Online Master’s Degree Programs at WGU

WGU offers a variety of online master’s programs that you can complete from the comfort of your home. These programs are designed to be flexible, allowing you to balance your studies with your other responsibilities.

List of Master’s Degrees Programs:

Business Master’s Degrees

WGU offers 12 different business-related master’s programs that are designed to be flexible and convenient for busy professionals. Here’s a quick overview of each program:

1. Master of Business Administration
2. Management and Leadership – M.S.
3. MBA Healthcare Management
4. MBA Information Technology Management
5. Accounting – M.S.
6. Marketing – M.S.
7. Human Resource Management – M.S.
8. Accelerated Information Technology Bachelor’s and Master’s Degree
9. Data Analytics – M.S.
10. Master of Healthcare Administration
11. Education Technology and Instructional Design – M.Ed.
12. Information Technology Management – M.S.\

1) Master of Business Administration (MBA)

Time to Complete: About 12 months
Cost: $4,755 per 6-month term
Courses: 11 courses

Key Skills you will learn:

• Leadership
• Managing talent
• Communication
• Analyzing data
• Financial Management

2) Management and Leadership – M.S.

• Time to Complete: Most students (60%) finish in about 17 months
• Cost: $4,755 per 6-month term
• Courses: 10 courses

Key Skills you will learn:

• Leadership
• Managing change
• Communication
• Managing performance

3) MBA Healthcare Management

• Time to Complete: About 12 months
• Cost: $4,755 per 6-month term
• Courses: 11 courses

Key Skills you will learn:

• Healthcare regulations
• Improving patient care
• Healthcare policies
• Developing healthcare services

4) MBA Information Technology Management

• Time to Complete: About 12 months
• Cost: $4,755 per 6-month term
• Courses: 11 courses

Key Skills you will learn:

• IT management
• Project management
• Leadership
• IT security

5) Accounting – M.S.

• Time to Complete: Most students (62%) finish in about 19 months
• Cost: $4,755 per 6-month term
• Courses: 10 courses

Key Skills you will learn:

• Accounting
• Auditing
• Tax planning
• Financial Management

6) Marketing – M.S.

• Time to Complete: Most students (61%) finish in about 18 months
• Cost: $4,755 per 6-month term
• Courses: 10 courses
• Specializations: Choose between digital marketing or marketing analytics

Key Skills you will learn:

• Strategic planning
• Digital marketing
• Market research
• Communication

7) Human Resource Management – M.S.

• Time to Complete: Most students (61%) finish in about 18 months
• Cost: $4,755 per 6-month term
• Courses: 10 courses

Key Skills you will learn:

• Performance management
• Communication
• Management
• Planning
• Talent acquisition
• Human Resource Information System (HRIS)

8) Accelerated Information Technology Bachelor’s and Master’s Degree

• Time to Complete: About 5 years total
• Cost: $3,725 per 6-month term for the bachelor’s degree; $4,040 per term for the master’s portion
• Courses: 42 courses

Certifications Included:

• CompTIA A+
• Network+
• Security+
• Amazon AWS Cloud Practitioner
• ITIL® Foundation Certification
• PMI CAPM
• And more

Key Skills you will learn:

• Scripting and programming
• Networking and security
• Systems and services
• Data management
• Business of IT

9) Data Analytics – M.S.

• Time to Complete: Most students (61%) finish in about 20 months
• Cost: $4,520 per 6-month term
• Courses: 11 courses
• Specializations: Choose from data science, data engineering, or decision process engineering

Key Skills you will learn:

• Data modeling
• Big data
• Business intelligence
• Data quality
• SQL
• Python

10) Master of Healthcare Administration

• Time to Complete: Most students (60%) finish in about 21 months
• Cost: $4,995 per 6-month term
• Courses: 12 courses

Key Skills you will learn:

• Collaborative leadership
• Healthcare systems
• Financial management
• Enterprise risk management
• Healthcare IT

Program Benefit:

Gain advanced knowledge to solve complex problems in healthcare organizations

11) Education Technology and Instructional Design – M.Ed.

• Time to Complete: Most students (62%) finish in about 10 months
• Cost: $4,125 per 6-month term
• Courses: 12 courses
• Tracks: Choose between the K-12 pathway or the Adult Learner pathway

Key Skills you will learn:

• Learning experience design
• Assessment and learning analytics
• Learning technology
• Research methodology

Program Benefit:

Develop expertise in creating engaging virtual learning experiences, applicable in schools or corporate settings

12) Information Technology Management – M.S.

• Time to Complete: Most students (60%) finish in about 18 months
• Cost: $4,040 per 6-month term
• Courses: 10 courses
• Certifications Included: PMI Certified Associate in Project Management (CAPM)

Key Skills you will learn:

• Technology operations
• Sourcing and planning
• Risk management
• Solutions development
• Project management

Program Benefit:

Advance your IT career by gaining leadership and project management skills.

Education Master’s Degrees for Aspiring Teachers

If you’re looking to become a teacher, WGU offers several master’s programs designed to help you get your teaching license and build the skills you need to succeed in the classroom. Here are some of the programs available:

1) Teaching, Elementary Education – M.A.

• Leads to: Teaching license
• Time to Complete: Most students (64%) finish within 24 months
• Cost: $4,125 per 6-month term
• Courses: 24 courses (25 for Washington residents)

Key Skills you will learn:

• Lesson planning
• Ethics
• Behavioral support strategies
• Educational psychology & development
• Classroom management

Program Requirement:

In-classroom observation and full-time student teaching

2) Teaching, Special Education (K–12) – M.A.

• Leads to: Teaching license
• Time to Complete: Most students (64%) finish within 22 months
• Cost: $4,125 per 6-month term
• Courses: 26 courses

Key Skills you will learn:

• Professional, ethical, and legal guidelines in special education
• Management strategies for academic and social behavior
• Assessment and evaluation
• Methods of instruction and intervention
• Curriculum, instruction, and assessment

Program Benefit:

Prepare to teach students with special learning needs

3) Teaching, Mathematics Education (Middle Grades) – M.A.

• Leads to: Teaching license
• Time to Complete: Most students (61%) finish within 24 months
• Cost: $4,125 per 6-month term
• Courses: 20 courses (21 for Washington residents)

Key Skills you will learn:

• Curriculum, instruction, and assessment
• Educational psychology
• Algebra for secondary mathematics teaching
• Mathematics history
• Essential practices for supporting diverse learners

Program Requirement:

In-classroom observation and full-time student teaching

4) Teaching, Mathematics Education (Secondary) – M.A.

• Leads to: Teaching license
• Time to Complete: Most students (64%) finish within 25 months
• Cost: $4,125 per 6-month term
• Courses: 21 courses (22 for Washington residents)

Key Skills you will learn:

• Algebra for secondary teaching
• Geometry for secondary teaching
• Statistics and probability for secondary teaching
• Curriculum, instruction, and assessment
• Educational psychology

Program Requirement:

In-classroom observation and full-time student teaching

5) Teaching, English Education (Secondary) – M.A.

• Leads to: Teaching license
• Time to Complete: Most students (63%) finish within 21 months
• Cost: $4,125 per 6-month term
• Courses: 17 courses

Key Skills you will learn:

• English pedagogy
• Reading instruction and interventions
• Disciplinary literacy
• Educational psychology & development
• Curriculum, instruction, and assessment

Program Benefit:

Prepares students for teaching certification in any state

6) Teaching, Science Education (Secondary) – M.A.

• Leads to: Teaching license
• Time to Complete: Most students (62%) finish within 24 months
• Cost: $4,125 per 6-month term
• Courses: 18 courses (19 for Washington residents)

Key Skills you will learn:

• Science technology
• Science methods
• Educational psychology & development
• Curriculum, instruction, and assessment
• Essential practices for supporting diverse learners

Program Requirement:

In-classroom observation and full-time student teaching

Education Master’s Degrees for Current Teachers

If you’re already a licensed teacher and looking to advance your career, WGU offers master’s programs designed to help you specialize in a subject area or move into leadership roles. Here are some of the programs available:

1) Educational Leadership – M.S.

Designed for:

Current teachers aiming for leadership roles such as principal, vice principal, or administrator

• Time to Complete: Most students (60%) finish within 23 months
• Cost: $4,125 per 6-month term
• Courses: 13 courses

Key Skills you will learn:

• School law
• School financial leadership
• People & talent management
• School operations and management
• Leadership ethics

Program Note:

Available in most states, but not accepted in Alabama, Connecticut, Georgia, Hawaii, Iowa, Kansas, and Minnesota

2) Science Education (Middle Grades) – M.A.

Designed for:

Licensed teachers looking to specialize in middle school science

• Time to Complete: Most students (63%) finish within 18 months
• Cost: $4,125 per 6-month term
• Courses: 14 courses

Key Skills you will learn:

• Biology
• Chemistry
• Physics
• Earth science
• Space science

Program Benefit:

Prepares teachers for a middle-grades general science endorsement

3) Science Education (Secondary Chemistry) – M.A.

Designed for:

Licensed teachers wanting to specialize in teaching chemistry to middle or high school students

• Time to Complete: Most students (64%) finish within 18 months
• Cost: $4,125 per 6-month term
• Courses: 14 courses

Key Skills you will learn:

• General chemistry
• Physical chemistry
• Inorganic chemistry
• Organic chemistry
• Biochemistry

Program Benefit:

Propel your career as a junior high or high school chemistry teacher

4) Science Education (Secondary Earth Science) – M.A.

Designed for:

Licensed teachers seeking to specialize in earth science for middle or high school students

• Time to Complete: Most students (60%) finish within 14 months
• Cost: $4,125 per 6-month term
• Courses: 12 courses

Key Skills you will learn:

• Physical geology
• Earth systems
• Astronomy
• Ocean systems
• Chemistry

Program Benefit:

Add secondary earth science to your teaching license

5) Science Education (Secondary Biological Science) – M.A.

Designed for:

Licensed teachers wanting to specialize in teaching biology to middle or high school students

• Time to Complete: Most students (62%) finish within 17 months
• Cost: $4,125 per 6-month term
• Courses: 13 courses

Key Skills:

• Human anatomy and physiology
• Molecular and cellular biology
• Heredity and genetics
• Zoology

Program Benefit:

Enhance your career as a junior high or high school biology teacher

6) Science Education (Secondary Physics) – M.A.

Designed for:

Licensed teachers looking to specialize in teaching physics to middle or high school students

• Time to Complete: Most students (62%) finish within 15 months
• Cost: $4,125 per 6-month term
• Courses: 13 courses

Key Skills you will learn:

• General chemistry
• Mechanics
• Waves and optics
• Electricity and magnetism
• Space, time, and motion

Program Benefit:

Prepare for a career as a junior high or high school physics teacher

7) Mathematics Education (Middle Grades) – M.A.

Designed for:

Current teachers who want to specialize in teaching math to middle school students

• Time to Complete: Most students (62%) finish within 16 months
• Cost: $4,125 per 6-month term
• Courses: 14 courses

Key Skills you will learn:

• College algebra
• Finite mathematics
• Trigonometry and pre-calculus
• Mathematics learning and teaching
• College geometry
• Probability and statistics
• Calculus

Program Benefit:

Focus on teaching math to junior high students and instill a love of math

8) Mathematics Education (K–6) – M.A.

Designed for:

Current teachers who want to specialize in teaching math to elementary school students

• Time to Complete: Most students (61%) finish within 12 months
• Cost: $4,125 per 6-month term
• Courses: 10 courses

Key Skills you will learn:

• Number sense and functions
• Graphing
• Geometry and statistics
• Research design

Program Benefit:

Prepare to teach elementary students and cultivate a love for math at a young age

9) Mathematics Education (Secondary) – M.A.

Designed for:

Current teachers who want to specialize in teaching math to middle and high school students

• Time to Complete: Most students (64%) finish within 18 months
• Cost: $4,125 per 6-month term
• Courses: 18 courses

Key Skills you will learn:

• Trigonometry and pre-calculus
• College geometry
• Calculus
• Probability and statistics
• Algebra for secondary mathematics teaching
• Mathematics history and technology
• Mathematical modeling and applications

Program Benefit:

Focus on teaching math to junior high or high school students, and help them excel in mathematics

10) English Language Learning (PreK–12) – M.A.

Designed for:

Current teachers who want to focus on teaching English Language Learners (ELL) or English as a Second Language (ESL)

• Time to Complete: Most students (62%) finish within 17 months
• Cost: $4,125 per 6-month term
• Courses: 11 courses

Key Skills you will learn:

• Assessment theory and practice
• Language production, theory, and acquisition
• Instruction planning and implementation
• Theories of second language acquisition

Program Benefit:

Prepare to teach ELL/ESL students and ensure language barriers don’t hinder learning

11) English Language Learning (PreK–12) Endorsement Prep

Designed for:

Licensed elementary and secondary school teachers seeking an endorsement to teach in ELL or ESL settings

• Time to Complete: Most students (62%) finish within 13 months
• Cost: $4,125 per 6-month term
• Courses: 8 courses

Key Skills you will learn:

• Assessment theory and practice
• Language production, theory, and acquisition
• Instruction planning and implementation
• Theories of second language acquisition

Program Benefit:

Become highly qualified in ELL or ESL, enhance your career opportunities, and potentially increase your salary.

Other Education Master’s Degrees

These programs are designed for individuals looking to enhance their expertise in specific areas of education, whether they aim to work in instructional design, curriculum development, or another specialized field.

1) Education Technology and Instructional Design – M.Ed.

Designed for:

Instructional designers who create virtual learning experiences that can replace traditional classroom instruction

• Teaching License: Not required
• Time to Complete: Most students (62%) finish within 10 months
• Cost: $4,125 per 6-month term
• Courses: 12 courses

Tracks Available:

• The K-12 Pathway: Focuses on designing technology-driven learning for elementary and secondary education.
• The Adult Learner Pathway: Tailored for creating educational experiences for adult learners in various settings.

Key Skills:

• Learning experience design
• Assessment and learning analytics
• Learning technology
• Research methodology

Program Benefit:

Gain the expertise needed to design and implement effective training and educational programs, whether in schools, corporate environments, or other educational settings.

2) Curriculum and Instruction – M.S.

Designed for:

Educators with experience who want to advance their careers by specializing in curriculum development and instructional design

• Time to Complete: Most students (62%) finish within 12 months
• Cost: $4,125 per 6-month term
• Courses: 10 courses

Key Skills:

• Differentiated instruction
• Curriculum and instruction design
• Educational research
• Assessment

Program Benefit:

This degree equips you to help schools and educational institutions create engaging and effective learning experiences that improve student outcomes across diverse learning environments.

Nursing Master’s Degrees Online

To enroll in any Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) program at WGU, students must hold an active RN license. The university offers various pathways depending on your current qualifications and career goals.

BSN-to-MSN Programs

These programs are designed for registered nurses who already have a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) and want to advance their careers by earning a master’s degree.

1) Nursing – Leadership & Management (BSN-to-MSN) – M.S.

Who It’s For:

Registered nurses with a BSN ready for leadership roles.

• Time to Complete: 61% of students finish within 23 months.
• Tuition: $5,035 per 6-month term.
• Courses: 15 courses.

Key Skills you will learn:

• Quality outcomes in value-based nursing care
• Nursing leadership and management
• Advanced pathopharmacology
• Nursing informatics

Program Benefit:

Ideal for RNs who aspire to move into management or leadership roles in healthcare settings.

2) Nursing – Nursing Informatics (BSN-to-MSN) – M.S.

Who It’s For:

Data-driven nurses looking to specialize in informatics.

• Time to Complete: 64% of students finish within 24 months.
• Tuition: $5,035 per 6-month term.
• Courses: 14 courses.

Key Skills you will learn:

• Informatics system analysis and design
• Data science and analytics
• Advanced pathopharmacology
• Leadership and management

Program Benefit:

Equips nurses to harness data and technology, opening doors to advanced roles in healthcare informatics.

3) Nursing – Education (BSN-to-MSN) – M.S.

Who It’s For:

Nurses with a BSN aiming to transition into education roles.

• Time to Complete: 62% of students finish within 24 months.
• Tuition: $5,035 per 6-month term.
• Courses: 15 courses.

Key Skills you will learn:

• Curriculum design and development in nursing education
• Quality outcomes in value-based care
• Advanced pathopharmacology
• Nursing informatics
• Leadership and management

Program Benefit:

Prepares nurses to become educators, a crucial role in addressing the nursing shortage by training the next generation of caregivers.

RN-to-MSN Programs

These programs are for registered nurses who do not yet have a BSN but want to earn both their BSN and MSN in an accelerated format.

1) Nursing – Leadership & Management (RN-to-MSN) – M.S.

Who It’s For:

RNs aiming to complete both BSN and MSN degrees.

• Time to Complete: 62% finish within 37 months.
• Tuition: $4,685 per 6-month term for the BSN portion, $5,035 per 6-month term for the MSN portion.
• Courses: 32 courses.

Key Skills you will learn:

• Quality outcomes in value-based nursing care
• Leadership and management
• Advanced pathopharmacology
• Nursing informatics

Program Benefit:

Offers a comprehensive pathway for RNs to advance to leadership roles with both BSN and MSN credentials.

2) Nursing – Nursing Informatics (RN-to-MSN) – M.S.

Who It’s For:

RNs focused on specializing in nursing informatics.

• Time to Complete: 63% finish within 36 months.
• Tuition: $4,685 per 6-month term for the BSN portion, $5,035 per 6-month term for the MSN portion.
• Courses: 31 courses.

Key Skills you will learn:

• Informatics system analysis and design
• Data science and analytics
• Advanced pathopharmacology
• Leadership and management

Program Benefit:

Provides a fast-track to advanced roles in healthcare informatics, integrating both BSN and MSN education.

3) Nursing – Education (RN-to-MSN) – M.S.

Who It’s For:

RNs seeking to become nurse educators.

• Time to Complete: 60% finish within 38 months.
• Tuition: $4,685 per 6-month term for the BSN portion, $5,035 per 6-month term for the MSN portion.
• Courses: 32 courses.

Key Skills you will learn:

• Curriculum design and development in nursing education
• Value-based nursing care outcomes
• Advanced pathopharmacology
• Nursing informatics
• Leadership and management

Program Benefit:

Addresses the critical need for nurse educators by equipping RNs with the skills to teach and mentor future nurses.

Nurse Practitioner Programs

These programs are tailored for BSNs who have an active RN license and want to become advanced practice registered nurses (APRNs).

1) Family Nurse Practitioner (BSN-to-MSN) – M.S. Nursing

Who It’s For:

RNs aiming to become Family Nurse Practitioners (FNP).

Location Restrictions:

Not available in certain states due to clinical requirements.

• Time to Complete: 2.5 years.
• Tuition: $6,850 per 6-month term.
• Courses: 16 courses.

Key Skills you will learn:

• Leadership and management
• Adult and pediatric primary care
• Special populations primary care
• Advanced health assessment

Program Benefit:

Prepares nurses for certification and practice as FNPs, providing comprehensive care across the lifespan.

2) Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (BSN-to-MSN) – M.S. Nursing

Who It’s For:

RNs aiming to specialize in mental health care.

Location Restrictions:

Not available in certain states due to clinical requirements.

• Time to Complete: 2.5 years.
• Tuition: $6,955 per 6-month term.
• Courses: 17 courses.

Key Skills you will learn:

• Advanced pathophysiology
• Assessment and diagnostics
• Behavioral health
• Advanced pharmacology

Program Benefit:

Prepares nurses for certification and practice as Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioners (PMHNPs), a vital role in the growing field of mental health care.

Healthcare Master’s Degrees Online

WGU offers several master’s degree programs for those seeking to advance their careers in healthcare. Here’s a simplified overview:

1. Master of Healthcare Administration (MHA)

This degree prepares you to manage healthcare organizations and improve care delivery.

• Completion Time: 60% of students finish within 21 months.
• Cost: $4,995 per 6-month term.
• Courses: 12.

Key Skills you will learn:

• Collaborative leadership
• Understanding healthcare systems
• Managing healthcare finances
• Risk management
• Healthcare IT

Benefit:

Enhances your ability to tackle complex problems and lead in healthcare settings.

2. Master of Public Health (MPH)

Ideal for those who want to drive public health initiatives and make a community impact.

• Completion Time: 60% of students finish within 21 months.
• Cost: $4,995 per 6-month term.
• Courses: 12.

Key Skills you will learn:

• Biostatistics and data analysis
• Environmental health
• Epidemiology
• Global health issues
• Public health policy

Benefit:

Prepares you to advance in public health roles and contribute to community well-being.

3. MBA in Healthcare Management

This MBA focuses on managing healthcare organizations, preparing you for leadership roles.

• Completion Time: Can be completed in as little as one year.
• Cost: $4,755 per 6-month term.
• Courses: 11.

Key Skills you will learn:

• Compliance with regulations
• Improving patient care
• Developing healthcare services
• Understanding healthcare trends
• Health policy and legislation

Benefit:

Helps you lead effectively in the complex healthcare industry.

4. Education Technology and Instructional Design – M.Ed.

Designed for those who create educational experiences and want to develop skills in instructional design.

• Completion Time: 62% of students finish in 10 months.
• Cost: $4,125 per 6-month term.
• Courses: 12.
• Tracks: K-12 and Adult Learner pathways.

Key Skills you will learn:

• Designing learning experiences
• Using learning analytics
• Implementing learning technology
• Conducting research

Benefit:

Prepares you to design engaging and effective educational programs for various settings.

Post-Master’s Nursing Programs Online

For nurses with an MSN looking to specialize further, WGU offers post-master’s certificates:

1. Nursing Education – Post-Master’s Certificate

This certificate helps nurses transition into teaching roles.

• Completion Time: Typically 12 months.
• Cost: $5,035 per 6-month term.
• Courses: 8.

Key Skills you will learn:

• Designing nursing curricula
• Assessing student learning
• Facilitating student-centered learning

Benefit:

Prepares you to teach and mentor future nurses, with eligibility for the Certified Nurse Educator (CNE) exam.

2. Nursing Leadership and Management – Post-Master’s Certificate

Aimed at nurses ready for advanced leadership roles.

• Completion Time: Typically 12 months.
• Cost: $5,035 per 6-month term (includes CPHQ exam fee).
• Courses: 8.

Key Skills you will learn:

• Strategic planning
• Resource management
• Business case analysis
• Improving healthcare processes

Benefit:

Equips you with skills for higher responsibility in nursing management.

3. Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner – Post-Master’s Certificate

For nurses with an MSN seeking specialization in psychiatric mental health.

• Location Restrictions: Not available in certain states due to clinical requirements.
• Completion Time: About 1.5 years.
• Cost: $6,955 per 6-month term.
• Courses: 11.

Key Skills you will learn:

• Advanced pathophysiology
• Diagnostic assessment
• Behavioral health
• Advanced pharmacology

Benefit:

Prepares you to become a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP), focusing on mental health care.

4. Family Nurse Practitioner – Post-Master’s Certificate

For MSN holders aiming to become Family Nurse Practitioners.

• Location Restrictions: Not available in certain states due to clinical requirements.
• Completion Time: About 1.5 years.
• Cost: $6,850 per 6-month term.
• Courses: 10.

Key Skills you will learn:

• Advanced pathophysiology
• Pediatric and adult primary care
• Advanced pharmacology
• Health assessment
• Special populations care

Benefit:

Enables you to provide comprehensive primary care as a Family Nurse Practitioner, with clinical requirements in eligible states.

Information Technology Master’s Degrees

WGU offers several master’s degree programs in Information Technology, designed to help you advance in the field. Here’s a simplified breakdown:

1. Cybersecurity and Information Assurance – M.S.

This program prepares you to protect and secure important information and systems.

• Completion Time: 63% of students finish within 18 months.
• Cost: $4,655 per 6-month term.
• Courses: 9.

Certifications:

• CompTIA Cybersecurity Analyst (CySA+)
• CompTIA PenTest+
• CompTIA Advanced Security Practitioner (CASP+) (Optional)
• ISACA Certified Information Security Manager (CISM) (Optional)
• (ISC)² Certified in Cybersecurity (CC)

Key Skills you will learn:

• Cybersecurity strategy
• Information assurance
• Incident response
• Penetration testing

Benefit:

Designed with input from national intelligence and IT leaders, this program ensures you’re learning the latest in security practices.

2. Data Analytics – M.S.

This program helps you develop strong analytical skills to lead data-driven decision-making.

• Completion Time: 61% of students finish within 20 months.
• Cost: $4,520 per 6-month term.
• Courses: 11.
• Specializations: Choose from data science, data engineering, or decision process engineering.

Key Skills you will learn:

• Data modeling
• Big data
• Business intelligence
• Data quality management
• SQL and Python programming

Benefit:

Tailor your degree with a specialization that aligns with your career goals in data analytics.

3. Information Technology Management – M.S.

This degree is designed for experienced IT professionals ready to step into leadership roles.

• Completion Time: 60% of students finish within 18 months.
• Cost: $4,040 per 6-month term.
• Courses: 10.

Certification:

PMI Certified Associate in Project Management (CAPM) included at no extra cost.

Key Skills you will learn:

• Technology operations
• Sourcing and planning
• Risk management
• Project management
• Solutions development

Benefit:

This program helps you leverage your IT experience to advance into higher-level management positions.

4. Accelerated Information Technology Bachelor’s and Master’s Degree

Earn both a bachelor’s and master’s degree in IT in less time with fewer courses.

• Completion Time: Approximately 5 years.
• Cost: $3,725 per 6-month term for the bachelor’s degree; $4,040 per term for the master’s portion.
• Courses: 42.

Certifications:

• CompTIA A+, Network+, Security+
• CompTIA IT Operations Specialist
• CompTIA Secure Infrastructure Specialist
• Amazon AWS Cloud Practitioner
• ITIL® Foundation Certification
• PMI CAPM
• LPI Linux Essentials

Key Skills you will learn:

• Scripting and programming
• Networking and security
• Systems and services management
• Data management
• IT business operations

Benefit:

This program streamlines the process to earn both degrees, saving you time and money.

5. MBA in Information Technology Management

This MBA focuses on preparing you for upper management roles in IT.

• Completion Time: Can be completed in 12 months.
• Cost: $4,755 per 6-month term.
• Courses: 11.

Key Skills you will learn:

• Management and leadership
• Project management
• Innovation and communication
• Information systems security

Benefit:

This degree equips you with the skills to manage IT operations, respond to emergencies, and drive innovation within your organization.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a Master’s Degree?

A master’s degree is a higher level of education you can get after finishing a bachelor’s degree. It means you have studied a lot in a specific subject and understand it well. To join a master’s program at WGU (Western Governors University), you must have a bachelor’s degree or something similar. Having a master’s degree can help you get better jobs, often in leadership, and you might earn more money.

How Long Does It Take to Earn a Master’s Degree?

Usually, it takes about two years to complete a master’s degree. But the time can change depending on what you study and how fast you go. Some programs, like law or medicine, might take three or four years. Others could be done in just one year. At WGU, you can move through your courses faster if you learn the material quickly. On average, WGU students finish their online master’s degrees in about 18 months.

Why Choose WGU for Your Master’s Degree?

WGU’s online master’s programs are designed to fit into your life. With flexible scheduling, affordable tuition, and the ability to move through your coursework as you master the material, WGU makes it easier to advance your education and career at your own pace. Whether you’re looking to climb the career ladder, switch fields, or deepen your expertise, WGU offers programs that can help you achieve your goals.

Is Getting a Master’s Degree Difficult?

Earning a master’s degree is a big achievement and one of the highest levels of education you can reach. While it’s exciting to study what you enjoy, build leadership skills, and work towards your career goals, it’s not always easy to complete a master’s program. Many people face challenges along the way, and not everyone who starts a master’s degree finishes it.

Do I Need a Bachelor’s Degree to Get a Master’s?

Yes, to enroll in a master’s program, you must have completed a bachelor’s degree. Most programs also require that you had good grades in your undergraduate studies, usually with a GPA of at least 3.0. In addition, some master’s programs may ask you to take exams like the GRE or GMAT, and you might need to provide writing samples and recommendation letters as part of your application.

Is a Master’s Degree Worth It?

Deciding if a master’s degree is worth it depends on your goals and career plans. Think about whether you’re passionate about the subject and if this degree will help you reach your career objectives. On average, people with a master’s degree earn about 38% more than those with just a bachelor’s degree, and over their career, they can make up to 70% more. A master’s degree can also lead to more job opportunities and higher-level positions. Consider these benefits when deciding if pursuing a master’s degree is the right choice for you.

What are the benefits of a Master’s Degree?

A master’s degree offers several benefits that can positively impact your career and personal growth:

1. Higher Earning Potential: On average, individuals with a master’s degree earn more than those with just a bachelor’s degree. Over time, this can significantly increase your lifetime earnings.
2. Career Advancement: A master’s degree can open doors to higher-level positions and leadership roles that might not be available to those with only an undergraduate degree.
3. Specialized Knowledge: Earning a master’s degree allows you to gain in-depth knowledge and expertise in a specific field, making you more competitive and skilled in that area.
4. Increased Job Opportunities: Some jobs require or prefer candidates with a master’s degree, so having one can make you eligible for a wider range of positions.
5. Networking Opportunities: Graduate programs often provide opportunities to connect with professionals, professors, and fellow students in your field, which can be valuable for career development.
6. Personal Fulfillment: Pursuing a master’s degree can be a rewarding experience, allowing you to study a subject you’re passionate about and achieve a significant academic milestone.

These benefits can help you decide if a master’s degree is the right choice for your future.

How much does an online Master’s Degree cost?

The price of an online master’s degree depends on the school. WGU is one of the cheaper choices. It costs between $4,000 and $6,500 for six months. At WGU, you pay one set amount every six months. If you finish your studies faster, you save money because you don’t have to pay more for extra classes.

What can you do with a Master’s Degree?

With a master’s degree, you can:

1. Get a Better Job: Many jobs need a master’s degree, so it can help you find better work.
2. Earn More Money: People with a master’s degree often make more money than those with just a bachelor’s degree.
3. Advance in Your Career: It can help you move up to higher positions in your current job.
4. Change Careers: It might let you start a new career in a different field.
5. Gain More Knowledge: You will learn a lot more about your field of study.

Are online Master’s Degrees respected?

Yes, online master’s degrees are respected. Many online programs are offered by well-known and accredited universities. They provide the same quality of education as traditional programs. Employers care more about the skills and knowledge you have than whether you earned your degree online or in person. As long as the program is accredited, an online degree is a valuable credential.

Can I do my Master’s Degree online?

Yes, you can earn your master’s degree online. Many universities offer online master’s programs that allow you to study from anywhere. You can take classes, complete assignments, and even participate in discussions all online. This can be a flexible option if you have other responsibilities or prefer to learn from home. Just make sure the program is accredited to ensure it meets high standards.

Do employers like online Master’s Degrees?

Yes, you can definitely get a master’s degree online. Online degrees are as respected as those earned in traditional classrooms. Many employers see them as equally valuable. In fact, most employers do not make a distinction between online and traditional degrees. So, if you choose to study online, you will have the same opportunities as if you studied in person.