10 Part-Time Master's Degree Programs 2026

Published on:

March 30, 2026

Discover 10 part-time master’s degree programs with flexible schedules. You can compare online options and find a graduate degree that fits your busy life.

Earning a master’s degree can open the door to leadership roles, higher salaries, and specialized career paths, but committing to a full-time graduate program isn’t always realistic. Many professionals are balancing work, family, and other responsibilities that make traditional schedules difficult to manage.

Fortunately, part-time master’s degree programs offer a more flexible way to advance your education. With options like online coursework, asynchronous classes, and multiple start dates, these programs are designed to fit into busy lives while still delivering the same graduate-level credentials. Read on to explore how part-time master’s programs work and which schools offer flexible options.

Can You Earn a Master’s Degree Part-Time?

Yes, many universities offer part-time master’s degree programs that allow students to take fewer courses per term. This approach makes it easier to continue working or managing other responsibilities while pursuing a graduate degree.

Part-time students complete the same curriculum as full-time students and earn the same accredited degree. The primary difference is the pace, as part-time enrollment spreads coursework over a longer period.

What Part-Time Master’s Degrees Can You Earn Online?

Part-time master’s programs are designed for professionals who want to advance their careers while continuing to work. These programs span business, technology, healthcare, and public service fields. You can explore flexible options such as:

How Long Does a Master’s Degree Take Part-Time?

Most master’s degree programs require between 30 and 60 credit hours. Full-time students often complete their degree in one to two years, while part-time students typically take two to four years depending on their course load.

Program length can vary based on factors such as transfer credits, accelerated course options, and year-round enrollment. Some schools also offer flexible pacing models that allow students to move faster or slower depending on their schedule.

Best Part-Time Master’s Degree Programs

Many universities now offer master’s programs designed with working professionals in mind. The schools below provide flexible formats, accessible admissions pathways, and program structures that support part-time enrollment.

1. Georgia Institute of Technology

Georgia Tech offers flexible graduate programs such as its Master of Science (MS) in Computer Science and MS in Analytics, both of which are widely recognized for their affordability and accessibility. These programs are delivered online and allow students to complete coursework on a part-time basis.

The university’s performance-based admissions model makes these programs especially accessible to applicants with foundational STEM knowledge. Students who meet baseline requirements have a strong opportunity for admission without navigating overly restrictive entry barriers.

2. Harvard Extension School

Harvard Extension School provides part-time master’s degrees in fields such as management, psychology, and anthropology. Courses are offered online and on campus, allowing students to choose a format that fits their schedule.

The school follows an “earn your way in” model, meaning students begin by completing initial courses before being formally admitted into a degree program. This structure gives prospective students a chance to demonstrate their ability before committing fully.

3. Southern New Hampshire University

Southern New Hampshire University offers a wide range of online master’s programs, including degrees in finance, information technology, and psychology. Courses are designed to be completed on a flexible schedule, making them well-suited for part-time learners.

The university is known for its highly accessible admissions process, with no GRE or GMAT requirements and frequent start dates throughout the year. This allows students to begin their studies without long waiting periods.

4. University of Illinois

The University of Illinois offers innovative programs such as the iMBA and MS in Management, both designed with flexibility in mind. These programs are delivered online and can be completed part-time.

One key feature is the stackable format, which allows students to start with a shorter certificate program and later apply those credits toward a full master’s degree. This approach provides a lower-risk entry point into graduate education.

5. Liberty University

Liberty University offers flexible graduate programs such as an MS in Criminal Justice and a Master of Business Administration (MBA), both available in online formats. These programs are structured to accommodate part-time enrollment and busy schedules.

The university emphasizes accessibility through a streamlined admissions process and high acceptance rates. This makes it a practical option for students seeking a straightforward path into graduate study.

6. University of North Texas

The University of North Texas (UNT) offers graduate programs such as an MS in Data Science and an MBA, both of which can be completed with flexible scheduling options. Many courses are available online or in hybrid formats.

UNT is known for its adult-focused admissions approach, which considers applicants beyond traditional GPA metrics. This can be especially helpful for career changers or students returning to school after time in the workforce.

7. Ball State University

Ball State University provides part-time master’s programs in areas such as educational psychology and business administration. Many programs are available online, allowing students to balance coursework with other responsibilities.

The university combines nationally recognized programs with an accessible admissions process. Students benefit from strong academic quality while still having a relatively straightforward path to enrollment.

8. University of Massachusetts Amherst

University of Massachusetts Amherst (UMass Amherst) offers flexible online graduate programs, including an Online MBA and MS in Accounting. These programs are designed for working professionals who need scheduling flexibility.

Courses are typically asynchronous, meaning students can complete assignments on their own time without attending scheduled class sessions. Admissions decisions also place strong emphasis on professional experience rather than standardized test scores.

9. Florida State University

Florida State University (FSU) offers part-time master’s programs such as an MS in Criminology and an MS in Information Technology. These programs are available in flexible formats that support working students.

FSU is widely recognized for its support of non-traditional learners, including military and veteran students. This focus makes it a strong option for individuals with diverse educational and professional backgrounds.

10. Northeastern University

Northeastern University offers graduate programs such as an MS in Project Management and an MS in Commerce, many of which can be completed part-time or online. These flexible formats allow students to balance coursework with professional responsibilities while progressing toward their degree.

The university uses a holistic admissions approach that values professional experience and experiential learning. This allows applicants to demonstrate their qualifications beyond traditional academic metrics.

How We Rank Schools

To develop this list, we review data from sources such as the U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard, the National Center for Education Statistics (NCES), and official university websites. Our goal is to identify accredited institutions that offer flexible and accessible master’s degree programs for part-time students.

Because many graduate students are working professionals, we prioritize schools that provide adaptable scheduling, supportive admissions policies, and strong academic outcomes.

Accreditation: Each institution holds recognized accreditation, ensuring academic quality and eligibility for financial aid.
Program Flexibility: Schools must offer formats that support part-time enrollment, such as online coursework, asynchronous classes, or multiple start dates.
Admissions Accessibility: We consider programs with flexible admissions pathways, including test-optional policies or alternative entry models.
Career Relevance: Programs are evaluated based on their ability to prepare students for advancement, leadership roles, or specialized career paths.

Learn more about our ranking methodology.

Benefits of Part-Time Master’s Programs

Part-time master’s programs make it possible to pursue advanced education without stepping away from your career or personal responsibilities. This flexibility is one of the main reasons many professionals choose part-time graduate study. While these programs may take longer to complete, they allow students to integrate learning into their daily lives and apply new skills in real time.

Continue Advancing Your Career

Many students choose part-time programs so they can keep working while earning their degree. This allows them to gain experience, maintain income, and potentially apply new knowledge directly in their current role. Staying in the workforce can also help students build professional networks and position themselves for advancement after graduation.

Balance School With Other Responsibilities

Part-time enrollment typically involves a lighter course load, making it easier to manage assignments alongside work, family, and other commitments. This structure can reduce burnout and help students stay consistent throughout their program, especially over longer timelines.

Spread Out Education Costs

Instead of paying for a full course load each term, part-time students often pay per class. This allows them to distribute tuition costs over a longer period. Many students combine this approach with employer tuition assistance, scholarships, or financial aid to make graduate education more manageable.

Popular Majors for Part-Time Master’s Students

Many graduate programs are well-suited for part-time study, especially those offered online or in flexible formats. Students often choose fields that align with career advancement or skill development goals.

Business Administration: MBA programs develop leadership, finance, and strategic management skills applicable across industries.
Information Technology: IT programs focus on areas such as cybersecurity, data systems, and software development.
Psychology: Psychology degrees explore human behavior and can support careers in counseling, HR, or social services.
Data Science: Data science programs teach analytics, machine learning, and data-driven decision-making.
Criminal Justice: These programs prepare students for leadership roles in law enforcement, corrections, and public safety.
Education: Education degrees support career growth in teaching, administration, and instructional design.

FAQs About Part-Time Master’s Degrees

Students considering a part-time master’s program often have questions about scheduling, program length, and career outcomes. The answers below address some of the most common concerns about earning a graduate degree while managing other responsibilities.

Can You Work Full-Time While Earning a Master’s Degree Part-Time?

Yes, many students work full-time while completing a master’s degree part-time. Flexible program formats, especially online and asynchronous options, are designed to accommodate working professionals. With careful time management, it is possible to balance coursework, employment, and personal responsibilities.

How Long Does It Take to Complete a Part-Time Master’s Degree?

Most part-time master’s students complete their degree in two to four years. The exact timeline depends on the number of courses taken per term and whether students enroll year-round. Transfer credits or accelerated course options can sometimes shorten the overall time to completion.

Do Employers Value Part-Time Master’s Degrees?

Employers generally value master’s degrees from accredited institutions regardless of whether they were completed part-time or full-time. The degree awarded is the same and reflects the same academic standards. Employers typically focus more on skills, experience, and the reputation of the institution.

Are Online Part-Time Master’s Programs Credible?

Yes, many accredited universities offer fully online master’s programs that support part-time enrollment. These programs follow the same curriculum and are often taught by the same faculty as on-campus programs. As a result, they are widely recognized and respected by employers.

Can You Transfer Credits Into a Master’s Program?

Some universities allow students to transfer a limited number of graduate credits from previous coursework. Policies vary by institution, but transfer credits can reduce the number of courses required to complete the degree. This option can be especially helpful for students who have completed certificate programs or prior graduate study.

Explore Flexible Master’s Degree Programs

Explore master’s degree programs designed to fit your schedule and career goals. Learn.org can help you compare accredited universities, flexible learning formats, and part-time options that make it easier to take the next step in your education.