10 affordable No GRE/GMAT Online Master’s Degree Offered through Coursera 2

Coursera does not independently provide its own online master’s degrees. Instead, it collaborates with accredited universities to offer different online master’s programs. The accreditation status of each specific online master’s program on Coursera can vary, specified by the accrediting agency associated with the university offering the Online Master’s degree. However, note that all the Coursera online Master’s programs are accredited by recognized regional or national accreditation agencies, ensuring they meet established quality standards in higher education.

Some of the accredited programs available on Coursera include: 

Master of Science in Data Science from Ball State University offered through Coursera

This is a 100% online Coursera data science Master’s degree offered through Ball State University in partnership with Coursera and is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC).

Master of Business Administration from Illinois Institute of Technology through Coursera

This 100% online Coursera MBA Master’s degree is accredited by the AACSB (Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business), which is the world’s leading accreditation body for business schools.

Master of Computer Science from Arizona State University

The online Coursera  Computer Science Master’s degree program offered by Arizona State University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC), ensuring its adherence to rigorous quality standards in higher education.

Master of Data Science from Illinois Institute of Technology

The Data Science Master’s degree program offered by the Illinois Institute of Technology on Coursera is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC), affirming its commitment to meeting the finest quality standards in higher education.

Master of Science in Computer Science from Ball State University

This 100% online Coursera Computer Science Master’s degree offered through Ball State University is accredited by Higher Learning Commission (HLC).

When considering an online master’s degree through Coursera, it is advisable to thoroughly research and verify the accreditation status of the partnering university offering the program. Ensuring that the program holds proper accreditation is crucial, as it signifies that the degree you earn will be widely recognized by employers and other academic institutions, offering you the same level of credibility and opportunities as an on-campus degree.

What is the cost of a Coursera Online Master’s degree?

The cost of a Coursera online master’s degree can vary depending on the program and institution. Each program has its own tuition fees, and financial aid options may also be available. However, every program listed on Coursera is way more affordable than the traditional on-campus programs offered by the same Universities/Institutions and typically ranges between $15,000 to $50,000. Some of the recommended Coursera online Master’s degrees and their cost are as follows:

Master of Science in Data Science from the University of Colorado, Boulder: This 100% Online program offers career-focused education in data science, preparing students for the growing demand in this field, supported by a distinguished research community. The Coursera online Master’s Degree in Data Science from the University of Colorado, Boulder has a total of 30 credit hours and a total cost of $15,750.

Master of Business Administration (iMBA) from the University of Illinois Gies College of Business: The University of Illinois offers a 100% online MBA program on Coursera, providing students with essential leadership skills and in-demand expertise that are well-needed to become future leaders. Accredited by AACSB, Coursera online iMBA program comprises 72 credit hours and costs approximately $24,000.

Master of Science in Software Engineering from West Virginia University: This 100% online program focuses on user needs analysis, software solution implementation, and career advancement in the highly demanded field of software engineering. Coursera online Master’s degree in Software Engineering from West Virginia University has a total of 30 credit hours and a tuition cost of $698 per credit, i.e., $20,940 in total.

Master of Public Health from the University of Michigan: The University of Michigan’s Master of Public Health (MPH) equips students with the skills to address complex health challenges and social inequalities, encouraging career advancement and learning through hands-on projects and Applied Practice Experiences (APEx). Coursera online Master’s degree in Public Health from the University of Michigan has a total of 42 credit hours and a tuition cost of $50,000 for non-resident students.

Note that Coursera offers a wide variety of online masters programs and their costs can vary from one another. Some factors that can affect the overall cost of a program are as follows: 

• Program and Institution: The tuition fees for Coursera online masters programs are determined by the partnering institution, and they can vary based on factors such as the institution’s status, program popularity, and the resources needed for education.
• Duration and Type: Program duration directly affects the total cost of the online master’s program on Coursera, with a 12-month program that may have a higher price than an 18-month program due to the condensed timeframe. Additionally, fully online programs are typically less expensive than hybrid programs.
• Credit requirement: The total cost of a Coursera online Master’s program can be influenced by the number of credits required for completion. Programs with more credits typically have higher tuition fees.

What are the admissions requirements for a Coursera Online Master’s degree?

Coursera does not independently provide its own online master’s degrees. Instead, it collaborates with universities to offer various master’s programs, including Data Science, Computer Science, Management, Public Health, and more, specializing in educating and preparing students/learners for the selected field. Similarly, The admissions requirements for a Coursera master’s degree vary depending on the program. However, there are some general requirements that all students must meet. These are:

• Bachelor’s degree: A Bachelor’s degree from an accredited University is required for most Coursera Master’s programs because it provides students with the foundation of knowledge and skills needed to succeed in graduate-level coursework. Master’s programs are designed to further build on the knowledge and skills students have already acquired, and a Bachelor’s degree ensures that applicants have the necessary foundation to participate in the program.
• GPA: In almost all the Coursera Masters programs, a 3.0 or more GPA is required and is significant because it demonstrates that students have the academic ability to grow in graduate-level coursework. Coursera Master’s programs are designed to be challenging, and a high GPA shows that students can handle the demanded coursework and requirements of the program.
• GRE or GMAT: Although not all the program requires GRE or GMAT scores for Coursera Masters programs, it is crucial because it helps the admissions committee assess the applicant’s academic ability and potential. These standardized tests measure applicants’ skills in critical thinking, analytical reasoning, and quantitative reasoning, which are all essential skills for success in graduate school. 
• Letters of recommendation: Letters of recommendation are required for all the Coursera Master’s degree programs because they provide a third-person perspective on the applicant’s academic and professional qualifications. They can help to demonstrate an applicant’s ability to succeed in a graduate program, and they can also help to highlight your unique skills and experiences.
• Personal statement: The personal statement is a required part of the Coursera Master’s degree program application because it allows the applicants to share their stories, why they are interested in the program, and how their skills and experience will contribute to their success in the program. The personal statement is an opportunity to make a connection with the admissions committee and show them why applicants would be valuable addition to the program.

However, besides these basic requirements for consideration, some Coursera master’s degree programs might ask for more things like work experience or professional certifications. So it is suggested for applicants carefully read and understand the admissions requirements of each program they’re interested in.

Can you transfer credits from Cousera’s Online Master’s degree to any other college?

Coursera, as an online learning platform, collaborates with reputable universities to offer a diverse range of online master’s degree programs. These programs cover various fields of study, including Data Science, Computer Science, Management, Public Health, and more. Students enrolled in these collaborative programs have the opportunity to earn accredited master’s degrees online. However, it’s necessary to understand that the transferability of credits earned through Coursera’s online master’s degree programs to other colleges or universities depends on the specific policies and guidelines of the institution applicant intends to transfer.

Each college or university has its own set of criteria and guidelines for accepting transfer credits. While Coursera partners with renowned universities like the University of Pennsylvania and the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, the acceptance of credits earned through these programs is not guaranteed across all Universities. Several factors come into play when determining credit transferability. These factors include the accreditation status of the institution offering the online master’s degree, the alignment of course content and learning outcomes with the receiving institution’s curriculum, and the evaluation process employed by the receiving university to assess the transfer credits.

Several universities in the United States have established partnerships with Coursera, allowing for the transfer of credits earned through their online master’s programs. Among these universities are the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Northwestern University, Vanderbilt University, Cornell University, and more. While these universities have specific agreements with Coursera to facilitate credit transfer, the number of credits eligible for transfer can vary depending on the program and the university. In general, students can often transfer up to 60 credits, but it is important to note that each institution may have its own unique credit transfer policies and requirements.

Typically, universities that consider credit transfer from Coursera require students to have earned a minimum grade of B or higher in the courses they wish to transfer. Additionally, the courses should be relevant to the master’s program they are applying to. It is crucial to thoroughly inquire about the specific credit transfer policies and requirements of the institution applicants are interested in attending. 

Is a Coursera master’s degree worth it?

Yes, Coursera Master’s degree programs are undoubtedly worth it and determine a student’s career aspects if chosen correctly. Here are some of the essential features of Coursera that make it a standout.

• Partnered with Top Universities: Coursera has strong partnerships with top universities to provide master’s degree programs. This means that applicants can earn a degree from a prestigious institution without having to attend classes on campus. For example, Coursera partners with universities like the University of Pennsylvania, the University of Michigan, and the University of Illinois.
• Lower Cost: The cost of pursuing a Coursera Master’s degree is generally lower compared to on-campus programs. This affordability can make it more accessible for individuals seeking to advance their education and career prospects. The cost of Coursera master’s degree programs starts at as low as $9,000 and can go up to $50,000 with a wide range of financial aid options for students seeking assistance and pay-as-you-go plans.
• Saves Time: Coursera’s online platform offers the advantage of saving time. As the programs are delivered online, students cant study at their own pace and fit their learning around other commitments. This convenience is especially beneficial for working professionals or those with busy schedules. 
• Accredited Universities: It’s important to note that all the universities partnered with Coursera are accredited. This meant the master’s degree earned through Coursera holds the same value as that obtained through a traditional on-campus program. Accreditation ensures that the programs meet particular educational standards and are recognized by employers and other institutions when students opt for higher education or job. The Higher Learning Commission (HCL) and Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB) are a few examples of accrediting institutions for Coursera Master’s degree programs.
• Accessibility: Another key feature of Coursera master’s degree programs is their accessibility from every corner of the world without waiting for months or following a rigid schedule to begin the academic journey. Coursera Master’s degree programs are designed to provide similar on-campus experiences to students and do not necessarily need relevant qualifications to get accepted.

Here are some of the most recommended Coursera Online Master’s degree programs:

Masters of Computer Science from the University of Illinois: The online master’s degree in computer science on Coursera, offered through the University of Illinois Graduate School, prepares students for careers in the field of Computer Science or Data Science. It can be completed in 12-36 months, consists of 32 credit hours, and costs $21,440 in tuition.

Master of Computer Science from Arizona State University: The online Coursera  Computer Science Master’s degree program offered by Arizona State University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC) and has a total of 30 credits that can be completed within 18-36 months and cost just $15,000 USD

Master of Science in Cyber Security from The University of Utah: The University of Utah’s David Eccles School of Business offers a 100% online master’s program in Cybersecurity Management on Coursera. This program equips students with technical and leadership skills to tackle the evolving cybersecurity landscape. With 30 credit hours, the program can be completed in 12 to 16 months. The total tuition cost is $33,900.

Master of Science in Software Engineering from West Virginia University: This 100% online program focuses on user needs analysis, software solution implementation, and career advancement in the highly demanded field of software engineering. Coursera online Master’s degree in Software Engineering from West Virginia University has a total of 30 credit hours and a tuition cost of $698 per credit, i.e., $20,940 in total.