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How to Become a Social Worker: Salary, Career Path & Online BSW Degree Programs (2023)

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CONTENTS

Social Work is one of the bedrocks of a compassionate modern society. Life is unpredictable and difficult situations can strike anyone at any time. Social Work Practitioners (commonly referred to as “Social Workers”) are the trained professionals who help guide individuals through times of trauma and stress. The job of a Social Work Practitioner is extensive, and can include: mental health, domestic violence, substance abuse, food/housing insecurity, divorce, life transitions, depression, aging, parenting difficulties, incarceration, and behavioral or emotional issues. 

To become a Licensed Social Worker (LSW), you must obtain a number of educational and experiential qualifications and fulfill your state’s licensure requirements. In this article, we detail the steps for how to become a Licensed Social Worker and provide curriculum and admission descriptions for the top 10 online bachelor’s degree programs in Social Work.

How to Become a Licensed Social Worker

Step-by-Step: How to become a Licensed Social Worker

  • Step 1: Determine the licensing requirements for the state in which you intend to work 
  • Step 2: Obtain a bachelor’s degree in Social Work (BSW)
  • Step 3: Complete the requisite number of supervised field practice hours determined by your state
  • Step 4: Apply to your state’s licensing board for licensure approval
  • Step 5: Pass the bachelors-level ASWB licensing exam
  • Step 6: *Obtain a master’s degree in Social Work (if your state requires it)
  • Step 7: *Pass the masters-level ASWB licensing exam (if your state requires it)

Licensure requirements to become a Social Worker vary by state. It is imperative that you research and understand the specific licensing requirements for your respective state before choosing a degree program. Every state has a Social Work Regulatory Board which determines the licensing requirements to become a Social Worker. You can access a list of Social Work Regulatory Boards for each state here.

In many states, a bachelor’s degree in Social Work (BSW) is the minimum credential needed to become a Licensed Social Worker. Many online bachelor degree programs in Social Work offer concentrations for students who want to specialize in a particular field of Social Work, such as: mental health, women’s health, child and family services, geriatrics, hospices, forensics and court cases, schools, nonprofit organizations, public health agencies, religious organizations, uniformed and veteran services, and private practice. Individuals interested in pursuing a bachelor’s degree in Social Work should research the available concentrations at each of their schools of interest in order to choose the right program for their desired career goals. 

how to become a social worker

Association of Social Work Boards LSW Exam

Upon graduating from a bachelor’s degree program in Social Work, you must pass the national licensing exam administered by the Association of Social Work Boards (ASWB). The bachelors-level ASWB exam is a four hour exam of 170 multiple choice questions. The exam tests student’s comprehension of Social Work in four major categories: 1) Human Development, Diversity and Behavior in the Environment; 2) Assessment; 3) Interventions with Clients/Client Systems; and 4) Professional Relationships, Values and Ethics.

If your state requires a master’s degree in Social Work for licensure, you must pass the masters-level ASWB exam. The master-level exam is a four hour exam of 170 multiple choice questions. The exam tests for beginning social work knowledge, skills and abilities in four major categories: 1) Human Development, Diversity and Behavior in the Environment; 2) Assessment and Intervention Planning; 3) Interventions with Clients/Client Systems; and 4) Professional Relationships, Values and Ethics.

Some state boards require additional examinations to become a Licensed Social Work. Check with the social work board in your state or province to determine whether the ASWB examination is the only exam you need to take to become an LSW.

Salary and Job Outlook for Social Workers

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the median annual salary for Social Workers is $51,760 with the highest 10% earning more than $85,820 per year. 

In 2020, the states with the highest concentration of jobs in Social Work were: 1) Montana; 2) Oregon; 3) Maine; 4) California; and 5) South Carolina. 

The top 5 paying states for Social Workers in 2020 were: 1) Hawaii – $85,740; 2) Massachusetts – $84,540; 3) Nevada – $82,410; 4) Rhode Island – $79,720; and 5) Virginia – $77,060. 

Employment for Social Workers is projected to grow by 12% through 2030. This is faster than the average for all occupations and translates into 78,300 new job openings for Social Workers each year. 

Professional Organizations for Social Workers

National Association of Social Workers

“Founded in 1955, the National Association of Social Workers (NASW) is the largest membership organization of professional social workers in the world. NASW works to enhance the professional growth and development of its members, to create and maintain professional standards, and to advance sound social policies.”

The Association of Social Work Boards

“ASWB is the nonprofit organization composed of the social work regulatory boards and colleges of all 50 U.S. states, the District of Columbia, the U.S. Virgin Islands, Guam, the Northern Mariana Islands, and all 10 Canadian provinces. ASWB owns and maintains the social work licensing examinations that are used to test a social worker’s competence to practice ethically and safely.”

American Academy of Social Work & Social Welfare

“The Academy is an honorific society of distinguished scholars and practitioners dedicated to achieving excellence in the field of social work and social welfare through high-impact work that advances social good.”

The Clinical Social Work Association

“The Clinical Social Work Association (CSWA) is a national individual membership organization dedicated to providing essential services, products, professional support, and national identity for Clinical Social Workers. CSWA membership consists of clinical social workers, new professionals (clinical social workers who have graduated within the last four years), emeritus members, and students.”

American Board of Clinical Social Work

“The American Board of Clinical Social Work (ABCSW) is the national standard-setting organization for the profession of Clinical Social Work. The ABCSW sets and promotes national practice standards, publishes position statements, issues the Board Certified Diplomate in Clinical Social Work (BCD) credentials for advanced clinical generalists, clinical supervisors, children/families practitioners and psychoanalysts, and maintains an online directory of certificants.”

how to become a social worker

How Much do Online Bachelor’s Degree Programs in Social Work Cost?

The cost for online bachelor’s degree programs in Social Work typically fall within the range of $200 to $500 per credit hour. With the average program consisting of around 120 credit hours of coursework, the total cost of an online bachelor’s degree program ranges from $24,000 to $65,000 when all other fees and expenses are factored in. Most BSW degree programs allow students to transfer credits from other schools in order to lessen their financial burden and shorten their time of study. 

Comparing costs between online BSW degree programs is a great first step to reducing your financial burden. There are many other ways you can reduce your tuition costs as well. For example, many online BSW degree programs offer discounts to veterans, active-duty service members and their families. 

Grants and Scholarships are another great option for lowering your cost of schooling. The Council on Social Work Education (CSWE) website has a searchable database of funding opportunities for Social Work education categorized by degree level and type including scholarships, contests, awards, fellowships, and grants. BSW students should also reach out to their university’s financial aid department as many schools offer scholarships to exceptional students and financial aid for those in need. You can also consult your local chapter of the National Association of Social Workers for other BSW funding opportunities.

Accreditation for Online Bachelor’s Degree Programs in Social Work

The Council on Social Work Education (CSWE) is the accrediting body for online BSW degree programs. CSWE-accreditation ensures that a BSW program’s curriculum meets the rigorous academic standards for competent preparation in Social Work. The CSWE Office of Social Work Accreditation administers a multistep process to accredit BSW degree programs in accordance with its recognition body, the Council for Higher Education Accreditation (CHEA). 

Many states require students to graduate from a CSWE-accredited program in order to qualify for licensure. You also need to be enrolled in a nationally or regionally accredited university in order to qualify for federal financial aid. The Council for Higher Education (CHEA) maintains a database of accredited institutions. You can search the name of your BSW program of interest and find out its accreditation status here.

Admission Requirements for Online Bachelor’s Degree Programs in Social Work

Admission requirements for online bachelor’s degree programs in Social Work vary depending on the prestige and competitiveness of the school.

In general, applicants need a solid GPA (2.5 or higher), SAT or ACT standardized test scores, high school transcript or GED, recommendation letters and a personal statement. Some online bachelor degree programs in Social Work prefer applicants who have 1 or 2 years of volunteer or work experience in a role related to Social Work.

International applicants may need to prove proficiency in English by submitting their scores from any of the following exams: Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL), International English Language Testing System (IELTS), American Council on the Teaching of Foreign Language (ACTFL), or Pearson Test of English Academic (PTEA).

What Jobs Can I Get With an Online Bachelor’s Degree in Social Work?

There are many career options for individuals who hold a bachelor’s degree in Social Work (BSW). They include: 

  • Foster care/adoption
  • Researcher
  • Social worker (school, medical, hospice, international, gerontological, forensic)
  • Case manager
  • Addictions counselor
  • Policy analyst
  • Community organizer
  • Victim advocate
how to become a social worker

Top 10 Online Bachelor’s Degree Programs in

Social Work

1. Grand Canyon University | Bachelor of Social Work

Grand Canyon University’s Bachelor of Social Work program is 100% online and delivered in an asynchronous format so that students can take their classes anywhere at any time. The program consists of 120 credit hours and is designed to promote understanding of human behavior and prepare future social workers to improve the wellbeing of individuals, families and communities in diverse settings. Each course runs for seven weeks and the program concludes with a capstone seminar in which students present an original final project. Graduates of the program are prepared to be entry-level social workers but must obtain a Master of Social Work to become a fully licensed Social Worker. 

There is no specified minimum GPA required for admission to Grand Canyon University’s online Bachelor of Social Work program but matriculating students have an average GPA of 3.55. Applicants are not required to submit standardized test scores but are encouraged to if they believe their GPA is a weak spot in their application. The total cost of tuition for the program without financial aid is $57,240 or $477 per credit hour. A discounted rate is offered to active duty and active reserve personnel.

2. Our Lady of the Lake University | Bachelor of Social Work

The online Bachelor of Social Work program offered by Our Lady of the Lake University is CSWE-accredited and prepares students to take the LSW exam and receive a Violence Prevention and Intervention (VPI) Certification. The degree program is designed to address the nation’s growing Hispanic population through a Hispanic-focused curriculum. Full time enrollees can complete the program’s 120 credits of coursework in four years. The university allows accepted students to transfer up to 72 credits from previous undergraduate studies. 

Admission to Our Lady of the Lake University requires at least a 2.5 GPA with a minimum score of 840 on the SAT or at least 2.0 GPA with a minimum score of 880 on the SAT. Students who do not meet the GPA or Standardized Test score requirements must submit letters of recommendation, a resume and a personal statement with their application. The cost of tuition for the program is $57,000 or $475 per credit hour.

3. King University | Bachelor of Social Work

King University’s Bachelor of Social Work program is 100% online and delivered in an asynchronous format so you can attend class at whatever time is convenient for you. The program consists of 124 credit hours of coursework and 400 hours of field practicum education. King University boasts more than 60 employment field practicum partners nationwide and internationally so that online students can complete their required field practicum hours at a location most convenient for them. The Bachelor of Social Work degree program is CSWE-accredited and prepares students to sit for the ASWB exam upon graduating. 

Applicants must have a minimum 2.2 GPA for admission. Students who do not meet the minimum GPA requirement may be considered for admission on a conditional basis. Applicants must also submit their high school transcript and a 500-word personal statement with their online application. The cost of the program is $37,820 or $305 per credit hour.

4. Campbellsville University | Bachelor of Social Work

Campbellsville University offers a faith-based education that prepares its students to become Christian servant leaders in the field of Social Work. The university’s Bachelor of Social Work degree program is CSWE-accredited, 100% online and delivered in an asynchronous format so students can study whenever best fits their schedule. The program consists of 120 credit hours of coursework and 450 hours of field practicum experience. 

Admission to Campbellsville University’s BSW program is a two-step process. Applicants must first apply to Campbellsville University by submitting an online application and their high school transcript. Upon acceptance to Campbellsville University, applicants then apply to the university’s Carver School of Social Work. The cost of tuition for the BSW program is $47,8880 or $399 per credit hour.

5. Notre Dame College | Bachelor of Science in Social Work

Notre Dame College’s Bachelor of Science in Social Work program is 100% online and delivered in an asynchronous format. The program caters to individuals who desire the  foundational knowledge and skills to pursue entry-level positions and licensure in social work. The degree program consists of 112 credit hours of coursework which full time enrollees can complete in 4 years. Notre Dame College allows matriculating students to transfer up to 90 credit hours of previous coursework from a regionally accredited institution. 

Applicants must have a minimum 2.5 GPA for admission. Standardized test scores are not required but can be submitted to strengthen your application. The cost of the program is $59,400 or $495 per credit hour. Notre Dame College is a participant in the Yellow Ribbon Program and offers a discounted rate to U.S. military veterans and active duty service members.

6. Point University | Bachelor of Social Work

Point University aligns the curriculum of its Bachelor of Social Work program to meet the rigorous standards of CSWE and their accreditation is pending. The program is 100% online and delivered in an asynchronous format. Students of the 120 credit hour program gain real-world experience through internships and field practicum education. Full time enrollees typically complete the program in 4 years. Accepted students can transfer up to 90 credit hours of previous coursework from a regionally accredited institution and complete the program in two years. 

Applicants must have a minimum 2.0 GPA for admission. Students who do not meet the minimum GPA requirement may qualify for probationary admission. There is no application fee and standardized test scores are not required. The cost of the program is $49,200 or $410 per credit hour.

7. East Central University | Bachelor of Social Work

East Central University’s Bachelor of Social Work is 100% online and accredited by the CSWE. The program consists of 124 credit hours of coursework and a hands-on internship. Full time enrollees can complete the program in 4 years. Students who wish to shorten the length of their study can transfer up to 94 credits of previous coursework from an accredited institution. 

Applicants must have a minimum 2.25 GPA and submit SAT/ACT scores for admission. The cost of the program for Oklahoma residents is $32,767 or $264.25 per credit hour. The cost for out-of-state students is $541.19 per credit hour.

8. Greenville University | Bachelor of Social Work

Greenville University’s Bachelor of Social Work program is 100% online and accredited by the CSWE. The program consists of 120 credit hours of coursework and 400 hours of fieldwork experience. Full time enrollees can complete the program in 4 years. Students who wish to shorten the length of their study can submit up to 69 credits of previous coursework from an accredited institution. 

Applicants must have a minimum 2.0 GPA for admission. There is no application fee and standardized test scores are not required. The cost of the program is $459 per credit hour.

9. Methodist University | Bachelor of Social Work

Methodist University’s Bachelor of Social Work program is 100% online and accredited by the CSWE. The BSW program boasts a small student-to-teacher ratio that gives students the opportunity to interact with their professors for personalized help. The program consists of 124 credits hours and is typically completed in 3.5 years by full-time enrollees. Students can transfer up to 93 credit hours from previous coursework. The cost of the program is $46,900 or $400 per credit hour. The university offers discounted tuition for veterans, active-duty service members and their families.

10. Mount Vernon Nazarene University | Bachelor of Social Work

Mount Vernon Nazarene University’s Bachelor of Social Work program is 100% online, CSWE-accredited and designed for students who have an associate degree in social work or human services. Students with a minimum of 56 credit hours of coursework from an accredited university are eligible to apply. The program consists of 46 credit hours which full-time students can complete in as little as 27 months. The cost of the program is $16,100 or $350 per credit hour.

Take the Next Step!

Are you ready to make the world a better place through the power of Social Work? Go and explore the websites of the top online BSW programs listed above to request additional information and obtain an online application. You are now one step closer to reaching your career goal to become a Social Work Practitioner. Good luck! 

Not sure if a career in Social Work is right for you?

Click here to explore other great career options and online degree programs.

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How to Become a History Teacher: Salary, Career Outlook and Online Degree Programs (2023)

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CONTENTS

The ideal history teacher is someone who loves to learn about and discuss how historical events of the past have determined and influenced our present conditions. You should become a history teacher if you have a passion for studying history and enjoy teaching it to others. A career as a history teacher is also a great option for someone who likes variety, as there are many different historical genres you can teach. 

You will learn on your journey to become a history teacher that historical genres are characterized by time period, geographic location and the specific population being studied. When you become a history teacher, your choice of historical genre spans the entire time and space of recorded human history. From ancient Chinese civilization to the era of the roaring 20’s in the United States. You will certainly come across a genre that interests you the most on your journey to become a history teacher. 

Teaching History is also one of the most rewarding professions because teachers are generally revered in their communities and admired by their students. Almost everyone can recall that one special teacher who inspired them to achieve their life’s goals. And when you become a history teacher you will be both a source of historical knowledge and inspiration for your students as well. 

So exactly how does one become a history teacher? Let’s take a look at all the steps you need to take to become a history teacher in the next section.

Step-by-Step: How to Become a History Teacher

  1. Determine the state-specific requirements for teaching licensure in the state you intend to teach
  2. Obtain a bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution
  3. Fulfill your state’s requirements for teacher licensure
  4. Apply for teacher certification
  5. Click here for your state’s teaching licensure requirements

Step 1: Determine the state-specific requirements for teaching licensure in the state you intend to teach

Every state has different requirements to become a licensed history teacher. It’s important to determine what those requirements are as they will guide you in choosing the degree programs you apply to. Find your state’s requirements here.

After you determine the state you intend to teach in, find answers to the following questions about that state’s teaching licensure requirements:

how to become a teacher
  • What educational requirements do you need to complete? In most states, a bachelor’s degree is the highest level of education you need to become a history teacher. However, some states may require less or more depending on the level you want to teach. 
  • Do I need to major in history to become a history teacher? Most states are flexible when it comes to choosing an undergraduate major, but you may need to fulfill a certain number of credit hours of history coursework to become a history teacher. 
  • What national and/or state licensing exams do you need to pass to become a history teacher? The Praxis Series is the most commonly used exam to obtain a teaching certification but not every state requires it. You can find your state’s Praxis requirements here.
  • What additional prerequisites, if any, must you satisfy for licensure as a history teacher?

Step 2: Obtain a bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution to become a history teacher 

A bachelor’s degree is the lowest level of education you need to become a history teacher at the elementary and secondary level. In most states, you need a master’s or doctorate degree to teach history at the undergraduate and graduate level. Again, make sure you determine your state’s specific requirements as you map out your teaching career plans. This will help you choose the best school and degree program for your professional goals. 

How to choose a school: 

  • Check the accreditation status of every online degree program you are interested in applying to. We make this step easier for you, as every online degree program listed later in this article is accredited. 
  • Confirm that your desired accredited online degree program satisfies your state’s licensing requirements for history teachers. 
  • Check for any pre-enrollment requirements the school may have. For example, some degree programs require students to pass the Praxis exam prior to acceptance. 
  • Explore the school’s available majors and minors. Is a dual major or accelerated Master’s degree an option? In some instances, you may be able to cut the time of your education by pursuing an undergraduate history major and Master of Education at the same time.

Tip: A popular path for a secondary history teacher is to obtain a bachelor’s degree in history, and then pursue a Master of Education in Curriculum and Instruction in order to fulfill the requisite teaching components for licensure as a history teacher.

Step 3: Fulfill your state’s requirements for teacher licensure

In addition to passing the Praxis exam, some states require you to complete a certain number of hours as a student teacher. You may also need to take a basic skills assessment. For example, Pennsylvania requires prospective teachers to pass the Pre-service Academic Performance Assessment (PAPA). You can determine what your state’s certification and licensing requirements are here.

Step 4: Apply for teacher certification

After completing all of your state’s licensing requirements, your final step is to apply for your teacher certification. This is a fairly straightforward process as most states have a central online application system where you submit proof of your credentials for review. Upon successful review of your submitted credentials you will officially become a licensed history teacher. You will be qualified to work as a history teacher in most schools within the state where you received your license. 

how to become a history teacher

What Level of History Should I Teach?

One of the best aspects of becoming a history teacher is the option to teach at any level of education, from elementary school to graduate studies. The requirements to become a history teacher will vary depending on the level of education you intend to teach. For example, undergraduate history professors often need a master’s or doctorate degree. You can use the guide below to determine what level of history is best suited for you.

Elementary School

Most schools in the U.S. start teaching history at the 4th or 5th grade level. At this level, history is usually taught within a broad category of study called “Social Studies”. This is when students are first introduced to the basic concept of history, historical events, geography and global populations. A career as an elementary school history teacher or social studies teacher is a great option if you enjoy teaching young children. It is also ideal for someone who wants to teach history from a broad perspective rather than a specific period of time or genre. 

Middle School

Middle school history curriculum usually encompasses general American History and World History. At this level, history is commonly taught as a timeline in order to build a foundation of historical knowledge. A career as a middle school history teacher is ideal for someone who wants to cover a variety of major historical events and figures rather than focus on one specific time period.

High School

At the high school level, history teachers have the opportunity to cover both general American and World History as well as specific historical genres. For example, many high schools offer courses in European History, African American History and U.S. Government. You should consider a career as a high school history teacher if you want the option to teach both general history and courses about specific populations and periods of time. As a high school history teacher, you will also have the opportunity to teach Advanced Placement (AP) or International Baccalaureate (IB) classes to advanced students. You should also consider a career as a high school teacher if you enjoy giving advice about applying to college as most of your students will be in need of college application guidance.

Community College or University Professor 

You should become a Community College or University Professor if you want to teach young adults and dive deep into specific historical genres or events. For example, some colleges have courses dedicated specifically to Medieval Times, Women’s History or the Civil War. A career as a history professor also opens the door for you to create and teach seminar courses on specific aspects and events of history in which you have expertise. You will most likely need at least a master’s degree, if not a doctorate, to become a University Professor. But some Community Colleges only require their professors to hold a bachelor’s degree. You should consider a career as a community college history professor If you want to teach specific historical genres to older students without adding years to your educational path.

how to become a history teacher

Salary and Job Outlook for History Teachers

The salary and job outlook for history teachers varies depending on the level of education.

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), Elementary school history teachers earned a median salary of $60,940 in 2020. Overall employment for Elementary school history teachers is expected to grow at 7% through 2030, which is about as fast as the average for all occupations. 

The median pay for Middle school history teachers was $60,810 per year in 2020, with the highest 10 percent earning more than $98,840 per year. Employment for Middle school history teachers is projected to grow at 7% through 2030.

High School history teachers earned a median salary of $62,870 in 2020, with the highest 10 percent earning more than $102,130. Employment of high school history teachers is projected to grow at 8% through 2030. 

The Bureau of Labor Statistics combines the salary data for community and university professors into one category known as Postsecondary teachers. The median salary for postsecondary history teachers was $76,890 in 2020. History professors are typically paid more at universities compared to community college history professors. Employment for postsecondary history teachers is projected to grow at 8% through 2030, which translates into 1,900 new job openings each year. 

Overall, the job outlook for history teachers at any level is promising. In addition to a higher than average salary, a career as a history teacher comes with the added bonuses of health coverage, a 401K retirement account, tenure and paid summers off.

What States Hire the Most History Teachers?

Job opportunities for history teachers vary based on the level of education and the geographic area. 

In 2020, the states with the highest concentration of postsecondary history teacher jobs (employment per 1000 jobs) were: Rhode Island (.44), Hawaii (.31), Virginia (.28), Massachusetts (.26), and New York (.26).

What States Pay History Teachers the Highest Salary?

In 2020, the top paying states for postsecondary history teachers (annual mean salary) were: California ($118,290), Rhode Island ($112,740), Massachusetts ($107,780), District of Columbia ($107,150), and New York ($100,800)

Admission Requirements for Online History & Education Degree Programs

Admission requirements for online history and education degree programs vary depending on the prestige and competitiveness of the school. 

In general, most schools require applicants to have a solid high school GPA (3.0 or higher) and submit SAT/ACT scores, recommendation letters and a personal statement. The higher your GPA and Standardized test scores, the better your chances of receiving grants and scholarships to fund your education. 

International applicants will also need to prove proficiency in English by submitting their scores from any of the following exams: Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL), International English Language Testing System (IELTS), American Council on the Teaching of Foreign Language (ACTFL), or Pearson Test of English Academic (PTEA). 



Applicants to Master of Education (M.Ed.) programs need a bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution, GRE/GMAT scores, a resume, recommendation letters, a personal statement and at least one year of teaching experience.

how to become a history teacher

Affodable Online Degree Programs to Become a History Teacher

1. Grand Canyon University 

Bachelor of Arts in History for Secondary Education

Grand Canyon University (GCU) offers a B.A. in History Education that is 100% online with asynchronous classes so you can study anytime, anywhere. The university’s history education degree is regionally accredited and approved by the Arizona State Board of Education. Upon graduating with this degree, students obtain initial teacher licensure. To become fully licensed as a teacher, graduates must complete the teacher certification requirements for the state in which they intend to teach. 

Grand Canyon University’s history education degree program consists of 120 credit hours and is designed to teach students how to deliver history education in a formal classroom setting. Students have the option to transfer up to 90 credits of coursework from other accredited institutions. The cost per credit hour for this degree program is $447. However, the university offers a variety of scholarships and grants to help lower the cost of tuition. To gain admission to GCU, students typically need a high school GPA of 2.5 or higher and an SAT score above 1000 or an ACT score above 19. Applicants with a GPA of 3.0 or higher are exempt from the SAT/ACT requirement.

2. Regent University 

Bachelor of Arts in History 

Regent University’s online bachelor degree programs have been ranked #1 in Virginia by the U.S. News and World Report for 9 consecutive years. The university is also nationally recognized for its online degree program and has numerous accreditations, including by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.

Regent University offers a B.A. in History degree that is 100% online. The program consists of 120 credit hours of coursework which most full-time students complete in four years. Students can also enroll in the program on a part-time basis and take up to eight years to earn their degree. Upon graduating, students must fulfill the teacher licensure and certification requirements for the state in which they intend to teach. The cost of tuition for online students is $395 per credit hour plus $650 per semester for university service fees.

3. King University 

Bachelor of Science in History

King University is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges and is ranked as one of the 15 best online Bachelor’s in History programs by Bachelors Degree Center. The university’s B.A. in History degree is targeted toward individuals who want to gain the academic background necessary to satisfy certification requirements for teaching history to grades 6-12. The program’s coursework is delivered in a 100% online asynchronous format so that students can attend class when and where they want. The program consists of 124 credit hours of coursework and is typically completed in 4 years by full-time students.

4. Southern New Hampshire University 

Bachelor of Arts in History

Southern New Hampshire University’s B.A. in History degree program is 100% online and delivered in an asynchronous format. The program consists of 120 credit hours that can be completed in four years by full-time enrollees. Students have the option to transfer up to 90 credits of coursework from other accredited institutions. This program is ideal for individuals who want a comprehensive history education with a focus on the connections between ancient civilizations and modern societies. At the end of the program, students complete a final capstone research seminar.

The cost per credit hour for this degree program is $320. The university offers a discounted tuition fee of $225 for U.S. Service members and the spouses of those on active duty. To gain admission to Southern New Hampshire University, students need a high school GPA of 2.2 or higher. There is no application fee and students are not required to submit standardized test scores.

5. Bellevue University

Bachelor of Science in History 

Bellevue University offers a B.S. in History  that is 100% online with asynchronous classes so you can study at the most convenient place and time for your schedule. The university’s history education degree is accredited by The Higher Learning Commission and approved by the Nebraska State Board of Education. The program is designed to prepare future history teachers for Secondary Education Teaching Endorsement in Nebraska. To become fully licensed as a teacher, graduates must complete the teacher certification requirements for the state in which they intend to teach. 

Bellevue University’s history degree program consists of 127 credit hours and is intended to attract students who want a foundational degree in the study of the history of Western Civilizations. Students have the option to transfer up to 60 credits of coursework from other accredited institutions. The cost per credit hour for this degree program is $430. There is no minimum GPA required for admission and students are not required to submit standardized test scores.

Jobs Available to History Teachers Outside of Teaching

  • Public or private school administrator
  • Museum educator
  • Museum archivist
  • Private tutor
  • Standardized test developer
  • Education consultant
  • History textbook writer
  • Content strategist
  • Documentary writer/editor
  • Museum curator
  • Historian researcher
  • Historian analyst
  • Historian archivist 
  • Pollster
  • Journalism commentator 
  • State Department analyst
  • Writer or editor for History Journals
  • Political Writer/Journalist
  • Historical Preservationist
  • Governmental Career

Professional Associations for History Teachers

  • American Federation of Teachers: – “The American Federation of Teachers is a union of professionals that champions fairness; democracy; economic opportunity; and high-quality public education, healthcare and public services for our students, their families and our communities.”
  • National Education Association: “ The National Education Association (NEA), the nation’s largest professional employee organization, is committed to advancing the cause of public education. NEA’s 3 million members work at every level of education—from pre-school to university graduate programs. NEA has affiliate organizations in every state and in more than 14,000 communities across the United States.”
  • Council for the Accreditation of Educator Preparation: “CAEP advances equity and excellence in educator preparation through evidence-based accreditation that assures quality and supports continuous improvement to strengthen P-12 student learning.”
  • National Council for History Education: “The National Council for History Education provides professional and intellectual leadership to foster an engaged community committed to the teaching, learning, and appreciation of diverse histories. Through historical inquiry, NCHE empowers learners to research and interpret the past.”
  • New England History Teachers Association: “Founded in 1897, the NEHTA is the nation’s oldest association of history and social studies teachers. Through…conferences, publications, and awards, the NEHTA provides teachers, students and academics opportunities to engage in meaningful conversations about the teaching and learning of history and its related disciplines.”
  • American Historical Association: “The American Historical Association is the largest professional organization serving historians in all fields and all professions. The AHA is a trusted voice advocating for history education, the professional work of historians, and the critical role of historical thinking in public life.”

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online art school degree

6 Most Affordable Online Art Schools (2023)

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CONTENTS

Esteemed 20th century sculptor, Henry Moore, once said, “to be an artist is to believe in life”. We here at FutureYoupedia believe that to pursue an online Art School degree is to believe in yourself. 

Contrary to the old popular image of a “starving artist”, an art career in today’s digital, social media-driven world is both fulfilling and profitable. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the average salary of an art degree major can range from $77,000 for Animators to $199,250 for top earning Art Directors. 

Pursuing an online Art degree is easier than ever before in 2023. There are tons of online Art School options in various artist fields that allow you to pursue your degree when and where you want.  

If you’re a passionate artist and want to make a serious living from your art, continue reading to discover how an online art degree can take your art to the next level. 

What Jobs Can I Get With an Online Art School Degree?

In today’s digital world there are many job opportunities available to artists. Nearly every type of business needs some form of creative visual representation to market their brand and sell their products. The following list of available jobs for art degree graduates is by no means exhaustive. But it gives a general idea of some of the most popular careers online art school students pursue after graduation:

  • Illustrator
  • Photographer
  • Animator
  • Art Director
  • Graphic Designer
  • Museum Curator
  • Art Teacher / University Lecturer 



Illustrator

A career as an illustrator can be incredibly rewarding, as they are the backbone of the picture-book industry, especially the industry of children’s books. Experts believe picture books help develop a child’s brain to have strong critical thinking skills. Thus, illustrators not only make reading more fun, they are quite literally responsible for strengthening young minds through art.  

According to ZipRecruiter, book illustrators can take home an impressive $138,500/year at the top of their careers, with the average illustrator making about $60K annually. This is an ideal career for artists who like conveying stories through drawings.

Photographer

A talented photographer can capture the beauty and complexity of the world around us in just a single shot. They are most heavily relied on in the billion dollar industries of fashion and travel and are handsomely compensated for their work. According to comparably.com, the top 86% of fashion photographers average an annual salary of $247,376 per year.

Special Effects Artists & Animators

From cartoons to commercials and even our favorite Pixar movies, it’s hard to imagine the modern film & television industry without the contributions of animators. This is a fantastic career choice for art students interested in working in the Hollywood entertainment industry one day. The average animator takes home about $77,700 plus the added perk of seeing your name on the big screen rolling credits!

Art Director

Students interested in both art and management should consider a career as an art director. Generally speaking, art directors “are responsible for the overall visual aspects of an advertising or media campaign”. They often lead teams of varied art staff members (photographers, graphic designers, illustrators, etc.) to deliver one final product for a company or client. They often bear the weight of responsibility (good or bad) for a client’s finished product and are paid accordingly. As one of the highest earning careers for art degree majors, art directors take home an average salary of $97,270 per year.

Graphic Designer

The best brand logo can convey a company’s entire mission and services without the help of any words. And graphic designers are the artists who make this possible. But the job of a graphic designer expands far beyond just brand marketing. In today’s digital-era, you can find graphic designers in almost every industry imaginable. The BLS lists the average salary for graphic designers at $53,380. But most graphic designers are also able to supplement their income with an abundance of freelance work.

Museum Curator

This is the perfect career for anyone interested in both art and history.  Museum curators are responsible for designing, installing and arranging all the artifacts and art pieces of a museum’s exhibits. Museum curators are highly regarded in the field of Fine Art and Ancient History. The top 86% of earners are paid an average salary of $396,665 per year.

Art Teacher / University Lecturer

Students interested in sharing the gift of artistry to others should consider a career as an Art Teacher. From the elementary to the university level, helping people develop their craft as an artist can be deeply satisfying. According to comparably.com, the average salary for an art professor is $63,208 per year.

affordable online art schools

What is it Like to Get an Art Degree Online?

Prospective applicants of online art schools should be encouraged that earning their art degree online will be just as comprehensive and rewarding as an on-campus experience.

Most online art schools offer their students all the same benefits of their on-site curriculum while allowing you to learn on your schedule. This includes access to art studios, creative technologies and supplies for e-learners who are willing and able to commute to campus occasionally.

How Long are Online Art School Degree Programs?

The length of the program will depend on the degree level you are pursuing. A typical Bachelor of Fine Arts (BFA) degree program will run from 3 to 4 years. Master of Fine Arts (MFA) and Master of Arts (MA) programs take about 2 to 3 years to complete. And some online art schools also offer post-graduate certificate programs that can be completed in as little as 3 months.

What are the Admission Requirements for Online Art Schools?

For applicants interested in pursuing a BFA, the admissions requirements are more or less the same as a typical undergraduate college plus some additional art specific requirements. 

In addition to a solid GPA (3.0 or higher), SAT/ACT scores, recommendation letters and a personal statement, most online art schools ask you to submit a portfolio of your previous artwork. Online art schools that don’t require a portfolio submission encourage applicants to submit a portfolio to be considered for special grants & scholarships.

International applicants will need to prove proficiency in English by submitting their scores from any of the following exams: Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL), International English Language Testing System (IELTS), American Council on the Teaching of Foreign Language (ACTFL), or Pearson Test of English Academic (PTEA). 

MFA and MA applicants need a bachelor’s degree (or its equivalent), GRE scores, a resume, personal statement and a portfolio of artwork.

online art schools

How Much do Online Art Schools Cost?

Four year online art schools have comparable tuition costs to a typical undergraduate college. And similar to non-art undergraduate schools, the costs of online art schools can vary wildly.

A survey by CampusExplorer found that the average cost of online art schools is $42,000. But some schools like the University of Florida cost much less than that – about $15,600. While other schools like the Academy of Art University can cost up to $130,000 without the help of financial aid.

Grants & Scholarships for Online Art Schools 

Students interested in attending an online art school should not be dismayed by the cost as most programs offer a mixture of grants, scholarships and financial aid to students who need it.

There are also many outside organizations that offer scholarships to students who have achieved exceptional academic success in the arts. Here’s a sample list of scholarship programs with the largest awards:

  • Doodle 4 Google Competition

Amount: $30,000

“The Doodle 4 Google Competition provides young artists the chance to be featured on Google’s homepage, in addition to receiving a $30,000 educational award. Students can create doodles in any medium—from crayon to clay—but they must submit them in a 2D format. The theme of the competition changes from year to year; in 2020 the doodle theme was ‘I show kindness by…’ “

  • Young American Creative Patriotic Art Contest

Amount: $31,000

“The VFW Auxiliary’s Young American Creative Patriotic Art Contest began in 1979, and continues to support up-and-coming artists and encourage patriotism”

  • Interpretive Fellowships at Art Museums

Amount: $30,000

“The scholarship is intended to encourage students to explore interpretive careers in art museums, whether as future museum educators or curators; to strengthen the profession of museum educator within the art museum community; to strengthen ties between museum educators and curators in the shared task of interpretive programming in art museums; and to expand the range of promising career options available to students of art history and related fields.”

Many online art schools offer scholarships and discounted tuition for military personnel and veterans. 

Websites like ScholarshipOwl,  scholarships.com and scholarships360.org have put together huge databases of grants & scholarships available to students applying to online art schools.



Accreditation for Online Art Schools

The leading organization for accrediting art schools is the Council for Higher Education Accreditation (CHEA). Students interested in pursuing an online art degree should verify that their schools of interest are accredited. Accreditation by CHEA ensures that the school meets the minimum standards of a quality education. 

American colleges and universities can be either regionally or nationally accredited. Attending an online art school with either type of accreditation will allow you to qualify for federal financial aid.

In addition to CHEA, the National Association of Schools of Art & Design (NASAD) is responsible for accrediting individual art programs. To find out whether or not an art school or program is accredited, you can use the U.S Department of Education’s accreditation status database.

Licensure and Certifications for Online Art School Graduates

Art school graduates can demonstrate mastery of a specific art skill (e.g. digital graphic design) by earning certifications and professional licensure. 

These credentials will help you to stand out to potential employers and allow you to charge future clients higher prices for your creative services. 

See below for a list of common art certifications and licensures:

  • Adobe Certified Expert (ACE)

    This certification is most commonly used in the fields of graphic design, illustration and photography. By passing this multiple choice exam you can demonstrate your proficiency with Adobe Systems software products like Photoshop, Illustrator, InDesign and Lightroom. 

  • Board-certified Art Therapist

    This license is administered on the national level by the Art Therapy Credentials Board (ATCB). The ATCB manages the credentialing and testing processes of art therapists in alignment with the American Art Therapy Association. They also administer the following credentials at the national level: Registered Art Therapist (ATR); Provisional Registered Art Therapist (ATR-Provisional); and Art Therapy Certified Supervisor (ATCS). Certification for these credentials requires a master degree in Art Therapy, completion of a supervised residency program and a passing score on the Art Therapy Credentials Board Examination (ATCBE). 

  • Forensic Art Certification

    This certification is administered by the International Association for Identification and demonstrates expertise in the profession of Forensic Art. Forensic Art is most often used in law enforcement and legal proceedings for things like crime scene sketching and image identification drawings.
affordable online art schools

Professional Organizations for Online Art School Students and Graduates

There are dozens of professional organizations that serve as hubs of networking, professional development and creative-shares for students and graduates of online art school. See below for a list of the largest and most well-regarded organizations:

  1. College Art Association – “the world’s largest professional association for artists, art historians, designers, arts professionals.”
  2. Association of Professional Art Advisors – “a membership-based organization of leading independent art advisors, curators and corporate art managers.”
  3. ArtTable – “the leading professional organization devoted to supporting women in the visual arts.”
  4. National Art Education Association – “the leading professional membership organization exclusively for visual arts, design, and media arts education professionals.”
  5. American Institute of Graphic Arts – “a nationwide network of professional designers, educators, students and design enthusiasts served by more than 70 chapters.”
  6. Women’s Caucus for Art – “A National Membership Organization with 21 chapters throughout the United States dedicated to creating community through art, education and social activism”
  7. Society of Illustrators – “a professional society based in New York City. It was founded in 1901 to promote the art of illustration”
  8. Visual Resources Association – “a multidisciplinary organization dedicated to furthering research and education in the field of image management within the educational, cultural heritage, and commercial environments.”
  9. International Association of Art Critics – “founded in 1950 to revitalize critical discourse, which suffered under Fascism during World War II”
  10. Association of Art Museum Curators – “a membership organization offering professional development, leadership skills, and direct connections for art curators working in the not-for-profit sector.”

Top 6 Cheapest Online Art Schools

1. Savannah College of Art & Design (SCAD)

The Savannah College of Art & Design (SCAD) is one of the most recognized and decorated online art schools in the world. It also has four physical campus locations in Savannah and Atlanta, Georgia; Hong Kong; and Lacoste, France.

SCAD’s online eLearning platform allows students and art professionals all over the globe to access any of its award-winning art degree programs from the comfort of their own home.

As an online student, you can experience the entirety of SCAD’s world-renowned art curriculum and faculty as part of a global community of artists without compromising on the quality of education you receive. Designed with flexibility in mind, SCAD’s online courses do not have specific meeting times and are available 24/7.

And with over 20 art degree programs to choose from, there’s an excellent chance that SCAD can cater to your educational and professional goals no matter what field of art you plan to pursue. Check out a full list of SCAD’s degree programs below:

  • Advertising (BA, BFA, Minor)
  • Animation (MA, MFA)
  • Architectural History (Minor)
  • Business of Beauty & Fragrance (Minor)
  • Creative Business Leadership (MA)
  • Design Management (MA)
  • Fashion (MA, MFA)
  • Fashion Marketing & Management (BFA, Minor)
  • Graphic Design (BA, BFA, Certificate, MA, MFA, Minor)
  • Illustration (MA, MFA)
  • Interactive Design & Game Development (BA, MA, MFA, Minor)
  • Interior Design (MA)
  • Luxury & Brand Management (MA, MFA)
  • Motion Media Design (MA, MFA)
  • Painting (MFA)
  • Photography (BA, BFA, MA, MFA, Minor)
  • Preservation Design (MA)
  • Sequential Art (BA, BFA)
  • Service Design (MA)
  • Social Strategy & Management (BFA)
  • Writing (MFA)

2. Liberty University

Liberty University is a christian-based college based in Lynchburg, Virginia that offers both an on-campus and online education from a christian-world view. Since its founding in 1971, Liberty University has been dedicated to offering its student a high quality education in the shortest time possible.

The University’s 100% online Studio & Digital Arts (SADA) degree allows students and art professionals the opportunity to learn from top-notch art faculty from anywhere in the world. And within the SADA degree program, prospective applicants will find an array of concentrations to choose from.

Liberty University is a fantastic online art school option for all artist types, from sculptors to digital graphic designers. Students looking to turn their craft into careers can check out Liberty University’s degree program offerings here:

  • Graphic Design (BFA, MFA)
  • Digital Design (BS)
  • Character Design (BS)
  • Illustration Design (BS)
  • Visual Communication Design (BS, MA)
  • Digital Merchandising Design (BS)
  • Photographic Design (BS)
  • Media Design (BS)

3. Southern New Hampshire University

Home to 3,000 on-campus students and a whopping 80,000 online students, Southern New Hampshire University is one of the largest schools in the U.S. The institution is dedicated to providing quality education at an affordable cost and has some of the lowest tuition rates in the country – SNHU hasn’t raised its cost in over a decade! On-the-go artists who are interested in a career centered around digital art forms should seriously consider one of SNHU’s online Digital Art & Design degrees.

Applicants are not required to submit SAT or GRE scores and there is no application fee. For undergraduate applicants, no portfolio submission is required but it is encouraged in order to qualify for scholarships. Enrollees have a lot of flexibility to choose when they start classes – SNHU offers six 8-week term start dates for undergraduates and five 10-week term start dates for graduate matriculants.

Here’s a look at the degree options offered in SNHU’s Digital Art & Design program:

  • Digital Photography (AA, BA)
  • Game Art & Development (BA)
  • Game Programming & Development (BS)
  • Graphic Design & Media Arts (BA)
  • 3D Modeling & Animation (BA)
  • Web Design (BA, MS)
  • Information Technology (MS)
  • Music Business (MBA)



4. Full Sail University

Full Sail University’s School of Art & Design offers the ultimate flexibility for busy art students and professionals looking to advance their careers. The school’s online Art & Design programs are designed to cater to students who want a “fast-paced, immersive learning experience with 24/7 flexibility”. Students are free to complete their coursework at any time of the day at whatever pace they desire. And the University has recently implemented their trademarked program – “Project LaunchBox” – which grants all of their students “a laptop plus professional software and industry technologies”.

Take a look at Full Sail University’s Art & Design degree offerings below:

  • Computer Animation (BA)
  • Game Art (BA)
  • Graphic Design (BA)
  • Media Design (MFA)

5. University of Florida

Students looking to earn an online art degree at a bargain price should apply to the University of Florida (UF). Ranked #1 for affordability by affordablecollege.com, the university’s online Digital Arts & Sciences program is a steal for students interested in the digital art space. Tuition costs around $15,600 for the full program. Students pay an average of only $8,057 for the program after financial aid and scholarships are factored in. 

Applicants with a GPA as low as 2.0 will be considered, but a portfolio submission is required for admission. UF doesn’t offer as many different degree program options as some of the other schools on the list, but the university’s Digital Arts & Science program will prepare students for any of the following art careers:

  • 2D/3DAnimator
  • Game Designer
  • Motion Graphics Animator
  • UI/UX Designer
  • Concept Artist
  • Level Designer
  • Visual Effects Artist
  • Cinematographer
  • Character Modeler
  • Production Coordinator
  • Software Engineer
  • Technical Animator
  • Character Artist
  • Graphical User Interface Programmer
  • Digital Storyteller
  • Interaction Designer

6. Minneapolis College of Art & Design

Minneapolis College of Art & Design (MCAD) is our top pick for busy art professionals looking to expand their careers with an advanced degree. MCAD offers 2 asynchronous online graduate art degrees and several post-graduate certificate programs that allow students to complete their coursework when and where they desire.

Here is the full list of MCAD’s online art programs for graduate students:

  • Master of Arts in Sustainable Design (30 credits, 10 courses)
  • Master of Arts in Graphic and Web Design (30 credits, 10 courses)
  • Design Foundations Certificate (3 courses)
  • Web Development Certificate (5 courses)
  • Biomimicry Certificate (3 courses)
  • User Experience (UX) Certificate (4 courses)
  • Teaching Art and Design Online Certificate (3 courses)

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39 NASPAA Accredited Online MPA Programs (2023)

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CONTENTS

Many of history’s most celebrated figures have been public government officials. They are the heroes that help maintain a functioning, stable community in times of war and peace. All of the basic amenities we’ve come to expect in a modern society – clean streets, routine trash pickup, public safety – are the result of effective public administration and its stewards. 

Serving the public good can take on many forms across a variety of career fields. Pursuing an online Masters in Public Administration (MPA) is the best way to gain the skills you will need to succeed in the nonprofit and public sectors.

NASPAA Accreditation

The Network of Schools of Public Policy, Affairs, and Administration (NASPAA) is the official accrediting organization for US-based Public Administration programs.  NASPAA accreditation indicates that an MPA program has passed a rigorous process of peer review conducted by the Commission on Peer Review and Accreditation (COPRA). If you are interested in an online MPA degree, you should make sure that your program of interest is NASPAA accredited. This is important for several reasons.

You must attend a NASPAA accredited program to qualify for federal financial aid. NASPAA accreditation also ensures that your online MPA program meets the minimum standards of a quality public administration curriculum. Also, employers give more weight to job applicants with degrees from accredited programs over applicants who graduated from non-accredited schools. 

You can check the accreditation status of your prospective online MPA program using this NASPAA accreditation search database.

What Jobs Can I Get With an Online Master of Public Administration (MPA) Degree?

An MPA degree will prepare you for a wide range of career opportunities. Local, state and federal government agencies need expertise in almost every sector to function properly. Additionally, many private-sector jobs rely on employees with public administration knowledge to comply with government regulations related to their business. 

Here’s a list of some common careers graduates of online MPA programs pursue:

  • City Manager
  • Financial Analyst
  • Compliance Manager
  • Education Administrator
  • Public Health Administrator
  • Urban & Regional Planner
  • Economist
  • Chief Executive Officer
  • Public Relations Manager
  • Human Resources Manager
  • Non-profit Organization Administrator
  • Mayor
  • Lobbyist
  • Foreign Service Officer
  • Law Enforcement
  • Legislative Assistant
  • Municipal Budget Director
  • Nonprofit Chief Operation Officer
  • Nonprofit Executive Director
  • Parks and Recreation Management
  • Policy Analyst
  • Public Affairs Director
  • Public Policy Director
  • Public Relations Consultant
  • Public Works Director
  • Research Analyst
  • Town Manager
online mpa programs

What is it Like to Get a Master of Public Administration (MPA) Degree Online?

The majority of online MPA programs are 100% online with asynchronous classes that allow students to complete their coursework at any time of the day. Most online MPA programs also offer different degree tracks so that students can customize their education to match their career interests. Some programs also allow its enrollees to take courses outside of the department for even greater job specialization. 

In order to graduate, MPA students often need to complete a faculty-approved research project and pass a final examination. Requirements will differ from program to program.

How Long are Online MPA Degree Programs?

Full time enrollees can expect to complete their online MPA degree in 1 to 2 years. Some online MPA programs allow part time students to spread out their coursework for up to 7 years, if needed. A typical online MPA semester lasts from 8 to 12 weeks. However, many programs allow students to complete their coursework at whatever pace they desire, which can shorten the length of your semester.

What are the Admissions Requirements for Online MPA Degree Programs?

Admission requirements will vary depending on the prestige and competitiveness of the MPA program.

In general, applicants need a solid GPA (3.0 or higher), GRE or GMAT scores, a resume, recommendation letters and a personal statement. Some MPA programs also prefer applicants to have work experience in a role related to public administration. 

International applicants will also need to prove proficiency in English by submitting their scores from any of the following exams: Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL), International English Language Testing System (IELTS), American Council on the Teaching of Foreign Language (ACTFL), or Pearson Test of English Academic (PTEA).

How Much do Online Master of Public Administration (MPA) Degree Programs Cost?

The cost of online MPA programs vary wildly, from $10,000 to $80,000 for the most expensive schools. The average cost of tuition for an online MPA program is $26,000 and most programs offer discounted tuition for in-state students. 

Prospective applicants should not be discouraged by program costs as there are many grants & scholarships available to cut your education expenses. Additionally, the U.S Department of Education offers a Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) program for MPA graduates who pursue careers in government agencies and nonprofit organizations. 

Applicants interested in using scholarships to help finance their education should check out this list of MPA scholarships below:

1. Harry S Truman Scholarship Program

Amount: $30,000

“The premier graduate fellowship in the United States for those pursuing careers as public service leaders.”

2. Daniel B. Goldberg Scholarship

Amount: $20,000

“Recognizes outstanding performances by graduate program students preparing for a career in state and local government finance.”

3. Minorities in Government Finance Scholarship

Amount: $10,000

“Recognizes and encourages outstanding minority students enrolled in a course of study preparing for a career in state or local government finance.”

4. Jeffery L. Esser Career Development Scholarship

Amount: $15,000

“Created to advance the public finance careers of individuals employed at least three years by one or more state or local governments.”

5. The Herbert Roback Scholarship

Amount: $7,500

Administered by the National Academy of Public Administration “to encourage talented and promising students to consider lifetime careers in the public service.”



Top 39 NASPAA Accredited Online MPA Programs 

1. California State University – Dominguez Hills

The California State University – Dominguez Hills offers a 100% online MPA program with asynchronous classes that allows students to attend class at any time of the day. This program was designed to cater to the busy professional looking to earn an advanced degree on their own schedule. There are 2 different online tracks to choose from: (1) Online Accelerated; and (2) Online Flexible.

The Online Accelerated track consists of a fixed schedule of classes to be completed in 2 years. Students can start classes in either the Fall, Spring or Summer semester and there are 3 concentrations to choose from: (1) Criminal Justice Administration & Policy; (2) Healthcare Administration & Policy; and (3) Nonprofit Management. The cost of tuition is about $25,000, or $600 per credit.

The Online Flexible track consists of a self-paced open schedule of classes that can be completed in as little as 18 months. Students can start classes in any of the program’s four semesters – Fall 1, Fall 2, Spring or Summer. The Online Flexible track has one concentration option in Public Management. The cost of tuition is about $21,000, or $497 per credit.

Prospective applicants must have at least a 2.75 undergraduate GPA. GRE scores are not required for admission.

2. California State University – San Bernardino

The California State University – San Bernardino online MPA program is fully online with asynchronous classes for ultimate flexibility. The program has 4 concentrations to choose from: (1) Cybersecurity; (2) Leadership; (3) Public Financial Management; and (4) Nonprofit Management. Students also have the option to pursue a joint degree in a Master of Public Administration & Master of Social Work (MPA/MSW).

The program prefers that prospective applicants have at least a 3.0 undergraduate GPA for admission. However, students with a GPA below 3.0 can still apply but must submit their GRE scores directly to the school’s Public Administration Department (not Graduate Admissions).

3. Central Michigan University

Central Michigan University’s online MPA program is fully online and most classes are delivered in an asynchronous format. The program is not split into concentration tracks but does offer elective courses in Grant Writing, Government Administration and Executive Leadership in Nonprofit Management.

Prospective applicants must have at least a 2.8 undergraduate GPA and successful completion of either a statistics, economics or research methods undergraduate-level course. The cost of tuition is about $25,234, or $682 per credit.

4. Depaul University

Depaul University’s online MPA program is 100% online with a mix of asynchronous classes and synchronous discussion forums. Admitted students can choose from 3 different specialty concentrations: (1) Emergency Management; (2) Public Management; and (3) Metropolitan Planning & Urban Affairs.

5. Eastern Kentucky University

Eastern Kentucky University’s online MPA program is 100% online with asynchronous courses and no required on-campus visits. Students are given the option to earn their degree with a specialized certificate in 1 of 4 different concentrations at no extra cost: (1) Certificate in Community Development; (2) Certificate in Emergency Management & Disaster Resilience; (3) Certificate in Interdisciplinary Studies; and (4) Certificate in Nonprofit Management.

Prospective applicants must have a GRE score of at least 145 in both the Verbal and Quantitative Reasoning sections. Applicants with a GPA of at least 2.75 are exempt from the GRE score requirement. Students who fail to meet both the GPA and GRE score requirements may be granted probationary admission.

The cost of tuition is about $21,966, or $611 per credit. Active Duty Military students are offered a discounted tuition of $325 per credit.

6. Florida Gulf Coast University

Florida Gulf Coast University’s MPA program is mostly online and has 2 degree concentrations to select from: (1) Public Leadership & Management; and (2) Environmental Policy & Planning. Students must attend one on-campus session in their final semester to deliver an oral presentation as part of their required Capstone seminar.

There is no minimum undergraduate GPA required for admission but applicants must submit scores from either the GRE or MAT exams. Applicants should also have at least 15 hours of completed undergraduate coursework in the social sciences or business.

7. Florida International University

Florida International University’s MPA program is ranked the 9th best online MPA program in the country by the U.S. News and World Report. The program offers 7 different specialty concentrations: (1) Human Resources Management; (2) Public Management; (3) Homeland Security and Emergency Management; (4) Nonprofit and Community Development; (5) Comparative and International Public Administration; (6) Urban Policy Innovations; and (7) an Outside Field of the students choosing.

It is preferred that applicants have at least a 3.25 undergraduate GPA. Applicants with a GPA below 3.25 are required to submit GRE, GMAT or LSAT scores for admission.

8. Indiana State University

Students enrolled in Indiana State University’s online MPA program can choose from 3 concentration options: (1) Criminology/Criminal Justice; (2) Human Resources Development; and (3) Public Health. The program consists of 36 credit hours and is designed for working professionals who have experience in nonprofit or public organizations. Full time enrollees can complete the program in as little as 2 years. Part time students can take up to 7 years to complete the program. Courses are delivered in both an asynchronous format and a synchronous videoconferencing format.

Applicants must have at least a 2.75 undergraduate GPA for admission and there is no GRE requirement. Only students from the U.S. and Canada are eligible to apply.

9. Kent State University

Kent State University’s 100% online MPA program is designed for busy working professionals who want to advance their career in the public sector. The program consists of 36 credit hours that can be completed in as little as 2 years.

Applicants must have a minimum 3.0 undergraduate GPA and there is no GRE submission required. Applicants with a GPA between 2.70 and 2.99 may be considered for conditional admission. The cost of tuition is $24,366 for in-state students ($676/credit hour) and $24,696 for out-of-state students ($686/credit hour).

10. Marist College

Marist College’s 100% online asynchronous MPA program caters to busy professionals who want to earn an advanced degree on their own schedule. The program consists of 42 credit hours and students have five different concentrations to choose from: (1) Public Management; (2) Ethical Leadership; (3) Nonprofit Management; (4) Analytics; and (5) Healthcare Administration. The cost of tuition is $36,540 ($870/credit hour).

11. Old Dominion University

Old Dominion University’s online MPA program consists of 39 credit hours delivered in a mostly asynchronous format. Students can choose from 5 different specialty concentrations: (1) Public Procurement & Contract Management; (2) Nonprofit Management; (3) Human Resource Administration; (4) Port & Maritime Management; and (5) Urban Research & Planning.

The cost of tuition is $21,489 for in-state students ($551/credit) and $23,205 for out-of-state students ($595/credit).

12. San Diego State University

San Diego State University’s online MPA program is geared toward experienced professionals who currently work in government or nonprofit agencies. The 36-credit hour curriculum is designed to be completed in 16 months. Applicants must have a minimum undergraduate GPA of 2.85 for admission and there is no GRE or GMAT requirement. This program offers one of the most affordable tuition costs on our list at $19,836 ($551/credit hour).

13. Seton Hall University

Seton Hall University’s online MPA program delivers its coursework in a 100% online asynchronous format for ultimate flexibility. The 39 credit hour program follows curriculum guidelines from the Nonprofit Academic Centers Council (NACC) and typically takes full time enrollees 2 years to complete. Applicants are not required to submit GRE scores but must have a 3.0 undergraduate GPA or higher. The cost of tuition is $54,369 ($1,401/credit hour).

14. Southern Utah University

Southern Utah University’s 100% online MPA program prepares its students for municipal, state and federal public sector employment. The program has 3 different specialty concentrations: (1) Criminal Justice; (2) Higher Education Administration; and (3) State & Local Government. The 36-credit hour program is typically completed in two years. Part time students can take up to six years to earn their degree.

15. The University of Texas at Arlington

The University of Texas at Arlington offers an accelerated 39-credit hour online MP program that can be completed in 2 years on a full time schedule. Part time students can spread out their coursework for up to 6 years. Students have the option to graduate with a certificate in 1 of 2 specialty fields alongside their degree: (1) Urban Nonprofit Management; or (2) Public Budgeting & Financial Management.

It is preferred that applicants have at least a 3.0 undergraduate GPA and a combined GRE score of 291. Applicants with a 3.25 GPA or higher are exempt from the GRE requirement. The cost of tuition is $16,575, or $425 per credit hour.

16. University of Baltimore

The University of Baltimore offers a 100% online MPA program with one specialization in Public & Nonprofit Management. The program consists of 36 to 39 credit hours with the option to waive the 3-credit internship requirement if you have relevant work experience. Applicants must have at least a 3.0 undergraduate GPA for admission, but there is no GRE requirement.

17. University of Central Florida

The University of Central Florida’s online MPA program is nationally ranked by the U.S. News & World Report. The 42-credit hour program allows students to focus on strategic planning, public policy, organizational management and financial management. The program also offers a dual degree program in which students can earn an MPA and Master of Nonprofit Management simultaneously. Residents of Florida should seriously consider this program as it offers a huge discount for in-state students. The cost of tuition for in-state students is $327.32 per credit hour versus $1,151.72 per credit hour for out-of-state students.

online mpa programs

18. University of Colorado – Colorado Springs

The University of Colorado – Colorado Springs’ 100% online MPA program is designed to prepare its students to take leadership roles in the nonprofit and public sectors. The 39-credit hour program can be completed in as little as 2 years with the option to extend the program as a part time enrollee. Admission requires a minimum undergraduate GPA of 2.75 or a GRE score that meets the standards of the Public Administration department.

19. University of Colorado – Denver

The University of Colorado – Denver’s online MPA program offers 3 program tracks: (1) Traditional MPA; (2) Accelerated MPA; and (3) Executive MPA. The Traditional MPA is a 36-credit hour program that is typically completed in 2 years. The Accelerated MPA is a fast-paced program geared toward advanced students and can be completed in as little as 12 months. The Executive MPA consists of 30 credit hours and caters to senior-level professionals who currently work in the nonprofit and public sectors.

The University of Colorado – Denver also offers several dual degree programs. Ambitious students can earn their MPA while also pursuing a Master of Criminal Justice (MCJ), Master of Arts in Applied Geography & Geospatial Sciences, Master of Arts in Economics, Master of Public Health (MPH), Master of Urban & Regional Planning, or a Juris Doctor (JD).

20. University of Delaware

The University of Delaware’s online MPA program is nationally ranked by the U.S. News & World Report. The program consists of 36 credit hours and can be completed in as few as 30 months. This flexible, 100% online program is designed to allow current public sector professionals to advance their careers while maintaining their current work obligations. There are no on-campus visits required.

21. University of Illinois at Springfield

The University of Illinois at Springfield offers a 100% online 36-credit hour MPA program that can be completed in as little as 16 months. The program is nationally ranked in the top 25% best Public Affairs programs by the U.S. News & World Report. Students are able to use elective courses to dive deeper into particular areas of interest such as Governmental Budgeting and Public Policy Analysis. Students can also earn graduate certificates alongside their MPA degree in the following specialties: (1) Community Planning; (2) Nonprofit Management; (3) Human Services Fundraising; (4) Public Procurement Management; (5) Public Sector Relations Management; (6) Child Advocacy Studies (CAST); (7) Alcohol & Substance Abuse; (8) Emergency Preparedness & Homeland Security; (9) Geographic Information Systems (GIS); and (10) Human Resource Management.

22. University of Nebraska at Omaha

The University of Nebraska at Omaha’s online MPA program was the 1st program in the U.S. to be accredited by NASPAA. Students enrolled in this program can select from 7 different degree concentrations: (1) Aviation; (2) Emergency Management; (3) Local Government; (4) Nonprofit; (5) Public Management; (6) Public Policy; and (7) Criminal Justice. Enrollees can also earn graduate certificates alongside their MPA degree in Public Management and Nonprofit Management. The program consists of 39 credit hours and is typically completed in 2 years by full time students. Part time students can take up to 10 years to earn their degree. Applicants should have at least a 3.0 undergraduate GPA. GRE scores are required for admission.

23. University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill

The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill’s online MPA program is ranked among the top 20 Public Affairs schools by the U.S. News & World Report. The program consists of a 45 credit hour curriculum that can be completed in as few as 18 months. This program is not quite as flexible as the others on our list. Coursework is delivered in a synchronous format with live online classes. Applicants should have at least a 3.0 undergraduate GPA and must submit scores from either the GRE, GMAT or LSAT exams. The cost of tuition is $54,405, or $1,209 per credit hour.

24. University of North Dakota

The University of North Dakota’s 100% online MPA is one of the most affordable programs in the country. The university offers in-state tuition rates to all students regardless of their state of residency. The MPA program consists of 36 credit hours and coursework is primarily delivered in a synchronous format with live interactive classes. Applicants should have a minimum undergraduate GPA of 2.75 and GRE scores are required for admission. Applicants with a GPA of 3.25 or higher are exempt from the GRE requirement.

25. University of Southern California

The University of Southern California’s MPA program is mostly online, but classes are delivered in a live synchronous format and there are 2 required on-campus visits. The program consists of 40 credit hours and can be completed in as little as 12 months by full time enrollees. Part time students can take up to 3.5 years to earn their degree. Alongside earning their MPA degree, students have the option to pursue graduate certificates in the following specialties areas: (1) Public Policy; (2) City & County Management; and (3) Nonprofit Management & Policy. Applicants must have at least a 3.0 undergraduate GPA and GRE scores are required for admission.

26. Valdosta State University

Valdosta State University’s 100% online MPA program is offered in 3 concentrations: (1) Public Sector Management; (2) Public Sector Human Resource Management; and (3) Public Policy. The program consists of 36 credit hours and 300 required hours as a participant-observer in a government agency, nonprofit or NGO. Applicants should have a minimum undergraduate GPA of 2.75. The GRE requirement is being removed beginning Spring 2022.

27. Villanova University

Villanova University offers a 100% online MPA program designed with flexibility and convenience in mind. The program consists of 36 credit hours and can be completed in 2 years by full time students. There is no minimum undergraduate GPA or GRE score required for admission. Applicants with previous work experience in the public sector are preferred. The cost of tuition is $34,200, or $950 per credit hour.

28. West Chester University of Pennsylvania

West Chester University of Pennsylvania offers a 100% online MPA designed for busy working professionals. Courses are delivered in an asynchronous format and students are given the option to teleconference into live-classes. The program is offered in 2 degree concentrations: (1) Nonprofit Administration; and (2) Public Management. While earning their MPA degree, students can also pursue graduate certificates in the following areas: Healthcare Administration, Human Resource Management, Industrial/Organizational Psychology, Sports Management & Athletics, and Urban & Regional Planning.

29. Wichita State University

Wichita State University offers a 100% online MPA program that combines theory and practice in public policy, public finance and public management. The program consists of 39 credit hours and can be completed within a calendar year. While earning their MPA degree, students can also pursue graduate certificates in the following areas: Nonprofit Management, City & County Management, Economic Development, or Public Finance. Applicants must have a minimum undergraduate GPA of 3.0 but there is no GRE required for admission. The cost of tuition is approximately $12,011 not including fees ($307.28/credit hour).

30. University of Central Oklahoma

The University of Central Oklahoma offers a 100% online MPA program focused on public and nonprofit management. The program consists of 36 credit hours and can be completed in 2 years. Applicants must have a minimum undergraduate GPA of 2.75 and a combined GRE score of 295 for admission. The university also offers a dual degree program for students who want to earn a Juris Doctor (JD) alongside their MPA degree.

31. The Ohio State University

The Ohio State University offers a 100% online MPA program designed for mid-level professionals looking to advance their career. The program consists of 32 credit hours and can be completed in as little as 2 years. There are no on-campus visits required. Students can select from 4 different specialization tracks: (1) Public Management & Leadership; (2) Criminal Justice Administration & Policy; (3) Public Policy; and (4) Nonprofit Management. The cost of tuition ranges from $25,856 for in-state students to $28,716 for out-of-state students ($722.50/credit hour).

32. Penn State Harrisburg

Penn State Harrisburg offers a 100% online MPA program focused on real-world skills. While earning their MPA degree, students can also pursue graduate certificates in the following specialty areas: (1) Public Budgeting & Financial Management; and (2) Public Sector Human Resources Management. The program consists of 39 credit hours and a 150 hour internship. The internship requirement is waived for students who have at least 2 years of relevant work experience. Applicants should have at least a 3.0 undergraduate GPA for admission. Students with less than a 3.0 GPA will be required to submit GRE or GMAT scores with their application. The cost of tuition is $37,050, or $950 per credit hour.

33. Tennessee State University

The Tennessee State University transitioned their MPA department to a 100% online program in Fall 2020. The program consists of 36 credit hours and 6 internship hours. The internship requirement is waived for students with at least 1 year of professional experience in the nonprofit, public or healthcare sectors. Full time students typically earn their degree in 2 years. While earning their MPA degree, students have the option to pursue graduate certificates in the following specialty areas: public policy, nonprofit management, local government management, public administration executive leadership, and healthcare administration & planning.The cost of tuition ranges from $19,769 for in-state students to $33,031 for out-of-state students ($523 – $749/credit hour).

34. Texas Tech University at Austin College

The Texas Tech University at Austin College’s online MPA program is designed to provide students with professional knowledge and skills-based competence for careers as managers or policy analysts in the nonprofit and public sectors. The program’s 42 credit hour coursework is primarily delivered in a synchronous format from 6:00 – 8:50pm. Applicants are required to submit scores from either the GRE, GMAT or LSAT exams for admission.

35. Jacksonville State University

Jacksonville State University offers an online MPA program in 4 concentration areas: (1) Administrative Management; (2) Criminal Justice; (3) Education; and (4) Emergency Management. The program consists of 39 credit hours of coursework and 112 internship hours. The internship requirement is waived for students with 1 year of full time work experience in a relevant field. Applicants should have a minimum undergraduate GPA of 2.75 and must submit GRE, MAT or GMAT scores for admission. Students with a GPA above 3.0 are exempt from the standardized test requirement.

36. Northeastern University

Northeastern University’s 100% online MPA program is designed to shape its students into skilled policy leaders. All coursework is delivered in an asynchronous format to allow for ultimate flexibility. Full time students can complete the degree in as little as 1.5 years. There is no GRE submission required for admission.

37. Oakland University

Oakland University offers a 100% online MPA program with five specialization tracks: (1) Court Administration; (2) Criminal Justice Leadership; (3) Healthcare Administration; (4) Local Government Management; and (5) Nonprofit Management. The program consists of 32 credit hours and can be completed within 2 years. Accepted students generally have a 3.0 undergraduate GPA or higher. There is no GRE requirement for admission.

38. Rutgers University

Rutgers University offers a 100% online MPA program in four concentration areas: (1) Budgeting & Financial Management; (2) Healthcare Administration; (3) Nonprofit Management; and (4) Public and Nonprofit Performance Management. The program consists of 42 credit hours and there is no GRE requirement for admission.

39. Texas Southern University

Texas Southern University offers an executive online MPA program for experienced professionals looking to advance their careers further. The program is almost entirely online with the exception of 1 or 2 on-campus orientation meetings each semester. The program consists of 36 credit hours of coursework delivered in a synchronous format. Full time students can earn their degree in as little as 16 months.

Take the Next Step!

In today’s golden-age of online education there’s no need to compromise quality for convenience. Each of the NASPAA-accredited online MPA programs above will give you a first-rate learning experience and prepare you for the next level of your career. Choose the program that fits your career goals and start earning an advanced degree from the comfort of your home today!

Click here to explore more online degrees and career options. 

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24 Most Affordable Online Nurse Practitioner Programs (MSN) in 2023

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CONTENTS

Nurses–they’re often the first health professionals we interact with when visiting a hospital. And the last ones we see when our appointment ends and we’re discharged.

Anyone who has ever gone to the hospital when they were sick can attest to the vital role nurses play in our healthcare system. 

The job of a nurse has evolved remarkably since the inception of the modern healthcare system in the early 20th century.  And the scope of a nurse’s involvement in patient care continues to expand steadily year after year. Gone are the days when nurses operated simply as a “doctor’s aide” or waiting room attendants. Nowadays, it’s not uncommon for nurses to be involved in every part of a patient’s visit from start to finish – including patient intake, diagnosis, treatment plan development and even prescription writing. 

As the prominence of nurses in our healthcare system continues to grow, the demand and interest in advanced nursing careers, particularly Nurse Practitioners (NP), has skyrocketed to an all-time high.

Who Becomes a Nurse Practitioner?

Licensure as an Advanced Practice Registered Nurse (APRN) or Nurse Practitioner (NP) is highly coveted by ambitious Registered Nurses (RNs) looking to advance their career and become more involved in caring for sick patients. 

Earning a license to become a Nurse Practitioner can greatly expand the limited role RNs have in patient care as well as increase their salary benefits and administrative leadership opportunities.

What is a Nurse Practitioner?

A Nurse Practitioner is a skilled medical professional that has earned an advanced nursing degree – either a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) or Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) – and has passed the requisite state licensing exams.

What Do Nurse Practitioners Do?

In recent years, the job of a Nurse Practitioner has become nearly indistinguishable from that of a physician. In fact, it is quite common for patients seeking care at a health clinic to have all of their healthcare needs met by a Nurse Practitioner without ever seeing a physician at all. 

In addition to overseeing patient treatment plans and writing prescriptions, licensed Nurse Practitioners who earn specialty certifications perform a variety of medical procedures and even surgery.

Furthermore, Nurse Practitioners serve in leadership and teaching positions. They are responsible for hiring and supervising teams of nursing staff and training new nursing students

affordable online FNP programs

What Skills Do You Need to Be a Nurse Practitioner?

Nurse Practitioners are the highest trained medical staff among nursing professionals. They undergo years of advanced training to become licensed and work long grueling hours in a hospital delivering medical care to sick patients. 

To succeed in this career, it is necessary to have a well-rounded set of skills to rely on. Here are a few of the most important:

  • Self-Discipline – The extensive years of training and long work hours for Nurse Practitioners are not for the faint of heart. One must have solid self-discipline and mental stamina to endure the lengthy education process. As a skilled professional involved in making life and death decisions, you will be expected deliver 100% for your patients from the start of your shift to the very last minute of it. 
  • Leadership – Nurse Practitioners typically have the highest authority amongst a hospital’s nursing staff and often take on supervisory and teaching roles. Therefore, the ability to lead teams and inspire subordinate staff members is key to the success of a Nurse Practitioner. Nursing students in training will look to you for guidance and support. And you will liaise regularly with top Physician and Hospital Administrative figure heads to ensure that the hospital operates in a cohesive and smooth manner.
  • Resilience Under Pressure – Hospitals can be fast-paced, stressful environments. Dealing with sick patients and their concerned family members requires the utmost care and attention and can be emotionally draining. Often, critical health decisions need to be made quickly and will fall on the shoulders of a Nurse Practitioner’s sole judgment. Resilience and an ability to keep calm and focused in stressful situations is an essential soft skill for anyone considering a career as a Nurse Practitioner.

What are the Benefits of Advancing From a Registered Nurse (RN) to a Nurse Practitioner (NP)?

Whereas Registered Nurses typically practice under the singular specialty of family medicine, licensing as a Nurse Practitioner opens the door to a variety of different medical specialties. After graduating from an accredited MSN or DNP program, Nurse Practitioners can go on to earn speciality and subspecialty certifications in any of the following fields:

  • Neonatal 
  • Pediatrics 
  • Adult-Gerontology
  • Psychiatric-Mental Health
  • OB/GYN
  • Orthopedics 
  • Emergency Medicine
  • Neurology
  • Oncology
  • Critical Care
  • Addictions
  • Cardiology
  • Cardiac Surgery
  • Heart Failure
  • Stroke
  • Managed Care
  • Gastroenterology
  • Occupational Health
  • Anesthesia
  • Genetics
  • Rheumatology
  • Infectious Diseases
  • Trauma
  • Urology
  • Dermatology
  • HIV/AIDS
  • Forensics/Sexual Assault Examiner
  • Hospice & Palliative Care
  • Ophthalmology 
  • Ear Nose & Throat
  • Nephrology & Dialysis 
  • Plastic Surgery
  • Radiology
  • Wound Ostomy
  • Family Medicine

Nurse Practitioners (NPs) earn a higher average salary than Registered Nurses (RNs). According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the average starting salary for a licensed Nurse Practitioner is $111,680. The average salary for Registered Nurses (RNs) is $75,330. 

Additionally, Nurse Practitioners can reap the benefits of a better work-life balance. The responsibilities and authority of an NP are higher than that of an RN, and this is rewarded with greater flexibility in shift hours, more vacation days and better retirement packages.

affordable online FNP programs

What are the Steps to Become a Nurse Practitioner?

    1. Obtain  a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) – The road to becoming a Nurse Practitioner begins with obtaining licensure as a Registered Nurse. This is achieved first by completing a Bachelors of Science in Nursing (BSN). And then by passing the NCLEX-RN Licensing Exam. 
    2. Complete a Graduate Nursing Degree (MSN or DNP) – Next, you will need to enroll in a graduate nursing degree program. There are two options for completing this step. You can earn either a 2-year Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) or a 4-year Doctor of Nurse Practice (DNP). Nurse Practitioners who elect for the 4-year DNP typically conduct clinical research, serve in management positions, and will have high earning potential.
    3. Pass a State NP Licensure Exam – Licensing requirements for NPs are state-specific. After graduating from either a MSN or DNP program, you will need to pass the Nurse Practitioner Licensure Exam for whatever state you plan to practice in. Your preferred state may also have additional licensing requirements. 
    4. Obtain a Specialty Certification – Some State Licensing Boards require Nurse Practitioner candidates to hold at least 1 certification in a specialty field. The American Academy of Nurse Practitioners Certification Board (AANPCB) is one of the most well known organizations that offer Nurse Practitioner (NP) certification programs. Several other national organizations offer Nurse Practitioner (NP) certifications as well: 

The American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC)

The American Association of Critical-Care Nurses (AACN)

The Pediatric Nursing Certification Board (PNCB)

National Certification Corporation (NCC)

How to Choose the Right Online Nurse Practitioner Program 

The rise of online Nurse Practitioner programs has increased the accessibility of advanced degrees for working Registered Nurses. The flexibility of being able to learn from home means RNs can pursue advanced training without taking a hit to their income. 

Finding the appropriate program depends largely on your current credentials and desired career goals. 

Licensed Registered Nurses who hold an associate degree or nursing diploma should seek out bridge programs that will help them supplement their education to meet the nurse practitioner program requirements.

Registered Nurses who have a non-nursing bachelors degree will likely need to complete several nursing prerequisite courses before applying to a graduate nursing program. However, a select number of schools will accept RN applicants without a Bachelor of Science in Nursing if the rest of their application demonstrates preparedness for advanced nursing training. 

Most MSN programs are 2-years. But registered nurses who currently hold a BSN and want to advance their career in the shortest time possible will want to apply to a 12 month online MSN program. The number of schools offering 1-year programs is limited. Here’s a list of schools with 1-year MSN programs:

  • University of Nevada
  • The University of Alabama at Huntsville
  • University of Texas Rio Grande Valley
  • Wilmington University
  • Northern Kentucky University
  • Capella University
  • University of Arizona
  • Kennesaw State University
  • Southwestern Oklahoma State University

For registered nurses who hold a BSN and don’t mind the traditional program length, there are lots of online programs to choose from. In fact, there are so many online NP programs available that it can be difficult to narrow down your choices. Generally, there are 4 major program characteristics to consider when choosing a program that fits you: 1) length of the program; 2) cost of tuition; 3) number of on-campus visits required, if any; and 4) meeting licensure requirements for your state. 

Registered Nurses who want to incorporate clinical research into their career should consider applying for Doctor of Nursing Practice programs. DNP programs are typically 4-years. Currently, the salary difference between MSN and DNP-credentialed nurses is small. However, there is a trend toward higher educational requirements for healthcare professionals. Therefore, it may benefit you in the long run to pursue a DNP. Holding the highest degree in the nursing profession will make it easier for you to satisfy any future changes to the educational requirements of the nursing industry. 

cheapest online FNP programs

How Long are Online Nurse Practitioner Programs (MSN)?

The average online Nurse Practitioner program length is 2 years. But many schools also offer 3-year programs for students who cannot devote significant time to classes and training sessions due to work and family commitments. Some programs even allow students to spread their coursework over a period of 6-years. 

It’s important for online nurse practitioner program applicants to weigh their current commitments to find a program that will fit well into their schedule. This includes considering the best time of day for you to attend class sessions. Someone with a heavy day-time schedule will want to find programs that offer a sufficient number of classes at night, and vice versa.

How Much Do Online Nurse Practitioner Programs Cost?

The cost for online nurse practitioner programs can range anywhere from $300 per credit to upwards of $1400 per credit for the most expensive programs. With the average program running between 44-61 credits, the total cost of a nurse practitioner program can range from $14,000 to $90,000 when all other fees and expenses are factored in. Most schools allow enrollees to transfer some credits from other schools in order to lessen their financial burden. Programs with cost on the higher end of the spectrum typically make up for it by having state-of-art training facilities, top notch faculty members and very high pass rates for the national licensure exam. However, there are also many great bargain programs that offer low tuition cost while maintaining exceptional teaching staff and high pass rates for the national licensure exam. 

Comparing costs between the cheapest online Nurse Practitioner programs is a great first step to reducing your financial burden. And there are many other ways you can reduce your costs as well. For example, many online nurse practitioner programs offer discounts to veterans and military personnel and the option to use benefits provided by your service branch. 

Grants and Scholarships are another great option for lowering your cost of schooling. Organizations like the U.S Department of Health and Human Services’ Health Resources & Services Administration (HRSA) have a plethora of funding sources for nurses who want to advance their career. The Nurse Corps Scholarship Program pays nursing students a monthly stipend and covers tuition costs, eligible fees and miscellaneous costs like books, clinical supplies and uniforms. The HRSA also offers a Nurse Corps Loan Repayment Program that pays up to 85% of unpaid nursing education debt. Recipients of this award are required to work for 2 years in a critical shortage facility (CSF) or an eligible nursing school as Nursing Faculty (NF). 

Nurses who want to lower their graduate education cost should also reach out to their employers. Many hospitals have a high demand for more nurses with advanced medical training and will pay all or part of your tuition costs to attend a graduate degree program.



What is it Like to Get an MSN Nursing Degree Online?

Most online nurse practitioner programs hold the majority of their classes online but also require students to attend a few brief on-campus learning experiences over the course of the program. However, some programs don’t require any on-campus visits at all. As you narrow down your program options, be sure to consider how a program’s on-campus learning requirements might affect your budget and scheduling. If traveling to campus one or two times for a few days of training is simply not an option for you, focus on finding programs that don’t require any on-campus visits. 

You can expect every online nurse practitioner program to provide a challenging curriculum with rigorous coursework, required supervised practice hours and intense preparation for the national licensing exam. As a prospective online nursing program applicant, you should make sure that your desired program of choice will meet the requirements for the state you want to practice in as a nurse practitioner. You can find this information on the official website of your state board of nursing and sometimes from the online nurse practitioner program you are considering.

Organizations that offer National Exams in NP Specialty Fields

There are a few different organizations that offer national exams in different specialty areas for nurse practitioners which are recognized by state licensing boards. The American Academy of Nurse Practitioners Certification Board (AANPCB) offers three exams: Emergency Nurse Practitioner (ENP), Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP), and Adult-gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner (AGPC-NP). The American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC) offers numerous tests for NP specialties: Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP-BC), Adult-Gerontology Acute Care (AGACNP-BC), Adult-Gerontology Primary Care (AGPCNP-BC), and Psychiatric-Mental Health (PMHNP-BC). The American Association of Critical Care Nurses offers four exams: Adult-Gerontology (ACCNS-AG), Pediatric (ACCNS-P), Neonatal (ACCNS-N), and Adult-Gerontology Acute Care (ACNP-AG). The Pediatric Nursing Certification Board offers two exams: Certified Pediatric Nurse Practitioner – Primary Care (CPNP-PC) and Certified Pediatric Nurse Practitioner – Acute Care (CPNP-AC). The National Certification Corporation offers two exams: Neonatal Nurse Practitioner (NNP-BC) and Women’s Health Care Nurse Practitioner (WHNP-BC).

affordable online FNP programs

24 Cheapest Online Nurse Practitioner Programs 

Now that you know what to expect, let’s take a look at some of the cheapest online nurse practitioner programs for the 2022 school cycle. Our list includes the cheapest online FNP programs and other NP specialty fields. Each of these programs offers at least 80% of their coursework online (many 100% online!) at an affordable price while providing a rigorous and comprehensive training experience. Every program included in this list costs less than $68,000 and some as little as $16,000.

1. Frostburg State University

In-state cost: $15,673

Frostburg State University clinches the number spot on our list of the cheapest online nurse practitioner programs. Frostburg State offers two online MSN tracks for aspiring Nurse Practitioners: Family NP (FNP) and Psychiatric & Mental Health NP (PMHNP). Both tracks have an on-campus orientation required and then an average of two campus visits per semester with 90-95% of the coursework being online. Clinical hours can be completed in the students home area. Rural RNs who plan to continue working in their underserved communities after graduation are especially encouraged to apply. Students in the PMHNP track must complete one of the two program years in a mental health setting. For both the FNP and PMHNP tracks, entry is for fall only. Students can choose full time or part time enrollment, but will need to attend consecutive classes in the fall, spring, and summer terms. FNP students  complete the program in 6 semesters as  full time enrollees, or 10 semesters part time. PMHNP students can complete the program in 7 semesters full time or 13 part time.

2. Columbus State University

In-state / out-of-state cost: $17,861

Columbus State University offers 100% of their coursework online in an asynchronous format. There are no on-campus visits required so earning your degree is completely flexible around your schedule. For aspiring Nurse Practitioners there is one track available in the Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP) field. Students from most, but not all states, can enroll in this bargain-priced accredited program. With 44 credits of work in addition to 765 practice hours, the program can be completed in as little as two years as a full time enrollee. Columbus State’s MSN program used to be offered as part of the Georgia Intercollegiate Consortium for Graduate Nursing Education, but will now be offered as a single entity rather than through the Consortium. Though the program remains the same, it is reapplying for accreditation by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE) and prospective students can be assured that this is a reputable (and very affordable) online NP program.

3. Midwestern State University

In-state / out-of-state cost: $18,873

Midwestern State University offers two tracks for an online MSN in Nurse Practitioner: Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP) or Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP). Both programs consist of 48 credit hours with coursework mostly in an online format. For the FNP track there are a total 7 required on-campus visits; and 3 on-campus visits for the PMHNP track. Admission requires an RN license in both the state the student will practice in and a Texas RN license. For students who already have an MSN, Midwestern State offers these programs as post-master’s certificate programs.

4. Clayton State University

In-state / out-of-state cost: $19,431 ($385/credit hour + fees)

Clayton State University offers a 100% online MSN in the Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP) specialty. Admittance to the program requires GRE scores, at least a 3.0 undergraduate GPA, an undergraduate pharmacology course with a grade of “B” or higher. Admission requires a Georgia RN license. Admitted students matriculate for a fall term start date. Most classes have synchronous online portions to ensure that students get to know their peers and faculty in real time. The program consists of 47 credit hours and 585 hours of clinical practice. Full time enrollees complete the program in two years; part time enrollees can spread out their program coursework for up to six years if they choose. Applicants who already hold an MSN degree have the option to transfer up to 9 hours of credits to reduce their program costs.

5. Indiana State University

In-state cost: $20,654 ($432/credit hour + fees)

Indiana State University offers a 100% online MSN in the Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP) specialty with no required campus visits. The program is available to residents of most US states as well as military students with APO/FPO addresses but closed to anyone residing in a country other than the United States. The program consists of 47-50 credit hours. Full time enrollees complete the program in 2.5 to 3 years while part time students can spread out their coursework for a maximum of five years.

6. Troy University

In-state / out-of-state cost: $23,325 ($475/credit hour + fees)

Troy University offers a 100% online MSN in the Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP) specialty with no required on-campus components. Full time enrollees must matriculate in the fall semester, while part time students can start in the fall, spring or summer terms. The online program consists of 47 credit hours, 705 clinical practice hours and 16-week semesters. MSN-prepared applicants can apply to the program for a post-master’s online certificate. Applicants residing outside of Alabama should check with the program coordinator to make sure this program is available in their state, as every state has its own approval process.

7. Purdue University Global

In-state / out-of-state cost: $26,200 – $38,800 ($420/credit hour + fees)

Purdue University Global’s online MSN in Nurse Practitioner program offers 4 specialty tracks: Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner (AGACNP), Adult-Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner (AGPCNP), Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP) and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP). The program consists of 40-60 credits hours depending on your specialty area. Applicants are not required to submit GRE scores but admission requires a minimum 2.5 GPA and unencumbered RN license. As of October 2020 the program boasts a 91% National Licensure Exam pass rate for graduates who attempted the AANP or ANCC exam.

8. Texas A&M University College Station

In-state / out-of-state cost: $26,264/$33,888

Texas A&M University College Station offers an online MSN program in the Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP) specialty area. The program consists of 48 credit hours in a mostly online format with 2 required on-campus visits. Full time students complete the program in two years and part time students in three years. The majority of the program’s coursework is taught in an asynchronous online format with practice courses taught in a hybrid format and just one online synchronous course required.

9. Saint Joseph’s College of Maine

In-state / out-of-state cost: $28,686 – $32,784

Saint Joseph’s College of Maine MSN program offers two specialty tracks: Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP) and Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner (AGACNP). The FNP track is 100% online, while the AGACNP track requires one brief on-campus training session. Both programs consist of 48 credit hours, and students from most US states and internationally are eligible to apply. There is no application fee and students complete the program in 2 years and 3 months as a full time enrollee or 4 years as a part time enrollee. The GRE exam is not required for admission but applicants must have a minimum 3.0 GPA and an unencumbered RN license. The program offers flexible matriculation – students are given the option to start the program in March, June, September or December.

10. Northern Arizona University

In-state cost: $31,000

Northern Arizona University offers a 100% online MSN in the Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP) specialty and an online Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) degree. This 48 credit hour program is designed to train nurses who plan to practice in rural areas. There are no standardized test scores required for admission, but an undergraduate GPA of at least 3.0 is preferred along with a minimum of 3 to 5 years of clinical experience. This program is a great affordable option for nurses aspiring to practice primary care in a rural setting.

11. University of Mobile

In-state / out-of-state cost: $32,980 ($675/credit hour + fees)

University of Mobile offers a faith-based online MSN in the Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP) specialty area. Coursework is mostly online with only one on-campus visit required each semester. The program consists of 48 credit hours and 660 clinical hours to be completed in 12 months. Applicants are not required to submit GRE scores but a minimum 3.0 GPA and unencumbered RN license are required for admission. International students are welcome to apply so long as they can obtain a nursing license to practice in the state where they will perform their clinical training hours. The program currently does not accept students residing in New York, Colorado, or Louisiana.

affordable online nurse practitioner programs

12. Clarkson College

In-state / out-of-state cost: $33,101 ($683/credit hour + fees)

Clarkson College’s online MSN in Nurse Practitioner offers 3 specialty tracks: Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP), Adult Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner (AGCCNP), or Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP). Most coursework is online but a few brief campus visits are required each semester. Each specialty track consists of 47-51 credit hours. Full time enrollees can finish in 2.5 years while part time enrollees can take up to seven years to complete the program. Applicants are not required to submit GRE scores but must have at least a 3.0 GPA and an unencumbered RN license. Clarkson College’s FNP program boasts a 100% pass rate for the National Board Licensure Exam and a 98% job placement rate for its graduates in 2020. 

13. Maryville University

In-state / out-of-state cost: $34,333 – $41,650 ($813/credit hour + fees)

Maryville University’s online MSN program offers 5 specialty track options: Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP), Adult-Gerontology Acute Care (AGACNP), Adult-Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner (AGPCNP), Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP), and Pediatric Nurse Practitioner (PNP). The program is 100% online and there are no required on-campus visits. Students can finish the program in 24 months which includes 41-50 credit hours, and 580 hours of clinical training. Applicants are not required to submit GRE scores but a minimum 3.0 GPA and unencumbered RN license are required for admission.

14. Saint Francis Medical Center College of Nursing

In-state / out-of-state cost: $35,200

The Saint Francis Medical Center College of Nursing offers a mostly online program with just one campus visit required for each clinical course. The program has 4 specialty tracks to choose from: Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP), Neonatal Nurse Practitioner (NNP), Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner (AGACNP), and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP). Each track consists of approximately 49 credit hours. Applicants are not required to submit GRE scores but must have a minimum 2.8 undergraduate GPA and one year of professional nursing experience for admission. The NNP track requires two years of NICU experience and can be completed in 3 years if enrolled full time. The other 3 tracks require four years to complete. There is also a fast-tracked MSN program for RN applicants with a non-nursing baccalaureate degree.

15. Spring Arbor University

In-state / out-of-state cost: $36,950 – 40,645 ($739/credit hour + fees)

Spring Arbor University offers a Christ-centered philosophy online NP program in 4 specialty areas: Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP), Adult Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner (AGPCNP, Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP), and Pediatric Nurse Practitioner (PNP). The FNP track consists of 55 credit hours; the other 3 tracks are 50 credit hours. Students can complete the program in 24 to 30 months depending on the specialty track they choose. Spring Arbor also offers a bridge program for RNs who do not have a BSN.

16. Frontier Nursing University

In-state / out-of-state cost: $37,252 – $39,796 ($636/credit hour + fees)

Frontier Nursing University offers a mostly online program with just 2 brief on-campus visits required. The program has 3 specialty tracks to choose from: Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP), Women’s Health Care (WHC) and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP). The program consists of 57-61 credit hours and 675 clinical hours and allows students to enroll on full time or part time basis. Frontier Nursing University provides it’s MSN graduates with the easy option to add on 21 credits to earn a DNP. This is a great program for students who want to earn the highest advanced nursing profession degree possible at an affordable price.

17. South University

In-state / out-of-state cost: $38,200 ($600/credit hour + fees)

South University’s online MSN in Nurse Practitioner program offers 2 specialty tracks: Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP) and Adult Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner (AGPCNP). Both specialty tracks consist of 62 credits of online coursework and 650 clinical hours fulfilled in the student’s home area. Applicants are not required to submit GRE scores but a minimum 3.0 GPA and unencumbered RN license are required for admission.

18. Graceland University

In-state / out-of-state cost: $40,010 ($830/credit hour + fees)

Graceland University’s online MSN program offers 3 tracks: Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP), Adult Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner (AGACNP) and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP). All 3 program tracks consist of 47 credit hours offered in 16-week trimesters run on the cohort model. Full time enrollees can complete the program in eight trimesters and part time enrollees in 12 trimesters. The program’s coursework is mostly online with a required two-day on-campus focus session. Applicants are not required to submit GRE scores but a minimum 3.0 GPA and unencumbered RN license are required for admission.

19. Loyola University New Orleans

In-state / out-of-state cost: $40,264 ($818/credit hour + fees)

Loyola University in New Orleans offers a 100% online MSN in the Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP) specialty area and there is no required on-campus component. The program consists of 48 credit hours and 720 practicum hours that can be completed in under three years. GRE scores are not required and there is no minimum GPA for admissions but applicants must have recent extensive direct patient care experience (at least 1,800 hours) to apply.

20. Sacred Heart University

In-state / out-of-state cost: $42,790 ($995/credit hour + fees)

Sacred Heart University offers an asynchronous online program in the Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP) specialty area. The program consists of 42 credit hours, 550 clinical hours and an onsite clinical component which requires students to find their own clinical placements in the area of their choosing. New York State and Connecticut based students will have to travel to clinical placements outside of their state. Applicants are not required to submit GRE scores but a minimum 3.2 GPA and unencumbered RN license are required for admission. Enrollees have the option to transfer up to 6 credit hours from a regionally accredited university.

21. Boise State University

In-state / out-of-state cost: $45,500 ($890/credit hour + fees)

Boise State University’s online MSN program offers 2 specialty tracks: Adult Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner (AGACNP) and Adult Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner (AGPCNP). The program’s coursework is mostly online and consists of 50 credit hours with 3 required on-campus intensives and 4 clinical rotations. Applicants are not required to submit GRE scores but a minimum 3.0 GPA and unencumbered RN license are required for admission. Boise State University boasts a 97% pass rate on the nurse practitioner board exam.

22. Walden University

In-state / out-of-state cost: $43,350 ($715/credit hour + fees)

Walden University’s online MSN program offers 5 specialty tracks: Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP), Adult Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner (AGACNP), Adult Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner (AGPCNP), Pediatric Nurse Practitioner (PNP) and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP). The FNP track consists of 56 credits hours and 640 practicum hours; the AGPCNP and AGACNP tracks consist of 58 credit hours and 640 practicum hours; the PNP and PMHNP tracks consist of 63 credit hours and 640 practicum hours. The program is 100% online with several flexible start-dates and the option for enrollees to transfer in credits from previous education experience.

23. Drexel University

In-state / out-of-state cost: $54,924 – $65,294 ($1,037/credit hour + fees)

Drexel University’s online MSN in Nursing Practice offer a wide selection of tracks in 8 specialty areas: Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP), Adult Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner (AGPCNP), Adult Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner (AGACNP), Pediatric Acute Care Nurse Practitioner (PACNP), Pediatric Primary Care Nurse Practitioner (PPCNP), Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP), Women’s Health/Gender Nurse Practitioner (WHNP), and a dual degree in Pediatric Primary/Pediatric Acute Care Nurse Practice. The FNP rack consists of 56 credit hours. The PACNP track consists of  The AGACNP and PACNP tracks consist of 57 credit hours. The AGPCNP, PPCNP and PMHNP tracks consist of 52 credit hours. The WHNP track consists of 55 credit hours. The dual Pediatric Primary/Acute track consists of 62 credit hours. All 8 tracks require students to attend a live online 3-hour lesson each week for interaction with faculty and peers, and one to three brief on-campus experiences over the course of the program.

24. Seton Hall University

In-state / out-of-state cost: $67,384 ($1383/credit hour)

Seton Hall University’s online MSN program offers 4 specialty tracks in Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner (AGACNP), Adult-Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner (AGPCNP), Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) and Pediatric Nurse Practitioner (PNP). The AGACNP track consists of 48 credit hours and 675 practicum hours; the AGPCNP track consists of 48 credit hours and 600 practicum hours; The PMHNP track consists of 49 credit hours; the PNP track consists of All 4 tracks can be completed in three to four years. Most coursework is offered in an online asynchronous format but three on-campus immersion experiences are required. The program boasts a 98% AANPCP exam pass rate. 

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A Better Way to Scale Your Online Business. Find out here. (2023)

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I want to let my readers and subscribers know about a new business-building resource I found. 

I recently purchased services for one of my online businesses from Kwork.com. I was weary about using this website at first because I had never heard of it and some of the prices seemed too low to provide a quality product. But I’m honestly very impressed with the service I received and I’m more than happy to spread the word about this affordable freelancing marketplace.

What is Kwork?



Kwork is a platform that simplifies the process of finding freelance services for businesses. You get to fulfill orders with a few clicks, have access to millions of high-quality freelancers without worrying about scams, and never worry about your invoices.

I know from personal experience that getting your business off the ground can be difficult and hiring an expert can be pricey. But Kwork makes it easy to find a talented freelancer who’s right for you at a great price. I was surprised by how fast, easy and affordable it was to find the exact service I needed for my online business.  

Are you thinking about or currently starting an online business?

Don’t struggle to get your business started. Save time and money by finding freelance talent fast using Kwork.

How Does Kwork Compare to Other Freelance Platforms? (UpWork, Fiverr, Freelancer.com)

I have experience with Upwork, Fiverr and Freelancer.com and I think Kwork is simply a better way to buy freelance services.

Kwork is an online store of services. Thousands of talented freelancers compete for your business by selling their services in the store at a fixed-price. There are no hourly rates or confusing offers, just fixed-price professional work. 

The Kwork marketplace is simple and effective. Unlike other freelance platforms, you don’t need to sift through dozens of generic offers to find the one you are looking for. On Kwork.com you can quickly search for any service you need, price it right there on the spot, and get it delivered in as little as just a few clicks.

Kwork makes it easy to find freelancers. Search through thousands of freelancers by skills, availability, rating and location in less than 5 minutes.

Kwork was designed to help independent and results-oriented entrepreneurs find talented freelancers quickly at an affordable price. Thanks to a proprietary feature, you don’t need to sift through a sea of unspecific offers like other freelance platforms. On Kwork, all freelancers who list their services on Kwork have passed our screening process and have provided proof of high level professional skills.

How does Kwork…work?



The Kwork platform brings together freelance services and business customers in an ultra-fast, efficient, and inexpensive way. Freelancers list their comprehensive services on the Kwork Marketplace at a fixed price. Fixed prices for all items ordered on Kwork lets small businesses focus on their core tasks and increase their profits without large expenditures for outsourcing. 

Kwork’s innovative platform and smart software allows clients and freelancers to connect in an easy and transparent way. By cutting out middlemen, Kwork is able to provide its customers with quality services at affordable prices. The services are particularly useful for small businesses that cannot afford to hire 10 people to do the same job.

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edtech_0

How to Become an Educational Technology Specialist (2023)

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CONTENTS

The Covid-19 pandemic of 2020 created an unprecedented explosion in the field of Educational Technology. The need to ‘Social Distance’ has grown the industry to epic proportions as thousands of schools and universities around the world have transitioned to online learning. Even as COVID-19 becomes less of a public health threat, many schools are finding online classes to be a cheaper and more flexible way to educate their students. Numerous universities have permanently transitioned their degree programs to a 100% online format and many more will follow suit in the near future. 

As this trend continues, 2023 is shaping up to be a fantastic year to pursue a career as an Educational Technology Specialist (“EdTech Specialist” for short). In this article, we dive deep into the emerging new world of Educational Technology. You’ll learn why and how to become an Educational Technology Specialist, how the industry is evolving, and how to gain admission into top online degree programs. There’s a lot to cover so let’s jump right in!

What is Educational Technology?

educational technology specialist

Readers over the age of 30 can recall a time when “educational technology” was simply the overhead projector your teacher set up at the back of the classroom for note taking. But today, the world of education technology encompasses one of the fastest growing technology sectors on the market.

How fast? 

Even the U.S. Government has taken a significant interest in the industry of Educational Technology, allocating billions of dollars to fund its development.  

In 2017 the U.S Department of Education created the Office of Educational Technology (OET) which put forth the first ever ‘National Education Technology Plan’ (NETP). The goal of the NETP was to articulate “a vision of equity, active use, and collaborative leadership to make everywhere, all-the-time learning possible.” Since then, the U.S Department of Education has received $30.75 Billion for remote learning through the CARES Act. And in 2021, the OET published an update to its flagship NETP which includes a plan for reimagining the role of technology in Higher Education.  

But it’s not only the U.S Government who wants a piece of the eLearning pie. Many of the world’s largest private corporations have committed to leveraging the power of technology to transform education and innovate student learning. Take for example technology powerhouse Apple Inc., which pledged $100 Million toward teaching and learning tech solutions as part of their 2014 ConnectedEd Initiative. 

So what exactly is this hot new emerging sector that has the federal government and some of the largest corporations chomping at the bit to invest?

What is Educational Technology? Educational Technology encompasses many areas and is expanding rapidly everyday. Essentially, Educational Technology is anything directly or indirectly related to the use of technology in an academic setting. This includes but isn’t limited to the development, implementation, training and maintenance of software, online tools, devices, computers and networks for educational purposes. That’s quite a mouthful. But don’t worry. This will become clearer in the next section when we break down the specific job duties covered by EdTech Specialists.


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What is an Educational Technology Specialist (EdTech Specialist)?

educational technology specialist

An Educational Technology Specialist is an expert who facilitates the integration and maintenance of technologies, such as e-learning software, tablets and laptops, into an academic setting. 

Transitioning into online learning is a lengthy, complex task that requires an Educational Technology Specialist at every step of the process. EdTech Specialists create new ways to employ tech in the classroom. They train teachers and students to use new software tools. They also serve as IT support for a schools’ existing technology landscape. 

Let’s take a detailed look at each of the job roles and settings EdTech Specialists function in. 

Job Settings for EdTech Specialists

Almost every academic setting you can think of needs an Educational Technology Specialist, including: daycare & pre-K, private and public elementary, middle and high schools, charter schools, colleges & universities, nonprofit organizations, private companies and governmental agencies. 

In elementary and high school settings, EdTech Specialists often work on-site to help students and teachers with day-to-day usage of classroom technologies and offer support when technical issues arise.

Colleges & Universities are increasingly hiring EdTech Specialists to help design or improve their online curriculum delivery platforms.

Private companies often employ EdTech Specialists to create and manage online employee training materials.

Nonprofits and governmental agencies rely on EdTech Specialists to assist in the formation of education technology policy and digital public service announcements and community resources.

educational technology specialist

Job Roles for EdTech Specialists

  • Developer

    Educational Technology Specialists with expertise in coding and programming can find work as a developer. In this role, an EdTech Specialist helps EdTech companies create world-class eLearning products. As a developer you will be responsible for the design, prototyping, user research and testing of new distance learning products.

  • Consultant

    EdTech Specialists play a critical role in identifying suitable education technology for a variety of classroom applications, including English as a Second Language (ESL) and special needs learning. EdTech Specialists working in the capacity of a consultant regularly liaise with educators and administrators to source and design new technologies for online and in-person instruction. They also analyze a school or agency’s current technology-based programs to detect flaws and recommend enhancements. 

  • Instructor

    After a new technology is introduced into a school or agency’s operation, students, educators, administrators and employees need to learn how to use it. This is where an EdTech Specialist steps in – to provide user training and troubleshooting tips for new technologies. In addition to in-person training sessions, an Educational Technology Specialist is tasked with creating instructional videos and other instructional content.  

  • IT Support

    Educational Technology Specialists who have an Information Technology (IT) background often fill the role of IT support. As the landscape of education technology rapidly evolves, EdTech Specialists are needed more than ever to guide students and educators through unexpected technical failures.

educational technology specialist

Alternative Job Titles

Educational Technology Specialist or EdTech Specialist is the most commonly used title for this career. But you may also see it referred to as any of the following:

  • Instructional Technology Specialist
  • Instructional Coordinator
  • Instructional Technologist
  • Education Design Specialist
  • Learning Development Specialist

Helpful Skills & Experience for Educational Technology Specialists (EdTech Specialists)

Technological Savvy – The ability to navigate a full range of devices (desktops, laptops, mobile) and EdTech software platforms and also troubleshoot when issues arise. 

Data Analysis – The ability to collect, review and make sense of raw data to identify problems and/or provide solutions. 

Research & Planning – The ability to find and organize information to increase the understanding of a topic and advocate for future next steps.

Problem Solving – The ability to use logical or creative methods to come up with solutions to complex issues.

Leadership – The ability to inspire and mobilize teams and groups of people to form a consensus around a plan and follow through to achieve a set of goals. 

Public Speaking – The ability to speak in front of audiences in order to persuade or communicate ideas effectively. 

Organization – The ability to collect and store information, files and equipment in an orderly, methodical manner.

Salary and Job Outlook for Educational Technology Specialists (EdTech Specialists)

educational technology specialist

In the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) database of salary information, “Educational Technology Specialist”  is referred to as one of its alternative titles – “Instructional Coordinator”. According to the BLS, Instructional Coordinators earned a median salary of $66,970 per year and $32.20 per hour in 2020. This places the salary for Instructional Coordinators above the national average. The job outlook for Instructional Coordinators is very promising with new job openings expected to grow by 10% through 2030. A job in educational technology is perfect if you value job security and longevity in your career. Even as the economy trends toward technological automation, there will always be a need for specialists who have a solid command of new technologies and can train others to use them.

How to Become an Educational Technology Specialist (EdTech Specialist)

How To Become an Educational Technologist: Step-by-Step

The first thing we should note is that each state has their own set of educational and licensing requirements to become an Educational Technology Specialist. Having said that, there are several shared requirements that every prospective EdTech Specialist needs no matter where they live. 

Every state requires Educational Technology Specialists to hold a master’s degree in an Education-related field to become licensed. The most common degree held by EdTech Specialists is a Master of Education (M.Ed). Many schools offer degree programs specifically designed to prepare students for a career in Education Technology, such as: M.Ed. in Instructional Technology, M.Ed. in Applied Technology, M.Ed. in Learning & Technology, and Master of Science (M.S.) in Educational Technology.

Students who have a master’s degree in a non-education field can fulfill the education requirements in one of two ways: 1) enroll in one of the M.Ed. or M.S. programs listed above; or 2) obtain an Education Specialist (Ed.S.) in Instructional Technology degree. The Ed.S. is an advanced degree for post-master’s students and takes less time to complete compared to a typical M.Ed. degree program. 

In addition to an M.Ed. or Ed.S. degree, some states require Edtech Specialists to obtain a teaching licensure or certification. You should reach out to the education department in your state to see if your desired degree program satisfies the EdTech Specialist licensure requirements.

educational technology specialist

Master of Education (M.Ed.) Admission Requirements

M.Ed. degree program admission requirements vary depending on the prestige and competitiveness of the school.

In general, applicants need a solid undergraduate GPA (3.0 or higher), GRE or GMAT scores, a resume, recommendation letters and a personal statement. Some M.Ed. programs also prefer applicants who have 1 or 2 years of work experience in a role related to teaching, school administration or technology. In some instances, applicants need to hold a teaching license to enroll.

International applicants may need to prove proficiency in English by submitting their scores from any of the following exams: Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL), International English Language Testing System (IELTS), American Council on the Teaching of Foreign Language (ACTFL), or Pearson Test of English Academic (PTEA).

Educational Specialist (Ed.S.) Admission Requirements

Most Ed.S. Degree programs require applicants to hold both a bachelor’s and master’s degree from an accredited college or university. Additionally, applicants need to submit their undergraduate and graduate transcripts, a resume, recommendation letters and a personal statement. Some programs also require applicants to submit a writing sample from a master’s-level class.

educational technology specialist

Professional Organizations for Educational Technology Specialists (EdTech Specialists)

  • Association for Educational Communications & Technology (AECT) – “an international organization that values diversity of thought, culture and people whose activities are directed toward improving learning…AECT members include instructional designers, researchers, professors and teachers, educational technologists, and other professionals united by a passion for improving teaching and learning.”
  • International Society for Technology in Education (ISTE) – “a passionate community of global educators who believe in the power of technology to transform teaching and learning, accelerate innovation and solve tough problems in education. ISTE inspires the creation of solutions and connections that improve opportunities for all learners by delivering: practical guidance, evidence-based professional learning, virtual networks, thought-provoking events and the ISTE Standards.”

Most affordable Master of Education (M.Ed.) in Instructional Technology online degree programs in 2023

1. Valdosta State University 

Online Degree Programs:

  • M.Ed. in Instructional Technology & Training
  • M.Ed. in Instructional Technology: P-12 Technology Applications
  • M.Ed. in Instructional Technology: School Library Media

Valdosta State University’s online M.Ed. program has 3 different concentrations to choose from. The program consists of 30 hours of coursework and full time students can complete the entire program in 21 months. At Valdosta State University, online students learn from top-tier professors who have real-world expertise and decades of teaching experience. The estimated cost of the program is $10,640 not including university fees. 

2. University of Central Missouri

Online Degree Programs:

  • M.S. in Educational Technology

The University of Central Missouri offers a fully online Master of Science in Educational Technology. The program is designed to help teachers integrate 21st century technologies into their classrooms. Prospective applicants must have an undergraduate GPA of 2.75 or higher for admission. At the end of the program, students complete an internship at a school or organization of their choice. 

3. Georgia Southern University

Online Degree Programs:

  • M.Ed. in Instructional Technology

Georgia Southern University’s M.Ed. in Instructional Technology is entirely online and geared toward students who aspire to leadership and management positions in the Instructional Technology field. Applicants must have an undergraduate GPA of 2.5 or higher for admission. Students who don’t meet the minimum GPA requirement must submit GRE scores with their application.

4. University of Missouri-Columbia

Online Degree Programs:

  • M.S. in Learning Technologies & Design
  • M.S. in Technology in Schools

The University of Missouri-Columbia’s online master’s programs are accredited by the Higher Learning Commission. The M.S. program is 100% online with no required on-campus visits. Full time students can earn their degree in as little as 2 years after completing 30 credit hours of coursework. The estimated cost of the program is $14,595 not including university fees.

5. Auburn University at Montgomery

Online Degree Programs:

  • M.Ed. Instructional Technology

Auburn University at Montgomery offers a 100% online program with no required campus visits. The program consists of 30 credits hours and can be completed in as few as 2 years by full time enrollees. Applicants must have a minimum GPA of 2.5 from an accredited bachelor’s or master’s degree program for admission. Prospective students also need to pass an Alabama Certification of Teachers Finger Inquiry Clearance. The estimated cost of the program is $14,130 or $471 per credit hour.

educational technology specialist

Most affordable Education Specialist (Ed.S.) in Instructional Technology online degree programs in 2023

1. Valdosta State University

Online Degree Programs:

  • Ed.S. in Instructional Technology: P-12 Technology Applications
  • Ed.S. in Instructional Technology: P-12 Technology Applications  with Library Media Add-on
  • Ed.S. in Instructional Technology: P-12 Technology Applications (Non P-12 School Personnel)

Valdosta State University’s Ed.S. degree is designed to equip experienced teachers with engaging and practical ways to improve classroom learning environments using new technology tools. The program is 100% online and consists of 30 credit hours to be completed in 5 semesters. Applicants must hold a master’s degree from a regionally accredited institution of higher learning. Prospective students also need a graduate GPA of 3.0 or higher. Students with graduate GPA between 2.5 and 2.99 must submit GRE or MAT scores with their application. All applicants must hold a valid level 4 or higher induction, Professional, Advanced Professional, or Lead Professional teaching certificate, leadership certificate, service field certificate, or Life certificate. The cost of the program is $8,790 not including standard University fees.

2. University of Central Missouri

Online Degree Programs:

  • Ed.S. in Educational Technology

University of Central Missouri’s online Ed.S program caters to educators who already hold a master’s degree in education, educational technology, or a related field. Admission requires a minimum graduate GPA of 3.25 from an accredited institution. 

There are no required on-campus visits but students must complete an advanced in-person practicum at a location of their choosing. The ideal applicant to this program aspires to become a leader at their school and take on advanced roles such as technology coordinator or instructional coach.

3. Georgia Southern University

Online Degree Programs:

  • Ed.S. in Instructional Technology

Georgia Southern University’s online Ed.S. program is 100% online and functions on a single cohort model. Accepted students matriculate once per year and progress through their coursework as a group. The single cohort model encourages students to collaborate with each other throughout the program. Applicants must hold a master’s degree from an accredited institution and have a 3.25 or higher graduate GPA for admission. Prospective applicants must also hold or be eligible to obtain a Georgia level five or higher teaching, leadership, or service certificate; or possess an equivalent certificate from their state of residence.

4. University of Montevallo

Online Degree Programs: 

  • Ed.S. in Instructional Technology

The University of Montevallo’s online Ed.S. degree is designed to help students learn more about management, training, and the implementation of technology in diverse classroom settings.  The program is 100% online and consists of 33 credit hours. Applicants must hold a master’s degree from an accredited institution and present a 3.0 graduate GPA or higher for admission. Additionally, prospective students must be currently employed in an educational field and have at least one year of full-time professional experience. Alternatively, students who are not currently employed must have at least three years of full-time work experience in an education or related field. Students who are employed by an eligible school system may receive a scholarship of up to $110 per credit hour toward tuition.

5. Auburn University at Montgomery 

Online Degree Programs:

  • Ed.S. in Instructional Technology

Auburn University of Montgomery’s online Ed.S. program prepares its students with in-demand technology skills in P-12 schools, government, health management, and other business and industry settings. Applicants can hold a master’s degree in any field to be eligible for admission into the program. Other admission requirements include a minimum graduate GPA of 3.25 and a valid teaching certificate. 

educational technology specialist

Online Graduate Certificate Programs to Become an Educational Technology Specialist (EdTech Specialist)

1. Georgia Southern University

  • Graduate Certificate in Instructional Technology

Georgia Southern University offers a graduate Certificate in Instructional Technology for experienced educators and administrators who want to become leaders in the field of education technology. Admission requires applicants to hold a master’s degree from an accredited institution and have a valid Georgia level five or higher Induction, Professional, Advanced Professional, or Lead Professional teaching certificate, Leadership certificate, Service Field certificate, or Life certificate. Out-of-state students need an equivalent level five or higher certificate from their state of residence.

Take the Next Step!

If you’re an educator looking to advance your career in the field of education technology, any of the programs listed above will provide you with a quality education at an affordable price. As you research prospective degree programs, make sure to reach out to your state’s department of education and confirm that your desired program meets the state’s licensure requirements. Lastly, congratulations if you made it to the end of this article. You are now one step closer to accomplishing your goal to become an Educational Technology Specialist. 

Click here to learn about other great careers and online degree options.

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This AI Writer is Changing the Game. Find out what other marketers don’t want you to know!

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Does Your Online Business Need an AI Writer?

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If you’re tired of writing from scratch, an AI Writer will save you time and get your creative juices flowing. It automatically generates hundreds of unique articles for any niche, topic, or keyword—so you can publish them to the web or social media app in minutes.

AI writing tools give you the power to create outstanding content without having to be a content expert or professional writer.

And an AI Writer doesn’t just spit out general robotic content. It can write articles based on your reader’s demographic and interests, as well as provide long-form content and personalized versions for individual subscribers.

Do I Need to Be Tech Savvy to Use an AI Writer?

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AI Article Writers are remarkably easy to use. Simply plug in your keywords and click ‘generate’. Its unique sentence structure lets every sentence it creates flow beautifully. 

Most AI software is also completely customizable so you can improve the style and tone of your sentences. Easily change or personalize your content with just a few minutes of work.

Who is an AI Writing Assistant Good For?

Digital Marketers (Affiliates)

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Bloggers

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Social Media Accounts + Podcasts

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E-commerce (Online Store Owners)

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Copywriters

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Storytellers + Novelists

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Is a Degree in Emerging Media Worth It? (2023)

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CONTENTS

Innovations in media and technology are rapidly changing the way we do business, learn, play and communicate with one another. The ability to assess trends and capitalize on new social media opportunities has become essential to long-term success in nearly every industry.

In 2021, social media commerce generated a whopping $475 Billion in revenue with nearly 92% of U.S companies using social media for marketing purposes. Nearly 15 new social media accounts are created every second.

social media growth strategies

So is a degree in Emerging Media worth it? Yes, a degree in Emerging Media is worth it if you want expertise in a field that is guaranteed not to become outdated or taken over by automation in the near future. In an increasingly digital world, you’d be hard pressed to find a more relevant and valuable skillset than a command of emerging media. And as developments in new media continue to accelerate, businesses are desperate to hire media and tech professionals that can lead them into 21st century prosperity. 

But before you enroll into a Emerging Media degree program, you’ll want to keep reading this article for detailed answers to the following FAQs: 

degree in emerging media

What Jobs Can I Get With a Degree in Emerging Media?

A degree in Emerging Media can open the doors of employment to almost any company you can think of. Here’s a list of careers with the fastest hiring rates and growth potential for 2023. 

  1. Media Marketing and Communications Manager
  2. Sports Marketing Agent 
  3. Advertising Account Executive
  4. Public Relations Consultant

Media Marketing & Communications Manager – $133,155

As a Media Marketing Manager you’ll be responsible for developing and implementing a company’s social media strategy. Every detail, from what platforms to use to how often to post will be at your sole discretion. And you’ll be relied on to create content that attracts attention and drives traffic to the company’s website.

Sports Marketing Agent – $115,750

Sports teams and franchises operate just like large corporations. Cash flow is critical. So they depend on a steady income of ticket sales and sponsorships to meet their bottom line. This makes promotions through diverse media platforms a must-have. And that’s where the job of sports marketing agent comes in. 

As a sports marketing agent you’ll be responsible for promoting a team’s brand and image across multiple media channels. And even when the team performs poorly, it will be your job to keep fans interested enough to purchase game tickets. Since a team’s performance can change drastically from season to season, creativity and quick-thinking will be critical to success in this career.

Advertising Account Executive – $83,301

degree in emerging media digital marketing

This career is ideal for people with great people skills and creativity. Account Executives are responsible for maintaining client relations and seeking out new business for their company’s portfolio. Additionally, advertising account executives pitch new advertising products and campaigns in a variety of media formats (digital, social media, hardcopy, etc.)

Public Relations Consultant – $52,485

You’re probably already familiar with this career if you’re a fan of ABC’s hit show “Scandal”. Public Relations Consultants work as intermediaries between the public and a business or high-profile individual (e.g. a politician). They are often called on in times of crisis and tasked with rehabilitating their client’s image. In today’s social media-driven “cancel culture”, public relations specialists are highly sought after by influencers, public figures and lifestyle brands.

Will a Degree in Emerging Media Help Me Grow My Social Media Business Accounts?

degree in emerging media

The short answer is Yes. With a degree in Emerging Media you’ll be equipped to manage accounts across every type of social media platform out there. There’s no secret formula to gaining followers on social media, but graduates of an Emerging Media program will have an advantage knowing the best and latest social media growth strategies. 

Creating engaging content may be the best known way of attracting likes and followers on social media. But there is also a lesser known technical aspect of social media engineering that contributes heavily as well. Students in an Emerging Media degree program will learn the ins and outs of using SEO, keyword placement, hashtags, and other “behind the scenes” strategies that increase web traffic and drive sales.

Click here to learn about other online degrees, careers and social media growth strategies.

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Certificate in Entrepreneurship

Is a Certificate in Entrepreneurship Worth It? (2023)

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CONTENTS

Individuals who fit the profile of a successful entrepreneur – great work ethic and a million dollar idea – are often unexpectedly overwhelmed by the technical ins-and-outs of running a business. This is made painfully evident by the poor success rate of new startups and small businesses. Many are turning to a Certificate in Entrepreneurship for help. 

In 2021 nearly 1 million small businesses failed. Thousands of others managed to survive, but didn’t turn a profit that year. And many more never got off the ground to begin with. 

In other words, the struggle is real. And this has greatly heightened the appeal of earning an online Certificate in Entrepreneurship. 

So is a Certificate in Entrepreneurship worth it in 2023? Yes, a Certificate in Entrepreneurship is worth it for the go-getter who has innovative ideas but struggles with the technical aspects of business, accounting and tax preparation. Visionaries and hustlers who have never “balanced a book” can benefit a lot from the skills learned in a Certificate in Entrepreneurship program. It helps to have a credential you can present to investors and banks when raising seed capital and/or applying for loans. By investing in yourself through education, others will be more inclined to invest in you and your business as well. 

But before you apply,  continue reading to get detailed answers to the following FAQs:

  1. What will I learn in an online Certificate in Entrepreneurship program?
  2. How long is an online Certificate in Entrepreneurship program?
  3. What is a typical course schedule for an online Certificate in Entrepreneurship program? 
  4. How much does a Certificate in Entrepreneurship cost?
  5. Can I get financial aid or scholarships?



What Will I Learn in an Online Certificate in Entrepreneurship Program?

certificate in entrepreneurship

While less demanding than the typical business program (e.g. MBA), an Entrepreneurship Certificate program offers valuable and comprehensive training around launching a successful business venture. And unlike other traditional degree programs, an Entrepreneurship Certificate provides students the time and flexibility to learn, work their day job, and focus on starting their new company at the same time.

Programs will differ widely from school to school. But there are several core principles you can expect to learn no matter where you enroll. These include:

  • How to create a winning business plan.
  • How to navigate the seed capital investment process.
  • How to conduct market research and find best selling items.
  • How to prepare business taxes and keep more cash on hand.
  • How to handle accounting for your company. 

Most Entrepreneurship Certificate programs also provide you the opportunity to network with other entrepreneurs. This is vitally important to your business’ success as you will eventually need partnerships and vendors to scale up and expand. You’ll also learn about the biggest challenges facing small businesses in the Digital & Social Media age and how to avoid common pitfalls.



How Long are Online Certificate in Entrepreneurship Programs?

As with the curriculum, the length of each program differs from school to school. But most Entrepreneurship Certificate programs run from 4 to 8 months divided into 2 or 3 semesters. See below for a typical course schedule:

  • Assessing Startup Viability and Funding Options
  • Digital Strategies for Transforming Your Business
  • Pitching Your Business Opportunity
  • Digital Marketing and Social Media Analytics 

How Much Does a Certificate in Entrepreneurship  Cost? 

certificate in entrepreneurship

The popularity of Entrepreneurship Certificates has grown in recent years and there are a variety of programs to fit every budget. Program costs can range from just $400 for a typical online program to $13,000 at prestigious schools like MIT. Some programs offer both on-campus and online learning. 

Only select programs will offer Financial Aid to enrollees. But don’t worry if the program you’re interested in doesn’t. There are tons of grants and scholarships available to students pursuing online education. Grants.gov is an excellent resource offered by the U.S Department of Education for adults interested in pursuing an online education. Visit the website today to search the database’s huge collection of grants and scholarships available for the 2021-2022 school year.

Scholarships & Grants 

Scholarship Owl has a huge database of grants and scholarships to apply to. Including a no-essay scholarship awarding $2,222 every month. 



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