Online master’s degree programs in Florida combine academic excellence with flexibility so you can advance your career with convenience. With master’s degrees ranging from forensic psychology and business administration to architecture and social work, you have options for your future. This OMD guide can show you what costs to expect, different program types, and answers to your questions as a potential master’s student in FL. 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… What accreditation is, why it matters, and the accrediting bodies relevant for students in this state… 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 Top Online Master’s Programs in Florida
Florida is home to many accredited universities with extensive online master’s programs. Below, we spotlight three leading Florida schools known for a wide variety of online and hybrid master’s degrees. Each overview includes a summary of the school’s programs, a link to their online master’s options, and an example master’s program with key details.
University of Florida (UF)
You’ll find dozens of online master’s degrees at the University of Florida via its UF Distance Learning platform. As a top-ranked public university, UF delivers the same academic excellence online as on campus. Students can choose from 200+ online degrees and certificates in fields like business, engineering, healthcare, and more. Flexible formats and multiple start dates cater to working professionals.
Highlighted Program — Master of Business Administration (MBA)
Duration: Two years
Mode: Online
Cost: $1,208/credit, $59,807 total
Admissions Requirements:
- Bachelor’s degree (any major) from a regionally accredited institution
- Minimum two years of full-time professional work experience
- Two professional recommendation letters
- Personal statement or essay
University of Central Florida (UCF)
The University of Central Florida is recognized as a national leader in online education, with 130+ online programs offered. UCF provides 30+ fully online master’s degrees in areas such as education, engineering, healthcare, and more. Courses are designed and taught by the same award-winning faculty as campus classes, and programs emphasize flexibility for working adults. UCF’s online students benefit from resources like dedicated success coaches and virtual access to libraries and tutoring.
Highlighted Program — Master of Social Work (MSW)
Duration: One to three years
Mode: Online classes, in-person internships
Cost: $487.45/credit, $30,221.90 total
Admissions Requirements:
- Bachelor’s degree
- 3.0+ GPA in last 60 credits
- Resume
- Three letters of recommendation
- Professional statement
- Writing sample
- Immunization form
- Prerequisites
- Transcripts
Florida International University (FIU)
Florida International University in Miami offers one of the largest selections of online graduate programs in the state. FIU features 100+ fully online degrees, a curriculum that emphasizes real-world application, and tracks spanning business, engineering, education, health, and more. FIU Online students enjoy engaging faculty, a vast alumni network, and support services tailored for online learning.
Highlighted Program — Master of Public Health (MPH)
Duration: Two years
Mode: Online
Cost: $600 per credit; $27,000 total program cost
Admissions Requirements:
- Bachelor’s degree
- Minimum 3.0 GPA
- Letter of intent
- Letters of recommendation
- Resume
- Interview
Charting Your Path: Florida’s Top Master’s Fields
Considering Florida’s job market trends, salary potential, program availability, and industry growth, the following five fields stand out as top choices for master’s students.
Business Administration (MBA & Related Fields)
Florida’s pro-business economy and large corporate presence make business a top field for grad study. The state has a high rate of entrepreneurship and small business ownership, driving demand for skilled managers and executives. Salaries can be very lucrative, as top executives tend to pull in salaries averaging $103,840 per year. Florida universities offer high-quality MBA programs, and an MBA or master’s in areas like finance or management can open doors to leadership roles across Florida’s booming industries. For those interested in this field, OMD offers a guide to some of the best MBA programs in Florida.
Healthcare & Nursing
With a large concentration of elderly in Florida, the state faces surging healthcare needs. Fields like nursing and physician assistants are growing rapidly, with nurse practitioner roles projected to increase 40% through 2033. Earning a master’s in nursing (MSN), healthcare administration, public health, or a related field can position you for high-demand roles such as Nurse Practitioner, Healthcare Manager, or Public Health Analyst. These careers not only serve critical needs but also offer excellent salary potential and stability.
Information Technology & Computer Science
Florida’s tech sector is expanding rapidly, from growing fintech hubs in Miami to aerospace tech on the Space Coast. An online master’s in fields like computer science, data science, or cybersecurity is a top choice due to strong job demand and high salaries. Florida universities offer quality online tech programs—often taught by faculty engaged in cutting-edge research—preparing graduates for roles in software development, data analysis, information security, and IT management in the state’s growing tech and defense industries.
Education (Teaching & Leadership)
Education remains a critical field in Florida, which is experiencing persistent teacher shortages. A master’s in education (such as Curriculum & Instruction, Educational Leadership, or Special Education) can enhance teaching skills or pave the way to administrative roles. Many Florida universities offer highly ranked online education master’s programs, ensuring program quality and relevance. Graduates can expect opportunities as instructional coordinators, school administrators, or specialist teachers. While not the highest-paying field, advanced credentials in education often lead to salary increases, and the impact on communities is profound.
Hospitality & Tourism Management
Given the fact that tourism has a large impact on Florida’s economy, earning a master’s in hospitality management, tourism, or event management is a smart choice. This field offers significant opportunities for career growth, as a graduate degree can lead to management roles in hotel administration, tourism development, or event planning.
Florida Accreditation for Master’s Degree Programs
Accreditation is essential for master’s programs as it validates their quality and rigor. All major Florida universities should have regional accreditation from Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC) covering both online and on-campus programs. This accreditation is crucial for credit transfer, employer recognition, professional licensure, and financial aid eligibility. Many programs also maintain specialized accreditation from field-specific bodies. For example, UCF’s online MSW program has Council on Social Work Education (CSWE) accreditation, and FIU’s MPH is accredited by the Council on Education for Public Health (CEPH). When choosing a program, verify both regional and any relevant specialized accreditation to ensure your degree will be respected nationwide.
Types of Online Master’s Available in Florida
Online master’s programs in Florida aren’t one-size-fits-all solutions. They come in various formats to suit different needs. Students can choose a full-time path or a part-time schedule that balances well with work and family. Some programs waive GRE entrance exams, and others offer accelerated timelines or combined degrees. Below is an overview of each program type and examples of Florida programs in that category.
Full-Time Programs
Full-time online master’s programs allow you to devote the majority of your time to your studies. These programs typically mirror the pace of an on-campus graduate program, with completion times averaging 12 to 24 months. The advantage is a relatively quick return on investment in your career. However, juggling intensive coursework may be challenging if you’re working full-time. Many Florida universities offer online degrees with full-time tracks or cohort models that let students immerse themselves in study for a year or two straight. Expect a fast pace, frequent deadlines, and a high degree of engagement with faculty and peers.
Examples of Full-Time Online Programs in Florida
Part-Time Programs
Part-time online master’s programs are structured to accommodate working professionals and others who need a lighter course load. In a part-time format, you might take one or two courses per term instead of three or four. This extends the program length (often 2.5 to 4 years for a master’s) but provides greater flexibility. Part-time study is a great option if you plan to work full-time while in school, have family obligations, or simply prefer a slower academic pace. You can immediately apply what you learn to your job, and the manageable schedule can reduce stress. Florida universities commonly offer part-time enrollment options in their online programs — sometimes through self-paced study or evening/weekend coursework. The trade-off is that it will take longer to earn the degree, but many find the balance well worth it.
Examples of Part-Time Online Programs in Florida
No-GRE Required Programs
An increasing number of Florida online master’s programs waive the GRE (or GMAT) requirement, making the admissions process more accessible. During the admissions process, “no GRE required” programs typically consider your undergraduate GPA, professional experience, and other factors instead of test scores. This is great for applicants who have strong qualifications or years of work experience but prefer not to take a standardized exam. These programs benefit students by saving time and cost (no test prep or fees) and often indicate an emphasis on holistic admissions.
Examples of Online Programs with No GRE in Florida
- University of Central Florida — Master of Public Administration
- Florida International University — Master of Public Health
Accelerated Programs
Accelerated online master’s programs let you earn your degree in a shorter-than-normal timeframe. These programs compress content or offer year-round courses so you can graduate faster, sometimes in as little as 12 to 18 months. Accelerated tracks often require a full-time course load and may assume prior knowledge in the field. Students can save on tuition and jump into advancing their careers sooner. While challenging, an accelerated program is perfect if you’re motivated, have the time to devote to your studies, and want to capitalize on opportunities quickly.
Examples of Accelerated Online Programs in Florida
Pricing Florida Online Master’s: What Can You Afford?
The tuition costs for online master’s programs in Florida can vary widely depending on the institution and program type. Many public universities charge tuition on a per-credit basis, often with a slight premium for specialized online programs or a “market rate” for fully online degrees. The good news is that several Florida schools waive certain fees (e.g., campus- and residency-based charges) for online students. Some programs, especially MBAs or specialized degrees, have a flat program price. It’s important to compare the total credits required and per-credit cost to gauge the full investment. Below is a sample of online master’s program costs at Florida schools:
| School | No. of Credits | Cost per Credit | Total Tuition |
|---|---|---|---|
| University of Florida — MBA | 48 | $1,208 | $59,807 |
| University of Central Florida — MSW | 62 | $487 | $30,221 |
| Florida International University — MPH | 45 | $600 | $27,000 |
Note: Costs represent current information at the time of publication and don’t include fees.
FAQs: A Resource for FL Master’s Students
What financial aid options are available for online master’s students?
Online students have access to various funding sources, including federal loans, grants, and work-study programs. Many Florida universities offer graduate assistantships and fellowships to online students. Employer tuition reimbursement is common for working professionals. Professional associations often provide scholarships for specific fields. Various scholarships are available for veterans, as are GI Bill benefits for online study. The key is to submit FAFSA early and research program-specific funding opportunities.
Do I have to pay out-of-state tuition if I’m not a Florida resident?
In many cases, no. Florida’s online programs often charge in-state or flat tuition for all online students, making them affordable for out-of-state learners. However, policies can vary by school and program, so always check the tuition details. Even if non-resident tuition applies, online programs allow you to avoid relocation costs, which makes Florida programs appealing for out-of-state students.
Can I work full-time while pursuing my online master’s degree?
Probably; many online master’s students in Florida hold jobs. In fact, programs are often designed with working professionals in mind. The flexible, asynchronous nature of most online courses means you can log in after work or on weekends. Keep in mind that a graduate course still requires a time commitment. A general guideline is 10-15 hours of study per week for a single three-credit course.
What support and networking opportunities do online students have?
Online master’s students in Florida enjoy extensive support services similar to those on campus. Universities provide academic advising, online tutoring, library resources, and tech support. Career services are also available virtually, including resume workshops and job boards. Networking opportunities exist through discussion boards, group projects, and virtual student organizations. Plus, most professors hold virtual office hours for relationship-building, and some programs offer optional meet-ups for networking.
Will I ever need to visit campus during my online master’s program?
Usually, no. Most online programs in Florida can be completed entirely online, with no campus visits required. All coursework and advising are conducted through online platforms. However, some programs may have short on-site or in-person components, like orientation or clinical residencies. If in-person attendance is necessary, schools will specify this in the program description.