Best Online Graduate Schools

Top Consensus Ranked Schools for Online Master's Degrees 2021

Stanford University is known as the most popular “dream college” in America. It’s also one of the best graduate schools online. Online students receive all the rigor and challenge they might expect from a Stanford grad school education. However, they also get a lot of flexibility that they wouldn’t get inside the classroom.

The University of Pennsylvania is a leader in graduate education, which is just one reason why it ranks among the best online graduate schools. The University of Pennsylvania has many graduate and professional schools, and its online programs provide an accessible education to busy adults who want to advance their careers.

The University of Michigan has thriving graduate programs. In fact, this campus is one of the best graduate schools online today. With several campuses and plenty of talented faculty members, the University of Michigan offers many academic resources. Online grad students benefit from all the same resources as their on-campus peers.

Renowned for its research and student opportunities, Columbia University ranks as one of the best online graduate schools. The New York City location leaves a lot of room for possibility, even for students who learn from a distance. Plus, a graduate degree from Columbia is bound to make employers take notice.

The University of Virginia is a top choice for graduate students in the US, both for online and on-campus studies. This school is a leader in online opportunity, making it one of the best graduate schools online. Online students get all the benefits of learning from a large school. However, they also get a personalized education and one-on-one mentorship.

Washington University in St Louis is a school for high achievers. This university fosters each student’s individuality while challenging them to reach new academic heights. It’s also one of the best online graduate schools, since it’s a leader in both graduate education and online learning opportunities.

Northwestern University is one of the top public research universities in the United States. It’s also one of the best graduate schools online, with flexible programs that help students reach the next stages in their lives and careers. This school offers many graduate programs in the arts, engineering, education, and much more.

As the first public university in the United States, the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill is no stranger to leadership and innovation. It’s no wonder why it also ranks among the best online graduate schools. The online graduate programs here help students sharpen their passions while taking the next steps in their careers. Online grad students get the best of flexibility, challenge, and innovation.

The University of Florida is one of the top public research universities in the United States. It’s a challenging, high-ranking school where students are deeply challenged every day. Thanks to its history of innovation, the University of Florida is also one of the best graduate schools online today. Its programs are designed to provide flexibility while helping students reach their callings.

Georgetown University is one of the best online graduate schools, especially for students who value social justice, public service, and politics. Georgetown is a Jesuit Catholic school, so it values academic rigor and deep study. Graduate students benefit from these values while learning how to apply their degrees to a life of service.

As a top research university and a leader in innovation, the University of Wisconsin Madison is also one of the best graduate schools online. With over 250 graduate and professional studies options, UW Madison is full of opportunities for students to grow their careers and goals. UW Madison also offers internships and other chances for making connections.

The University of Texas Austin is a large public research university with all the resources students need to succeed. It has several well-respected graduate programs, and it’s one of the best online graduate schools in its region. Students get all the flexibility of an online education, but they also get all the leadership, creative opportunities, and other benefits of UT Austin’s in-classroom courses.

For STEM students, the Georgia Institute of Technology is one of the best graduate schools online. With its forward-thinking nature and commitment to innovation, this school has become a leader in graduate studies. The Georgia Institute of Technology stays aware of what contemporary students need most, and it maintains a commitment to meeting those needs.

Purdue University is a land grant university with a deep commitment to its students. Purdue ranks among the top schools for innovation, which is just one reason why it’s one of the best online graduate schools. The innovative thinking allows this school to provide the technology and flexibility that today’s students need most.

As a world-recognized public research university, the University of Washington in Seattle has become one of the best graduate schools online. Just like all of its programs, UW’s graduate programs foster big ideas, encourage questions, and help students step into exciting careers. Online graduate courses challenge students while connecting them to a diverse group of fellow online learners.

The University of Illinois makes a great school choice, both for graduate and undergraduate studies. It has thriving business and engineering programs, but it also provides strong academics in all of its courses. Plus, UIUC is one of the best online graduate schools, with programs that combine challenge with flexibility. Online grad students make connections and sharpen their skills.

California State University, Long Beach is a large university with the resources to go with its size. Among those resources are some excellent online courses, which is why it’s one of the best graduate schools online. Online students receive challenging, worthwhile, and career-building educations. Grad students especially benefit from these rigorous courses.

John’s Hopkins University is America’s first research university. As such, it has been a leader in education since day one. That’s one reason why this school ranks among the best online graduate schools; It’s not afraid to stand out among the crowd. Online grad classes here are challenging, thought-provoking, and forward thinking.

William and Mary has a long history. In fact, it’s the second oldest higher learning institution in the US. This school has come a long way since 1693, though, and now it’s one of the best graduate schools online. Grad students choose William and Mary for its cutting-edge research, mentorship opportunities, and online learning flexibility.

As a top private research institution, the University of Southern California has gained a lot of respect and admiration. This school is a leader across the board, and its online grad programs are no exception. That’s why USC has become one of the best online graduate schools for learners in the United States. Students may pursue an online graduate degree in the arts, sciences, and more.

The Citadel is a top-ranked university with many thriving online programs. This school is one of the best graduate schools online, especially for veterans and military members. As a military college, The Citadel is uniquely equipped to meet these students’ needs. This school’s online grad programs foster leadership abilities, discipline, and lifelong learning.

Texas A&M University has several campuses, but its main campus in College Station is particularly strong when it comes to online learning. In fact, it’s one of the best online graduate schools. Graduate programs include everything from science to liberal arts, and the online programs in particular provide lots of flexibility.

California State University, San Bernardino is one of the best graduate schools online. As a top research university, CSU San Bernardino has always been a leader in innovation. As a result, it meets the needs of contemporary students. Its online graduate programs provide a flexible learning schedule, but they also provide high standards for teaching and learning.

California State University, Northridge is a diverse and challenging university that has some excellent grad school options. It’s also a top choice for adult learners, since it’s one of the best online graduate schools. For online students as well as on-campus students, CSU Northridge stays committed to its students’ needs and career goals.

Known for its excellence in the arts and research, Carnegie Mellon University is also one of the best graduate schools online. Students can get a top-ranked education with all the flexibility that comes from online learning. From business to fine arts, Carnegie Mellon’s online grad programs help students reach new levels.

Virginia Tech is a public land grant institution and one of the best online graduate schools. This University is a top choice for those who love science, technology, and engineering. VT’s online graduate programs encourage research, deep thought, and connection. They also provide a level of flexibility that many other programs do not.

California State University, Dominguez Hills has one of the best graduate schools online. Online grad students benefit from CSU’s wealth of resources. They learn on a flexible schedule while working toward their professional goals. CSUDH blends deep academics with practical, career-based learning for students who want to challenge themselves and move forward.

As a premier research university, Lehigh University values innovation. That’s one reason why it’s one of the best online graduate schools. This school’s graduate programs have been recognized for their high quality. Learners enhance their leadership and research skills while advancing their careers. The online options provide a flexible learning schedule.

Wake Forest University is a private school that attracts students from all over the world. As one of the top national universities, Wake Forest offers deep academics and opportunities to make connections. Online graduate students can study anything from neuroscience to the humanities. In any case, this school provides academic challenge and student support, and it’s one of the best graduate schools online.

James Madison University encourages students to take action. Even in its online programs, students learn how to take a hands-on approach to learning. That’s why JMU is one of the best online graduate schools. Its online graduate offerings include education, political science, business education, and nursing programs.

The University of Georgia is one of America’s top research universities. It’s also one of the best graduate schools online today. It has some of the foremost graduate studies programs, including nutrition programs, economics, communication, and many more. All of these programs help students sharpen their expertise and become competitors in the career field.

Though North Carolina State University began as an agriculture and engineering university, it thrives today across all disciplines. It has particularly strong graduate programs and is one of the best online graduate schools for students who want both excellence and flexibility. That’s why it’s a top choice for students who don’t want to compromise.

The University of Northern Iowa is one of the top public universities in the Midwest region. It’s also one of the best graduate schools online. UNI’s online graduate programs help students stand out, reach their goals, and move further into their careers. Students get a high quality graduate education without sacrificing their other responsibilities.

The Ohio State University is a large, thriving university that is recognized all over the world. OSU is also one of the best online graduate schools, partly because it offers programs that a lot of other online universities don’t offer. For example, students can earn a Master’s in Plant Health Management, Learning Technologies, or Global Engineering Leadership.

Known for its research and highly-ranked academics, Michigan State University is also one of the best graduate schools online. MSU’s online programs include a wide range of options in science, nursing, and education. All of these programs provide a high quality education and meet the same standards as their on-campus counterparts.

Appalachian State University provides an education with a purpose. This school helps students step confidently into the next step of their lives. On top of its other great programs, Appalachian State University is one of the best online graduate schools. App State’s online graduate programs provide small class sizes and personalized attention.

The University of Connecticut has several campuses, including a flourishing online campus. The eCampus provides a surprising amount of personalization, and professors work closely with their students to provide the best education. That’s part of the reason why UConn ranks among the best graduate schools online.

Bentley University is one of the best online graduate schools for students who want to go into business. Bentley is uniquely focused on business education, so it’s a top choice among entrepreneurs and those who want to climb the business ladder. Online graduate courses offer flexibility while imparting advanced business knowledge.

Eastern Illinois University is a public university with a commitment to excellence and accessibility. That accessibility is just one reason why EIU is one of the best graduate schools online. Its online graduate programs don’t compromise on quality, but they do offer flexible schedules for non-traditional students.

Located across Minneapolis-St Paul, the University of Minnesota Twin Cities stands out for several reasons; its unique location is just one of them. UM Twin Cities also stands apart thanks to its online grad programs. As one of the best online graduate schools in its region, this school provides rigorous programs to help students get ahead in their careers.

Florida State University is widely respected for all of its disciplines, including its online grad school programs. This school is one of the best graduate schools online. FSU Global provides a full educational experience for students who have responsibilities outside of school. Students work with faculty to get the most out of their education.

George Washington University is one of the best graduate schools online, especially for students who want to study politics, public policy, and similar topics. Even for online students, this school’s Washington DC location provides a close look at politics in the United States. GWU offers online programs in everything from communications to public health.

Boston University is a private research institution that can help students go far in their careers. It’s also one of the best online graduate schools in its region. Boston has won several awards and recognitions for its online programs, including recognitions for its Business, Computer IT, and Criminal Justice programs.

Brandeis University is a private research university with a unique focus on the liberal arts. As such, it provides students with a well-rounded education. Brandeis also stands out as one of the best graduate schools online. Brandeis University offers several online graduate programs, all of which are robust and challenging.

Rutgers University New Brunswick is the main Rutgers campus, and it’s one of the best online graduate schools in its area. The online graduate programs at Rutgers provide a quality education while connecting students with the resources they’ll need to succeed in the next phases of their careers.

As both a research institution and a teaching institution, Northeastern College stands out. It’s also one of the best graduate schools online. Its online programs are robust but flexible, helping students move forward in their careers without sacrificing any of their current responsibilities. In addition to full degrees, Northwestern also offers graduate certificates.

Indiana University of Bloomington is one of the best online graduate schools. Bloomington’s graduate programs are designed to help students stretch their limits as they take the next steps in their lives and careers. Uniquely student-centered, IUB’s online programs let graduate students make their educations their own.

Favoring boldness and curiosity, Tulane University is one of the best graduate schools online. Tulane has offered online learning for more than ten years, so it’s no stranger to providing what adult learners need for success. Tulane’s online graduate programs include degrees in education, law, public health, and more.

California State University, Fullerton provides the resources and experiences that one would expect from a CSU education. Furthermore, it’s one of the best online graduate schools. Fullerton’s online graduate programs come with many tools and resources, as well as personalized support from faculty members and advisors.

University of Maryland College Park ranks among the top public research universities in the United States. One of the reasons for this distinction is the fact that it’s one of the best graduate schools online. The university has challenging academic programs for grad students, and the online learning format combines quality with flexibility.

John Brown University is one of the best online graduate schools for students who want a Christian education. As a private Christian school, John Brown University blends spirituality into its education. John Brown is also one of the top universities in its region, with high academic standards that make it a good choice for graduate students.

The University of Miami is a large public research university that has a lot to offer its students. Graduate students, both online and on campus, benefit from the many resources that this school has to offer. The University of Miami has become one of the best graduate schools online, for students in Florida and beyond.

For students interested in science, technology, and other STEM subjects, New Mexico Tech is one of the best online graduate schools. Its online grad classes combine all the flexibility of online learning with all the rigor of a STEM education. It’s a top choice for students who want the best of both.

University of Illinois at Chicago is a bustling university with some great online programs. Grad students in particular should check out this school, as it’s one of the best graduate schools online today. The big city connections can benefit even online students. Plus, this school is recognized for its value and diversity in learning.

Southern Methodist University is a nonsectarian private school that has educated students for over a century. This school is strong in both the humanities and the sciences, and it’s one of the best online graduate schools. Its online graduate programs combine academic challenge with flexible scheduling.

The University of Michigan Dearborn is an important part of the broader UMich system. It’s also one of the best graduate schools online, thanks to its many resources and career-focused programs. This university supports students as they build their careers, whether those students are just starting their journeys or ready to take more advanced steps.

Cedarville University is a private Christian school and one of the best online graduate schools. Grad students choose this school when they don’t want to compromise on faith, flexibility, or worthwhile academics. At Cedarville, students get all three. Cedarville proudly teaches every course from a Bible-based worldview.

New York University is one of the most well-known and well-respected schools in the United States. It’s no surprise, then, that it’s also one of the best graduate schools online. A leader in innovation, New York University has the resources to provide an excellent online education. Plus, NYU’s city connections can benefit students in their careers.

As one of the best online graduate schools in the Midwest, the University of Iowa has a lot to offer for its students. This public research university is the second-largest university in its state, so it’s no stranger to innovation, opportunity, or resources. This school attracts grad students across all core disciplines.

The University of Arizona is a top choice for online learning. More specifically, it’s one of the best graduate schools online. As a leader in online education, the University of Arizona provides the tools and resources that students need for online learning success. All the while, it imparts key skills and training.

Milwaukee School of Engineering is a private university that focuses on STEM and business. For students pursuing these subjects, this school is one of the best online graduate schools. Students can dive deeply into STEM topics while enjoying the flexibility of an online education. Small class sizes mean that students can get to know their cohorts.

Villanova University is the only Augustinian Catholic university in the United States. As such, it promotes peace, justice, and of course, faith-based learning. For these reasons, it’s one of the best graduate schools online for Augustinian Catholic students. Villanova embraces diversity, including full acceptance of LGBTQIA students.

The University of Wisconsin La Crosse provides the best of all worlds. It’s part of a large university system, so it has plenty of student resources, but it’s also a small school, so it provides a personal education. It’s also one of the best online graduate schools in Wisconsin, so it’s garnered a lot of attention for online learning.

California State University, Fresno ranks among the best graduate schools online. As part of the Cal State system, it has a lot to offer for grad students, both online and on campus. As a public research university, this school’s discoveries make an impact on California and beyond. Plus, it provides a flexible learning experience for those who need it most.

University of Massachusetts Amherst is a land grant university that began as an agricultural college. Now, this school provides a full educational experience. It has even become one of the best online graduate schools in its region. Grad students choose UMass Amherst for its academic challenge, diversity, and student support.

Clemson University is one of the foremost land-grant universities in the United States. And as one of the best graduate schools online, it’s also become a top choice for students who want to take the next steps in their careers and educations. Clemson promotes excellence through academics, individuality, and hard work.

The University of Delaware is a research-centered university that has also become one of the best online graduate schools. This school makes positive changes in Delaware and beyond. With its commitment to innovation and excellence, it attracts forward-thinking students with a passion for growth.

Case Western Reserve University is the highest-ranked private research university in Ohio. This diverse and welcoming school is also one of the best graduate schools online, especially for students who want to go into social work or engineering. Case Western’s online learning platform provides support for busy students.

Stony Brook University is an important part of the SUNY system. It has made some big differences in the world with its research, and it’s also become one of the best online graduate schools. Having gained worldwide recognition for its research, Stony Brook University can help students looking for a career boost.

Central Washington University is one of the best graduate schools online. It offers small classes and personalized education, which benefits even online students. Fully online courses provide students with flexibility, while academic challenges help students reach their full potential.

As one of the top-ranked universities in Maryland, Salisbury University is also one of the best online graduate schools for students who aren’t afraid of a challenge. This school values diversity and collaboration, which can help online students who may otherwise feel isolated by remote learning. Salisbury provides a highly immersive experience.

The University of San Diego is a Catholic university that promotes excellence and ethics. It’s also one of the best graduate schools online, especially for students who share this school’s Catholic values. As a research university, the University of San Diego blends faith and innovation. It also offers much support for online learners.

As the oldest public university on the west coast, San Jose State University doesn’t shy away from leadership or forging new pathways. That’s one of the reasons why this school has become one of the best online graduate schools in the area. Its forward-thinking nature means that it can meet the needs of today’s students.

Illinois Tech is the only technological university in Chicago. As such, it has gained a lot of attention from STEM and business students. It has also become one of the best graduate schools online, with the resources and innovative thinking required to support all students. This school attracts students who value creativity and discovery.

Iowa State University is distinctly student-centered. By always putting students first, Iowa State University has become one of the best online graduate schools. Even online students can rest assured that their needs will be met. Online grad students get a challenging education with plenty of support to go with it.

American University is a top school for political-minded students. It’s also a top choice for online Master’s programs, with no GRE required and 24/7 course access. Thanks to its wide variety of program options and focus on leadership skills, American University is one of the best graduate schools online.

Hamline University was the first university in the state of Minnesota. In the past several years, Hamline has also become one of the best online graduate schools. Deeply rooted in the liberal arts, Hamline provides a well-rounded and balanced education. Students here sharpen their leadership skills and develop social justice awareness.

Syracuse University is one of the top schools in the US and one of the best graduate schools online today. Syracuse takes an interdisciplinary approach to education, so students can experience connections in education. Grad students in particular get a challenging education, and they benefit from flexible scheduling options.

Buena Vista University is a private university that helps students discover opportunities and grow into their potential. This is true for both undergraduate and graduate students, as Buena Vista is one of the best online graduate schools. Online students get the same challenge and opportunity as their on-campus peers.

The University of Tulsa is a STEM-centered university that values creative discovery. This school ranks among the best graduate schools online, especially for students who want to sharpen their math, science, and technology skills. Graduate students take their skills to the next level, increasing their career potential.

Focusing on the technical arts and sciences, Worcester Polytechnic Institute is one of the best online graduate schools. This university is committed to providing a deeply relevant education. Students here learn the skills they’ll need for today’s most in-demand careers. Online grad students take their learning to the next level.

Santa Clara University is a private Jesuit institution. It has become one of the best online graduate schools for students who value social justice and the Catholic faith. With small class sizes and personal attention, Santa Clara University provides a supportive college experience, even for students who learn online.

Radford University is one of the best graduate schools online in the southeast region. This comprehensive research university helps students reach their academic and career goals, all while providing the support they need for success. Online students benefit from challenging academic experiences.

As a Christian research university, Pepperdine appeals to students who value discovery and faith. Pepperdine blends both of these values into their challenging academics. Pepperdine is also one of the best online graduate schools, providing online grad students with the same values as their on-campus peers.

The University of Central Florida has earned recognition for a lot of reasons, including diversity, ROI, community impact, and quality in education. It also gets counted among the best graduate schools online. Grad students in online classes benefit from all the factors that make UCF stand out.

Marquette University is a private Jesuit school that inspires students who want to make a difference. This is true both for undergraduate and grad students, and for both online learners and on-campus learners. As a result, Marquette has become one of the best online graduate schools for those who value social justice.

La Salle University has a long and rich history as a private Catholic school. Its faith and excellence in education make La Salle one of the best graduate schools online today. Catholic grad students can deepen their faith as they push their academic limits, all while getting flexibility in their course schedules.

West Chester University of Pennsylvania is one of the best online graduate schools. This comprehensive university provides a well-rounded and challenging education as it supports online learners. This school supports diversity, including neurodiversity, with programs that center autistic students.

Towson University is a top public university, and it’s also one of the best graduate schools online. Towson is committed to helping students take advantage of opportunities. For grad students, this means getting support and flexibility as they move into the next stages of their educations and careers.

Michigan Tech is a public research university with a focus in STEM subjects. For students who appreciate science and technology, Michigan Tech is one of the best online graduate schools. This schools online learning platform provides grad students with flexibility and support from faculty members.

George Mason University is a public research school and a leader in education. As such, it’s one of the best graduate schools online. With its commitment to leadership and innovation, George Mason University provides an excellent learning platform for grad students and online students.

As part of the broader Cal State system, California State University, East Bay serves the Bay Area with its research and teaching. However, it’s not just for Bay Area residents. In fact, it’s one of the best online graduate schools, so it makes a great choice for distance learning. Grad students can get a challenging and prestigious education from a distance.

Montclair University is a research institution that ranks among the top schools in the US. Specifically, it’s one of the best online graduate schools for today’s busy learners. With its long history of leadership and academic challenge, Montclair helps graduate students prepare for success, providing excellence in education.

SUNY College at Brockport is a liberal arts college that provides a balanced education, both for online students and those who’d prefer to learn on campus. It also has some excellent graduate programs, which makes SUNY Brockport one of the best graduate schools online. Small class sizes and in-depth learning make SUNY Brockport a top choice.

Webster University provides a top-quality education, especially for graduate students. Online graduate students can choose from many program options, including programs in the arts, technology, education, and more. This wide range of options is part of what makes Webster one of the best online graduate schools.

Winona State University has a great distance learning program. In fact, this university is one of the best graduate schools online. The distance learning program is designed to help students maintain a balance between their school, work, and home lives. All the while, it provides a high quality learning experience.

As one of the most renowned universities in the US, the University of Pittsburgh is also one of the best online graduate schools in its region. This university attracts top scholars from all across the United States. Online grad students can expect challenge and growth, even as they benefit from the flexibility of distance learning.

Rutgers University is the #1 public university in New Jersey, thanks to its academic prestige and full range of learning opportunities. For example, Rutgers is one of the country’s best graduate schools online. The online learning platform has plenty of Master’s degree programs to choose from.

The University at Buffalo is a challenging, dynamic school. It’s a first-choice graduate school for many students, and it’s one of the best online graduate schools. Buffalo provides enough flexibility for school/life balance, but it doesn’t compromise on the quality academics that students have come to expect.

Dominican University is a Catholic school with a reputation for advanced knowledge. This school emphasizes relevance and deep thought, and it’s one of the best graduate schools online. Catholic students seek Dominican for an education with faith and flexibility.