Best One Year Masters Programs in USA for International Students
The length of MS in USA is usually 1.5-2 years for foreign students. But most of the top universities in USA provide 1 year masters programmes that fast track the career prospects of the students within a short period of time. Most of the leading universities in USA provide 1 year master's degree in leading specialisations such as engineering, finance, marketing, communication, etc. Some of the most sought-after universities providing 1 year master's courses in the USA are Harvard University, Columbia University, Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT), Cornell University, etc. Indian students need to have 3 to 4 years of a bachelor's degree in the same field with an average GPA of 3.0 to apply for the best 1 year MS in USA. A GRE score of 290 or more is also required for a one year PG courses in the best USA universities. This article provides a complete overview of studying 1 year masters programmes in USA, best universities, specialization, eligibility, fees, and more. Read the full article to get more information on 1 year MS in USA.
This Story also Contains
- Top 10 One Year Masters Programmes in USA
- Top 10 Universities in USA Offering 1 Year Masters Programmes
- One Year Masters in USA: Eligibility Criteria
- Cost of Studying 1 Year MS Courses in USA
- Scholarships for 1 Year Masters Course in USA
- Job Opportunities for 1 Year Masters Programmes in USA
Top 10 One Year Masters Programmes in USA
Below are some of the popular one year masters programmes USA for international students:
Computer Science
Mechanical Engineering
Data Science
Engineering Management
Finance
Management
Public Health
Business Analytics
Cyber Security
Data Analytics
Top 10 Universities in USA Offering 1 Year Masters Programmes
USA is the home to various top-tier universities that offer 1 year masters for international students. Here are top 10 universities in the USA offering one-year master’s programmes:
Top 10 Universities for 1 Year MS in USA
University | QS World University Ranking 2025 |
Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) | 1 |
Harvard University | 4 |
6 | |
34 | |
University of Pennsylvania (UPenn) | 11 |
58 | |
University of California, Berkeley (UC Berkeley) | 12 |
21 | |
32 | |
16 | |
43 |
One Year Masters in USA: Eligibility Criteria
If you are an international student and planning to study in USA for 1 year MS programmes, you must demonstrate your eligibility for the specific courses and university. The major eligibility requirements for a one year masters programme include completion of a bachelor’s degree from a recognised university. Some other significant eligibility criteria for 1 year master programmes in USA are as follows:
3 to 4-year bachelor’s degree in a relevant field.
A minimum GPA of 3.0 is required for the top 1 year masters course in USA.
A GRE score that is 290 or above is mandatory for admission.
An optional 2 – 3 years of work experience in a relevant field.
Proof of your English Language Proficiency tests such as IELTS, TOEFL, CAE, etc.
Documents Required for 1 Year MS in USA
Here’s a list of documents required for 1 year masters programmes in USA for international students:
English language proficiency test certificates(IELTS, TOEFL, CAE, etc)
GRE test certificate
A valid passport
Passport-size photographs
Documentation showing relevant work experience
Updated resume
Cost of Studying 1 Year MS Courses in USA
The overall cost of studying a one year MS in USA is determined by calculating the tuition fee for the complete course duration and the cost of living in the city. Generally, public universities in USA are cheaper than private universities. The average MS course fees in USA is around Rs. 24 - 96 lakhs. The estimated cost of 1 year masters degree in USA varies according to the type of university, their curricula structure, ranking, course requirements, and location of the institution.
Additionally, the cost of living in USA for Indian students is approximately Rs. 167000 per month which includes expenses of accommodation, food, transportation, health, and other relevant miscellaneous items. However, students can easily manage their expenses in US through strategic budgeting and mindful spending.
Scholarships for 1 Year Masters Course in USA
Living and studying in USA can be financially exhausting for international students. To reduce the stress for potential learners, USA offers various scholarships, bursaries, grants, and other exclusive financial assistance for international students.
Here’s a list of popular scholarships for international students to pursue a 1 year MS in USA:
The Aga Khan Foundation’s International Scholarship Programme (ISP)
AAUW International Fellowships
Columbia University Scholarship
Harvey Fellowship
Inlaks Scholarships
Job Opportunities for 1 Year Masters Programmes in USA
An MS in USA offers a diverse range of career opportunities and job dynamics for international students. Potential MS graduates are hired by top global companies as skilled working professionals. The average salary of MS in USA ranges around USD 70,000 annually for freshers.
MS degree in USA guarantees high-salaried jobs in multiple specialisations including finance, law, management, analyst, and more. Here are a few post study work opportunities for international students in USA after completion of a 1 year masters programmes:
Financial Analyst
Business Analyst
Project Manager
Mechanical Engineer
Also Read:
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Are there any 1 year master's programs in the USA?
A:
Yes, there are many 1 year master's programme offered by top USA universities for international students. A few popular 1 year master’s programmes offered in the USA include Computer Science, Mechanical Engineering, Data Science, Engineering Management, and Finance.
Q: Is 1 year master's worth it in the USA?
A:
Yes, 1 year master's is worth it in the USA for Indian students. After completion of 1 year master's programmes in USA students can apply for various job markets in the country. Also, students also get the opportunity to work for one year under OPT.
Q: Is one year master's valid in the USA?
A:
Yes, one year master's is valid in the USA. Students who have completed a 1 year master's in USA are eligible to apply for post study work opportunities in the USA. Also, a one-year master's programme from accredited USA universities is recognised worldwide. Students who complete a 1 year PG in USA are among the highest salary earners all over the world.
Q: What are the 1 year courses in USA for international students?
A:
USA offers numerous 1 year courses for international students. A few popular 1 year master’s programmes offered in the USA include Computer Science, Mechanical Engineering, Data Science, Engineering Management, and Finance.
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