Pennsylvania is home to a rich network of universities — and you don’t have to step foot on campus to be a student. Many of the state’s universities offer online master’s degree programs, which help both busy professionals and recent college graduates conveniently earn a respected degree without putting their lives on hold. This OMD guide highlights flexible, accredited online programs across the state to help you move forward on your own terms. An inside look at actual online programs, exploring their structure, curriculum, costs, admission criteria, and more… The most promising fields in the state, based on job outlook, earning potential, affordability, and local opportunities… The variety of online master’s programs offered in the state, from full-time and part-time to accelerated formats… A clear overview of how much my degree might cost and the factors influencing total expenses… Insightful and guiding answers to common questions prospective students like myself have about earning this degree…
Profiling Online Master’s Degree Program Options
Temple University
Temple University offers 20+ fully online graduate programs through its various colleges, delivering a collaborative learning environment led by Temple’s renowned faculty. Online students at Temple enjoy interactive coursework and extensive support services akin to on-campus offerings. All the master’s programs are regionally accredited and designed with flexibility for working professionals. Temple’s online programs blend academic rigor with convenient access, so students can earn a respected Temple degree from anywhere.
Selected Program: MBA (Master of Business Administration)
Duration: ~24 months (48 credits) if taken full-time (up to 6 years allowed part-time)
Mode: 100% online (no campus visits required)
Cost: $1,250 per credit (48 credits, ~$60,000 total tuition)
Admissions Requirements:
- Bachelor’s degree (minimum 3.0 GPA recommended)
- Official transcripts from all undergraduate institutions
- Resume highlighting professional experience
- Letter of recommendation (at least one, preferably from a supervisor)
- Personal statement or essays outlining goals and experience
Penn State World Campus
A pioneer in distance education, Penn State World Campus is the online arm of Pennsylvania State University and offers 100+ online graduate programs and certificates, Students can choose from diverse fields — from business and engineering to education and homeland security — all in a flexible, asynchronous online format. Programs are identical to Penn State’s resident degrees in content and accreditation. Online learners benefit from robust career services, tech support, and an engaged alumni network.
Selected Program: Master of Data Analytics (MPS)
Duration: 30 credits (designed for ~2 years part-time or ~1 year full-time)
Mode: 100% online
Cost: $1,067 per credit (30 credits, ~$32,000 total tuition)
Admissions Requirements:
- Bachelor’s degree (STEM or related field recommended)
- Undergraduate GPA of 3.0 or above in the last 2 years
- Official transcripts from all post-secondary education
- Two letters of recommendation
- Statement of purpose on career goals and reasons for pursuing the degree
- Resume/CV detailing professional experience in analytics/IT
Drexel University
Master’s degree programs at Drexel University Online are career-focused and often structured in quarter terms, allowing for accelerated learning. This private research university offers online master’s programs in a variety of fields, supported by 24/7 tech support and dedicated student resources. Drexel’s online students have access to the same career services and libraries as on-campus students. The online learning experience emphasizes engaging, real-world assignments led by the same expert faculty who teach on campus
Selected Program: Master of Health Administration (MHA)
Duration: 45 credits (typically 2–3 years part-time)
Mode: Online courses with one on-site residency in Philadelphia
Cost: $1,002 per credit (45 credits, ~$45,090 total tuition)
Admissions Requirements:
- Bachelor’s degree in health administration or related field, or bachelor’s degree in another field plus≥1 year of healthcare work experience
- Minimum preferred GPA of 3.0 in undergraduate studies
- Official transcripts
- Two letters of recommendation (academic or professional)
- Personal essay (500–750 words on professional experience, career goals, and motivation for the MHA)
- Current resume detailing work experience in healthcare
In-Demand Master’s Program Fields of Study
When choosing a master’s program in Pennsylvania, it helps to target fields with strong job prospects, solid salary potential, and a good return on investment. Below are five high-demand areas in PA for master’s degree earners, each combining a positive job outlook and the availability of reputable online programs.
Business Administration and Management
Why it’s a top field: Pursuing an MBA or related master’s degree in business is popular in PA due to the thriving corporate and startup scene in cities like Philadelphia and Pittsburgh. Management occupations are projected to grow faster than average through 2033, and they command high salaries. The median annual wage for management roles is about $116,880.
An MBA or MS. in areas like finance, marketing, or project management can open doors to leadership positions. Pennsylvania employers from Fortune 500 companies to growing small businesses value the advanced strategic and analytical skills a master’s degree provides. The ROI is evident in salary data: for example, financial managers and consultants often earn significantly more with an advanced degree.
Healthcare and Nursing
Healthcare is one of Pennsylvania’s largest and fastest-growing industries, making graduate degrees in this field especially valuable. An array of paths exist, from a Master of Health Administration (for healthcare management roles) to a Master of Science in Nursing or Public Health.
Healthcare administrators are projected to see 29% job growth nationally from 2023–2033), reflecting the booming demand for leaders in hospitals, clinics, and public health organizations. Pennsylvania’s aging population and extensive hospital networks (UPMC, Penn Medicine) drive demand for skilled managers and specialized clinicians. Advanced practice nurses, such as nurse practitioners (NPs), also require master’s degrees (or higher) and are in great demand.
Technology & Computer Science
Pennsylvania’s tech sector — anchored by hubs like Pittsburgh’s robotics/AI industry and Philadelphia’s growing IT scene — is hungry for advanced tech talent. Earning a master’s in areas like computer science, data analytics, information technology, or cybersecurity can significantly boost one’s career trajectory.
Computer and IT occupations are projected to grow much faster than average in the coming decade, and they pay well: the median wage in this sector is over $104,000. A master’s provides deeper expertise in specialized topics, such as machine learning and data science, that are increasingly required for higher-level positions. Pennsylvania’s employers — from healthcare systems implementing data analytics to finance firms needing cybersecurity — often seek candidates with graduate-level training.
Education (Teaching & Administration)
Pennsylvania has a robust education system and values advanced training for educators. Many K-12 teachers pursue a Master of Education or related degree to deepen their expertise or move into leadership roles. While overall employment in education is growing slower than some fields, certain positions require a master’s degree and come with advancement opportunities.
School principals and administrators must typically earn a master’s in education administration, and median salary for PA principals is around $103,000. Earning a graduate degree can also boost a teacher’s salary; on average, teachers with a master’s earn about 8% more to start than those with only a bachelor’s degree. Additionally, fields like special education, curriculum design, and school counseling often require a master’s for certification or licensure.
Social Work and Human Services
As communities face complex social challenges, the need for qualified social workers and counselors with advanced training is growing. In Pennsylvania’s urban centers and rural areas, agencies and healthcare providers seek social workers who hold a Master of Social Work (MSW) or similar credentials.
Clinical social workers — who provide therapy and counseling — must have an MSW and licensure and these roles are in demand given rising attention to mental health and substance abuse treatment. Overall, employment of social workers is projected to grow 7% from 2023–2033, a pace faster than average. Within that, areas like mental health/substance abuse social work may grow even more quickly as Pennsylvania combats opioid addiction and expands behavioral health services.
Online Master’s Program Formats Available: Degree Types
Online master’s programs in PA aren’t one-size-fits-all — universities have developed different formats to serve students’ needs. Three common types are part-time programs (for flexibility alongside a job), accelerated programs (to finish faster on an intense schedule), and programs with no GRE required (for streamlined admissions). Below is an overview of each format and what to expect.
Part-Time Online Programs in PA
These programs are typically one to two courses per term, allowing students to continue working full-time. This stretches the program length to between two and four years for graduation but offers maximum flexibility. You can balance work, family, and studies, and there’s a less intense workload each semester. Part-time online students should expect ~10–20 hours of coursework per week. Most classes are asynchronous or held in the evenings.
Examples of PA Part-Time Online Master’s Programs:
- University of Pennsylvania – Online Master of Computer and Information Technology
- Temple University Online – Master of Social Work
Pennsylvania’s Accelerated Online Programs
Accelerated programs condense the curriculum into a shorter year-round period, often 12 to 18 months. You earn the master’s degree faster — great if you want to boost your credentials or switch careers quickly. The schedule is intensive, though; juggling work may be challenging due to accelerated five- or eight-week course formats or multiple courses at once. Expect 25+ hours of coursework per week in a fast-paced environment, so strong time management is a must.
Examples of Accelerated Online Programs in PA:
- Gwynedd Mercy University – Master of Education
- Albright College – Master of Science in Applied Psychology
No-GRE Admission Programs Offered Online in Pennsylvania
Like other master’s programs around the country, many in Pennsylvania do not require GRE scores for admission anymore. Instead, schools focus on undergraduate GPA, work experience, or other factors. This is especially helpful for applicants who have been out of school for a while or who don’t test well. It may mean that admissions weigh other criteria more heavily, such as requiring a higher GPA or relevant experience instead of test scores.
Examples of Pennsylvania No-GRE Master’s Degree Programs Online:
- Slippery Rock University – Master of Public Health
- Drexel University – Master of Science in Immunology
Potential Costs for a Master’s Degree Program
Factors like the school type, number of credits, and residency status differences influence the cost of your online education in Pennsylvania. Most programs charge tuition on a per-credit basis. A typical master’s is around 30-45 credits, so multiply the per-credit rate by the credit count for total tuition.
Public universities often have lower base rates (especially for in-state students), whereas private universities tend to have higher per-credit tuition. However, many PA schools offer online students in-state tuition or a special e-tuition rate, eliminating the out-of-state premium.
You may have technology fees, but you might save on some campus fees (no parking or recreational fees for fully online students). Online learners save on relocation and commuting costs, too — you won’t be paying for gas or renting near campus.
Here’s a comparison of three online master’s programs in Pennsylvania and their tuition costs:
| School (Program) | No. of Credits | Cost per Credit | Total Tuition |
|---|---|---|---|
| Penn State World Campus — Master of Data Analytics | 30 credits | $1,067 | ~$32,010 |
| Temple University (Fox) — Online MBA | 48 credits | $1,250 | ~$60,000 |
| Drexel University — Online MHA | 45 credits | $1,002 | ~$45,100 |
Note: Tuition figures are based on 2024–2025 rates for illustration. Always check the latest tuition on the university’s official site, as rates can change, and some programs have flat-rate or tiered tuition structures.
Student Support: Online Master’s Program FAQs
Will employers recognize and respect an online master’s degree from a Pennsylvania school?
Yes — as long as your program is accredited, employers in Pennsylvania and beyond recognize an online master’s as equivalent to an on-campus degree. Your diploma won’t even state “online”; it will simply list the degree and university. Pennsylvania’s accredited universities maintain the same curriculum and faculty quality online, so the education is on par with traditional programs.
Employers today are more concerned with the accreditation and reputation of the institution rather than the delivery format. Many working professionals earn their master’s online, so hiring managers are familiar with this route. To ensure credibility, choose a well-regarded PA school, and you can confidently list the degree on your resume.
How can I tell if an online master’s program in PA is properly accredited?
First, check for institutional accreditation. Pennsylvania universities should be accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education (MSCHE), the regional accreditor for the Mid-Atlantic. This ensures that the overall university meets quality standards. Next, see if there’s programmatic accreditation for your field. Business programs might have AACSB accreditation, engineering programs might be ABET accredited, and education programs could have CAEP accreditation.
Universities usually list accreditations on their websites, often in the “About” or program pages. You can also search the U.S. Department of Education or CHEA databases for the school’s name. Bottom line: Look for Middle States (regional) accreditation and any field-specific accreditor – all reputable online master’s programs in PA will have these credentials clearly stated.
Can I work full-time while pursuing my online master’s, and how much time will I need to dedicate?
Many students do continue working full-time during their online master’s program, as that’s a key advantage of online study. The flexibility of online programs (especially part-time tracks) is designed for people with rising careers. That said, expect a significant time commitment each week for coursework. A common guideline is 15–20 hours per week for a 3-credit graduate course.
Time management for online graduate students and setting a regular study schedule are crucial. Employers are often supportive, and some even offer tuition assistance. Consider informing your employer and negotiating flexible hours if needed. Also, most PA programs are asynchronous or host evening live sessions, which helps accommodate a 9-to-5 job.
Do I ever need to visit campus or be in Pennsylvania for an online master’s program?
Usually not. The vast majority of online master’s programs in PA can be completed 100% remotely, meaning you can live out-of-state or anywhere with internet access. Lectures, assignments, discussions, and even group projects are handled online via learning platforms
However, check the program format: a few programs are labeled “hybrid” or have a low-residency component. Some online MBA programs might have an optional networking residency or a capstone presentation on campus. These in-person sessions are typically short (a few days) and are often scheduled on weekends. If attending is a hardship, many schools provide alternatives or are flexible.
What kind of financial aid or scholarships are available for online master’s students in Pennsylvania?
Online master’s students have access to many of the same financial aid opportunities as on-campus students. If you attend an accredited PA institution, you can fill out the FAFSA and potentially qualify for federal aid like Stafford loans or Grad PLUS loans.
Pennsylvania residents might explore state-specific aid, though the PA state grant is usually for undergrads, but there could be programs for graduate study in high-need fields. Universities often offer graduate scholarships or fellowships; some are merit-based, and others are need-based. When researching programs, check the “Tuition & Financial Aid” page and be sure to speak with the financial aid office of your chosen university for more guidance.