio universities often explicitly advertise the length of their programs. For example, Ohio State’s online Master of Social Work (MSW) degree program lets students attend part-time or full-time as needed. And many online MBA programs in Ohio offer both one-year full-time and two-year part-time tracks. Part-time online programs are a great choice for students who are changing careers and easing back into school or professionals who cannot take time off from work. You’ll receive the same curriculum and degree, but on a schedule that fits your lifestyle.

Fast-Track Degree Programs

If your goal is to graduate quickly, Ohio colleges and universities offer accelerated online master’s degree programs. These programs condense the usual timeline by using shorter terms, heavier course loads, and/or year-round study. One example is Ohio University’s online MBA program, which can be completed in as few as 12 months. Similarly, Bowling Green State University offers an online MBA program that lets students finish in one year by taking courses in intensive seven-week sessions.

Keep in mind that an accelerated schedule can be challenging — it’s essentially like a full-time job itself — so it’s important to ensure that you can dedicate the necessary hours. The payoff is that you can have your diploma in hand by this time next year.

Programs that Waive Test Scores

If you’re worried about studying for the GRE or GMAT, you should know that many online master’s degree programs in Ohio no longer require standardized test scores. This trend has grown in recent years to remove barriers for adult learners. University officials now take a more holistic view of applicants — they focus on your undergraduate GPA, work experience, and letters of recommendation instead of test scores. For example, the University of Cincinnati’s online MBA program waives the GMAT/GRE requirement, and Ohio University does not require entrance exams for most of its online master’s degree programs.

Some schools have “no GRE required” policies for all online graduate degree programs, while others grant a waiver to students who meet certain criteria (e.g., a minimum GPA or relevant professional experience). The absence of a GRE/GMAT score makes the application process simpler and cheaper. However, admissions can still be competitive — you’ll need to showcase your qualifications through essays and recommendations. If test-taking isn’t your strength or you’ve been out of school for a while, seeking out no-GRE programs in Ohio can be a smart strategy. You can directly focus on your academic and professional record without the extra hurdle of preparing for an exam.

Tuition and Financial Aid for Online Master’s Students

Tuition for these programs in Ohio varies by university and program, but generally follows a per-credit or per-semester pricing model. Public universities usually charge a set tuition rate per credit hour (and rates for online students are often similar to in-state tuition). For example, Ohio University’s graduate eCampus tuition rate is $505 per credit hour, while the cost of graduate degree programs at Ohio State ranges from approximately $800 to over $1,500 per credit hour.

Many schools offer in-state tuition rates to all online students, regardless of where they live. For instance, Ohio State University charges online master’s degree students the Ohio resident rate. In terms of totals, a 30-credit master’s degree program can cost approximately $15,000 on the low end (for a regional public university program) to $30,000-plus for a flagship or specialized degree.

Private universities tend to be more expensive, and sometimes charge $1,000-plus per credit. It’s important to factor in any fees (online programs might charge technology fees, etc.), but online learners often save on housing and/or transportation costs. Some programs use flat-rate tuition for full-time students — e.g., there is one price per semester if students take a full load — versus a per-credit rate for part-time students. You should always check each program’s tuition page on the school’s website. Note whether rates differ for in-state vs. out-of-state students.

The table below compares three online master’s degree programs in Ohio.

Note: Actual costs might vary based on fees, pace, and transfer credits. Always consult your school’s bursar for up-to-date rates.

Online Master’s FAQs: Your Questions Answered

Q: Are online master’s degrees from Ohio universities respected by employers?

A: Yes; as long as a program and school are properly accredited, an online master’s degree from an Ohio university is generally held in the same regard as a degree earned on campus. Major public universities in OH are regionally accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC), and their online programs undergo the same academic approvals. Your diploma typically won’t specify that it was earned online.

Employers in Ohio are increasingly familiar with online degrees, especially after the COVID pandemic. What matters most is that your degree comes from a reputable institution. Thousands of Ohioans earned graduate degrees online. Ohio University alone has 7,000-plus online graduate students, and they work in leadership roles throughout the state.

To ensure that your employer respects your diploma, choose an accredited program with a solid reputation; all of the schools mentioned in this guide meet that criteria. Networking and demonstrating skills can further show employers that your online master’s degree program prepared you as effectively as a traditional program would.

Q: How can I afford an online master’s degree program in Ohio?

A: Financing graduate school is a big concern, but there are several ways to make an online master’s degree program affordable. First, you should fill out a FAFSA form — online students in accredited programs are eligible for federal financial aid like loans or grants (if they demonstrate need).

Many Ohio schools also offer scholarships or tuition discounts for online learners. For example, some universities offer scholarships to alumni, veterans, or partner organization employees. You should check whether your employer provides tuition reimbursement — this is common among large Ohio employers (especially for degrees in business, tech, or health care). You can also consider a payment plan to spread tuition over a term.

Look into assistantships or “earn while you learn” opportunities; a few online programs hire graduate students as research or teaching assistants and offer partial tuition waivers. So, you should budget, apply for financial aid, and take advantage of any employer or scholarship support. With these steps, an online master’s degree program can be a financially attainable investment in your future.

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

A: Absolutely — in fact, the majority of master’s degree students in Ohio are working professionals. Online programs are built with flexibility in mind. You can attend part-time (and take only one or two courses per semester) to balance school with a 40-hour work week. Coursework is usually asynchronous, so you can watch lectures and complete assignments during evenings or weekends, whenever your schedule allows. Universities often encourage this; for instance, UC Online notes that their programs cater to busy, career-focused adults who “don’t always have time to relocate to campus.”

Time management is key — you’ll need to carve out study time and perhaps lighten other commitments, but thousands of Ohio students successfully juggle work and online grad school each year. It helps to communicate with your employer if possible; some supervisors offer flexible hours, especially if your degree will benefit your role. You should utilize the tools that are provided (like watching mobile-accessible lectures or doing readings on your lunch break). 

Many programs, such as online MBAs or MEd programs, are explicitly designed for working teachers, nurses, analysts, etc., so you won’t be alone. By pacing yourself and staying organized, you can keep your job, advance your education, and apply what you learn in real-time at work.

Q: Will earning an online master’s degree in Ohio help my career?

A: In most cases, yes — a master’s degree (that’s earned online or otherwise) can significantly boost your career prospects. Advanced degree programs are often the gateway to leadership roles and specialized positions. For example, an MSN can qualify a bedside nurse to become a nurse practitioner, and an MBA might be required to move into management at a company. 

Employers value the deeper expertise and skills that come with graduate-level education. On average, workers with a master’s degree earn higher salaries — the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics notes that the median annual wage is approximately $12,000 higher for master’s degree holders vs. bachelor’s degree holders. In Ohio, fields like health care, education, and business often have built-in pay raises for master’s degree holders (e.g., teachers typically move up the pay scale).

Beyond pay, an online master’s degree program gives you access to university career services and alumni networks, which can connect you to major employers in your industry in Ohio. You’ll also likely complete projects or research that you can showcase to employers to prove your advanced competencies. It’s important to choose a field that’s aligned with Ohio’s job market (like the high-growth sectors we discussed above) and to actively leverage your degree — attend networking events, connect with alumni on LinkedIn, and pursue internships or practicums if they are offered.

So, an online master’s degree program is a worthwhile investment for your career, especially if you apply your new knowledge and take advantage of the opportunities it opens up.

Q: Do I need to live in Ohio or visit campus for an online master’s degree program?

A: Not necessarily. Most of these programs from Ohio schools are available to students nationwide (and internationally). You do not need to reside in Ohio to enroll in these programs, and you won’t be required to come to campus, typically. These programs are often labeled “100% online,” which means that all coursework and interactions occur via the internet.

There are a few considerations: first, universities must be authorized to offer online education in each state — Ohio institutions have authorizations through the State Authorization Reciprocity Agreement (SARA), so you can enroll without issue in nearly all states. It’s always wise to double-check a state’s eligibility. For instance, Ohio State University advises prospective online students to verify their state’s authorization status — certain programs like Nursing or Education that lead to licensure might have extra requirements in different states.

Second, a handful of “hybrid” online master’s degree programs require brief campus residencies or immersions. Examples might include an online MBA program that requires students to come to Columbus for a weekend leadership workshop, or an online science degree program with an on-site lab session. However, such requirements will be clearly stated — you can choose programs that are entirely online if travel is not feasible for you. Many out-of-state students earn degrees in Ohio without setting foot on campus.

Finally, if you’re out-of-state, be mindful of licensure; if your degree leads to licensure (like counseling or teaching), you’ll want to ensure that Ohio’s curriculum meets your home state’s requirements (or be prepared to pursue Ohio licensure). Overall, residency is not required for most programs — online learning allows you to attend an Ohio university from wherever you are.