Discover the Best Online Master’s Degrees in 2024

The United States has the largest number of online degrees, with numerous top universities like Harvard, MIT, and Stanford offering online Master's programmes.
If you’re looking for affordable online Master’s degrees, Europe offers the best chances of finding one.
Today, more and more universities offer online degrees, so this form of education is constantly getting better.

In today's fast-paced world, online Master's degrees have become an increasingly popular option for students seeking to advance their education without putting their lives on hold. These programmes offer flexibility, accessibility, and a wide range of specialisations, making earning a graduate degree from top universities worldwide easier than ever.

There are over 17 000 online Master’s taught in English available on Mastersportal, so there’s no shortage of options. Now, let’s have a look at the best universities that offer online Master’s degrees from each continent.

Several universities specialise in offering online degrees, such as IU International University of Applied Sciences. However, in this article, we will look at prestigious universities that rank highest in world rankings and find the ones that also offer online degrees taught in English. An online degree from one of these universities is equally impressive as one of their campus-based programmes.

Best online Master's degrees in North America

North America is home to some of the world's most prestigious universities. Online degrees from these schools are highly regarded, providing the same level of academic rigor as on-campus programmes.

1. Harvard University

Harvard University, founded in 1636, is the oldest institution of higher education in the United States. Known for its academic rigour and prestigious alumni network, Harvard stands out as a global leader in research and education. The university began offering online courses through its Harvard Extension School, providing access to a wide range of Master's programmes. Harvard's online degrees emphasise flexibility and high-quality instruction, allowing students worldwide to benefit from its renowned educational offerings.

Find online Master’s programmes at Harvard University

2. Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT)

Established in 1861, MIT is synonymous with innovation and cutting-edge research, particularly in Science, Engineering, and Technology. It has pioneered online education, launching its first online courses through MITx in 2012. MIT offers online Master's programmes that reflect its commitment to technological advancement and real-world problem-solving, making it an ideal choice for students seeking an impactful and forward-thinking education.

Find online Master’s programmes at MIT

3. Stanford University

Founded in 1885, Stanford University is a hub for innovation and entrepreneurship, especially in the fields of Technology and Business. Stanford's online education offerings are highly regarded, with Master's programmes available through Stanford Online. The university's strong emphasis on research, interdisciplinary studies, and connection to Silicon Valley makes its online degrees particularly valuable for students aiming to advance in technology-driven careers.

Find online Master’s programmes at Stanford University

4. Columbia University

Columbia University, founded in 1754, is one of the oldest and most prestigious universities in the United States. It has a rich history of academic excellence and a strong emphasis on research and global perspectives. Columbia offers a wide range of online master's programs through Columbia Online, providing flexible learning options that maintain the university's high standards. Its programs are particularly noted for their strong connections to industries in New York City, offering students valuable networking opportunities.

Find online Master’s programmes at Columbia University

5. Yale University

Founded in 1701, Yale University is one of the most prestigious Ivy League institutions in the United States, known for its rich history, academic excellence, and influential alumni. The university’s online degrees are designed to maintain the same rigorous standards as its on-campus programmes, offering students a world-class education combining flexibility and academic depth. Yale’s commitment to fostering leadership and global citizenship makes its online programmes highly respected and sought after by students worldwide.

Find online Master’s programmes at Yale University

online student

Best online Master's degrees in the UK

A Master’s degree in the UK is a great choice if you’re looking for top-notch education and a qualification recognised worldwide. The UK is home to some of the world’s most respected universities, making it an exciting place for research and innovation.

1. University of Oxford

The University of Oxford, established in 1096, is the oldest university in the English-speaking world. Renowned for its academic excellence and historical significance, Oxford has embraced online education through its Department for Continuing Education. Offering online master's degrees in diverse fields such as business, law, and health sciences, Oxford provides students with access to its outstanding resources and faculty from anywhere in the world.

Find online Master’s programmes at the University of Oxford

2. Imperial College London

Imperial College London, founded in 1907, is a leading institution in science, engineering, medicine, and business. Known for its innovation and research output, Imperial offers a range of online master's programs that reflect its strengths in these areas. The college’s commitment to blending academic rigour with practical application makes its online degrees particularly valuable for students looking to excel in technical and scientific careers.

Find online Master’s programmes at Imperial

3. University College London (UCL)

Established in 1826, University College London (UCL) is known for its progressive approach to education and research. UCL was among the first universities in the UK to offer online master's programs, providing students with flexible access to its top-tier education. UCL’s online degrees are notable for their interdisciplinary focus and emphasis on global challenges, attracting students who wish to make a meaningful impact in their fields.

Find online Master’s programmes at UCL

4. University of Edinburgh

The University of Edinburgh, founded in 1582, is one of Scotland's ancient universities and a global leader in research and education. Edinburgh offers a wide range of online Master's programmes through its distance learning platform, allowing students to benefit from its academic excellence from anywhere in the world. The university's online degrees are particularly recognised for their strong research foundation and focus on areas such as Data Science, Public Health, and Social Sciences.

Find online Master’s programmes at the University of Edinburgh

5. King’s College London

Founded in 1829, King’s College London is one of the UK’s most prestigious universities, known for its rich history and academic excellence. The university offers a variety of online Master’s programmes, particularly in fields like Law, Healthcare, and Social Sciences. King’s College London is renowned for its research-led teaching and global outlook, making its online degrees highly respected and sought after by students who want a top-tier education with the flexibility of online learning.

Find online Master’s programmes at UCL

Best online Master's in Europe (continental)

Europe is renowned for offering affordable yet high-quality online education. With lower tuition costs, especially for EU citizens, European universities offer a fantastic opportunity to gain a world-class education without the financial strain of studying abroad.

1. Leiden University

Leiden University, founded in 1575, is the oldest university in the Netherlands and has a strong reputation for research and teaching excellence. Leiden offers a range of online Master's degrees, particularly in fields such as Law, Governance, and International Relations. The university is recognised for its global perspective and strong academic networks, making its online programmes a great option for students looking to engage with complex, real-world issues.

Find online Master’s programmes at Leiden University

2. Wageningen University & Research

Wageningen University & Research, established in 1918, is globally renowned for its focus on Life Sciences, Agriculture, and Environmental Studies. It offers several online Master's programmes that leverage its expertise in these areas, allowing students to study sustainability and food security from a distance. Wageningen’s online degrees are noted for their applied research focus and connection to global sustainability challenges, making them particularly relevant in today's world.

Find online Master’s programmes at Wageningen University & Research

3. Lund University

Lund University, founded in 1666, is one of Sweden's oldest and most prestigious universities, known for its research-intensive approach and strong international connections. Lund offers a variety of online master's programs, especially in the fields of engineering, environmental studies, and social sciences. The university's online offerings are designed to be flexible and accessible, allowing students to benefit from Lund’s academic excellence and research capabilities regardless of their location.

Find online Master’s programmes at Lund University

4. Uppsala University

Uppsala University, established in 1477, is the oldest university in Sweden and has a strong reputation for research and education in the Natural Sciences, Medicine, and Humanities. The university offers online Master’s programmes that reflect its strengths in these areas, providing students with a flexible way to engage with a high-quality education. Uppsala is known for its commitment to academic excellence and vibrant international community, making its online degrees a valuable option for students worldwide.

Find online Master’s programmes at Uppsala University

5. University of Freiburg

Founded in 1457, the University of Freiburg in Germany is one of the country’s oldest and most respected institutions, known for its strengths in the humanities, social sciences, and natural sciences. The university offers a range of online master’s programs, particularly in areas like environmental studies, public health, and European studies. Freiburg’s commitment to research and innovation is reflected in its online offerings, making it an excellent choice for students seeking a comprehensive and flexible education.

Find online Master’s programmes at the University of Freiburg

online student

Best online Master's degrees in Asia

Asia's educational institutions are rapidly gaining recognition for their online offerings. Universities provide diverse online Master's programmes, particularly in business, engineering, and health sciences.

1. The Hong Kong Polytechnic University (PolyU)

The Hong Kong Polytechnic University (PolyU), established in 1937, is a leader in applied research and professional education in Asia. PolyU offers a variety of Master's degrees, particularly in areas like Business Administration, Engineering, and Health Sciences. The university is known for its strong industry connections and focus on practical, real-world applications, making its online programmes particularly valuable for professionals seeking to enhance their skills and knowledge in a dynamic and global context.

Find online Master’s programmes at (PolyU).

2. University of Malaya

Founded in 1949, the University of Malaya is Malaysia’s oldest and most prestigious university, known for its strong emphasis on research and academic excellence across a wide range of disciplines. The university offers several online master’s programs, particularly in areas such as business, education, and social sciences. The University of Malaya’s online degrees are designed to be accessible and flexible, allowing students to benefit from its high standards of education while balancing their studies with personal and professional commitments. The university’s global reputation and commitment to innovation make its online programs highly respected in Southeast Asia and beyond.

Find online Master’s programmes at the University of Malaya

3. University of Cyprus

Founded in 1989, the University of Cyprus is a leading institution in Cyprus, known for its commitment to academic excellence and research across various disciplines. The University’s online degrees are designed to be flexible and accessible, allowing students to gain a high-quality education from a respected institution while accommodating their personal and professional lives. The university’s focus on innovation and regional relevance makes its online programmes particularly attractive for European and Mediterranean students.

Find online Master’s programmes at the University of Cyprus

4. Bar-Ilan University

Bar-Ilan University, established in 1955, is one of Israel’s major public research universities. It is known for its integration of Jewish heritage with modern scholarship. The university offers a range of Master’s programmes, and its online degrees are designed to be flexible and accessible. They provide students with a strong academic foundation while allowing them to balance their studies with other commitments. The university’s emphasis on values and ethics makes its programs particularly distinctive.

Find online Master’s programmes at Bar-Ilan University

5. Heriot-Watt University Dubai

Heriot-Watt University Dubai, a campus of the Scottish university established in 2005, is known for its strong focus on Science, Technology, Engineering, and Business Education. The Dubai campus offers a variety of online Master’s programmes tailored to the needs of working professionals in the Middle East and beyond. Heriot-Watt’s online degrees are designed to provide the same high-quality education as its on-campus programmes, with a strong emphasis on practical skills and global perspectives, making them an excellent option for students seeking to advance their careers in a competitive international environment.

Find online Master’s programmes at Heriot-Watt University Dubai

Best online Master's degrees in Africa

Africa's universities are embracing online education, offering programmes that cater to local and global students. These degrees combine flexibility with a strong focus on research and social justice, making them attractive to students looking to make an impact on the continent and beyond.

1. University of Cape Town (UCT)

The University of Cape Town (UCT), established in 1829, is South Africa's oldest university and consistently ranks as one of the top institutions in Africa. UCT is known for its strong research focus and commitment to social justice and innovation. It offers a variety of online Master's programmes, particularly in fields such as Business, Education, and Public Health. UCT's online degrees are designed to be accessible and flexible, allowing students to benefit from its academic excellence from anywhere in the world.

Find online Master’s programmes at UCT

2. University of Johannesburg (UJ)

Founded in 2005 through the merger of several institutions, the University of Johannesburg (UJ) has quickly become a prominent player in higher education in Africa. UJ is known for its commitment to technological innovation and practical learning. The university offers a range of online Master's programmes that are tailored to the needs of working professionals, with a focus on fields like Business Management, Public Health, and Education. UJ’s online degrees reflect its modern, forward-thinking approach to education.

Find online Master’s programmes at UJ

3. University of KwaZulu-Natal (UKZN)

The University of KwaZulu-Natal (UKZN), established in 2004 through a merger, is known for its strong emphasis on research and community engagement. UKZN offers a variety of online Master's programmes, particularly in Health Sciences, Agriculture, and Social Sciences. The university’s online education platform is designed to provide students with the flexibility to pursue their studies while balancing other commitments, making it an ideal choice for those looking to advance their education in a supportive and inclusive environment.

Find online Master’s programmes at UKZN

4. University of Ibadan

The University of Ibadan, established in 1948, is Nigeria’s oldest university and one of Africa’s leading academic institutions. Known for its strong emphasis on research and community engagement, the university offers a variety of online Master’s programmes, particularly in fields like Education, Public Health, and Social Sciences. The University of Ibadan’s online degrees are designed to be accessible and relevant, providing students with the skills and knowledge needed to address the challenges facing the African continent and beyond.

Find online Master’s programmes at the University of Ibadan

5. University of Nairobi

The University of Nairobi, founded in 1970, is Kenya’s largest and most prestigious university, recognised for its research and academic excellence across various disciplines. The university offers a wide range of online master’s programs, especially in business, education, and engineering. The University of Nairobi’s online offerings are designed to meet the needs of working professionals, providing flexible and affordable education options that maintain the high standards of the university’s on-campus programs.

Find online Master’s programmes at the University of Nairobi

Best online Master's degrees in Oceania

In Oceania, top universities like the University of Melbourne, University of Sydney, and Monash University offer a range of online Master’s programmes. These universities are known for their high academic standards and strong focus on research, providing students with flexible learning options while maintaining the same level of excellence as their on-campus counterparts.

1. University of Melbourne

Founded in 1853, the University of Melbourne is one of Australia's oldest and most prestigious universities. It is renowned for its strong emphasis on research and its vibrant academic community. The University of Melbourne offers a variety of online Master's programmes, particularly in areas such as business, education, and public health. These programs are designed to provide students with a flexible yet rigorous education, making it an ideal choice for those seeking a world-class degree from a leading institution.

Find online Master’s programmes at the University of Melbourne

2. University of Sydney

The University of Sydney, established in 1850, is Australia's first university and is known for its rich history and diverse academic offerings. It offers a range of online Master's degrees, especially in fields like Law, Business, and Healthcare. The university is recognised for its commitment to research and strong global connections. Its online programmes are a great option for students who wish to gain a comprehensive and internationally respected education.

Find online Master’s programmes at the University of Sydney

3. University of Queensland (UQ)

Founded in 1909, the University of Queensland (UQ) is one of Australia’s leading research universities, known for its strengths in science, engineering, and social sciences. UQ offers a variety of online Master's programmes that reflect its commitment to innovation and academic excellence. These programmes are designed to be flexible and accessible, allowing students to pursue advanced studies while balancing work and other commitments, making UQ a top choice for online education in Oceania.

Find online Master’s programmes at the University of Queensland

4. Monash University

Established in 1958, Monash University is one of Australia’s largest universities. It is known for its global outlook and emphasis on research and education that makes a positive impact on society. Monash offers a broad selection of online Master's programmes, particularly in Healthcare and Education. The university's online degrees are designed to be highly flexible, catering to the needs of busy professionals and students from around the world who seek a high-quality education.

Find online Master’s programmes at Monash University

5. Australian National University (ANU)

The Australian National University (ANU), founded in 1946, is a leading research-intensive university located in Canberra. It is well-known for its focus on policy, international relations, and environmental science. ANU offers several online master's programs that reflect its strengths in these areas, providing students with access to its world-class faculty and resources. ANU’s online degrees are particularly valued for their strong research component and global perspective, making them an excellent choice for students seeking a rigorous academic experience.

Find online Master’s programmes at ANU

Affordable online Master’s degrees

Pursuing a Master’s degree from a prestigious university is amazing, but it can also be a significant investment, especially if you choose a university based in the US, the UK, or Australia. If you’re looking for more affordable online degrees, there are a couple of options:

Look for online programmes in the EU, especially if you’re a citizen of the European Union. Many universities offer cheaper and even free options for you. Also, have a look at this article about free universities in Europe to learn more on the subject.

Search for affordable online Master’s degrees on our portal, and then check Metaranking to find how well your chosen university performs in work rankings.

Conclusion

Online Master's degrees have become a crucial part of higher education worldwide, offering flexibility, accessibility, and a wide range of disciplines to choose from. Whether you're aiming to advance your career, switch fields, or gain specialised knowledge, universities across the globe provide robust online programmes that meet the needs of today’s students. With reputable institutions in countries like the United States, United Kingdom, Australia, and beyond offering top-tier online degrees, there’s never been a better time to pursue your educational goals from the comfort of your home.

Additional Resources

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What are the benefits of pursuing an online Master’s degree?

Online Master's degrees offer flexibility, allowing you to study at your own pace and from any location. They are ideal for working professionals, those with family commitments, or anyone seeking to balance their education with other responsibilities.

2. How do online Master’s degrees compare to on-campus programmes in terms of quality?

Many prestigious universities offer online Master's programmes that maintain the same rigorous standards as their on-campus counterparts. Accreditation, curriculum, and faculty often mirror those of traditional programmes, ensuring a high-quality education.

3. Can I network and connect with peers in an online Master’s programme?

Yes, online programmes often include various collaboration tools, such as discussion forums, group projects, and virtual events, allowing you to connect with peers and build a professional network even in a virtual environment.