1 Year Masters Programs in the USA for International Students in 2026

Planning on MS in the US soon, heard about one year masters programs in US? One year MS in US for International students is not just feasible, but also time saving. If interested, check the best one year masters programs in US and its related details.

A one-year master's in the US is the right choice for current professionals or students who do not want to pursue a long-duration course. Traditional courses like MS in US also MBA is usually two years long, but keeping up with the trends, those who want to study in US can also get the one year masters option. There is not just MBA, but STEM MBA in US also which is one year long. So international applicants have a lot of options to choose from.

A Master’s degree is necessary to secure a job with many professionals. The USA is known for its quality education and universities in the USA offer one-year master’s programs to students. These universities offer master’s programs in multiple specialisations for students who wish to accelerate their careers and join the workforce. Every year, many students look forward to completing their master’s degrees at top universities abroad.

One Year Masters in USA - Highlights 2026

Why Study for One Year Masters in the USA?

There are various reasons of pursuing one-year master's programs in USA. From lower time constraints to an effective fee structure, there are various reasons. Some of the major reasons to take up one year masters programs in US universities are as follows:

• Pursuing a one-year masters in USA is time-efficient and cost-effective. While the degree is recognised globally and accepted worldwide.
• For those looking at taking up a one-year masters in USA in the middle of their careers can easily accelerate their career and get high paying jobs in USA or abroad.
• One year masters in USA is also advantageous because STEM courses applicants can opt for an OPT or CPT and get STEM OPT extension after completing their education.
• There are a plethora of course options available for one year master's in USA. Including STEM and non-STEM courses, so there is a wide range of course options and universities as well.
• Applicants who come on a student visa in USA also get an opportunity to work part-time in USA and gain hands-on-experience while pursuing one-year master's. 

Fast-track career advancement or immediate skill specialization is not the only goal of one year masters programs in USA. The other reasons above also support why one should take one year masters programs in US.

Best 1 Year Masters Programs in USA 2026

There are various types of one year masters courses in US offered across different fields of study along with different specialisations. From different MS courses to popular MBA in USA, the majority of study areas are offered within a one-year-long timeline. Some of the most popular or best 1 year masters in USA for international students are as follows:

1. Finance
2. Marketing
3. Cybersecurity
4. Business Administration
5. Computer Science
6. Education
7. Economics
8. Accounting
9. Health Administration
10. Patent Law

Most of these one year masters courses in US are popular and receive admission applications from thousands of international students annually. These are the major areas of study at US universities, their specialisation may vary. 

Specialisations in One-Year Masters in the USA for International Students

Though the one year masters in US is a short duration course, each of them will have different specialisations. Applicants can choose preferred specilaisations and curate their masters degrees in US within that one year of study. Some of the MBA and MS specialisations in US are as follows field wise:

If applicants closely look at the 1 year masters in USA, they will know that these are not just general ones, these also include STEM courses. So many of these are also 1 year masters courses in US that come under STEM education. If its STEM, then applicants can apply for OPT or STEM OPT Extension after graduation to work in USA full time. 

Top Universities Offering 1 Year Masters in the USA 2026

Here is a list of top 10 US universities based on the most recent QS - WUR 2026 rankings that offer 1 year masters programs. All of the listed courses are offered full time and are not online or part time. Check out the details:

These are the top ranking US universities in the table and yes, they also offer 1 year MS in US. Not just MS, there are also 1 year MBA in US as well. While there are limited offering, yet, applicants can still apply.

Eligibility Criteria & Admission Requirements for 1 Year Masters in USA

A bachelor’s Degree in a relevant field from a recognised university or institute is an essential part of eligibility fulfilment. Along with this, applicants should also have a higher GPA, equivalent to 70-80% in bachelor's. Apart from this there a few admission requirements for one year masters in USA. For international applicants, the admission requirements are as follows:

• GRE scores for MS will be accepted.
• For 1 year MBA in USA, GMAT scores will be accepted
• English proficiency with IELTS or TOEFL scores.
• Statement of Purpose.
• Admission essays
• Resume
• Letters of Recommendation

Some universities will also require an interview before admitting applicants. Along with admission requirements, the applicants will also have to submit the documents mentioned above. Check out the complete list of documents required for masters in USA.

Cost of Studying One Year Masters in the USA for Indian Students

To understand the cost of studying the 1 year masters programs in US, it is essential to understand the type of university and field of study. The public universities in US will offer a lower tuition fee as compared to private ones including the Ivy Leagues. Here is a detailed fee analysis below for 2026 aspirants:

The cost of studying is not just restricted to field of study and type of university, there is also the US state/city where the applicant chooses to study. Based on the budget for 1 year master's courses in the US, the cost of living in US can fluctuate between USD 1,200 to USD 3,500. Here is how:

• High-Cost US Cities: USD 2,500 – USD 4,000 per month (e.g., New York City, San Francisco, Boston).
• Moderate-Cost US Cities: USD 1,500 – USD 2,500 per month (e.g., Chicago, Seattle, Los Angeles).
• Affordable US Cities: USD 1,000 – USD 1,800 per month (e.g., Austin, Dallas, Raleigh, Atlanta).

Overall, the cost of studying in US for 1 year MS courses can go as high as USD 75,000. Applicants must weigh all options including funding aspect before applying for these courses for studying.

Choosing the Right 1 Year Master's Program in USA

In order to choose the right one year masters programs in US should be based on 4-5 major benefactors. Unless all three parameters are checked, applicants should avoid going ahead with their applications. These are factors are as follows:

1. Shortlist one year masters based on accreditation and popularity in the USA. This would mean studying a quality course that follows the set standards.
2. Choose the university based on the preferred course offering plus specialisation. The one year masters course in US should match with one's interests and future goals.
3. Look at the faculty that teaches the chosen 1 year masters program in US. Based on their experience and expertise, courses can also be shortlisted.
4. Also, choose that course which aligns with the preferred admission intake - Fall intake or Spring intake in the USA for the 1-year master's course.
5. Finally, read about the alumni stories and how the 1 year courses in US at master's level helped them become what they are today.

While keeping these parameters in check, it is possible for applicants to be able to choose the right 1 year master's program in US for themselves. There are more than 200+ US universities that offer one year long masters. There is flexibility of choice and a plethora of courses and fields to choose from. 

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