California Master's Programs Online: Finding the Right School

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Author: OMD Staff

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Expertise: Online LearningStudent SuccessGraduate Ed.

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Reviewer: Michael Hoffman, JD, MA

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Michael Hoffman has authored close to 300 articles for higher education publications, including dozens for OMD across criminal justice, legal studies, public administration, and more. He's interviewed and collaborated with hundreds of college and career professionals and students. Michael holds degrees from the University of California, Santa Barbara, and the Santa Barbara College of Law. Before his writing career, he practiced as a civil litigator in Los Angeles and worked as a development executive for a major film producer in Santa Monica, California.

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Updated: 10/02/2025

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Updated: 10/02/2025

Inside Three Online Master’s Programs in California

Top Fields of Study in California

California’s diverse economy and innovation hubs drive demand for certain graduate degrees.

Below are five top fields for earning a master’s in California, based on job growth, salaries, and program availability:

Healthcare & Physician Assistant Studies

Healthcare is booming in California, making it a top field for master’s degrees. In particular, physician assistants (PAs) are in high demand due to the state’s healthcare provider shortage and increasing aging population.

A master’s in Physician Assistant Studies is required to become a PA, and this role offers excellent rewards. California PAs earn a median annual salary around $130,000 with a projected growth rate of 28%, which is much faster than average.

Many California universities (e.g. USC, Stanford) now offer accredited PA master’s programs, preparing graduates for licensure in a field with strong job security and impact.

Technology & Computer Science (Software Engineering)

With Silicon Valley and the tech industry centered in California, computer science and software engineering are among the most popular master’s fields. A graduate degree isn’t always required to work in tech, but it can significantly boost one’s competitiveness for senior or specialized roles.

Software developers enjoy a median salary of about $130,000 with an expected growth of 17%, which is faster than average.

Master’s programs in subjects like software engineering, data science, and artificial intelligence are widely available (such as at USC, UC Berkeley, and Stanford). These programs provide advanced skills in coding, algorithms, and project management, helping professionals access leadership positions in California’s thriving tech sector.

Expert Insight

I recommend that students interested in pursuing careers related to tech & computer science consider the cybersecurity field. Cybersecurity professionals enjoy notably high salaries & exceptional job security due to a shortage of experts in the field. A number of California universities offer online master’s programs in cybersecurity as well.

Michael Hoffman, JD, MA

Business & Economics

Business administration and economics remain top choices for graduate study in California due to strong ROI and versatile career paths. An MBA or a master’s in a specific business field can open doors to higher management roles and consulting opportunities in California’s robust economy.

For example, economists—who often hold a master’s in economics or finance—have a median pay around $115,730 nationally.

California’s global business environment, from Silicon Valley startups to Hollywood media firms, fuels demand for advanced skills in analytics, finance, and strategy. Graduate programs like the UCLA Anderson MBA or UC Berkeley’s Master of Financial Engineering offer specialized training that can lead to lucrative roles in banking, tech management, or economic policy.

Law and Compliance (Legal Studies)

California’s complex regulatory environment creates a need for experts in legal compliance and regulatory affairs. Earning a master’s in fields like legal studies, compliance, or public policy is a smart choice for those looking to lead in government, healthcare, finance, or tech sectors.

Compliance officers can earn around $75,000 annually. Employers offering roles such as compliance manager and contracts administrator often prefer candidates with graduate credentials in law-related studies.

Programs such as University of San Diego’s MS in Law Enforcement & Public Safety Leadership or Loyola Law School’s Master of Compliance and Enterprise Risk Management equip professionals with knowledge of laws and ethics.

In a state known for stringent laws, an advanced degree in this field positions graduates as valuable experts, ensuring organizations meet legal standards. Although a master’s degree is rarely a strict requirement, having a master’s in law and compliance can give students interested in becoming attorneys a leg up when applying to more prestigious law schools to earn their JD degrees.

Education Administration

California’s large school systems and universities need qualified leaders, making education administration a top field for master’s degrees. Principals, district administrators, and higher education managers typically must hold a master’s (often an MA in Educational Administration or Leadership).

These roles come with both influence and strong compensation, as K-12 school principals have an average annual salary of $104,070.

Master’s programs in education leadership (offered by schools like CSU Long Beach and UC Berkeley) cover school finance, curriculum development, and leadership skills aligned with California’s education standards.

With ongoing needs to improve student outcomes and implement reforms, the demand for skilled educational leaders remains robust. Earning an advanced degree in this field prepares educators to step into leadership roles and shape the future of California’s education landscape.

Accreditation for CA Online Master’s Programs

Accreditation ensures both quality and recognition. There are two main types of accreditation students should look for when vetting schools:

• Institutional: Most CA schools are regionally accredited by WASC Senior College and University Commission (WSCUC).
• Program-Specific: Examples include CSWE (social work) and AACSB (business).

Others (typically smaller, private colleges) may be accredited by a national accrediting agency rather than a regional accrediting agency. Whether a school you’re considering is nationally- or regionally-accredited, it’s in your best interest to only consider programs from schools holding institutional accreditation from an agency recognized by the U.S. Department of Education.

Why it matters:

• Credit transfer
• Graduate school admission
• Licensure eligibility
• Employer recognition

Types of Online Master’s Programs in CA

Online master’s programs come in many forms to suit different needs.

In California, you’ll find full-time programs, part-time options, no-GRE admissions, and accelerated tracks. Each type offers a unique balance of intensity, flexibility, and speed.

Expert Insight

I strongly advise taking the time to carefully consider each of the different master’s formats discussed below in light of your own unique combination of study strengths and weaknesses, work and family obligations, time constraints, etc. Success in your master’s program depends as much on your ability to thrive in the format you choose as it does on your field of study.

Michael Hoffman, JD, MA

Full-Time Programs

Full-time online master’s programs offer average-duration degree completion. While they can be demanding, this format gives students complete immersion in their field of study and a quick path to graduation.

• Time Commitment: 20-50 hours per week
• Duration: 12-18 months
• Pros: Faster graduation, better financial aid access

California Examples:

• California State University, Northridge—Master of Social Work
• University of California, Berkeley—Master of Information and Data Science
  

Part-Time Programs

If you need to work full-time or balance other obligations while pursuing your master’s degree, a part-time online program is a great option. In a part-time master’s program, students take fewer courses per semester. While this extends the program length by up to a couple of years, it makes the workload a lot more manageable.

• Duration: 2.5-4 years
• Flexibility: Ideal for working professionals
• Pros: Apply learning at work immediately, maintain steady income

California Examples:

• Stanford University—MS in Management Science & Engineering
• California State University, Dominguez Hills—M.S. in Quality Assurance
  

No-GRE Requirement Programs

Many California universities have dropped the GRE/GMAT admissions requirement for online master’s admissions, focusing instead on undergraduate GPA, professional experience, and essays.

These programs are identical in quality to those requiring the GRE — the only difference is in admissions. While this can save time and money during the application process, expect schools to weigh other parts of your application more heavily.

California Examples:

• California State University, Long Beach—M.S. in Emergency Services Administration
• University of California, Berkeley—Master of Information and Data Science

Expert Insight

If you’re concerned that your undergrad and/or work experience performance may be less than stellar, I would advise that you consider taking the GRE or GMAT, even if the program you’re interested in does not require it. A strong showing on the GRE or GMAT can boost your standing with the admissions selection committee. And if your score turns out to be below par, you don’t have to submit it.

Michael Hoffman, JD, MA

Accelerated Programs

Accelerated online master’s programs allow students to earn their degrees faster than the usual 2 to 3 years. They are intensive programs that condense coursework into a shorter time frame, meaning students must take heavier course loads or study year-round. The upside? You get to enter the workforce with your new credentials quicker than your peers.

• Duration: 12-18 months
• Best For: Students who can commit full-time

California Examples:

• University of California, Riverside—Master of Engineering
• University of Southern California—Master of Social Work

How Much Do Online Master’s Cost in California?

Costs vary widely based on the type of school and program.

Public universities typically offer lower tuition for in-state residents. For example, Cal State Online has a base tuition of $8,064 per academic year for all students, with non-residents having to pay an additional $444 per unit.

Private universities, on the other hand, typically charge higher per-credit rates, regardless of residency status. One example is USC, which charges $2,354 per unit, or almost $35,000 for one single semester.

Online students often pay lower fees than on-campus students, but they may incur additional technology fees.

Financial aid options include federal aid, state grants, and employer tuition assistance.

For additional financial insights, OMD offers a list of the most affordable online master’s degrees and guides on how to fund your online master’s degree and how to pay for your master’s degree.

Note: Costs are for tuition only for the latest academic year; always verify current costs and fees directly with the school.

Answers the FAQs

How interactive are online master’s courses?

Today’s online master’s courses offer substantial interaction through various channels.

Most programs combine asynchronous elements (discussion boards, pre-recorded lectures) with synchronous components (live video sessions, group projects). Some courses use innovative technologies like simulation software or virtual labs to enhance engagement and replicate hands-on experiences.

Faculty may also hold virtual office hours, and many programs incorporate collaborative assignments.

What support services are available for online master’s students?

Online master’s students typically access the same support services as on-campus peers; they’re just delivered virtually.

These include academic advising, career counseling, library resources with digital collections, tutoring services, and technical support.

Many programs assign a dedicated student success coach who provides personalized guidance throughout the program. Most universities also offer online networking opportunities and virtual access to student organizations.

Are online master’s programs in California cheaper than on-campus alternatives?

While tuition often matches on-campus programs, online students save on commuting, housing, and campus fees.

The flexibility to continue working while studying represents a significant financial advantage for many students, making online programs financially attractive despite similar tuition costs.

However, be sure to factor in all costs (tuition, fees, books, etc.) and look into financial aid.

Do I have to live in California to enroll in a California online master’s program?

Most California online master’s programs welcome students from across the U.S. and internationally. You don’t need California residency, though two considerations apply:

1. Live sessions follow Pacific Time
2. Public universities sometimes charge higher tuition for non-residents

Always verify if your program has state-specific restrictions, especially for degrees leading to professional licensure in fields like healthcare or education.

How long does it take to finish an online master’s program in California?

Online master’s programs in California typically require 2 years for full-time students, but offer considerable flexibility.

Accelerated master’s options with heavier course loads can be completed in 12-18 months, while part-time students taking only a couple courses per term might need 3 years or more. Universities usually set maximum completion timeframes of 5 to 7 years.

In most cases, your pace can be customized based on work commitments and personal circumstances.