Is 50 Too Old To Get a Master's Degree?

They say age is merely a number, but is 50 too old to get a master's degree?

The short answer is no; there is no age limit for obtaining a college education.

Here, we explore going back to school as an older adult learner and feature a selection of master's degree programs ideal for pursuing as a 50-year-old student.

Is 50 Too Old To Get a Master's Degree?

Many mature adult learners consider returning to school, but is 50 too old to get a master's degree?

The great thing is that there is always time to further your education, regardless of age, and pursuing a graduate degree later in life comes with many benefits.

Benefits of Getting a Master's Degree at 50

Getting a master's degree at 50 can be very beneficial, and it is a great opportunity to enhance your current career path or explore a job change.

Individuals in their 50s returning to college typically have decades of knowledge and understanding that can benefit their education.

Having more self-discipline and motivation as an experienced adult can also benefit college studies.

Older adults typically have a better focus on their career and professional goals, which is favorable when selecting a master's program that aligns with their objectives.

Deciding to obtain a master's degree at 50 also demonstrates to employers and hiring managers a willingness to adapt and grow, which can improve job opportunities and also looks great on a resume.

Can a 50-Year-Old Get Financial Aid for a Master's Degree?

Adult students in their 50s can explore several ways to help cover the costs of tuition and other college expenses that accompany getting a master's degree.

Completing the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) is an essential step in determining qualification for financial support in the form of scholarships, grants, loans, and other programs.

Free college after 50 is also feasible, with many tuition waivers and special scholarships available for eligible older adult learners from well-known accredited institutions.

Overall, the age of 50 is not too old to get a master's degree, and it can be a very worthwhile investment.

Featured Master's Degree Programs for 50-Year-Olds

Individuals in their 50s who wish to pursue a master's degree can find online programs ideal due to their flexibility and convenience.

Distance learning is advantageous for working professionals, especially those seeking a career change, who require flexible options to accommodate their busy schedules.

Many graduate degrees, such as a Master of Business Administration, Master of Science, or Master of Arts, are achievable at the age of 50, particularly through remote coursework.

Several accredited institutions offer master's degree programs through distance education, and the following list provides a few examples.

University of South Carolina

The University of South Carolina offers a wide selection of graduate studies through distance learning to 50-year-old students.

Examples of their online master's programs include:

• Education administration
• Hospitality and tourism
• Library and information science
• Healthcare leadership
• Nursing

This public university sets itself apart by having the highest number of nationally ranked graduate programs of all the institutions in the state of South Carolina.

Ball State University

Ball State University is a private research institution in Muncie, Indiana.

It provides career-specific training with its online graduate programs that assist adult learners in fulfilling their academic goals.

Students can earn master's degrees in the following areas:

• Business administration
• Elementary education
• Public relations
• Journalism
• Nursing

The curriculum in many of their graduate programs is designed for experienced professionals seeking to expand their education across in-demand fields.

East Carolina University

East Carolina University is a public institution in Greenville, North Carolina.

It offers multiple options for online graduate programs that meet the educational goals of students in their 50s.

Master's degrees accessible through distance learning include:

• Business administration
• Computer science
• Library science
• Nursing
• Education

Their Master of Business Administration and Master of Science in nursing degrees are among the most popular for adult learners, providing valuable instruction that advances the careers of working professionals.

Florida International University

Is 50 too old to get a master's degree? Not at Florida International University, which provides several Master of Arts and Master of Science programs ideal for older adult learners.

Graduate degrees in the following areas of study are available:

• Construction management
• Public administration
• Hospitality management
• Criminal justice
• Accounting

US News and World Report ranks their graduate programs among the best in the country for their affordability and academic excellence.

Regis University

Regis University is a private Catholic school in Denver, Colorado, offering more than 20 graduate programs that can be accessed online.

Their master's degrees cover areas of study such as:

• Information systems
• Human resources
• Accounting
• Nursing
• Education

Their academics are an excellent fit for individuals in their 50s who want to pursue a career-focused Jesuit education taught by top-ranked faculty.

Find the Best Master's Degree for 50-Year-Olds Today

Is 50 too old to get a master's degree? The answer is no; your age should not hinder your educational opportunities.

There are numerous online graduate programs tailored for individuals in their 50s, making it convenient to find the most suitable program today.