Maybe it’s the realization that your current role isn’t where you want to stay. Or maybe it’s the moment you realize your ambitions have outgrown your qualifications. In a state like Ohio, which is home to diverse industries and employers, online master’s programs can help you advance your career and earning potential without uprooting your life. This guide helps you explore online graduate degrees from Ohio’s top universities, along with program formats, costs, and in-demand fields.
Author: Kristina Brune
Expertise: Student SuccessGraduate Ed.Online LearningEditor: Jordan Cosselman
- Inside Real Programs
An inside look at actual online programs, exploring their structure, curriculum, costs, admission criteria, and more…
Read more - Top Fields in Ohio
The most promising fields in the state, based on job outlook, earning potential, affordability, and local opportunities…
Read more - Program Types
A list of today’s best online and hybrid programs based on quality, affordability, and student support…
Read more - Cost Breakdown
A clear overview of how much my degree might cost and the factors influencing total expenses…
Read more - FAQs
Insightful and guiding answers to common questions prospective students like myself have about earning this degree…
Read more - Top Schools
Top Online Master’s Degree Programs in Ohio
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Inside 3 Popular Master’s Degrees in Ohio
Below, we profile three Ohio-based universities with accredited online master’s degree programs. Each overview highlights the school’s online offerings and one featured program, including key details such as duration, format, cost, and admissions requirements.
Ohio University — “OHIO Online” Graduate Degree Programs
Ohio University, located in Athens, offers a robust catalog of online master’s programs in fields such as business, education, and health. With 60+ fully online programs, the university has educated more online students than any other Ohio public institution — reflecting a long-standing commitment to distance learning.
Online courses are taught by the same faculty members who teach on campus. Students also have remote access to career services, advising, and a large alumni network.
Featured Program — Online Master of Business Administration (MBA)
Duration: As few as 12 months | 35 credits
Mode: Fully online, part-time friendly
Cost: $1,051 per credit
Admissions Requirements:
- Bachelor’s degree from an accredited college
- Minimum 3.0 GPA
- Résumé
- Two letters of recommendation
- Personal statement outlining career goals
- At least two years of professional experience
University of Cincinnati — UC Online Graduate Programs
The University of Cincinnati operates a dedicated UC Online division offering master’s programs in business, IT, health care, and education. These programs are fully accredited and nationally ranked, reflecting UC’s strong academic reputation.
Online students benefit from small class sizes, personal advising, and flexible scheduling, including asynchronous coursework. UC’s online MBA program is consistently ranked #1 among Ohio public universities, and the school offers many other highly regarded online degrees.
Featured Program — Online Master of Science in Information Technology (MSIT)
Duration: Less than two years
Mode: Fully online and asynchronous
Cost: $746 per credit hour (Ohio residents)
Admissions Requirements:
- Bachelor’s degree
- Minimum 3.0 GPA
- Undergraduate transcripts
- Résumé or CV highlighting technical experience
- Three letters of recommendation
- Three short essay responses (up to 500 words each)
- IT-related background or coursework
Kent State University — Kent State Online Degrees
Kent State University is a pioneer in online education, offering 90+ online degree and certificate programs, one of the largest selections in Ohio. Its online master’s programs focus on education, public health, business, and communication.
Courses emphasize engagement and real-world application and are often taught by faculty with expertise in online pedagogy. Online students are supported by a dedicated e-learning services team.
Featured Program — Master of Education (MEd) in Educational Technology
Duration: 30 to 33 credits
Mode: 100% online coursework with rolling admissions
Cost: $594.78 per credit hour
Admissions Requirements:
- Bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution
- Minimum 2.75 GPA
- Official transcripts
- Two letters of recommendation
- Goal statement outlining professional objectives
In-Demand Online Master’s Specializations
Which master’s degrees offer the strongest career prospects in Ohio? Below are five high-demand graduate fields based on job growth, employer demand, and return on investment.
Health Care and Nursing
Health care is one of the most compelling reasons to pursue a master’s degree in Ohio. An aging population and expanding systems such as Cleveland Clinic and OhioHealth continue to drive demand for advanced professionals.
Roles like nurse practitioners, health care administrators, and clinical nurse specialists typically require master’s-level training and offer strong job security. Ohio’s health care and social assistance sector is projected to add more jobs than any other industry, supporting degrees such as:
Graduates often find abundant opportunities statewide, especially in major metro areas like Columbus and Cincinnati.
Business Administration and Management
Business remains a versatile and popular choice for Ohio graduate students. The state is home to 27 Fortune 500 companies, including Nationwide, Procter & Gamble, and Cardinal Health.
Earning an MBA or specialized business master’s degree can open doors to leadership roles in management, finance, marketing, and consulting. Many Ohio online MBA programs also feature strong alumni networks and employer pipelines, helping students convert degrees into local opportunities.
Technology and Computer Science
Technology is one of Ohio’s fastest-growing sectors, with cities like Columbus, Cincinnati, and Cleveland emerging as tech hubs. Major investments, such as Intel’s semiconductor facilities, are fueling demand for advanced tech talent.
Master’s degrees in:
can lead to roles such as software engineer, data analyst, IT manager, or cybersecurity consultant. These positions typically offer high salaries and strong growth potential, including opportunities in health care IT, research, and government.
Education and Educational Leadership
Education remains a high-need field across Ohio, especially in leadership and specialized teaching roles. Positions such as principal, curriculum coordinator, and educational technologist often require a master’s degree.
Ohio projects continued demand for educators through 2030, and online MEd programs allow teachers to advance their credentials while continuing to work. For those passionate about impact and stability, education remains a practical and fulfilling choice.
Engineering and Manufacturing
Ohio’s manufacturing base, combined with growth in aerospace, semiconductors, and renewable energy, creates strong demand for engineers with advanced training.
Online master’s degrees in engineering can lead to roles in:
- R&D
- Product design
- Operations and plant management
Major employers range from automakers in Toledo to aerospace organizations connected to Wright-Patterson Air Force Base and NASA Glenn Research Center. New investments, including Intel’s $20 billion semiconductor plants, are expected to create thousands of engineering jobs statewide.
Types of Online Master’s Degree Programs
Online master’s programs in Ohio are offered in several formats to meet different student needs.
Part-Time & Flexible Programs
Many online programs are designed for working professionals.
- Typically 1–2 courses per term
- Completion in 2–3 years
- Asynchronous coursework for evening/weekend study
Students receive the same curriculum and degree as full-time learners, just on a more manageable schedule.
Fast-Track Programs
Accelerated programs allow students to finish in as little as one year.
These programs use shorter terms, heavier course loads, or year-round schedules. While demanding, they appeal to students who can dedicate significant time and want a faster return on investment.
Programs that Waive Test Scores
Many Ohio online master’s programs no longer require the GRE or GMAT. Admissions often focus on:
- Undergraduate GPA
- Work experience
- Letters of recommendation
This holistic approach removes a major barrier for adult learners while still maintaining competitive admissions standards.
Tuition and Financial Aid for Online Master’s Students in Ohio
Tuition for online master’s programs in Ohio varies by school and program but is often comparable to in-state rates.
- Typical range: $500–$1,500 per credit
- Most programs require 30–36 credits
Many universities offer in-state tuition to online students regardless of residency, and online learners often save on housing and commuting costs.
| University | Credits | Cost/Credit | Total Tuition |
|---|---|---|---|
| Kent State University | 30 | $594.78 | $17,800 |
| University of Cincinnati | 30 | $662 | $22,380 |
| Kent State University | 36 | $883 | $31,800 |
Note: Actual costs might vary based on fees, pace, and transfer credits. Always consult your school’s financial aid office for up-to-date rates.
Online Master’s FAQs: Your Questions Answered
Q: Are online master’s degrees from Ohio universities respected by employers?
Yes. As long as the school and program are properly accredited, online master’s degrees from Ohio universities are generally regarded the same as on-campus degrees.
Ohio’s public universities are accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC), and online programs follow the same academic standards as in-person offerings. Diplomas typically do not indicate that the degree was earned online. Employers increasingly recognize online degrees, especially since the pandemic, and value skills such as self-direction and time management.
Q: How can I afford an online master’s degree program in Ohio?
There are multiple ways to make graduate school affordable.
Start by completing the FAFSA, which determines eligibility for federal loans and some grants. Many Ohio universities also offer scholarships, alumni discounts, or employer partnerships. Tuition assistance is common among large Ohio employers, especially in business, tech, and health care.
Some programs offer assistantships or partial tuition waivers, though these are less common online. Planning ahead and combining funding sources can make an online master’s degree more affordable and a realistic investment.
Q: Can I work full-time while pursuing an online master’s degree?
Yes, most online graduate students do.
Programs are built for working professionals and often allow part-time enrollment with asynchronous coursework. Students typically study during evenings or weekends and balance school with full-time employment.
Time management is key, but thousands of Ohio students successfully juggle work and online graduate study each year. Many programs are explicitly designed for teachers, nurses, analysts, and other professionals advancing in their fields.
Q: Will earning an online master’s degree in Ohio help my career?
In most cases, yes. A master’s degree can unlock leadership roles, specialized positions, and higher pay.
Fields like health care, education, and business often offer built-in salary increases for master’s degree holders. Beyond earnings, students gain access to career services, alumni networks, and project-based learning that can be showcased to employers.
Choosing a field aligned with Ohio’s job market and actively leveraging networking opportunities can significantly amplify the return on your degree.
Q: Do I need to live in Ohio or visit campus for an online master’s degree program?
Not usually. Most online master’s programs from Ohio universities are available to students nationwide and do not require campus visits.
Ohio institutions participate in SARA, allowing them to offer online education in most states. Some licensure programs may have state-specific requirements, and a small number of hybrid programs include short residencies—but these are clearly disclosed. Many students earn Ohio degrees without ever visiting campus.