Top Online Master’s Degrees in Virginia (VA)

Virginia ranks as the 6th most educated state, which means standing out professionally often requires advanced credentials. If stepping away from work or family isn’t realistic, an online master’s degree offers a flexible alternative. This guide highlights Virginia’s top online master’s programs, key fields of study, and cost considerations to help you advance with confidence.

The following professionals lent their expertise to this article:

Author: Taylor Cromwell

Graduate Ed.Student SuccessMental Health

Editor: Jordan Cosselman

Updated: 01/14/2026

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Inside Real Programs
An inside look at actual online programs, exploring their structure, curriculum, costs, admission criteria, and more…
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Top Fields
The most promising fields in the state, based on job outlook, earning potential, affordability, and local opportunities…
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Program Formats
The variety of online master’s programs offered in the state, from full-time and part-time to accelerated formats…
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Cost Breakdown
A clear overview of how much my degree might cost and the factors influencing total expenses…
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FAQs
Insightful and guiding answers to common questions prospective students like myself have about earning this degree…
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Top Schools
Top Online Master’s Degree Programs in Virginia
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Inside VA Schools with Online Master’s Programs

Virginia is home to many respected universities offering online and hybrid graduate degrees. Below are three accredited schools known for strong online master’s programs, along with a snapshot of one representative degree from each.

George Mason University

George Mason University is a large public research institution in Fairfax, VA, offering 60+ online and hybrid graduate programs through Mason Online. Programs span business, education, health, engineering, and public policy.

Courses are often asynchronous, built for working professionals, and taught by the same faculty as on-campus classes. GMU’s online programs are widely recognized for strong ROI and academic quality.

Featured Program: Online Master of Business Administration (MBA)

Duration: 16 months (full-time) or up to 3 years (part-time)
Credits: 48
Mode: 100% online; optional one-week global residency
Cost: $1,105.50 per credit | $53,000 total

Admissions Requirements:

Bachelor’s degree (minimum 3.0 GPA)
Online application + $75 fee
Professional résumé
Personal statement
Two letters of recommendation

Old Dominion University

Old Dominion University, based in Norfolk, VA, is a pioneer in distance education. Through ODUGlobal, ODU offers dozens of online master’s degrees in engineering, business, education, nursing, and more.

Programs are accredited by SACSCOC and taught by ODU faculty. Many include live evening web-conference classes paired with online coursework, providing structure without sacrificing flexibility.

Featured Program: Master of Engineering Management (MEM)

Duration: 2 years (part-time)
Credits: 31
Mode: Online with synchronous sessions
Cost: $620 per credit | $19,220 total

Admissions Requirements:

ABET-accredited bachelor’s in engineering or related field
Minimum 3.0 GPA
Calculus, differential equations, and statistics background
Graduate application and official transcripts

Liberty University

Liberty University is a private nonprofit institution in Lynchburg, VA, and one of the largest providers of online education nationwide. It offers 300+ online master’s degrees and specializations.

Courses are 100% online, primarily asynchronous, and delivered in 8-week terms. While faith-based, programs are open to students of all backgrounds and accredited by SACSCOC.

Featured Program: Master of Education (MEd) in Curriculum & Instruction

Duration: 2 years (full-time)
Credits: 36
Mode: Fully online; no residency
Cost: $430 per credit | $15,840 total

Admissions Requirements:

Bachelor’s degree (minimum 2.5 GPA)
Online application (fee often waived)
Official transcripts
English proficiency documentation if applicable

Top Fields for Graduate-Level Learning in VA

Virginia’s economy, job market, and proximity to Washington, D.C. make certain graduate fields especially valuable.

Information Technology & Cybersecurity

Virginia has the 2nd-largest cybersecurity workforce in the U.S., with 88,000 professionals. Between 2023–2024, employers posted 51,000+ cybersecurity job openings statewide.

Master’s degrees in information technology, cybersecurity, or computer science often lead to high-paying roles in government, defense contracting, and private tech firms.

Healthcare & Nursing

Healthcare and social assistance are projected to add 97,000 jobs in Virginia.

Advanced degrees such as an MSN, MPH, or MHA prepare graduates for leadership, clinical specialization, and public health roles — especially in rural and underserved areas where demand is highest.

Education

Educational services remains one of Virginia’s highest-growth sectors.

Online Master’s in Education programs support salary advancement and are often required for roles such as instructional coordinator, librarian, or principal. Virginia’s strong K–12 and higher education infrastructure creates diverse career pathways.

Business Administration & Management

Virginia is home to 24 Fortune 500 companies, including Capital One, Northrop Grumman, and Mars Inc.

An online MBA or specialized business master’s can lead to leadership roles in consulting, finance, operations, and project management — particularly in Northern Virginia’s corporate and government-adjacent economy.

Public Administration & Policy

Government employs 770,000+ workers across Virginia.

Degrees such as an MPA or MPP prepare graduates for careers in public service, nonprofit leadership, and policy analysis. Programs near D.C. benefit from strong networking and internship opportunities.

Different Program Formats for Online Master’s in Virginia

Virginia universities offer multiple formats to match different schedules and career goals.

Full-Time Online Programs

Heavier course loads (3+ classes per term)
Completion in 12-18 months
Best for students able to reduce work commitments

Examples in VA

George Mason University
Liberty University
University of Virginia

Part-Time Online Programs

One or two courses per term
Completion in 2.5-3 years
Designed for working professionals

Examples in VA

Old Dominion University
Virginia Commonwealth University
Virginia Tech

Most Virginia online learners choose this route due to flexibility and strong support services.

No GRE/GMAT Required Programs

Many Virginia programs now waive standardized tests, focusing instead on GPA and experience. Common evaluation criteria

Undergraduate academic record
Résumé or CV
Letters of recommendation
Personal statement

Examples include GMU’s online MBA and most master’s programs from Liberty University.

What Do Online Master’s Programs in Virginia Cost?

Costs vary by institution and program type.

Public In-State Tuition: $500–$900 per credit
Private Universities: Flat-rate tuition
Specialized programs (e.g., MBA, engineering) tend to cost more

Online students often save on housing and commuting but should budget for technology or program-specific fees.

University	Credits	Cost per Credit	Total Tuition
George Mason University Online MBA	48	$1,105.50	$53,064
Old Dominion University Online MEM.	31	$620	$19,220
Liberty University Online MEd	36	$430	$15,840

Tuition rates are based on the latest published costs for Virginia residents. “Total Tuition” does not include fees or textbooks. Always consult the university’s official tuition page for the most up-to-date figures.

Questions Prospective Virginia Master’s Students Ask

Q: Are online master’s degrees from Virginia universities respected by employers?

A: Yes. Virginia universities hold SACSCOC regional accreditation, and diplomas do not list delivery format. Employers value accreditation and institutional reputation over modality.

Q: How can I verify a Virginia online program’s accreditation?

A: Check the school’s website for its accrediting body or search the U.S. Department of Education or CHEA databases. Look for programmatic accreditation where relevant (e.g., AACSB, CCNE, CAEP).

Q: Will I need to visit campus or attend classes at set times?

A: Most programs are fully online. Some may include:

Optional residencies
Synchronous online sessions
Local practicums (education, counseling, nursing)

Any required in-person components are clearly disclosed.

Q: Can I work full-time while earning my master’s online?

A: Yes. Many online master’s students work full-time and enroll part-time, taking one or two courses per term. Asynchronous coursework makes balancing responsibilities manageable.

Q: What kind of support will I have as an online student (academic or career services)?

A: Online students typically receive:

Academic advising
Tutoring and writing support
Online library access
Career services and networking tools

Faculty also offer virtual office hours, and many schools host online orientations and career events.

Q: What financial aid is available for online master’s students in Virginia?

A: Online students may qualify for:

Federal loans via FAFSA
University scholarships or grants
Employer tuition assistance
Military and veteran scholarships and other benefits

Private-school students may also be eligible for Virginia Tuition Assistance Grant (VTAG) funding.

Top Online Master’s Degree Programs in Virginia

Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University

Blacksburg, VA

Public · SACSCOC

Virginia Tech offers diverse online master’s degrees including Information Technology, Aerospace Engineering, Business Administration (MBA), and more, designed for flexible, career-oriented learning. Programs combine interdisciplinary courses from top colleges, accommodating working professionals seeking advanced skills and leadership in fields like IT, engineering, and agriculture.

Program Highlights:

Virginia Tech’s Online Master of Information Technology program is ranked #3 nationally and #1 for veterans, offering specialized interdisciplinary education between the Pamplin College of Business and College of Engineering.
The program provides a flexible curriculum with 11 specialized elective areas, including cybersecurity, AI/ML, big data, and business analytics, allowing students to tailor their degree to technical and leadership career goals.
Students have access to the MIT+MBA Dual Degree Pathway, enabling them to earn two professional master’s degrees in IT and business administration in a cost-effective, flexible format designed for working professionals.

School Type Public
Application Fee Yes
Tuition $15,234
Accreditation SACSCOC
Online Students 3,239

Liberty University

Lynchburg, VA

Private · SACSCOC

Liberty University offers over 300 online master’s degree programs designed for working professionals, featuring flexible 8-week courses with no set login times. These programs provide advanced knowledge, practical skills, and professional abilities across diverse fields like business, education, healthcare, and technology.

Program Highlights:

Liberty University offers a competitive graduate tuition rate of $290 per credit hour with additional discounts for veterans and first responders, making education more affordable for these groups.
Their programs feature flexible 8-week courses with eight start dates per year and no set login times, allowing students to progress at their own pace while balancing other commitments.
Military personnel and their spouses benefit from deployment-friendly classes, specialized degrees, and personalized support, emphasizing Liberty’s strong commitment to serving the armed forces community.

School Type Private
Application Fee Yes
Tuition $7,740
Accreditation SACSCOC
Online Students 48,639

George Mason University

Fairfax, VA

Public · SACSCOC

George Mason University offers flexible online master’s programs across diverse fields like business, education, engineering, and health, maintaining academic rigor equivalent to on-campus courses. Programs enable career advancement while balancing work and life, with options for certificates and specialized concentrations to fit professional goals.

Program Highlights:

George Mason offers up to a 50% tuition discount for full-time Mason faculty and staff through the Professional Development Program, significantly reducing education costs.
Out-of-state graduate students in the College of Education and Human Development benefit from a 40% tuition discount, making advanced degrees more affordable.
Group discounts of 10% apply when three or more employees from the same company enroll together in non-credit courses, supporting team professional development.

School Type Public
Application Fee Yes
Tuition $13,726
Accreditation SACSCOC
Online Students 6,811

Virginia Commonwealth University

Richmond, VA

Public · SACSCOC

VCU’s Master of Public Administration program offers flexible online, campus, and hybrid study options designed for current or aspiring public service leaders. It combines policy analysis, budgeting, management, and equity focus, with credit flexibility based on professional experience and dual-degree pathways available. Graduates work in government, nonprofits, and more.

Program Highlights:

VCU’s Master of Public Administration program offers a prestigious Graduate Scholars Fellowship providing professional work experience, in-state tuition, and a $15,500 stipend through host employers in nonprofits, government, and business sectors.
The Wilder School faculty includes experts across disciplines such as criminal justice, economics, homeland security, and urban planning, delivering nationally competitive programs with strong research and practical impact in public affairs.
The program provides flexible, fully online learning options ideal for full-time working professionals, allowing students to balance careers while advancing leadership and policy analysis skills remotely.

School Type Public
Application Fee Yes
Tuition $13,404
Accreditation SACSCOC
Online Students 3,130

Virginia State University

Petersburg, VA

Public · SACSCOC

Virginia State University offers diverse master’s programs across multiple disciplines including STEM, business, education, and social sciences. Options are available both on-campus and online, backed by esteemed faculty and a strong research environment, emphasizing professional development and practical learning experiences.

Program Highlights:

Virginia State University’s graduate programs offer flexible degree customization through the Master of Interdisciplinary Studies, allowing students to combine three or more disciplines tailored to career goals while accommodating working professionals with up to six years for completion.
The university boasts a strong faculty mentorship culture and high-impact research opportunities within an R2 Carnegie-classified graduate environment, fostering collaborative scholarly work and innovation critical for professional growth.
VSU was recently recognized as the top public master’s level HBCU by U.S. News & World Report, highlighting the quality and prestige of its graduate programs which enhances networking and career prospects for students.

School Type Public
Application Fee No
Tuition $8,626
Accreditation SACSCOC
Online Students 34

University of Lynchburg

Lynchburg, VA

Private · SACSCOC

The University of Lynchburg offers flexible, fully online master’s programs in healthcare, business, education, and leadership, emphasizing personalized study plans, dedicated faculty, and career advancement. Programs range from 36 to 54 credit hours designed to equip students with leadership skills and real-world professional impact.

Program Highlights:

The Build-Your-Own MEd program offers a 40% Aspiring Educator Discount, making advanced career education significantly more affordable.
Graduate students benefit from 100% online, customizable degree tracks that allow tailored specialization across multiple education and leadership areas.
Direct Admit Pathway Programs provide a seamless progression from undergraduate to graduate studies, ensuring clear and efficient academic advancement.

School Type Private
Application Fee No
Tuition $10,485
Accreditation SACSCOC
Online Students 517

Old Dominion University

Norfolk, VA

Public · SACSCOC

Old Dominion University offers diverse master’s programs across fields such as education, business, sciences, and health professions. These programs emphasize innovation, leadership, and practical experience, available both on-campus and online, and are backed by nationally recognized faculty and extensive research opportunities.

Program Highlights:

Old Dominion University offers accelerated online degree programs with 8-week courses, enabling students to finish their education faster and enter the workforce sooner.
The university provides interactive live video-conferencing for distance learners, allowing real-time engagement with professors and peers from anywhere globally without leaving home.
ODUOnline features specialized certificates and graduate credentials in emerging fields like AI in Business Strategy, Cyber Defense, and Healthcare, enhancing career-focused expertise.

School Type Public
Application Fee Yes
Tuition $11,016
Accreditation SACSCOC
Online Students 3,267

Averett University

Danville, VA

Private · SACSCOC

Averett University offers flexible online master’s programs for working adults, including MBA, M.Ed. (five tracks), M.S. in Applied Data Analytics and Criminal Justice, and Nursing. Programs emphasize practical skills, real-world applications, small classes, and personalized support for career advancement and leadership roles.

Program Highlights:

Averett's ABSN program offers flexible online accelerated nursing coursework combined with mandatory in-person labs and clinical rotations, accommodating busy schedules without compromising rigor.
Students gain extensive hands-on experience with 585 total clinical hours at top healthcare facilities, supported by state-of-the-art simulation labs for real-world practice in a safe environment.
The program features small class sizes and highly accessible faculty, providing personalized mentorship and strong support throughout the intensive 16-month accelerated timeline.

School Type Private
Application Fee No
Tuition $11,790
Accreditation SACSCOC
Online Students 198

Regent University

Virginia Beach, VA

Private · SACSCOC

Regent University’s online master’s programs offer flexible, fully accredited degrees grounded in Christian principles. They cover diverse fields like ministry, psychology, communication, and international development, featuring 8-week courses taught by experienced faculty to support professional growth and purpose-driven leadership. Programs emphasize practical skills and faith integration.

Program Highlights:

Regent University offers an exclusive 15% tuition scholarship for employees, spouses, and dependents of corporate partners, enhancing affordability through employer collaboration.
The university matches church or ministry contributions dollar-for-dollar up to $750 per semester, effectively doubling scholarship support for eligible students.
Military and veteran students benefit from the Yellow Ribbon Program Scholarship, covering 100% of tuition and fees beyond the Post-9/11 GI Bill® yearly cap.

School Type Private
Application Fee Yes
Tuition $16,128
Accreditation SACSCOC
Online Students 5,215

Radford University

Radford, VA

Public · SACSCOC

Radford University offers fully online master’s programs, including an MBA with business analytics options, and degrees in health sciences and educational leadership. These programs emphasize flexibility for working professionals, interactive technologies, and practical skills relevant to career advancement in dynamic fields. Most require 36 credits for completion.

Program Highlights:

Radford University offers over $3 million in donor-funded scholarships annually, accessible through a single application, supporting tuition, fees, room, board, and books for approximately 1,000 students.
The Radford Tuition Promise provides eligible Virginia residents with adjusted gross income under $100,000 full federal, state, and gift aid coverage of tuition for up to four years, making education highly affordable.
Full-time Virginia educators qualify for a significantly reduced graduate tuition rate of $470 per credit hour ($5,634 per semester full-time), supporting professional development in education-related fields.

School Type Public
Application Fee Yes
Tuition $9,457
Accreditation SACSCOC
Online Students 1,325

Norfolk State University

Norfolk, VA

Public · SACSCOC

Norwich University’s online master’s programs offer flexible, rigorous graduate education across diverse fields like cybersecurity, business, and public health. Designed for working adults, these 100% online degrees feature expert faculty, practical curricula, and small cohorts to support career advancement and personal growth.

Program Highlights:

Norfolk State University offers 7-week online courses with multiple start dates annually, enabling faster degree completion and ultimate scheduling flexibility.
NSU provides access to dedicated expert faculty who offer personalized support to ensure the success of working professionals in fully online graduate programs.
Scholarships and financial aid options are available to reduce out-of-pocket costs, combined with some programs featuring convenient pay-by-the-course tuition structures.

School Type Public
Application Fee Yes
Tuition $9,084
Accreditation SACSCOC
Online Students 535

James Madison University

Harrisonburg, VA

Public · SACSCOC

James Madison University offers online master’s programs with the same academic quality as on-campus courses, designed for flexibility and accessibility. These programs cater to working professionals, feature expert faculty, and provide rigorous curricula to advance skills and careers across various fields. Application details are available online.

Program Highlights:

James Madison University's online graduate programs offer a flexible 100% online format allowing working professionals to balance career and education effectively.
The programs provide strong career networking opportunities, evidenced by alumni securing jobs directly through connections made during their studies.
JMU is nationally recognized for excellence and affordability in several online master’s fields, making advanced education both prestigious and accessible.

School Type Public
Application Fee Yes
Tuition $11,856
Accreditation SACSCOC
Online Students 746

Mary Baldwin University

Staunton, VA

Private · SACSCOC

Mary Baldwin University’s online Master of Education offers seven flexible, CAEP-accredited programs designed for both new and experienced educators, focusing on evidence-based teaching, leadership, and specialized endorsements to advance careers while balancing work and life commitments. Faculty expertise supports practical and theoretical growth.

Program Highlights:

Mary Baldwin University offers automatic merit-based scholarships up to $20,000 annually without requiring standardized test scores or separate applications, benefiting 100% of undergraduate students.
The university provides a $1,000 renewable award for students who participate in campus visits or virtual events, along with priority application filing awards, enhancing access to financial incentives early in the admission process.
Military students, veterans, their spouses, and dependents receive a $1,000 annual Military Leader Scholarship, which can be applied to undergraduate or graduate classes, demonstrating strong support for military-affiliated learners.

School Type Private
Application Fee Yes
Tuition $13,000
Accreditation SACSCOC
Online Students 320

Virginia Wesleyan University

Virginia Beach, VA

Private · SACSCOC

Virginia Wesleyan University offers flexible online and on-campus master’s programs including MBA with multiple concentrations, Master of Education (MEd) in Teacher Leadership, Master of Environmental Studies, and Master of Arts in Human Services, Arts Leadership, and Education. Programs emphasize career readiness, leadership skills, and practical experience. Completion ranges from 12 to 16 months.

Program Highlights:

Virginia Wesleyan University offers fully online graduate programs that can be completed in as few as 16 months, combining flexibility with accelerated completion for working professionals.
The Master of Environmental Studies program includes a capstone project involving internships or community-based work with environmental employers, providing practical experience and valuable networking opportunities.
VWU maintains affordability through a six-year tuition freeze, renewable merit scholarships, and a Work & Learn employment program, enhancing financial accessibility for graduate students.

School Type Private
Application Fee No
Tuition $8,982
Accreditation SACSCOC
Online Students 75

Longwood University

Farmville, VA

Public · SACSCOC

Longwood University’s master’s programs offer flexible formats—online, hybrid, and in-person—catering to full-time students and professionals. They emphasize small classes, hands-on support, and leadership development in fields like Education and Communication Sciences & Disorders, aiming to advance careers with a focus on innovation and diversity.

Program Highlights:

Longwood University’s graduate programs offer flexible learning formats including full-time, part-time, hybrid, and online options, accommodating diverse student schedules and lifestyles.
Graduate students benefit from individualized attention through small class sizes and supportive faculty dedicated to personalized mentorship and hands-on learning.
The College of Graduate and Professional Studies emphasizes innovation, diversity, and leadership development, fostering a community that prepares graduates to become influential citizen-leaders.

School Type Public
Application Fee Yes
Tuition $6,678
Accreditation SACSCOC
Online Students 1,089

Hampton University

Hampton, VA

Private · SACSCOC

Hampton University Online offers diverse master’s programs emphasizing academic excellence, leadership, and research. Flexible online formats support working professionals, with expert faculty guiding students in fields like business, computer science, counseling, and medical science, fostering career advancement and lifelong learning in a vibrant academic community.

Program Highlights:

Hampton University Online offers the OSHER Reentry Scholarship, specifically designed for students aged 25-50 resuming their studies after a significant interruption, providing targeted financial support and access to advising services.
As a member of the Thurgood Marshall College Fund, Hampton University Online students gain exclusive access to valuable networking, internship opportunities, and professional development resources, enhancing career prospects.
Military students benefit from maximized transfer credits, no final semester residency requirement, and guaranteed Tuition Assistance coverage up to $250 per credit hour through Hampton U Online’s SOC consortium membership.

School Type Private
Application Fee Yes
Tuition $13,099
Accreditation SACSCOC
Online Students 188

Virginia Union University

Richmond, VA

Private · SACSCOC

Virginia Union University’s master’s programs through VUU Global offer online and hybrid graduate degrees designed to prepare professionals globally, with areas such as Criminal Justice, Hospitality Management, Business Administration, Education, and Public Health. They emphasize flexibility, industry relevance, and hands-on learning to advance career readiness.

Program Highlights:

Virginia Union University’s VUU Global program offers industry-recognized certificates with hands-on projects and access to cutting-edge curriculum through a strategic partnership with Rize Education, ensuring practical skills and competitive advantage in the job market.
VUU Global provides a flexible online format combined with real-world industry insights and networking opportunities, allowing students nationwide to engage with experts and peers while tailoring education to evolving career demands.
The program emphasizes affordable, expert-led online courses featuring nationally recognized instructors that are both interactive and designed for fast, convenient skill acquisition aligned with professional goals.

School Type Private
Application Fee Yes
Tuition $10,824
Accreditation SACSCOC
Online Students 492

Eastern Mennonite University

Harrisonburg, VA

Private · SACSCOC

Eastern Mennonite University offers diverse online master’s programs emphasizing leadership, justice, education, nursing, and counseling with flexible formats and minimal residency requirements. Students benefit from personalized curricula and a supportive community focused on practical skills and ethical development across disciplines. Several programs hold professional accreditation.

Program Highlights:

Eastern Michigan University offers fully online programs where students pay in-state tuition regardless of their location, providing significant cost savings.
The university’s online education programs are nationally recognized, ranked "Best in Online Graduate Education" by U.S. News & World Report, ensuring high academic quality and reputation.
Graduate programs feature expert faculty who are active practitioners and researchers, offering strong mentorship and practical training tailored to working professionals.

School Type Private
Application Fee Yes
Tuition $15,200
Accreditation SACSCOC
Online Students 304

William & Mary

Williamsburg, VA

Public · SACSCOC

George Mason University’s online master’s programs offer flexible, rigorous, career-focused degrees across diverse fields such as business, education, healthcare, and engineering. Students can complete programs fully online with options for customization and career support, enabling advancement while balancing work and life commitments.

Program Highlights:

George Mason’s online MSN – Family Nurse Practitioner program requires no campus visits and allows local clinical practicums, offering maximum flexibility for working professionals.
The RN to BSN and Co-enrollment nursing programs provide accelerated pathways with only 10 online courses, enabling faster completion of the BSN degree.
The BSN program features a low 1:8 faculty-to-student ratio in clinical settings, ensuring personalized instruction and mentoring with experienced nursing faculty.

School Type Public
Application Fee Yes
Tuition $10,905
Accreditation SACSCOC
Online Students 1,327

University of Virginia-Main Campus

Charlottesville, VA

Public · SACSCOC

The University of Virginia’s online master’s programs offer flexible, fully online options led by top faculty. They emphasize evidence-based strategies and real-world application in fields such as education, data science, and instructional design, designed to support working professionals advancing their careers. Programs range from one to three years.

Program Highlights:

The University of Virginia offers expanded need-based financial aid through Access UVA, providing free tuition, fees, housing, and dining for students from families earning $50,000 or less, and at least $2,000 in grants for families making up to $150,000, significantly increasing affordability for middle- and lower-income students.
The UVA Alumni Association administers over 250 distinct scholarships, totaling more than $3 million annually, including competitive awards for children of UVA alumni and targeted scholarships such as the Ridley Scholarship aimed at attracting meritorious African-American students.
UVA limits need-based loans for undergraduate students with financial need to reduce debt burden at graduation, while pairing this with high graduation rates and strong employment outcomes, ensuring students are well-positioned for career success.

School Type Public
Application Fee Yes
Tuition $19,118
Accreditation SACSCOC
Online Students 2,187

Hollins University

Roanoke, VA

Private · SACSCOC

Hollins University offers flexible master’s programs including M.A., M.F.A., M.A.T., and M.A.L.S. degrees with rolling admissions and no GRE requirement. Applicants submit transcripts, recommendations, and a statement; some programs require creative samples or interviews. Programs blend creative and academic study, emphasizing individualized mentorship and small classes.

Program Highlights:

Hollins University offers graduate assistantships and tuition waivers for students who do not receive fellowships or assistantships, providing substantial financial support options.
The program features rolling admissions allowing applicants to apply for fall, spring, or summer terms, adding flexibility for students’ schedules.
Admission requires an interview, ensuring personalized evaluation and fit for the graduate program, which enhances student selection quality.

School Type Private
Application Fee Yes
Tuition $17,595
Accreditation SACSCOC
Online Students 73

Shenandoah University

Winchester, VA

Private · SACSCOC

Southern Utah University offers 17 affordable, fully online master’s programs with flexible 7-week terms. Degrees span business, education, cybersecurity, arts, and more, featuring small classes, dedicated faculty, and supportive resources. Most programs can be completed in 12 to 18 months, designed for working professionals seeking career advancement.

Program Highlights:

Columbia Southern University offers a unique Learning Partner scholarship that covers up to 60 credit hours with a 10% tuition discount exclusive to employees or members of partnered organizations, enhancing affordability for working professionals.
Southern University and A&M College provides a Four-Year National Scholarship with full tuition and fees or room and board coverage, plus stipends and summer training cruises, supporting students pursuing careers as Navy or Marine Corps officers.
Southern Adventist University features renewable scholarships for up to four years based on maintaining a minimum GPA, making long-term financial planning for education more manageable and predictable.

School Type Private
Application Fee Yes
Tuition $23,232
Accreditation SACSCOC
Online Students 836

Emory & Henry University

Emory, VA

Private · SACSCOC

Emory & Henry offers flexible online master’s programs in areas like Health and Human Performance, Business Administration (MBA), Clinical Mental Health Counseling, Addiction Counseling, and Education. Programs blend asynchronous coursework with personalized support, designed for working adults and delivered fully online or hybrid to fit busy schedules.

Program Highlights:

Emory & Henry’s RN-BSN online program offers a one-year full-time accelerated track with continuous Fall, Winter, Spring, and Summer sessions allowing rapid degree completion.
The program provides need-based application fee waivers through NursingCAS, lowering financial barriers for prospective nursing students.
Clinical practicum experiences are personalized with one-to-one faculty clinical site visitor support and dedicated local preceptors for enhanced learning.

School Type Private
Application Fee No
Tuition $25,200
Accreditation SACSCOC
Online Students 24

Randolph College

Lynchburg, VA

Private · SACSCOC

Randolph College offers five graduate degrees, including Master of Education, Master of Arts in Teaching, and MFAs in Arts Leadership, Creative Writing, and Theatre. Programs emphasize flexible, affordable pathways, leadership development, and practical experience to prepare graduates for diverse careers in education, arts, and sport leadership.

Program Highlights:

Randolph College’s graduate programs provide a low-residency Master of Fine Arts in Arts Leadership, the first of its kind nationally, combining immersive residencies with individualized mentorships for leadership roles in arts and nonprofits.
The Master of Arts in Coaching and Sport Leadership can be completed in just one year, with courses offered both online and on-campus, aligned with national coaching standards for immediate career readiness.
Graduate education programs include personalized support from nationally ranked, experienced faculty and boast a 99% job placement rate, with many graduates securing positions before completing the program.

School Type Private
Application Fee No
Tuition $17,100
Accreditation SACSCOC
Online Students 9

University of Mary Washington

Fredericksburg, VA

Public · SACSCOC

The University of Mary Washington offers three master’s programs: an MBA, an M.Ed. with Initial Teacher Licensure, and an Accelerated M.Ed. for licensed teachers. These programs focus on practical skills, leadership, and personalized learning, with options for endorsements and certificates to enhance career opportunities.

Program Highlights:

UMW offers accelerated 4+1 graduate programs allowing students to earn a Master's degree just one year after their Bachelor's, saving time and tuition costs.
Graduate students benefit from personalized academic advising and tailored learning plans, enhancing individual support and career readiness.
UMW's online MBA program features expert faculty engagement, flexibility, and no GMAT/GRE requirement, making it accessible for working professionals.

School Type Public
Application Fee Yes
Tuition $9,198
Accreditation SACSCOC
Online Students 87

Best Online Master’s Degrees in Virginia: Finding the Right Program

Inside VA Schools with Online Master’s Programs

George Mason University

Old Dominion University

Liberty University

Top Fields for Graduate-Level Learning in VA

Information Technology & Cybersecurity

Healthcare & Nursing

Education

Business Administration & Management

Public Administration & Policy

Different Program Formats for Online Master’s in Virginia

Full-Time Online Programs

Part-Time Online Programs

No GRE/GMAT Required Programs

What Do Online Master’s Programs in Virginia Cost?

Questions Prospective Virginia Master’s Students Ask

Q: Are online master’s degrees from Virginia universities respected by employers?

Q: How can I verify a Virginia online program’s accreditation?

Q: Will I need to visit campus or attend classes at set times?

Q: Can I work full-time while earning my master’s online?

Q: What kind of support will I have as an online student (academic or career services)?

Q: What financial aid is available for online master’s students in Virginia?

Top Online Master’s Degree Programs in Virginia

Methodology for OMD’s “Best” Colleges Rankings

Step 1: Create a Universe of Eligible Universities

Step 2: Assign Weightings and Rank Universities Based on Scores in Key Areas

About Our Rankings Data

Accreditation Glossary