Rankings / Online Masters

Best Accelerated Master's Programs

By David Krug, Co-Founder, CollegeRanker · Updated 2026-05-31 · 11 schools · Agent Insights

Schools Analyzed

$60,255

Avg. Earnings (10yr)

35%

Avg. Graduation Rate

$16,998

Avg. Net Price

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Accelerated master's programs offer a fast track to advanced degrees, helping students gain critical skills and credentials in a shorter time frame. With many professionals balancing work and education, these online options are increasingly appealing. As we explore this list, it's important to note that the average earnings for graduates of these programs stand at $60,255, reflecting the potential value of these degrees.

What truly distinguishes the top schools in this ranking is their graduate outcomes. Key metrics like earnings, graduation rates, debt levels, and mobility provide insight into the long-term benefits of these programs. For instance, while the average graduation rate across these programs is just 35%, some institutions significantly outperform this average, highlighting the importance of choosing wisely.

Take the University of Florida-Online and Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University-Worldwide. The former boasts average earnings of $71,588 with an 81% graduation rate, while the latter offers a higher earning potential at $84,131 but has a much lower graduation rate of only 21%. This trade-off underscores the need to weigh both outcomes and completion rates when considering these programs.

Key Findings

University of Florida-Online graduates earn an average of $71,588, the highest among the top schools.

Only 21% of Embry-Riddle graduates complete their program, reflecting a significant trade-off in potential earnings.

Western Governors University's graduation rate is 48%, which is below the average of 35% for this list.

The average debt for graduates across these programs is $15,000, providing a manageable financial burden.

Quick Numbers

Schools ranked 11

Avg. earnings at 10yr $60,255

Avg. graduation rate 35%

Avg. net price $16,998

Avg. median debt $20,477

How We Ranked

Accelerated master's programs ranked by graduate outcomes

Read our full methodology →

Earnings vs. Cost

Each dot is a ranked school. Up = higher earnings. Right = higher cost. Top-left is the best value.

Graduation Rates

Longer bars = higher graduation rate.

Top 3

University of Florida-Online

Gainesville, FL

Graduation81%

Earnings$71,588

Net Price$4,815

View full profile →

Western Governors University

Salt Lake City, UT

Graduation48%

Earnings$60,615

Net Price$12,548

View full profile →

Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University-Worldwide

Daytona Beach, FL

Graduation21%

Earnings$84,131

Net Price$18,725

View full profile →

Featured Programs From Accredited Schools

Accredited schools accepting applicants in this field.

Full Rankings

University of Florida-Online

Gainesville, FL · 4,627 students · Public

The Accelerated Master's program at the University of Florida-Online appeals to driven students looking to fast-track their education while balancing work and life commitments. This program is designed for individuals who want to deepen their expertise and advance their careers without the wait, offering a streamlined path to earning an advanced degree that aligns with the university's strong academic foundation.

61% accepted 81% graduate $71,588 earnings

University's full profile

Western Governors University

Salt Lake City, UT · 155,088 students · Private nonprofit

At Western Governors University, the Accelerated Master's program is tailored for self-motivated learners who thrive in a flexible, online environment. Students entering this program can expect to work toward advanced knowledge and skills that can enhance their career prospects, particularly in fields that value innovative thinking and adaptability.

48% graduate $60,615 earnings

Western's full profile

Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University-Worldwide

Daytona Beach, FL · 9,139 students · Private nonprofit

Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University-Worldwide offers an Accelerated Master's program designed for students passionate about aviation and aerospace. This program attracts individuals who are eager to deepen their understanding of these fields and fast-track their careers, positioning themselves at the forefront of industry advancements while taking advantage of Embry-Riddle's global network.

58% accepted 21% graduate $84,131 earnings

Embry-Riddle's full profile

Arizona State University Digital Immersion

Scottsdale, AZ · 53,782 students · Public

Arizona State University's Digital Immersion program includes an Accelerated Master's pathway that suits ambitious students looking to integrate technology with advanced academic pursuits. This innovative track is well-suited for those who are ready to immerse themselves in a fast-paced learning environment while gaining the expertise needed for today's digital landscape.

67% accepted 29% graduate $62,668 earnings

Arizona's full profile

University of New Hampshire College of Professional Studies Online

Manchester, NH · 1,157 students · Public

The Accelerated Master's program at the University of New Hampshire College of Professional Studies Online is designed for motivated students looking to fast-track their careers. This program appeals to those ready to dive into advanced studies while balancing work or personal commitments, preparing them for leadership roles in their chosen fields.

22% graduate $66,479 earnings

University's full profile

University of Arkansas Grantham

LIttle Rock, AR · 2,833 students · Public

At the University of Arkansas Grantham, the Accelerated Master's program is tailored for students eager to enhance their knowledge and skills efficiently. This program is particularly well-suited for working adults or those with busy schedules, allowing them to gain an advanced degree without sacrificing their current responsibilities or employment.

32% graduate $63,496 earnings

University's full profile

University of Maryland Global Campus

Adelphi, MD · 49,664 students · Public

The Accelerated Master's program at the University of Maryland Global Campus is ideal for those who aspire to advance their careers quickly while juggling other commitments. This program accommodates busy professionals looking to deepen their expertise and enhance their marketability in today’s job landscape, all while studying in a flexible online format.

31% graduate $65,287 earnings

University's full profile

Touro University Worldwide

Los Alamitos, CA · 454 students · Private nonprofit

The Accelerated Master's program at Touro University Worldwide caters to students who seek to combine their education with real-world experience efficiently. This program is designed for individuals who want to transition into advanced roles quickly while benefiting from a supportive online community, enabling them to work while studying.

36% graduate $40,803 earnings

Northwest University-Center for Online and Extended Education

Kirkland, WA · 405 students · Private nonprofit

The Accelerated Master's program at Northwest University is designed for motivated individuals eager to advance their careers quickly. Students will engage in a rigorous curriculum that prepares them for leadership roles in their chosen fields, ideally suited for those balancing work and study while seeking a competitive edge in the job market. With a focus on developing practical skills and knowledge, this program can be a great fit for those ready to commit to their professional growth.

40% graduate $54,914 earnings

Northwest's full profile

#10

Bryant & Stratton College-Online

Orchard Park, NY · 8,841 students · Private nonprofit

At Bryant & Stratton College, the Accelerated Master's program caters to students looking to fast-track their education while balancing other commitments. This program is ideal for those who thrive in an online learning environment and are determined to gain advanced skills that will enhance their career opportunities. Students will focus on developing competencies that are highly valued in the job market, helping them to stand out to potential employers.

21% graduate $32,568 earnings

Bryant's full profile

#11

Los Angeles Pacific University

San Dimas, CA · 1,483 students · Private nonprofit

Los Angeles Pacific University offers an Accelerated Master's program that is ideal for students seeking to quickly advance their education while managing other life responsibilities. This program attracts those who are passionate about their fields and eager to deepen their expertise in a supportive online environment. With a focus on practical applications, students will engage in coursework that prepares them to tackle real-world challenges effectively.

When we compare the University of Florida-Online with Arizona State University Digital Immersion, the difference in outcomes is striking. The University of Florida-Online graduates earn $71,588 on average with a graduation rate of 81%. In contrast, Arizona State graduates earn $62,668, yet their completion rate is only 29%. This indicates that while both programs may be appealing, the University of Florida-Online offers a clearer path to graduation and higher earnings.

For those weighing these options, consider how the data aligns with your personal priorities. Location may matter if you seek networking opportunities, while program fit is crucial for your educational success. Assess your financial situation against the average debt figures; a lower net price may be more important than potential earnings in certain fields.

Ultimately, this data reveals the challenges and opportunities in pursuing an accelerated master's. One family's choice to invest in a program with strong outcomes could lead to a stable, fulfilling career. With careful consideration of the available information, you can make a decision that aligns with your goals and circumstances.

Data Sources

U.S. Dept of Education College Scorecard

Opportunity Insights Mobility Report Card

Social Capital Atlas

Times Higher Education World Rankings

NCES IPEDS

Sources & Citations

[1]

U.S. Department of Education. College Scorecard Data. Federal Student Aid, National Center for Education Statistics. →

[2]

National Center for Education Statistics. Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System (IPEDS). →

David Krug

Co-Founder, CollegeRanker

David Krug is the co-founder of CollegeRanker and a data systems architect focused on making institutional research accessible to families. He builds the data pipelines and ranking algorithms that power CollegeRanker, drawing from federal datasets and Raj Chetty's Opportunity Insights research to measure what traditional rankings ignore: whether a college actually changes a family's economic trajectory.

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