Searching for the cheapest online colleges? Our list takes an in-depth look at the most affordable online colleges with further information about each school to help your search.
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Two decades ago, online courses were mostly limited to large, state-funded universities. Today, virtually every college or university has developed online programs or hybrid classes, including continuing professional education classes for working adults who may not be able to attend traditional courses.
Online learning opens the door to flexible courses for everyone, regardless of lifestyle needs. Online education's adaptability lets students balance their coursework with work commitments, travel when needed, or adjust their schedules—all while staying on track academically.
Lately, it's clear that the real MVP in education is technology, stepping up to keep our learning game strong when we need it most. Boosting how affordable and easy it is to get into higher education hinges on leveraging tech advancements.
With all the uncertainty in today's economy, it’s important to find a college that is affordable and allows for simultaneous income.
Popular Online Colleges
Learn about start dates, transferring credits, availability of financial aid, and more by contacting the universities below.
To ensure that as many people can find accessible and convenient degree programs, we have compiled a list of the cheapest online schools in the nation.
Not only do these schools charge the cheapest tuition, but they have also been vetted for quality factors such as student-faculty ratio, freshman retention, published rankings, graduation rate, reputation with employers, financial aid, and online technology.
Studies show that most online students prioritize affordability over other factors when searching for a school.
You, seeking out this page shows that you are a smart investor looking for an inexpensive online degree to get the best value for your dollar. Researching tuition and net price is a great place to start your search.
Ranking Criteria
Schools are ranked by net price, from lowest to highest average net price. All data was gathered from the most recent National Center for Education Statistics report via College Scorecard. [Updated June, 2024]
We compile and update our lists annually with the aim of helping online students to find the most economical online colleges offering the best likelihood of completing a college degree without hurting their wallets or incurring unneeded debt.
Top 5 Cheapest Online Colleges for 2025
| Rank | School Name | Average Net Price |
| 1 | Purdue University Global | $4,765 |
| 2 | Peirce College | $5,301 |
| 3 | University of Florida-Online | $6,072 |
| 4 | Florida State University | $6,450 |
| 5 | The Baptist College of Florida | $7,594 |
Cheapest and Most Affordable Online Colleges for 2025
1. Purdue University Global
Average Net Price: $4,765
Purdue University Global offers an online education that is notably affordable, with an average net price of $4,765. Despite a graduation rate of 20.00% and a retention rate of 16.67%, the median earnings for graduates are $36,596.
The cost of attendance for academic year averages $13,945, with in-state tuition and fees at $10,134 and out-of-state tuition and fees at $14,445. Graduates typically carry a median debt of $26,078. Purdue University Global's pricing and accessible online programs cater to a diverse student demographic, averaging 31 years old, many of whom are employed and advancing their careers through education.
2. Peirce College
Average Net Price: $5,301
Peirce College stands out with its low average net price of $5,301, making it an economically viable option for online learners. Although it has a low graduation rate of 5.26%, its retention rate is exceptionally high at 100.00%, and graduates earn a median salary of $50,660.
The average cost of attendance for academic year is $18,260, with both in-state and out-of-state tuition and fees set at $15,060. Students graduating from Peirce College typically face a median debt of $31,250. This affordability combined with high retention indicates strong support for its students.
3. University of Florida-Online
Average Net Price: $6,072
The University of Florida-Online offers a highly competitive average net price of $6,072. UF Online boasts a graduation rate of 78.71% and a retention rate of 91.73%, with graduates earning a median salary of $71,588. The average cost of attendance for academic year is $17,518. In-state tuition and fees are $3,876, while out-of-state tuition and fees are $16,579. Graduates usually have a median debt of $15,000.
4. Florida State University
Average Net Price: $6,450
Florida State University offers an online education with an average net price of $6,450. It has a high graduation rate of 84.79% and a retention rate of 93.93%, with graduates earning a median salary of $61,675.
The average cost of attendance for academic year is $23,308. In-state tuition and fees are $5,656, and out-of-state tuition and fees are $18,786. Graduates typically carry a median debt of $18,000. Florida State University's online programs are known for their value, combining affordability with excellent academic outcomes.
5. The Baptist College of Florida
Average Net Price: $7,594
The Baptist College of Florida offers an average net price of $7,594 for its online programs. It has a graduation rate of 59.38% and a retention rate of 73.91%, with median earnings for graduates at $42,836.
The average cost of attendance for academic year is $19,539. Both in-state and out-of-state tuition and fees are $12,450. Graduates face a median debt of $23,590.
6. Eastern New Mexico University-Main Campus
Average Net Price: $7,669
Eastern New Mexico University-Main Campus offers online programs at an average net price of $7,669. The university has a graduation rate of 41.32% and a retention rate of 62.35%, with graduates earning a median salary of $38,550.
The average cost of attendance for academic year is $17,929. In-state tuition and fees are $6,863, while out-of-state tuition and fees are $8,843. The median debt for graduates is $16,500. Eastern New Mexico University provides an affordable online education, particularly for in-state students.
7. University of North Carolina at Pembroke
Average Net Price: $8,421
The University of North Carolina at Pembroke offers an average net price of $8,421 for online students. It has a graduation rate of 45.17% and a retention rate of 71.63%, with graduates earning a median salary of $43,407.
The average cost of attendance for academic year is $15,183. In-state tuition and fees are $3,495, while out-of-state tuition and fees are $7,495. Graduates typically carry a median debt of $25,000. This institution is particularly cost-effective for North Carolina residents.
8. Florida International University
Average Net Price: $8,722
Florida International University provides an online education with an average net price of $8,722. It has a graduation rate of 69.18% and a retention rate of 90.56%, with median earnings for graduates at $60,249.
The average cost of attendance for academic year is $19,666. In-state tuition and fees are $6,565, and out-of-state tuition and fees are $18,963. The median debt for graduates is $16,500. This university offers a strong value proposition, balancing cost with strong academic outcomes.
9. American Public University System
Average Net Price: $10,168
The American Public University System offers online programs at an average net price of $10,168. It has a graduation rate of 55.47% and a retention rate of 90.00%, with graduates earning a median salary of $44,409.
The average cost of attendance for academic year is $16,779. In-state and out-of-state tuition and fees are both $7,360. Graduates typically face a median debt of $21,743. This institution provides a flexible and affordable option for online learners, particularly those in the military and public service sectors.
10. Western Governors University
Average Net Price: $10,580
Western Governors University offers an average net price of $10,580 for its online programs. It has a graduation rate of 48.78% and a retention rate of 64.67%, with median earnings for graduates at $60,615.
The average cost of attendance for academic year is $14,042. In-state and out-of-state tuition and fees are both $8,010. The median debt for graduates is $11,116.
11. Minot State University
Average Net Price: $12,121
Minot State University provides an online education at an average net price of $12,121. It has a graduation rate of 44.87% and a retention rate of 70.45%, with graduates earning a median salary of $51,759.
The average cost of attendance for academic year is $17,273. In-state and out-of-state tuition and fees are both $8,508. Graduates typically carry a median debt of $19,609. This institution offers affordable and accessible education, particularly for students in the Midwest.
12. Granite State College
Average Net Price: $12,161
Granite State College offers online programs with an average net price of $12,161. It has a low graduation rate of 14.89% but a retention rate of 40.00%, with median earnings for graduates at $51,254.
The average cost of attendance for academic year is $17,753. In-state tuition and fees are $7,806, while out-of-state tuition and fees are $9,150. The median debt for graduates is $15,585. This college caters to adult learners and working professionals, offering flexible and affordable education options.
13. Columbia Southern University
Average Net Price: $12,366
Columbia Southern University offers an average net price of $12,366 for its online programs. It has a graduation rate of 32.61% and a retention rate of 41.82%, with graduates earning a median salary of $63,534.
The average cost of attendance for academic year is $16,520. In-state and out-of-state tuition and fees are both $6,015. The median debt for graduates is $21,339. This university is a popular choice for military personnel and working adults, offering flexible and affordable education options.
14. San Diego State University
Average Net Price: $12,721
San Diego State University offers online programs at an average net price of $12,721. It has a graduation rate of 78.01% and a retention rate of 89.41%, with graduates earning a median salary of $64,909.
The average cost of attendance for academic year is $23,482. In-state tuition and fees are $8,174, while out-of-state tuition and fees are $20,054. The median debt for graduates is $15,000.
15. Fort Hays State University
Average Net Price: $13,096
Fort Hays State University provides an online education with an average net price of $13,096. It has a graduation rate of 50.54% and a retention rate of 75.97%, with graduates earning a median salary of $48,928.
The average cost of attendance for academic year is $18,598. In-state tuition and fees are $5,430, while out-of-state tuition and fees are $15,870. Graduates typically carry a median debt of $21,000.
16. Hallmark University
Average Net Price: $13,225
Hallmark University offers an average net price of $13,225 for its online programs. It has a graduation rate of 66.39% and a retention rate of 69.33%, with graduates earning a median salary of $40,183.
The average cost of attendance for academic year is unavailable. In-state and out-of-state tuition and fees are also unavailable. The median debt for graduates is $25,438. This university focuses on providing specialized education in fields such as aviation and healthcare.
17. University of Wisconsin-Green Bay
Average Net Price: $13,404
The University of Wisconsin-Green Bay offers online programs with an average net price of $13,404. It has a graduation rate of 52.31% and a retention rate of 68.85%, with graduates earning a median salary of $52,528.
The average cost of attendance for academic year is $17,641. In-state tuition and fees are $7,873, while out-of-state tuition and fees are $16,091. The median debt for graduates is $18,500.
18. American InterContinental University
Average Net Price: $14,028
American InterContinental University offers online programs at an average net price of $14,028. It has a graduation rate of 22.84% and a retention rate of 16.64%, with graduates earning a median salary of $36,144.
The average cost of attendance for academic year is $20,088. In-state and out-of-state tuition and fees are both $12,422. Graduates typically face a median debt of $31,000. This university provides career-focused education with flexible online options.
19. Charter Oak State College
Average Net Price: $14,288
Charter Oak State College offers an average net price of $14,288 for its online programs. It boasts a graduation rate of 100.00% and a retention rate of 100.00%, with graduates earning a median salary of $64,209.
The average cost of attendance for academic year is $18,386. In-state tuition and fees are $8,254, while out-of-state tuition and fees are $10,796. The median debt for graduates is $18,683. This college is known for its flexible and affordable online programs, catering to adult learners.
20. Bryant & Stratton College-Online
Average Net Price: $14,545
Bryant & Stratton College-Online offers an average net price of $14,545 for its online programs. It has a graduation rate of 24.73% and a retention rate of 21.74%, with graduates earning a median salary of $32,568.
The average cost of attendance for academic year is $20,491. In-state and out-of-state tuition and fees are both $15,292. The median debt for graduates is $21,549. This college focuses on providing practical, career-oriented education.
21. Franklin University
Average Net Price: $15,502
Franklin University offers online programs with an average net price of $15,502. It has a graduation rate of 49.30% and a retention rate of 50.00%, with graduates earning a median salary of $51,892.
The average cost of attendance for academic year is $25,199. In-state and out-of-state tuition and fees are both $9,577. The median debt for graduates is $20,836. This university provides flexible and affordable education options, particularly for working adults.
22. Capella University
Average Net Price: $17,147
Capella University offers online programs at an average net price of $17,147. Although it has a graduation rate of 0.00%, it has a retention rate of 35.71%, with graduates earning a median salary of $42,189.
The average cost of attendance for academic year is $21,572. In-state and out-of-state tuition and fees are both $14,328. The median debt for graduates is $14,968. This university is known for its competency-based education model, providing flexibility for working adults.
23. Central Methodist University-College of Liberal Arts and Sciences
Average Net Price: $21,993
Central Methodist University-College of Liberal Arts and Sciences offers an average net price of $21,993 for its online programs. It has a graduation rate of 51.87% and a retention rate of 67.26%, with graduates earning a median salary of $48,991.
The average cost of attendance for academic year is $42,845. In-state and out-of-state tuition and fees are both $27,140. The median debt for graduates is $17,619. This university offers a comprehensive liberal arts education with flexible online options.
24. Franklin Pierce University
Average Net Price: $29,424
Franklin Pierce University offers online programs with an average net price of $29,424. It has a graduation rate of 51.65% and a retention rate of 73.70%, with graduates earning a median salary of $53,353.
The average cost of attendance for academic year is $60,490. In-state and out-of-state tuition and fees are both $43,155. The median debt for graduates is $27,000. This university provides a private college experience with flexible online education options.
25. Southern New Hampshire University
Average Net Price: $32,678
Southern New Hampshire University offers online programs at an average net price of $32,678. It has a graduation rate of 41.38% and a retention rate of 62.25%, with graduates earning a median salary of $50,318.
The average cost of attendance for academic year is $36,121. In-state and out-of-state tuition and fees are both $15,380. The median debt for graduates is $21,082. This university is known for its extensive online programs and strong support services for students.
Cheapest Online Colleges: Out-of-State Tuition
Attending one of these online colleges can be a savvy financial move, with out-of-state tuition rates hovering around $150 per credit hour - a rate that's highly competitive nationwide.This makes high-quality education accessible to a wider range of students.
| School | Credits Needed to Graduate | Public Out-of-State Cost Per Credit | Out-of-State Total Program Cost |
| Fitchburg State University | 120 | $150 | $18,000 |
| Middle Georgia State University | 120 | $150 | $18,000 |
| Columbus State University | 123 | $182 | $22,386 |
| Kennesaw State University | 120 | $185 | $22,200 |
| University of West Georgia | 120 | $199 | $23,880 |
| University of North Carolina--Pembroke | 120 | $208 | $24,960 |
| University of Texas Permian Basin | 120 | $219 | $26,280 |
| Western Carolina University | 120 | $232 | $27,840 |
| Sam Houston State University | 120 | $244 | $29,280 |
| Utah Tech University | 120 | $255 | $30,600 |
| University of Utah | 122 | $260 | $31,720 |
| Florida International University | 120 | $264 | $31,680 |
| Southeast Missouri State University | 120 | $272 | $32,640 |
| Arkansas State University | 120 | $276 | $33,120 |
| Valley City State University | 120 | $276 | $33,120 |
| University of Central Missouri | 120 | $278 | $33,360 |
| Missouri State University | 120 | $279 | $33,480 |
| University of Central Arkansas | 120 | $285 | $34,200 |
| University of Alaska--Fairbanks | 120 | $289 | $34,680 |
| University of Southern Indiana | 120 | $290 | $34,800 |
People Say
Reddit Users Say: Seeking the Cheapest Online College Options
In a comprehensive discussion on r/Adulting, Redditors opened up about their journeys and advised on the quest for the most affordable online college options in the U.S., especially under tricky financial circ*mstances. Here are some highlighted comments that resonated with the community:
- Community College as a Stepping Stone: A now-deleted user proposed starting with "remote classes at your local community college." This advice, echoed by Limit-Crafty, underlines the benefits of tapping into in-state rates and part-time studies at local colleges, which often come with work-study options to further reduce costs. Limit-Crafty also shared a link to appeal for independent status on FAFSA applications for those who might face hurdles due to parental support issues.
- SUU Speedway Program: Head-Owl5672 brought attention toSouthern Utah University’s Speedway program, a remarkably affordable path to a bachelor's degree, costing around $9k total or $75 per credit. This option was highlighted as notably cost-effective, particularly for students who qualify for the Pell grant, making it a strategy not just to earn a degree with minimal debt but potentially to come out ahead financially.
- Exploring Employment Benefits and Technical Certifications: LilJourney and Aggressive_World_658 suggest looking into employers that offer education benefits or focusing ontechnical certificationsas cost-effective alternatives to traditional degrees. Such strategies may open up immediate employment opportunities with the potential for education benefits down the line.
- Online and Accelerated Options: Several users pointed towards programs likeWGU (Western Governors University)or mentioned platforms likeSophia.Orgfor accelerated course completion at a monthly rate, showcasing the diversity ofonline education optionstailored to different learning paces and budget constraints.
- Dependency Status for Financial Aid: Users, including IatrogenicBlonde and TootsNYC, discussed strategies for declaring independence or waiting until the age exemption kicks in for FAFSA to maximize eligibility for financial aid without relying on parental income information.
These varied recommendations underline a common theme: the journey to higher education need not be a straight, financially burdensome path. From leveraging local community college resources to navigating the specifics of financial aid and uncovering hidden gems like the SUU Speedway program, Reddit’s community showcases a wealth of strategies for making higher education more accessible and affordable.
Quora Users Recommend Nexford University for Affordable, Credible Online Education
Quora users highly recommendNexford Universityfor those seeking an affordable and credible online college experience. According to Nagham Abuissa, a BBA graduate from Nexford University in 2023, Nexford excels in offering an economical education solution. Abuissa emphasizes the university's cost-effectiveness compared to traditional institutions, highlighting its transparent pricing and absence of hidden fees.
Several key benefits of Nexford University have been highlighted by its users on Quora:
- Global AccreditationAbuissa points out, "Nexford's accreditation by recognized bodies ensures that degrees hold value and are recognized globally, including in the USA, UK, and beyond."
- Quality EducationThe curriculum at Nexford is designed with input from industry experts, ensuring it is relevant and prepares students effectively for the modern workforce.
- FlexibilityNexford provides flexible learning options that help students balance their studies with work or other commitments.
- Innovative LearningThe university integrates technology and innovative learning platforms to make the educational experience engaging and effective.
- Practical SkillsMaruf Hossain, another top-voted contributor on Quora, states, "Nexford University prioritizes the development of next-generation skills that are crucial in today's global economy. Its competency-based approach ensures that graduates are equipped with the latest skills demanded by employers."
- Support ServicesNexford offers robust support services, including access to academic advisors, career services, and an online community that fosters networking and collaboration.
Overall, Quora users strongly endorse Nexford University for its blend of affordability, credibility, and career-focused online education. Hossain elaborates, "What sets Nexford apart is its affordability without compromising on quality. Additionally, the university provides flexible payment options and various financial aid opportunities to support students in reaching their academic aspirations."
Popular Online Colleges
Learn about start dates, transferring credits, availability of financial aid, and more by contacting the universities below.
Guide to Cheapest Online Colleges
Many students are drawn to the flexibility and convenience of online learning, but tuition concerns can be a major barrier. We'll focus on uncovering thecheapest online collegesand equip you with strategies tomaximize your affordability:
Unveiling the Most Budget-Friendly Options:
- Community Colleges & In-State Public Universities:These institutions typically offer the lowest tuition rates,especially for in-state residents.Consider attending a community college for core courses and then transferring to a public university to complete your degree.
- Private, Non-Profit Colleges with Generous Aid:Some private colleges offer significant financial aid packages,making them surprisingly affordable.Research colleges known for their scholarship generosity and grants specific to online students.
- Hidden Gems:Explore lesser-known online colleges with competitive tuition fees and strong academic programs.Use resources like theCollege Board's BigFuture College Searchto compare costs and programs across institutions.
Financial Aid: Your Ally in Affordability:
- FAFSA is Your Key:Completing the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) is crucial to unlock various federal grants,work-study programs,and loan options.Submit your FAFSA on time (ideally October 1st) to maximize your eligibility.
- State and Institutional Aid:Don't overlook state and institutional grants,which can often provide additional financial support.Research aid opportunities offered by your state and potential schools.
- Work-Study:Earn money while learning through federal work-study programs.Combine this with other aid options to further reduce your out-of-pocket expenses.
- Employer Tuition Reimbursem*nt:Check if your employer offers tuition reimbursem*nt programs to help cover online education costs.This can be a significant financial boost.
Beyond Financial Aid: Smart Saving Strategies:
- Minimize Living Expenses:Consider shared housing or staying with family to reduce accommodation costs.Look for affordable transportation options or utilize online learning from the comfort of your home.
- Textbook Savvy:Opt for used textbooks,rentals,or digital versions instead of buying new ones.Explore library resources and open educational resources (OERs) for free learning materials.
- Scholarship Search:Don't underestimate the power of scholarships!Research scholarships specific to your field of study,academic merit,and online learners.Every bit counts!
Paying for Your Affordable Online Degree
Securing an affordable online degree can be daunting, especially for budget-conscious students.
FAFSA and Financial Aid
Starting with the FAFSA is crucial for accessing financial aid like scholarships, loans, and work-study options. It helps determine your eligibility for federal and merit-based scholarships.
Employer Tuition Reimbursem*nt
A significant number of online students benefit from employer tuition reimbursem*nt. A 2018 survey by Aslanian Market Research and Learning House revealed that 23% of online undergraduate and 32% of graduate students used this benefit. It’s advisable to inquire about such opportunities within your company’s HR department.
Scholarships & Grants for Online Students
Online students often qualify for the same scholarships as on-campus students.
Resources for Online Scholarships:
- Scholarships.com: Lists over 40 distance learning scholarships with detailed information about each, including deadlines.
- Unigo: Features 58 scholarships for online students, providing details on award amounts and application links.
- GetEducated: Offers information on various grants for online students, including federal, state, and private grants.
Cheapest Online Colleges FAQ
Is Online College Cheaper?
Yes, online college is generally cheaper than traditional in-person education.Research indicatessignificant cost savings with online degrees compared to their on-campus counterparts.
For instance, at public four-year colleges, the average cost for an online degree is about $54,183, while an in-person degree averages at $85,348, making online education $31,165 less expensive. Similarly, private institutions charge an average of $60,593 for an online degree compared to $185,252 for in-person, reflecting even more substantial savings.
Furthermore, online students avoid several costs associated with on-campus education, such as transportation, which can add approximately $1,360 per year, and higher meal plan costs, which can be about $600 more annually than meals prepared at home.
Additionally, the per-credit-hour cost also tends to be lower for online courses; for example, the average per-credit-hour rate at public U.S. universities is $333 for online instruction versus $711 for in-person. These financial considerations make online college a more affordable option for many students, enhancing its attractiveness and accessibility.
Are Online Degrees Respected?
Yes, online degrees are respected, particularly as perceptions around virtual education have evolved significantly over recent years. According to the information provided on theNortheastern Universitywebsite, several key points highlight the respect and credibility online degrees have garnered:
- Employers see them as valuable (61% say equal or better quality to traditional degrees).
- Many companies hire online grads (71%).
- Online students can perform just as well, or even better (research shows).
- Reputable online programs from established universities are well-regarded by employers (83% value them the same as on-campus degrees).
- Online learning offers flexibility and opens doors to a wider audience.
- Employers believe online education is the future (52% say most advanced degrees will be online) and may even surpass traditional methods in quality (33% believe this)
What is the Cheapest Online Degree You Can Get?
There is no single degree that is the cheapest. University of the People (UoP) offers cheap online associate and bachelor's degrees. UoP also provides scholarships to cover any fees they charge.
ENMU offers more than 30 accredited online programs in business, education, nursing, information systems, and more.
What is the Cheapest College Degree You Can Get?
- Associate Degree in Health-related fields
- Bachelor's Degree in Education
- Associate Degree in Information Technology (IT)
- Bachelor's Degree in Business Administration
Can you use Pell Grants to Pay for online schooling?
The Pell Grant Program is a federally-funded scholarship awarded to individuals in financial need who meet additional academic and annual income requirements. Any accredited college that awards federally recognized degrees will accept Pell Grant money to pay for any online course.
Where can I purchase cheap college textbooks online?
It’s no surprise that pinching pennies and pursuing an undergraduate degree go hand-in-hand for most young, aspiring individuals. A smart student knows how to allocate resources and find the best deals on school supplies like textbooks. Buying secondhand, renting, reselling, and even getting a library card are great ways to save a few bucks.
How do I minimize my overall college costs?
A lot of college costs are the result of lifestyle choices, so really, it’s up to you. Depending on your housing situation, everyday expenses, and level of budget maintenance, you can minimize your college expenses by a significant amount.
How do I complete a FAFSA?
Completing the FAFSA process requires having the necessary financial documents, registering with a federal student ID, reading all guidelines on studentaid.gov, and submitting your application on time for the designated year. For more information, visitstudentaid.gov.
What does it mean when an online school is “accredited”?
A college's accreditation can be either regional or national. All accredited universities offer career-building opportunities and high-quality educational programs, although the extent of the options available and the quality of the coursework may depend on the type of accreditation. Accredited degree programs are often more highly regarded by employers than non-accredited degrees.
Does Free Online College Exist?
Some schools arefree tuition online colleges. Most schools offer "free tuition" through financial aid programs. These schools offer benefits such as covering housing costs or other expenses if one's family income can't cover them.
For example, Antioch College in Ohio helps with housing needs when the FAFSA shows that a student’s family income or estimated contribution won’t be able to handle housing costs. Barclay College provides scholarships that cover the whole cost of tuition.
Comparisons of Schools
When evaluating the online programs offered by various institutions, several key comparisons can be made based on the data provided. These comparisons highlight differences in affordability, student outcomes, and institutional characteristics.
Affordability
Purdue University Global and Peirce College stand out as the most affordable options, with average net prices of $4,765 and $5,301, respectively. These institutions offer significantly lower costs compared to the average cost of an online bachelor’s degree, which is $54,231. In contrast, Franklin Pierce University and Southern New Hampshire University are on the higher end of the spectrum, with net prices of $29,424 and $32,678, respectively. These higher costs align more closely with private college tuition averages, which are $62,756.
Graduation and Retention Rates
Charter Oak State College excels with a perfect graduation and retention rate of 100%, making it a standout choice for students looking for consistent academic support and a high likelihood of completion. On the other hand, Peirce College has a notably low graduation rate of 5.26% despite its 100% retention rate. This discrepancy suggests that while students may stay enrolled, few complete their degrees, possibly due to external factors impacting their ability to finish their studies.
Florida State University and San Diego State University also demonstrate strong performance, with graduation rates of 84.79% and 78.01% and retention rates of 93.93% and 89.41%, respectively. These institutions offer a balance of affordability and high academic outcomes, making them attractive options for prospective students.
Median Earnings and Debt
Median earnings post-graduation can be a significant factor for students considering return on investment. University of Florida-Online graduates have one of the highest median earnings at $71,588, coupled with a reasonable median debt of $15,000. In comparison, Columbia Southern University graduates earn a median salary of $63,534 but carry a higher median debt of $21,339.
Western Governors University offers a compelling combination of moderate costs and high median earnings, with graduates earning $60,615 and carrying a median debt of $11,116. This indicates a strong value proposition, balancing cost with positive financial outcomes post-graduation.
Institutional Characteristics
American Public University System caters to a unique demographic, including military and public service sectors, with an average net price of $10,168. Its focus on flexibility and affordability makes it a popular choice for these groups, despite having a lower graduation rate of 55.47%.
Granite State College has a notably low graduation rate of 14.89% and retention rate of 40.00%, which may reflect the challenges faced by its primarily adult learner population. However, its low average net price of $12,161 and tailored programs for working professionals provide accessible education opportunities for non-traditional students.
Technology and Support Costs
Institutions like Western Governors University and Charter Oak State College demonstrate that it's possible to maintain low costs and high-quality outcomes by efficiently managing technology and support costs. In contrast, higher tuition rates at schools like Southern New Hampshire University may be driven by higher delivery and support costs, with 61% of colleges charging more for online programs due to these expenses.
Statistics: College Costs
- Published or Sticker Prices (2023-24)
- Public four-year in-state: $11,260 (up $270 or 2.5% from 2022-23)
- Public four-year out-of-state: $29,150 (up $850 or 3.0% from 2022-23)
- Public two-year in-district: $3,990 (up $100 or 2.6% from 2022-23)
- Private nonprofit four-year: $41,540 (up $1,600 or 4.0% from 2022-23)
- Variability in College Prices
- Wide variation in published college prices based on institution type and location.
- 2023-24 public two-year in-district tuition and fees range from $1,440 in California to $8,660 in Vermont.
- 2023-24 public four-year in-state tuition and fees range from $6,360 in Florida to $17,180 in Vermont.
- Net Prices
- Most full-time undergraduates receive grant aid.
- Since 2009-10, public two-year college students have typically received enough grant aid to cover tuition and fees.
- Average net tuition and fee price for public four-year in-state students was $4,230 in 2012-13 (peak) and is estimated at $2,730 in 2023-24.
- Average net tuition and fee price for private nonprofit four-year students was $18,820 in 2006-07 and is estimated at $15,910 in 2023-24.
Popular Online Colleges
Learn about start dates, transferring credits, availability of financial aid, and more by contacting the universities below.
Want to narrow down your search to the states with the most colleges/universities? Check these links out! California Texas Florida New York
Further Resources
Best Online Colleges
Most Affordable Colleges
Accelerated Online Degree Programs (Associates, Bachelors, Masters)
Cheapest Online PHD Programs and Online Doctoral Programs
Cheapest Online Master’s Degree Programs
Best Nationally Accredited Online Colleges
Cheapest Affordable Online MBA Programs
Online Medical Assistant Programs
Sources
http://colleges.usnews.com/
http://www.niche.com/
Visit Great Basin College’s accredited online programs
Visit the University of Texas at Permian Basin’s Accredited Online Programs
Visit Thomas Edison State University’s Accredited Online Programs
Visit West Texas A&M University’s Accredited Online Programs
Visit American Public University’s Accredited Online Programs
