The University of Texas (UT) system is one of the largest and most respected public university systems in the United States. Founded in 1883, the flagship institution—The University of Texas at Austin—is a globally recognized hub for innovation, research, and academic excellence. With multiple campuses and research institutions spread across Texas, the UT system has consistently ranked among the top public universities in the world.
The University of Texas has earned its reputation for high-impact research, world-class faculty, and a vibrant campus culture that promotes diversity, inclusion, and global citizenship. It serves more than 240,000 students annually and boasts one of the largest alumni networks in the United States. With an eye on the future, UT has expanded its educational reach by offering flexible, high-quality online master’s programs designed for professionals and international students looking to upskill without relocating.
Online education at UT maintains the same rigorous standards and academic integrity as its on-campus counterparts. Whether you’re a recent graduate, mid-career professional, or international applicant looking for global exposure, UT’s online master’s degrees provide a versatile, globally recognized option to elevate your education and career.
Available Online Master’s Degree Programs
The University of Texas offers a wide range of online master’s degrees through various institutions within the UT system, including UT Austin, UT Dallas, UT El Paso, and UT Rio Grande Valley. These programs span disciplines from engineering and business to education and public health. Here’s a categorized list of some of the most popular options:
Business and Management
- MBA (Master of Business Administration) – Offered by UT Dallas (Naveen Jindal School of Management), fully online with part-time options
- MS in Technology Commercialization – UT Austin
- MS in Finance – UT Dallas
- MS in Marketing – UT Dallas
Engineering and Technology
- MS in Electrical Engineering – UT Austin Cockrell School of Engineering
- MS in Computer Science (Online CS) – UT Austin
- MS in Software Engineering – UT Dallas
- MS in Data Science – Joint program from UT Austin and UT Health
Education and Social Sciences
- Master of Education (M.Ed.) in Curriculum and Instruction – UT Arlington
- M.Ed. in Educational Leadership and Policy Studies – UT Arlington
- MA in Psychology – UT Permian Basin
- MA in Sociology – UT Rio Grande Valley
Public Health and Nursing
- MPH (Master of Public Health) – UTHealth School of Public Health
- MS in Nursing Administration – UT Arlington
- MS in Nursing Education – UT Arlington
Science and Environmental Studies
- MS in Environmental Management – UT Rio Grande Valley
- MS in Health Informatics – UTHealth School of Biomedical Informatics
Full-Time and Part-Time Options for International Students
Flexibility is a cornerstone of UT’s online graduate programs. Most online master’s degrees are designed to accommodate both full-time and part-time learners, making them ideal for working professionals and international students navigating different time zones.
Full-Time Enrollment
Full-time enrollment typically involves taking 9–12 credit hours per semester. This pace is ideal for students who can commit to a more rigorous schedule and want to complete their degree within 1–2 years. Programs such as the Online MBA, MS in Computer Science, and MPH often offer accelerated pathways for full-time students.
Part-Time Enrollment
Part-time options allow students to take 3–6 credit hours per semester. These are perfect for professionals working full-time or managing other commitments. Degrees like the M.Ed. in Curriculum and Instruction or MS in Software Engineering offer highly flexible timelines, which can range from 2–4 years.
International Student Considerations
International students are encouraged to apply to online programs as they do not require relocation or a student visa. However, it’s essential to note:
- Online students are not eligible for F-1 visas, as U.S. immigration law requires in-person attendance for most visa types.
- Time zone differences are accounted for in many programs, which offer asynchronous classes and recordings.
- Some programs may require short in-person residencies, but these are usually optional or scheduled in advance.
Application Process
Applying to an online master’s program at the University of Texas is straightforward, but each campus and program may have slightly different requirements. Below is a generalized application process:
Step 1: Choose a Program
Begin by visiting the official website of the UT campus offering your program of interest (e.g., UT Austin, UT Dallas, etc.). Each program has its own page detailing curriculum, faculty, and deadlines.
Step 2: Submit the Online Application
All UT campuses use the ApplyTexas or GradCAS application portal. Ensure you:
- Create an account
- Select the appropriate term and program
- Pay the application fee (usually $50–$90)
Step 3: Upload Required Documents
These typically include:
- Bachelor’s degree transcript (translated and evaluated if international)
- Letters of recommendation (usually 2–3)
- Statement of Purpose or Personal Statement
- Resume/CV
- GRE/GMAT scores (some programs may waive this)
- Proof of English proficiency (TOEFL/IELTS/Duolingo scores)
Step 4: Interview (if required)
Some programs may request a virtual interview or recorded video essay.
Step 5: Await Admission Decision
After submitting all required materials, decisions are typically issued within 4–8 weeks, depending on the program.
Scholarship Opportunities and Financial Aid
One of the most critical concerns for international and domestic students alike is funding. The University of Texas offers various scholarships and financial aid options, even for online learners.
Scholarships for International Students
While many scholarships are tailored for domestic students, international applicants may be eligible for:
- Graduate School Fellowships
- Program-specific scholarships (e.g., McCombs School of Business offers scholarships to MBA students)
- Merit-based awards from departments or colleges
- External scholarships from international foundations (e.g., Fulbright, Joint Japan/World Bank Graduate Scholarship)
It’s recommended to check with the financial aid office or program coordinator of the specific campus.
Teaching and Research Assistantships
Though less common for online students, some programs offer virtual TA or research assistant positions. These can reduce tuition or provide stipends.
Tuition Reimbursement (Employer Sponsorship)
Many U.S. and global companies reimburse tuition for employees pursuing relevant master’s degrees. International students working in multinational companies should explore this option.
Tuition Fees and Cost of Attendance
Tuition varies by program and campus, but here’s a general breakdown for online master’s programs at UT:
| Program | Estimated Tuition (Total) | Duration |
|---|---|---|
| Online MBA (UT Dallas) | $53,000 – $65,000 | 2 years |
| MS Computer Science (UT Austin) | $10,000 – $12,000 | 1.5–3 years |
| MS Software Engineering (UT Dallas) | $28,000 – $35,000 | 2–3 years |
| MPH (UTHealth) | $25,000 – $30,000 | 2 years |
| M.Ed. in Curriculum & Instruction (UT Arlington) | $9,000 – $12,000 | 1.5–2 years |
Note:
- Additional fees may apply for technology, lab access, or proctoring.
- International students may be charged out-of-state tuition at some UT campuses, though many online programs have flat-rate fees.
Why Choose a UT Online Master’s Program?
Here are a few reasons why the University of Texas is a preferred choice for online graduate education:
- Prestige and Accreditation – UT campuses are regionally accredited and globally respected.
- Flexibility – Programs cater to working professionals and international time zones.
- Affordability – Compared to private universities, UT offers competitive pricing without compromising quality.
- World-Class Faculty – Online students are taught by the same faculty who teach on-campus.
- Networking and Career Resources – Access to alumni networks, career counseling, and professional development is available even for online learners.
If you’re ready to invest in your future, explore the University of Texas system’s online programs and begin your journey toward academic and professional excellence today.
