Table of Contents
- Types of Free College Education
- Free Master’s Degree Online Programs and Their Universities
- University of the People
- The University of Texas at Dallas, Naveen Jindal School of Management
- Curtis Institute of Music
- Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MITx)
- IICSE University
- The University of Southern California, Rossier School of Education
- University of Illinois
- University of the People
- Fort Hays State University
- University of West Georgia
- FAQs about Free Online Master’s Degrees
- Final Thoughts
University costs have soared in recent years. Many students struggle to afford to pay tuition and the many other expenses associated with a master’s degree. Even though many schools offer financial aid, a graduate degree can still land you in burdensome debt. Do free master’s programs exist? Thankfully, some institutions actually provide free online master’s degree programs at no cost!
A free master’s degree online is made possible through endowments, donations from philanthropists, state grants, and scholarships. Read on to learn about the best free master’s degrees that you can study online today.
Types of Free College Education
There are a few different types of free graduate programs. Not all of these types of study are entirely free, though tuition is reduced to a minimum in some cases.
Here are the most common types of free graduate education available today:
- Tuition-less programs: These are free-tuition master’s degree programs; however, options for 100% tuition-less master’s programs are limited.
- Free online programs: Some universities offer free online programs, while on-campus alternatives may involve costs.
- Scholarship-based: For eligible students, some scholarships can completely cover tuition.
- Military-related subsidies: Programs with veteran benefits can lower costs for current and serving members of the military, and, in some cases, their family members.
- Foreign university programs: Public universities in countries like Norway, France, and Germany offer education for free or only a nominal fee to foreign students.
Free Master’s Degree Online Programs and Their Universities
Most of the free programs listed here are tuition-free, so you’ll need to consider other expenses. These costs are limited for an online degree, but you may need to pay for books or other resources. Some tuition-free universities also provide scholarship options to cover study expenses.
University of the People
Online Master of Education in Advanced Teaching
The University of the People aims to make quality education accessible to all, offering a range of programs at no tuition. However, the application process has fees and requires an assessment pass. The university collaborates with the International Baccalaureate (IB) to offer the M.Ed. program in Advanced Teaching. Students can choose from two specializations: Elementary/Middle School Education and Secondary Education.
- Courses include: Human development, teaching and learning theory, behavior management, and assessment of learning.
- Credits: 39
- Duration: 1.5 to 3 years
- Acceptance rate: 100%
The University of Texas at Dallas, Naveen Jindal School of Management
Online Master’s in Business Analytics (focused on Data Science)
The University of Texas’ Naveen Jindal School of Management was founded in 1975, thanks to a generous contribution from its namesake, MBA graduate Naveen Jindal. This master’s program in business analytics focuses on data science and covers cutting-edge technologies, such as Python, R, Hadoop, SAS, SAP, Spark, and AI. The program offers scholarships of up to $15,000, covering almost all tuition fees.
- Courses include: Database foundations, predictive analytics, prescriptive analytics, programming for data science, and advanced statistics.
- Credit hours: 36
- Financial aid: Scholarships covering almost 100% of tuition.
- Acceptance rate: 78.6%
Curtis Institute of Music
Curtis Institute of Music has been offering tuition-free master’s degrees in music since 1928. The higher education institution offers full-tuition scholarships for all students admitted to their programs regardless of their financial status. Assistance for graduate students can be up to $58,535. The institute’s Master of Music helps musicians advance their knowledge in their area of specialty while helping to build their performance skills.
- Specializations include: Piano, composition, orchestral instruments, guitar, organ, and opera.
- Credit hours: 40
- Financial aid: Full-tuition scholarships
- Duration: 2 years
- Acceptance rate: 4%
Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MITx)
MicroMasters in Principles of Manufacturing
This micro master’s program from MIT helps professionals advance their careers in the manufacturing sector. Offered by the Mechanical Engineering department, the program was ranked no. 1 in the world. You can also use program credits to complete a Master of Engineering in Advanced Manufacturing and Design at MIT. These graduate-level courses are delivered through the online educational platform edX, and some students may be eligible for a 90% discount.
- Courses include: Manufacturing process control, the supply chain for manufacturing, manufacturing systems, and management in manufacturing.
- Courses: 8
- Duration: One semester
- Acceptance rate: 7.3%
IICSE University
MA in English Language and Literature
IICSE is a fully online university that offers free programs to students worldwide. Tuition, lectures, and study resources are provided at no cost. You’ll only need to pay a one-time application fee of $45 and a $50 fee per exam. This free master’s degree online in English allows students to explore the connections between language and literature. It covers various periods in English literature, theoretical approaches, and research methodologies.
- Courses include: History of literature, poetry, Shakespeare studies, and drama.
- Duration: 2 years
- Costs: Up to $1,200
- Acceptance rate: 100%
The University of Southern California, Rossier School of Education
Master of Arts in Teaching (MAT) Online
The University of Southern California’s MA in Teaching program is designed for aspiring K-12 teachers. The program builds foundational knowledge on both the theory and practical aspects of teaching, helping students master valuable instructional strategies. Single-Subject Teaching and Multiple-Subject Teaching tracks are available. This program is not tuition-free, but various scholarship options are available, the highest being the James Madison Graduate Fellowship of $24,000.
- Courses include: Applications of curriculum and pedagogy, educational equity, and literacy development.
- Credits: 28
- Duration: 1 to 3 years
- Acceptance rate: 16.1%
- Financial aid: Scholarships
University of Illinois
The University of Illinois does not provide tuition-free master’s degrees. However, you can access many free or low-cost graduate courses offered by the university through the online educational platform Coursera. This is part of the MOOC (Massive Open Online Courses) concept that makes it possible for students to study advanced courses while only paying a fee for the certificates.
Current University of Illinois students and faculty can access free courses through the Coursera for Illinois page. You can’t get a master’s degree directly through this format, but you can earn credits for various graduate programs. You’ll also get an Illinois/Coursera course completion certificate to enhance your resume.
- Courses include: Master of Science in Management, Master of Computer Science, Master of Science in Accountancy, and Master of Business Administration.
- Credits: Vary depending on the course
- Duration: Vary depending on the course
- Acceptance rate: 100%
University of the People
Online Master of Science in Information Technology (MSIT)
The University of the People also offers a free online master’s in information technology covering the connections between information technology, communication, and business. The program equips students with the skills and knowledge to solve the modern commerce world’s challenges. To be eligible, you must have at least basic knowledge of databases, algorithms, and operating systems.
- Courses include: Databases, operating systems, and algorithms.
- Credits: 36
- Duration: Between 1 and 5 years
- Acceptance rate: 100%
Fort Hays State University
Master of Professional Studies – Human Resource Management
Fort Hays State University’s mission is to provide affordable education to all. Although not entirely tuition-free, the school’s programs have some of the country’s lowest tuition rates. Its Master of Professional Studies helps students develop advanced professional skill sets in their specialty, involving both coursework and a project. Human Resource Management is one of several concentrations you can choose from, along with criminal justice, cybersecurity, organizational leadership, and social entrepreneurship.
- Courses include: Research and practice in global HR, organizational leadership, employment law, and conflict management through communication.
- Credit hours: 30
- Acceptance rate: 91.1%
University of West Georgia
Master of Science in Digital and Social Media Communication
Though not entirely tuition-free, the University of West Georgia is another institution that offers very low tuition. Its Master of Science in Digital and Social Media Communication helps students develop critical thinking and strategic skills that will allow them to think beyond the existing digital platforms. It covers the strategies, analytics, and laws related to digital communications and social media.
- Courses include: Content creation, analytics, and strategic communication.
- Credit hours: 30
- Duration: 1 to 2 years
- Acceptance rate: 59.5%
FAQs about Free Online Master’s Degrees
How Can I Get a Free Master’s Degree Online?
There are several higher education institutions with a mission to provide tuition-free education that offers free online master’s degrees. Look for universities offering tuition-less master’s programs, or scholarships that cover 100% of tuition.
Are There Any Free Masters?
Various universities provide many free master’s degree programs. However, the term ‘free’ mostly refers to zero tuition. Remember that you may need to cover other study expenses, especially if you are planning to study on campus, such as books, student association fees, transportation, and accommodation.
How Can I Get a Free Degree?
There are two main ways you can get a free degree:
1. Gaining admission to a tuition-free program
2. Receiving a scholarship that will cover 100% of your tuition
Check the prerequisites for each program or scholarship, and if you’re eligible, put together an application. It’s generally easier to get a free degree online, as you don’t need to worry about expenses like transportation and accommodation.
How Can I Get a Free Master’s Degree in the USA?
Several US universities provide free master’s degrees, especially online programs, for graduates who meet their eligibility criteria. Some free courses are not complete graduate programs, but you can use your credits to complete a full master’s degree.
How to Get a Tuition-Free Degree
Once you’ve decided which program you want to pursue, you’ll need to put in an application, just like any other master’s degree. The exact requirements vary between programs, but you will probably need to complete an online application form and submit supporting documents such as academic transcripts, an academic resume, and letters of recommendation. Also, check eligibility requirements to verify that you’re eligible for the program or scholarship.
Some free online master’s programs can be pretty competitive, so make sure you take your time to prepare the strongest application possible – our handy tips and guides can help you with this!
Are Free Degrees Completely Free, or Will I Require Some Financial Aid?
Usually, the term ‘free master’s degree’ means that the program does not charge any tuition fees, so you don’t need to worry about securing financial aid. However, some so-called free degrees are only free if you successfully get a scholarship or other financial aid to cover full tuition. Furthermore, even if you don’t need to pay tuition, you may need financial aid to help you cover other study expenses, especially for on-campus programs.
Related Reading: Cheapest Online Master’s Degrees in the US
Final Thoughts
There is a range of free master’s degree online options, allowing graduate students to further their education and build a successful career regardless of their financial position. Of course, the number of free programs is a lot more limited than paid options, and many of these have restrictions on the number of students they accept each year, so it can be pretty competitive.
Other options are to sign up for free courses through platforms like Coursera, and edX. These courses won’t give you a master’s qualification, but many allow you to generate credits that you can put towards a master’s course, helping to reduce the cost of your study.
For more information on excellent master’s programs, check out our guides to the best online master’s programs and the best online engineering degree programs.
Lisa Marlin
Lisa is a full-time writer specializing in career advice, further education, and personal development. She works from all over the world, and when not writing you'll find her hiking, practicing yoga, or enjoying a glass of Malbec.
