Discover the Best Online Master's Programs in Maryland (MD)

The following professionals lent their expertise to this article:

Author: Ellery Weil, MA

Ellery Weil, MA

Author

Ellery Weil, PhD, is a writer and content professional whose OMD features concentrate on master's-level education in public health, education/teaching, social work, and more. She has collaborated with graduate students and educators across the U.S. to pen articles on test taking anxiety, student loans, and grad school scholarships. Ellery holds her PhD and master's in history from University College London.

Expertise: Public HealthEducationSocial Work

Public HealthEducationSocial Work

Editor: Jordan Cosselman

Jordan Cosselman

Editor

Jordan Cosselman graduated from the University of Nevada, Reno with a BA in English. She joined the OMD team in 2021 with the goal of making graduate education more approachable for students from all walks of life. She's especially interested in helping students understand the ROI of a master's degree, so they feel confident in their investment.

Updated: 12/23/2025

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Updated: 12/23/2025

Comparing Maryland’s Online & Hybrid Master’s Programs

Maryland is home to a mix of public and private universities offering online and hybrid master’s degrees. Below, we highlight three accredited institutions. Each profile outlines the school’s online learning model and features one representative master’s program with key details.

Top Fields for Your Maryland Master’s

In Maryland’s economy and job market, you’ll find several fields for master’s graduates with high returns on investment (ROI). Below are five of the top fields to consider, based on job growth projections, salary potential, and the prevalence of strong programs in Maryland’s universities.

Business Administration 

Business and management degrees remain a strong option in Maryland’s economy, which includes federal agencies, biotech firms, and Fortune 500 companies. Management occupations earn a median annual wage of approximately $117,000 nationally, and job growth remains above average.

An online MBA prepares graduates for roles such as project manager, business analyst, or executive leader. Maryland’s proximity to Washington, DC also creates opportunities in consulting and government contracting.

Computer Science & Information Technology

Maryland is a national hub for technology and cybersecurity, home to organizations such as the National Security Agency (NSA) and U.S. Cyber Command. Demand for skilled professionals is high, particularly in cybersecurity, data science, and analytics.

Information security analyst jobs are projected to grow 33% by 2033, while data scientist roles are expected to grow 36% by 2032. Online master’s programs in these fields help professionals develop advanced technical and analytical skills aligned with industry certifications.

Healthcare & Nursing

Healthcare is one of Maryland’s largest industries, supported by major hospital systems, research institutions, and public health agencies. Online master’s degrees in nursing, healthcare administration, and public health prepare graduates for leadership and advanced practice roles.

Nurse practitioners are projected to see 45% job growth nationally from 2022–2032, and Maryland continues to experience shortages of advanced practice providers. Healthcare administrators are also in demand, with strong projected growth and salaries above the state average.

Education & Teaching

Maryland faces ongoing teacher shortages, particularly in high-need subject areas. A master’s degree in education can lead to higher pay, leadership roles, and eligibility for positions such as instructional coordinator or administrator.

Maryland supports advanced training through initiatives like the Maryland Educator Shortage Reduction Act of 2023, and many universities offer online MEd or MAT programs for certified teachers.

Engineering & Applied Sciences

Maryland’s economy includes a strong presence in aerospace, defense, and biotechnology. Employers such as NASA Goddard, Northrop Grumman, Lockheed Martin, and federal research labs actively recruit engineers with advanced training.

A master’s degree in engineering or applied sciences can lead to research, leadership, or specialized technical roles, particularly in electrical, computer, and systems engineering.

How Accreditation Works for Master’s Degrees in Maryland

Accreditation is a key indicator of academic quality. Most Maryland universities are regionally accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education (MSCHE), ensuring online degrees carry the same credibility as on-campus programs.

Many programs also hold programmatic accreditation, such as CCNE for nursing or discipline-specific accreditors in engineering and business. Accreditation is important for employer recognition, licensure eligibility, credit transfer, and financial aid.

Understanding the Different Online Master’s Programs

Online master’s programs in Maryland come in a variety of formats to suit different needs. Each type has its pros and cons, from the time commitment required to the pace of learning. Understanding these options can help you choose a format that aligns with your schedule and goals.

Full-Time Programs

Full-time programs involve a heavier course load and typically allow students to graduate in 12–18 months.

MD Examples:

• University of Maryland — Master of Professional Studies (MPS) in Data Journalism
• Johns Hopkins University — Master of Science in Bioinformatics

Part-Time Programs

Part-time programs are designed for working professionals and usually take 2 to 3 years to complete.

MD Examples:

• Johns Hopkins University — Master of Arts (MA) in Communication
• Towson University — MEd in Early Childhood Education

No-GRE Programs

Many Maryland programs waive GRE requirements and instead focus on GPA, professional experience, and application materials.

MD Examples:

• Johns Hopkins University — MS in Artificial Intelligence
• University of Maryland Global Campus — MS in Accounting & Financial Management

Accelerated Programs

Accelerated programs condense coursework into a shorter timeframe, sometimes allowing completion in about 1 year.

MD Examples:

• Goucher College — Master of Arts in Teaching (MAT)
• University of Maryland Global Campus — MS in Homeland Security Management

Funding Your Future: Master’s Degree Costs in Maryland

Tuition for online master’s programs in Maryland varies by institution. Public universities often charge $500–$700 per credit for in-state students, while private institutions typically range from $600–$900 per credit. Elite private universities may exceed $1,700 per credit.

Online students may save on housing and commuting costs, and many programs qualify for financial aid, scholarships, and employer tuition assistance.

FAQs for Maryland Master’s Students

Q1: Do employers recognize and respect online master’s degrees from Maryland universities?

A: As long as your degree comes from an accredited institution, employers regard an online master’s from a Maryland school as equivalent to on-campus. Your transcripts and diploma likely won’t even specify “online.” Additionally, Maryland’s major universities have strong reputations, and their online programs maintain the same curricula and faculty. 

Employers in Maryland and other states in the country are growing increasingly familiar with online education and the value of the skills and self-motivation required to succeed in an online master’s. Many Maryland schools also have established industry partnerships and alumni networks, which can enhance job prospects and help you build your professional network.

Q2: Can I get financial aid or scholarships for an online master’s program in Maryland?

A: Indeed, online master’s students in Maryland are usually eligible for federal financial aid (loans and grants) by filing the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA), just like traditional students. Most universities also offer institutional aid or scholarships that online students can apply for. As an example, UMGC provides scholarships and an interest-free payment plan to help with affordability. 

Many Maryland schools also include graduate assistantships or tuition discounts for certain populations, such as military personnel, teachers, or employees of partner organizations. It’s also worth exploring external scholarships specifically for graduate or online learners. 

When budgeting, keep in mind that while you’ll save on campus housing and meal costs, you should account for technology fees or course material costs (though some programs use free e-resources).

Q3: Is it feasible to work full-time while pursuing an online master’s degree?

A: Yes, and many students do. It’s one of the primary advantages of online programs. Maryland’s online master’s degrees are often designed with working professionals in mind, offering part-time tracks and asynchronous classes to accommodate busy schedules. 

If you work full-time, a part-time enrollment is a common approach that allows you to devote around ten to fifteen hours a week to studies. This might extend your program length, but it makes the workload manageable alongside a nine-to-five job. 

Time management and discipline are key. The most successful students often carve out specific study times and communicate with their employers about their school commitments. 

Q4: Do I need to live in Maryland or come to campus to enroll in a Maryland online master’s program?

A: You do not need to reside in Maryland to enroll in most of the state’s online master’s programs. Maryland institutions have authorization to offer online education across state lines. Keep in mind, however, that if you’re out-of-state, tuition may be higher at public universities since in-state residents get a discount, though some online programs do offer flat rates. 

As for campus visits, this depends on the program. Fully online programs require no campus attendance, and all coursework, discussions, and projects are completed remotely. However, hybrid programs or certain fields might have minimal on-site requirements. An online MBA might include an orientation weekend, or a science program could require a short lab residency. 

In Maryland, a few hybrid master’s (like some Johns Hopkins engineering programs) offer optional on-campus labs for hands-on experience, but often you can arrange an equivalent experience near you or opt for fully online coursework. 

Q5: What kind of support and resources can online master’s students in Maryland expect?

A: Online master’s students at Maryland universities have access to a wide array of support services comparable to those on campus. Academically, you’ll typically be assigned an advisor who can help plan your course sequence and navigate any issues. Professors typically hold virtual office hours and are reachable by email or video chat to answer questions. 

Most schools provide all-day tech support, which is critical if you have issues with the learning platform at odd hours. For instance, UMGC advertises an online classroom with twenty-four-hour technical support. For writing or tutoring help, many programs have online tutoring services or writing centers to assist with papers and assignments. 

Beyond academics, online students can use career services. Look for virtual career fairs, one-on-one career counseling sessions, resume reviews, and alumni networking. Lastly, if your program has group projects, they’ll facilitate collaboration tools for you to meet and work virtually. 

Top Online Master’s Degree Programs in Maryland