Enrolling in an online master’s program in Missouri sets you apart in your field and sets you up for higher earnings. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, graduates with a master’s degree earn a median salary of $1,574 per week compared with those who have only a bachelor’s degree, who earn a median salary of $1,334 per week.
Online graduate programs in Missouri allow the flexibility to further your education on your own time — meaning you can keep your job while also completing your online coursework. Multiple schools offer online master’s programs in MO in a variety of career fields, giving you options to choose what’s best for your career goals.
This guide gives you an overview of top-rated online master’s programs in Missouri, program formats, cost to attend, and more.
Top-Rated Online Master’s Programs in Missouri for 2024
Online graduate programs in Missouri provide flexibility and accessibility for students seeking advanced education. Students typically have the freedom to choose when and where they engage with course materials, allowing them to balance studies with work or other commitments. While much of the curriculum can be completed online, some programs may have in-person requirements, such as labs, workshops, or fieldwork.
Students who enroll in online graduate programs in Missouri will have to balance time management, self-discipline, and effective communication with instructors and peers. Required on-campus visits vary depending on the program and university. Some require occasional visits for specific activities, while others are entirely online.
In Missouri, major university systems such as the University of Missouri and Missouri State University offer a wide array of online master’s degree programs. These universities are recognized for their commitment to quality education and robust online learning platforms.
While the definition of “best” is subjective, we listed three universities that offer a variety of quality online master’s programs in MO with flexible study options and affordable tuition rates. Use these as a base to begin your search for a school and online graduate program that’s best for you.
University of Missouri
The University of Missouri is a highly reputable school that offers 71 online graduate degree programs. One of the nation’s top-tier institutions, the University of Missouri is one of only 38 public universities — and the only public institution in Missouri — to be selected for membership in the Association of American Universities. Additionally, the University of Missouri is one of the top-ranked universities in the world for plant science research, and the school houses the most powerful university-operated nuclear research reactor in the U.S.
The university is committed to helping graduate students succeed within their desired career field, offering students learning opportunities with an extensive network of expert-level faculty. Graduate students at the University of Missouri can gain an assistantship and are guaranteed competitive stipends and benefits, including mentoring, career guidance, health insurance, professional development, and more. The university offers accredited, fully online master’s programs in accountancy, business administration, computer science, education and counseling, human development, social work, and more.
Most graduate students at the University of Missouri fund their schooling with assistantships and fellowships. The estimated cost of attendance varies by program. For example, both in-state and out-of-state students pay $9,000 per semester for online master’s programs in the Trulaske College of Business and $4,815 per semester for online master’s programs in the College of Education and Human Development.
Missouri State University
Missouri State University (MSU) offers 24 online master’s degree programs to help you advance your education. The public university is classified as a doctoral university, offering state-of-the-art research opportunities for students alongside expert faculty and accomplished scholars who provide mentorship to graduate students.
MSU is regionally accredited through the Higher Learning Commission, with many of its online master’s programs earning programmatic accreditation as well, such as its master of business administration, cybersecurity, education, nursing, social work, and more. The estimated cost of attendance for full-time, online graduate Missouri resident students is $24,548 per year and $30,776 per year for out-of-state graduate students.
University of Central Missouri
The University of Central Missouri offers more than 40 online master’s programs, allowing students to earn their graduate degree in the comfort of their own home from the same expert faculty members who teach on campus. The Higher Learning Commission-accredited university is known to be one of the most affordable universities in the country and is considered the state leader in degree completion among public universities in MO.
The nationally ranked school offers online and hybrid accredited graduate programs, including aviation safety, biology, business administration, communication, cybersecurity, early childhood education, human development, nursing, and more. Some of the hybrid online graduate programs require students to make several on-campus visits per year and/or require an in-person internship or assistantship. The estimated cost of attendance for all online graduate programs is $413.50 per credit hour, totaling an average of $12,405 per year for a student taking 30 credits online.
Types of Online Master’s Programs Available in Missouri
Explore a diverse range of online master’s programs in Missouri that offer flexibility and convenience. Many accredited schools have graduate programs in full-time, part-time, no-GRE required, and accelerated formats. See which one is right for you.
Full-Time Online Master’s Programs in MO
Full-time online master’s programs in Missouri offer a comprehensive, immersive education accessible from anywhere. These programs are designed for students who prefer a full-time commitment to their studies. For example, the University of Missouri — Columbia offers a full-time online Master of Education in Educational Leadership and Policy Analysis. Missouri State University offers a full-time online Master of Science in Accountancy.
Part-Time Online Master’s Programs in MO
Part-time online master’s programs in Missouri offer a flexible approach to advanced education, accommodating busy schedules. These programs allow students to balance their studies with work and other commitments. For instance, Washington University in St. Louis offers part-time online master’s options, including a Master of Arts in Biology. Additionally, Missouri University of Science and Technology provides a part-time online Master of Science in Information Science and Technology, catering to working professionals seeking to enhance their expertise.
No-GRE Online Master’s Programs in MO
No-GRE online master’s programs in Missouri offer a streamlined admissions process, allowing students to pursue advanced degrees without the GRE exam requirement. Even before the COVID-19 pandemic, prestigious schools such as Princeton and other research institutions began dropping the exam as an admissions requirement. Since then, more colleges and universities, including those with flexible online programs, have followed suit to increase equity and access.
At the University of Missouri — Columbia, the Master of Science in Business doesn’t require GRE test scores as part of its admission requirements. Missouri State University also offers a range of online master’s programs across disciplines, including the Master of Science in Cybersecurity, that don’t require GRE test scores as an admission requirement.
Accelerated Online Master’s Programs in MO
Not all online master’s programs are created equal. In some cases, it’s possible to complete an online master’s degree in Missouri in one year or less. These accelerated online programs are dependent on the degree, your time commitment, and what previous schooling or experience you bring to the table.
For instance, the University of Missouri — Columbia offers an Accelerated Master of Business Administration (AMBA) program, providing a swift route to a highly regarded degree. Additionally, Missouri State University offers an Accelerated Master of Science in Child Life Studies, enabling students to start their master’s degree coursework as they finish their bachelor’s degree.
A Closer Look Missouri’s Most In-demand Master’s Degrees
Business Administration
Pursuing an online master of business administration (MBA) in Missouri is designed for individuals seeking advanced knowledge and skills in various aspects of business and management, particularly those seeking to be business owners and entrepreneurs and those looking to enter a competitive and growing job market. The program focuses on various aspects of business, including management, leadership, marketing, finance, and more.
Quality Examples of Online Programs
Computer Science
Pursuing an online master of computer science degree in Missouri is a great choice for individuals with a strong foundation in computer science or related fields, such as software engineering or information technology. Experienced professionals seeking to deepen their technical expertise, computer scientists looking to specialize, or individuals aiming for leadership roles in technology-driven industries are ideal candidates to enroll in these programs. Graduate programs focus on advanced concepts in computer science, including algorithms, software development, artificial intelligence, data science, and more.
Quality Examples of Online Programs
Education
Pursuing an online master of education degree in Missouri is a top pick for individuals passionate about advancing their knowledge in educational theory, practice, and leadership. There’s a constant demand for skilled and knowledgeable educators in Missouri who are able to cater to a diverse student population. Students in this program refine their teaching techniques and explore innovative educational strategies, with some programs offering specialized curriculum in educational leadership, special education, and more.
Quality Examples of Online Programs
Nursing
Pursuing an online master of science in nursing (MSN) degree in Missouri is ideal for registered nurses who have a bachelor of science in nursing and are looking to advance their knowledge and skills in nursing practice, leadership, and specialized areas of healthcare. Enrolling in an MSN program allows nurses to expand their clinical knowledge, develop leadership skills, and specialize in areas such as family nurse practitioner, nurse educator, or nurse administrator.
Missouri faces a growing need for advanced practice nurses, nurse educators, and nurse leaders, making this a highly reputable and prosperous career track.
Quality Examples of Online Programs
Fine Arts & Creative Writing
Pursuing an online master of fine arts (MFA) degree in Missouri is a great fit for individuals looking to further develop their artistic skills and knowledge in areas such as visual arts, creative writing, or performing arts. Graduate programs offer a structured environment for artists to experiment, create, and receive constructive feedback. MFA programs include opportunities for mentorship, exposure to diverse artistic perspectives, and the chance to develop a professional portfolio or body of work.
Missouri has a vibrant artistic and cultural scene and a thriving community of artists, writers, and performers. The state is home to numerous galleries, theaters, and creative organizations, providing opportunities for MFA graduates to showcase their work and contribute to the cultural landscape of Missouri. In addition, demand for skilled and innovative artists in areas such as writing, visual arts, and media production is significant.
Quality Examples of Online Programs
How Much Does an Online Master’s in Missouri Cost?
The average cost of earning an online master’s degree in MO varies depending on the program and type of institution. Before enrolling it’s crucial to understand the costs, including tuition, books, online software, and more.
Some schools – such as the University of Missouri – charge the same cost per credit of $535 for all online graduate students, regardless of their state of residency. Others – such as Missouri State University – charge in-state and out-of-state students differently. Thankfully, many schools offer financial aid options customized for graduate students, including scholarships, fellowships, assistantships, and more.
| School Name | No. of Credits | Cost/Credit | Est. Tuition Cost |
|---|---|---|---|
30 | $535 | $16,050 | |
34 | $444.12 | $15,100 | |
41-50 | $838 | $34,358 – $41,900 |
Missouri Graduate Program Funding Options
Online programs in Missouri offer a range of financial aid options to support master’s students in their pursuit of higher education. Scholarships and grants are the most common; they’re particularly desirable because they don’t need to be paid back. These include the Bright Flight Scholarship, which rewards academic merit, and the Access Missouri Financial Assistance Program, which aids students with demonstrated financial need.
Fellowships, offered by institutions such as the University of Missouri, provide financial support along with opportunities for research or teaching experience. Work-study programs, such as those at Missouri State University, enable students to earn income while gaining valuable professional skills on campus. Additionally, graduate research assistantships, available at universities including Washington University in St. Louis, offer stipends and tuition remission for assisting faculty in cutting-edge research. Exploring these opportunities can significantly alleviate the financial burden of earning an online master’s degree in Missouri.
Lucrative Careers for Missouri Master’s Degree Holders
Professionals with graduate degrees often enjoy significantly higher earnings compared with those who have just a bachelor’s. According to the Missouri Economic Research and Information Center, careers in healthcare, education, and business management lead to a larger earnings gap between bachelor’s and master’s degree holders, with strong occupational projections and job openings in these fields in the next 10 years.
Medical and Health Services Manager
Medical and health services managers plan, direct, and coordinate the business activities of healthcare providers. Medical and health services managers typically need a bachelor’s degree to enter the occupation, while obtaining a master’s degree will gain you additional skills and administrative and clinical experience to excel in the role. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment of medical and health services managers is projected to grow 28% from 2022 to 2032, which is much faster than the average for all occupations.
| State Median Annual Pay | National Job Outlook | Related Master’s Degree |
|---|---|---|
| $100,100 | 28% | MS in Health Administration or Nursing |
Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics, 2023; CareerOneStop, 2022
Psychologist
Psychologists study cognitive, emotional, and social processes and behavior by observing, interpreting, and recording how individuals relate to one another and to their environments. Psychologists typically need a doctoral degree in psychology, but a master’s degree is sufficient for some positions. Most psychologists also need a license. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment of psychologists is projected to grow 6% from 2022 to 2032, which is faster than the average for all occupations.
| State Median Annual Pay | National Job Outlook | Related Master’s Degree |
|---|---|---|
| $106,950 | 6% | MS in Psychology |
Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics, 2023; CareerOneStop, 2022
Software Developer
Software developers, quality assurance analysts, and testers typically need a bachelor’s degree in computer and information technology or a related field. Earning an online master’s degree in computer science qualifies you for higher-demand positions, with many employers preferring to hire developers who have master’s degrees. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment of software developers, quality assurance analysts, and testers is projected to grow 25% from 2022 to 2032, which is much faster than the average for all occupations.
| State Median Annual Pay | National Job Outlook | Related Master’s Degree |
|---|---|---|
| $101,650 | 25% | MS in Computer Science, Engineering, or Mathematics |
Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics, 2023; CareerOneStop, 2022
Speech-Language Pathologist
Speech-language pathologists assess and treat people who have communication disorders. Many work in schools, private practices, hospitals, or nursing and residential care facilities. Most speech-language pathologists are full time and are required to have a master’s degree; all states require that speech-language pathologists be licensed. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment of speech-language pathologists is projected to grow 19% from 2022 to 2032, which is much faster than the average for all occupations.
| State Median Annual Pay | National Job Outlook | Related Master’s Degree |
|---|---|---|
| $79,360 | 19% | MS in Speech-Language Pathology |
Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics, 2023; CareerOneStop, 2022
Physician Assistant
Physician assistants examine, diagnose, and treat patients under the supervision of a physician. Many work in physicians’ offices, hospitals, outpatient clinics, and other healthcare settings. Most work full time and require a master’s degree from an accredited program. All states require physician assistants to be licensed. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment of physician assistants is projected to grow 27% from 2022 to 2032, which is much faster than the average for all occupations.
| State Median Annual Pay | National Job Outlook | Related Master’s Degree |
|---|---|---|
| $109,540 | 27% | MS in Physician Assistant Studies and MS in Health Sciences |
Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics, 2023; CareerOneStop, 2022