For individuals aspiring to higher incomes and lower unemployment rates, the value of an online master’s degree program is increasingly evident. With weekly salaries for master’s degree holders averaging $1,574 and an impressively low 2.6% unemployment rate, earning an advanced degree is generally a wise investment.
Yet, knowing which online program is right for you can be challenging. After all, how can you ensure an affordable program is reputable? What qualities should you seek to determine a top-notch education that aligns with your budget? Which factors should you examine closely to make this decision?
In this article, we’ve compiled a comprehensive list of the most affordable online graduate programs, offering a cost-effective gateway to lucrative career prospects.
We’ll also provide an insightful cost breakdown, dissect the factors influencing tuition rates, and detail various financing options, from out-of-pocket payments to federal loans and work-study opportunities. Plus, we’ll offer tips on selecting the right online master’s degree program to match your career aspirations and financial goals.
Cost Breakdown for an Online Master’s Degree Program
Earning your graduate degree online offers a unique advantage in that it can be completed remotely, anywhere in the world, and at your own pace.
This makes online education feasible for working professionals and those with other significant responsibilities — like raising a family or caretaking — but it does come with its own set of costs. These include the following:
- Tuition: Tuition fees for online master’s programs can vary significantly, but they are typically assessed per credit hour or term. Costs can range from a few hundred dollars to over a thousand dollars per credit, and the total program cost depends on the number of credits required for completion.
- Fees: In addition to tuition, online students may incur fees for various services such as tech support, academic resources, and library access. Sometimes, these fees can add several hundred dollars to the overall cost.
- Personal Technology: To participate effectively in an online program, students need a computer, hardware (often including a webcam and microphone), and reliable Wi-Fi. Costs will depend on the quality and specifications of the equipment you choose.
- Books and Learning Materials: Online students will need textbooks and course materials, which can vary in cost depending on the program’s requirements and whether digital or physical materials are preferred.
Budgeting for these components is essential when choosing an online master’s degree program. Still, it’s also important to remember where you’ll save money by earning your graduate degree in a virtual environment.
Online students often enjoy significant savings compared to their on-campus counterparts by avoiding commuting and housing expenses. This degree of flexibility enables many online students to maintain part- or full-time employment when pursuing their degrees, helping to balance the overall financial impact.
Factors Influencing the Cost of an Online Master’s Degree Program
With an unemployment rate sitting at a mere 2.6% for graduate degree-holders, significantly lower than the national average for other education levels, pursuing your master’s degree online is a wise investment.
However, not all online master’s degree programs are priced the same, and certain factors can cause tuition prices to fluctuate. Here’s a breakdown of the critical factors that impact tuition rates for online institutions:
- Public vs. private institution: Public colleges and universities, often funded by state governments, typically offer the cheapest online master’s degree programs. These institutions receive subsidies, making education more accessible to in-state residents. In contrast, private online institutions are more expensive and rely heavily on tuition revenue.
- Nonprofit vs. for-profit: Nonprofit online institutions prioritize education over profit, resulting in more reasonable tuition rates. For-profit institutions often have higher tuition costs as they aim to generate revenue for shareholders.
- Student residency status: In-state residents usually benefit from significantly lower tuition rates at public institutions. Out-of-state and international online students pay higher rates, as they don’t contribute to the state’s tax base that supports the university.
- Student military status: Active-duty military personnel and veterans may receive tuition discounts, scholarships, or access to government-funded programs like the GI Bill, making education more affordable for this group of online learners.
Most Affordable 50 Online Master’s Degree Programs
intelligent score 99.31
Award
Rankings
#1 Best Colleges
School Information
Edinburg, TX
Graduation Rate: 55%
Admission Rate: 88%
Urbanicity: City
School Size: Large
We ranked University of Texas - Rio Grande Valley at the top based on its affordable online master's programs, as well as its variety and high quality. Eligible students may get financial assistance through UTRGV's Tuition Advantage grant, which helps students who come from households with an annual income of less than $125,000 close any gaps in their financial aid. UTRGV is particularly affordable for Texas residents, with graduate tuition capped at $5,457 per term for the 2022-23 academic year. Students can choose from online programs in in-demand areas of study like nursing, Spanish translation, interpreting, education, business, and more.
Award
Delivery Format
Online
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
30-36
Department
Estimated Cost per Credit
$444 - $472
accreditation
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
more program informationEmail:
[email protected]
Phone:
956-882-4026
Delivery Format
Online
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
30-36
intelligent score 99.28
Award
Rankings
#2 Affordable Colleges Online#5 Best Colleges#15 Online Master's Colleges
School Information
Gainesville, FL
Graduation Rate: 61%
Admission Rate: 65%
Urbanicity: City
School Size: Medium
Award
Delivery Format
Online
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
30-52
Department
Estimated Cost per Credit
$449 - $865
accreditation
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
more program informationEmail:
[email protected]
Phone:
352-273-4478
Delivery Format
Online
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
30-52
intelligent score 98.86
Award
Rankings
#2 Best Colleges
School Information
Carson, CA
Graduation Rate: 67%
Admission Rate: 89%
Urbanicity: City
School Size: Medium
Award
Delivery Format
Online
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
32-36
Department
Estimated Cost per Credit
Resident: $347Non-Resident: $767
accreditation
Western Association of Schools and Colleges Senior College and University Commission
more program informationEmail:
[email protected]
Phone:
310-243-3741
Delivery Format
Online
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
32-36
intelligent score 96.96
Award
Rankings
#3 Best Colleges
School Information
Stanford, CA
Graduation Rate: 97%
Admission Rate: 4%
Urbanicity: Suburban
School Size: Medium
Students seeking an online degree from a prestigious research institution may want to take a closer look at Stanford University's online master's programs in popular STEM fields like engineering, biomedical informatics, computer science, and more. Graduate tuition at Stanford University is $1400 per credit hour. Before committing to the full cost of a program, students can test-drive Stanford's online experience with the university's collection of hundreds of free online courses. For those who decide to enroll, Stanford's Financial Aid Office helps students find funding through scholarships, grants, and need-based aid. They also have support programs for students who find themselves in need of emergency aid.
Award
Delivery Format
Online
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
30-60
Department
Estimated Cost per Credit
$339 - $378
accreditation
Western Association of Schools and Colleges Senior College and University Commission
more program informationEmail:
[email protected]
Phone:
650-723-2300
Delivery Format
Online
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
30-60
intelligent score 96.39
Award
Rankings
#3 College Values Online#4 EDsmart#8 Online Master's Colleges
School Information
Hays, KS
Graduation Rate: 57%
Admission Rate: 88%
Urbanicity: Town
School Size: Medium
Depending on the program, graduate tuition at Fort Hays State University ranges from $298 to $400 per credit hour, making them a highly affordable option for graduate school. FHSU helps students find the resources they need to pay for their master's degrees with financial aid workshops, checklists, and scholarship programs. For students seeking an advanced online degree in an arts- or humanities-related field, FHSU offers multiple options, including master's degrees in English and literary arts, music composition, art history, and more. These programs allow students to deepen their knowledge, develop critical thinking skills, and prepare for a variety of career opportunities through the convenience of online learning.
Award
Delivery Format
Online
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
30-36
Department
Estimated Cost per Credit
$338-$374
accreditation
Higher Learning Commission
more program informationEmail:
[email protected]
Phone:
785-628-4291
Delivery Format
Online
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
30-36
intelligent score 96.16
Award
Rankings
#4 Best Colleges
School Information
Durham, NC
Graduation Rate: 96%
Admission Rate: 6%
Urbanicity: City
School Size: Medium
Award
Delivery Format
Online
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
30-49
Department
Estimated Cost per Credit
$2,166 - $3,780
accreditation
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
more program informationEmail:
[email protected].
Phone:
919-681-3257
Delivery Format
Online
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
30-49
intelligent score 94.99
Award
Rankings
#1 EDsmart#6 Online Master's Colleges
School Information
Raleigh, NC
Graduation Rate: 83%
Admission Rate: 47%
Urbanicity: City
School Size: Large
Award
Delivery Format
Online
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
30-60
Department
Estimated Cost per Credit
Resident: $546Non-Resident: $1,700
accreditation
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
more program informationEmail:
[email protected]
Phone:
919-515-9030
Delivery Format
Online
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
30-60
intelligent score 94.5
Award
Rankings
#4 Online Master's Colleges#7 EDsmart
School Information
Odessa, TX
Graduation Rate: 50%
Admission Rate: 95%
Urbanicity: City
School Size: Medium
Award
Delivery Format
Online
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
30-65
Department
Estimated Cost per Credit
$275
accreditation
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
more program informationEmail:
[email protected]
Phone:
866-701-7515
Delivery Format
Online
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
30-65
intelligent score 93.55
Award
Rankings
#6 EDsmart#7 Online Master's Colleges
School Information
Wayne, NE
Graduation Rate: 55%
Admission Rate: 100%
Urbanicity: Town
School Size: Medium
Award
Delivery Format
Online
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
30-60
Department
Estimated Cost per Credit
$378 - $400
accreditation
Higher Learning Commission
more program informationEmail:
[email protected]
Phone:
402-375-7234
Delivery Format
Online
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
30-60
intelligent score 92.37
Award
Rankings
#8 College Values Online#9 Online Master's Colleges#9 EDsmart
School Information
Cape Girardeau, MO
Graduation Rate: 49%
Admission Rate: 86%
Urbanicity: City
School Size: Medium
Award
Delivery Format
Online
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
30-42
Department
Estimated Cost per Credit
$383
accreditation
Higher Learning Commission
more program informationEmail:
[email protected]
Phone:
573-651-2192
Delivery Format
Online
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
30-42
intelligent score 92.15
Award
Rankings
School Information
Dallas, TX
Graduation Rate: 81%
Admission Rate: 52%
Urbanicity: Suburban
School Size: Medium
Award
Delivery Format
Online
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
30-52
Department
Estimated Cost per Credit
$675-$1,704
accreditation
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
more program informationEmail:
[email protected]
Phone:
214-768-4345
Delivery Format
Online
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
30-52
intelligent score 91.98
Award
Rankings
School Information
West Lafayette, IN
Graduation Rate: 78%
Admission Rate: 53%
Urbanicity: City
School Size: Large
Award
Delivery Format
Online
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
30-57
Department
Estimated Cost per Credit
Resident: $425 - $1,250Non-Resident: $450 - $1,459
accreditation
Higher Learning Commission
more program informationEmail:
[email protected]
Phone:
765-494-2600
Delivery Format
Online
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
30-57
intelligent score 91.98
Award
Rankings
School Information
Jacksonville, FL
Graduation Rate: 66%
Admission Rate: 71%
Urbanicity: City
School Size: Medium
Award
Delivery Format
Online
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
30-48
Department
Estimated Cost per Credit
$275 - $408
accreditation
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
more program informationEmail:
[email protected]
Phone:
904-620-3577
Delivery Format
Online
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
30-48
intelligent score 91.81
Award
Rankings
School Information
Atlanta, GA
Graduation Rate: 91%
Admission Rate: 17%
Urbanicity: City
School Size: Large
Award
Delivery Format
Online
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
30-36
Department
Estimated Cost per Credit
Resident: $601 -$1,261Non-Resident: $1,276 - $1,976
accreditation
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
more program informationEmail:
[email protected]
Phone:
404-894-2000
Delivery Format
Online
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
30-36
intelligent score 91.07
Award
Rankings
School Information
Beaumont, TX
Graduation Rate: 43%
Admission Rate: 84%
Urbanicity: City
School Size: Medium
Award
Delivery Format
Online
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
30-61
Department
Estimated Cost per Credit
$342 - $439
accreditation
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
more program informationEmail:
[email protected]
Phone:
866-223-7675
Delivery Format
Online
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
30-61
intelligent score 89.61
Award
Rankings
School Information
New Castle, DE
Graduation Rate: 45%
Admission Rate: 100%
Urbanicity: Suburban
School Size: Medium
Award
Delivery Format
Online
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
30-55
Department
Estimated Cost per Credit
$537
accreditation
Middle States Commission on Higher Education
more program informationEmail:
[email protected]
Phone:
877-967-5464
Delivery Format
Online
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
30-55
intelligent score 89.4
Award
Rankings
School Information
Midway, KY
Graduation Rate: 49%
Admission Rate: 94%
Urbanicity: Rural
School Size: Small
Award
Delivery Format
Online
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
30-60
Department
Estimated Cost per Credit
$295 - $485
accreditation
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
more program informationEmail:
[email protected]
Phone:
859-846-5788
Delivery Format
Online
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
30-60
intelligent score 89.09
Award
Rankings
School Information
Laredo, TX
Graduation Rate: 54%
Admission Rate: 48%
Urbanicity: City
School Size: Medium
Award
Delivery Format
Online
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
30-54
Department
Estimated Cost per Credit
Resident: $77Non-Resident: $487
accreditation
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
more program informationEmail:
[email protected]
Phone:
956-326-3020
Delivery Format
Online
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
30-54
intelligent score 88.65
Award
Rankings
School Information
Scottsdale, AZ
Graduation Rate: 44%
Admission Rate: 64%
Urbanicity: City
School Size: Large
Award
Delivery Format
Online
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
30-60
Department
Estimated Cost per Credit
$576
accreditation
Higher Learning Commission
more program informationEmail:
[email protected]
Phone:
866-277-6589
Delivery Format
Online
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
30-60
intelligent score 87.55
Award
Rankings
School Information
Little Rock, AR
Graduation Rate: 42%
Admission Rate: 61%
Urbanicity: City
School Size: Medium
Award
Delivery Format
Online
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
30-60
Department
Estimated Cost per Credit
$396
accreditation
Higher Learning Commission
more program informationEmail:
[email protected]
Phone:
501-916-3005
Delivery Format
Online
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
30-60
intelligent score 87.02
Award
Rankings
School Information
Baltimore, MD
Graduation Rate: 94%
Admission Rate: 7%
Urbanicity: City
School Size: Medium
Award
Delivery Format
Online
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
30-82
Department
Estimated Cost per Credit
$1,086 - $2,158
accreditation
Middle States Commission on Higher Education
more program informationEmail:
[email protected]
Phone:
410-516-8171
Delivery Format
Online
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
30-82
intelligent score 86.92
Award
Rankings
School Information
Seattle, WA
Graduation Rate: 84%
Admission Rate: 48%
Urbanicity: City
School Size: Large
Award
Delivery Format
Online
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
30-65
Department
Estimated Cost per Credit
$919 - $1,985
accreditation
Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities
more program informationEmail:
[email protected]
Phone:
206-685-2630.
Delivery Format
Online
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
30-65
intelligent score 86.61
Award
Rankings
School Information
Madison, WI
Graduation Rate: 88%
Admission Rate: 49%
Urbanicity: City
School Size: Large
Award
Delivery Format
Online
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
30-58
Department
Estimated Cost per Credit
800 - $1,300
accreditation
Higher Learning Commission
more program informationEmail:
[email protected]
Phone:
608-262-2433
Delivery Format
Online
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
30-58
intelligent score 86.2
Award
Rankings
School Information
Tampa, FL
Graduation Rate: 74%
Admission Rate: 44%
Urbanicity: City
School Size: Large
Award
Delivery Format
Online
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
30-60
Department
Estimated Cost per Credit
$348
accreditation
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
more program informationEmail:
[email protected]
Phone:
813-974-2011
Delivery Format
Online
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
30-60
intelligent score 85.96
Award
Rankings
School Information
Chapel Hill, NC
Graduation Rate: 91%
Admission Rate: 17%
Urbanicity: City
School Size: Large
Award
Delivery Format
Online
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
30-62
Department
Estimated Cost per Credit
Resident: $598 - $1,212Non-Resident: $832 - $1,760
accreditation
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
more program informationEmail:
[email protected]
Phone:
919-962-7772
Delivery Format
Online
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
30-62
intelligent score 85.56
Award
Rankings
School Information
Greenville, NC
Graduation Rate: 67%
Admission Rate: 92%
Urbanicity: City
School Size: Large
Award
Delivery Format
Online
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
30-47
Department
Estimated Cost per Credit
Resident: $283Non-Resident: $1,014
accreditation
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
more program informationEmail:
[email protected]
Phone:
252-328-9206
Delivery Format
Online
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
30-47
intelligent score 84.44
Award
Rankings
School Information
Richardson, TX
Graduation Rate: 70%
Admission Rate: 85%
Urbanicity: City
School Size: Medium
Award
Delivery Format
Online
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
30-54
Department
Estimated Cost per Credit
Resident: $1,691Non-Resident: $2,489
accreditation
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
more program informationEmail:
[email protected]
Phone:
972-883-2270
Delivery Format
Online
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
30-54
intelligent score 84.41
Award
Rankings
School Information
Washington, DC
Graduation Rate: 94%
Admission Rate: 12%
Urbanicity: City
School Size: Medium
Award
Delivery Format
Online
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
30-49
Department
Estimated Cost per Credit
$1,209 - $2,488
accreditation
Middle States Commission on Higher Education
more program informationEmail:
[email protected]
Phone:
202-687-5568
Delivery Format
Online
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
30-49
intelligent score 81.06
Award
Rankings
School Information
Tuscaloosa, AL
Graduation Rate: 70%
Admission Rate: 80%
Urbanicity: City
School Size: Large
Award
Delivery Format
Online
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
30-60
Department
Estimated Cost per Credit
$440
accreditation
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
more program informationEmail:
[email protected]
Phone:
800-467-0227
Delivery Format
Online
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
30-60
intelligent score 80.27
Award
Rankings
School Information
Miami, FL
Graduation Rate: 69%
Admission Rate: 64%
Urbanicity: Suburban
School Size: Large
Award
Delivery Format
Online
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
30-45
Department
Estimated Cost per Credit
In-State: $455Out-of-State: $ 1,001
accreditation
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
more program informationEmail:
[email protected]
Phone:
305-348-3125
Delivery Format
Online
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
30-45
intelligent score 80.15
Award
Rankings
School Information
LIttle Rock, AR
Graduation Rate: 20%
Admission Rate: 100%
Urbanicity: City
School Size: Medium
Award
Delivery Format
Online
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
36
Department
Estimated Cost per Credit
$365
accreditation
Distance Education Accrediting Commission (
more program informationEmail:
[email protected]
Phone:
800-955-2527
Delivery Format
Online
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
36
intelligent score 80.05
Award
Rankings
School Information
Valdosta, GA
Graduation Rate: 45%
Admission Rate: 89%
Urbanicity: City
School Size: Medium
Award
Delivery Format
Online
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
30-39
Department
Estimated Cost per Credit
$270 - $757
accreditation
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
more program informationEmail:
[email protected]
Phone:
229-333-5694
Delivery Format
Online
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
30-39
intelligent score 79.79
Award
Rankings
School Information
Lynchburg, VA
Graduation Rate: 38%
Admission Rate: 99%
Urbanicity: City
School Size: Large
Award
Delivery Format
Online
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
30-60
Department
Estimated Cost per Credit
$565
accreditation
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
more program informationEmail:
[email protected]
Phone:
800-424-9596
Delivery Format
Online
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
30-60
intelligent score 78.97
Award
Rankings
School Information
Riverside, CA
Graduation Rate: 80%
Admission Rate: 69%
Urbanicity: City
School Size: Large
Award
Delivery Format
Online
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
36
Department
Estimated Cost per Credit
$875 - $1,434
accreditation
Western Association of Schools and Colleges
more program informationEmail:
[email protected]
Phone:
951-827-4302
Delivery Format
Online
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
36
intelligent score 78.44
Award
Rankings
School Information
Athens, GA
Graduation Rate: 87%
Admission Rate: 43.00%
Urbanicity: City
School Size: Large
Award
Delivery Format
Online
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
30-60
Department
Estimated Cost per Credit
$645 - $1,009
accreditation
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
more program informationEmail:
[email protected]
Phone:
706-542-1739
Delivery Format
Online
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
30-60
intelligent score 78.22
Award
Rankings
School Information
Champaign, IL
Graduation Rate: 87%
Admission Rate: 45%
Urbanicity: City
School Size: Large
Award
Delivery Format
Online
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
32-72
Department
Estimated Cost per Credit
$347 - $1,201
accreditation
Higher Learning Commission
more program informationEmail:
[email protected]
Phone:
217-333-0035
Delivery Format
Online
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
32-72
intelligent score 77.3
Award
Rankings
School Information
Stillwater, OK
Graduation Rate: 65%
Admission Rate: 71%
Urbanicity: Town
School Size: Large
Award
Delivery Format
Online
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
30-42
Department
Estimated Cost per Credit
Resident: $489Non-Resident: $530
accreditation
Higher Learning Commission
more program informationEmail:
[email protected]
Phone:
405-744-6368
Delivery Format
Online
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
30-42
intelligent score 76.55
Award
Rankings
School Information
Salt Lake City, UT
Graduation Rate: 54%
Admission Rate: 100%
Urbanicity: Suburban
School Size: Large
Award
Delivery Format
Online
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
30-38
Department
Estimated Cost per Credit
$425 - $550
accreditation
Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities
more program informationEmail:
[email protected]
Phone:
866-225-5948
Delivery Format
Online
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
30-38
intelligent score 75.94
Award
Rankings
School Information
San Diego, CA
Graduation Rate: 80%
Admission Rate: 39%
Urbanicity: City
School Size: Large
Award
Delivery Format
Online
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
30-51
Department
Estimated Cost per Credit
Resident: $559Non-Resident: $955
accreditation
Western Association of Schools and Colleges
more program informationEmail:
[email protected]
Phone:
619-594-0000
Delivery Format
Online
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
30-51
intelligent score 75.6
Award
Rankings
School Information
Huntsville, TX
Graduation Rate: 62%
Admission Rate: 85%
Urbanicity: Town
School Size: Large
Award
Delivery Format
Online
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
30-42
Department
Estimated Cost per Credit
$320
accreditation
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
more program informationEmail:
[email protected]
Phone:
936-294-2420
Delivery Format
Online
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
30-42
intelligent score 75.33
Award
Rankings
School Information
Ruston, LA
Graduation Rate: 57%
Admission Rate: 62.00%
Urbanicity: Town
School Size: Medium
Award
Delivery Format
Online
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
30-39
Department
Estimated Cost per Credit
$475
accreditation
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
more program informationEmail:
[email protected]
Phone:
318-257-2924
Delivery Format
Online
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
30-39
intelligent score 75.22
Award
Rankings
School Information
Lamoni, IA
Graduation Rate: 56%
Admission Rate: 74%
Urbanicity: Rural
School Size: Small
Award
Delivery Format
Online
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
30-48
Department
Estimated Cost per Credit
$310 - $560
accreditation
Higher Learning Commission
more program informationEmail:
[email protected]
Phone:
816-833-0524 ext. 4711
Delivery Format
Online
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
30-48
intelligent score 74.93
Award
Rankings
School Information
Fort Collins, CO
Graduation Rate: 71%
Admission Rate: 91%
Urbanicity: City
School Size: Large
Award
Delivery Format
Online
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
30-64
Department
Estimated Cost per Credit
$580 - $1,175
accreditation
Higher Learning Commission
more program informationEmail:
[email protected]
Phone:
970-491-5288
Delivery Format
Online
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
30-64
intelligent score 74.68
Award
Rankings
School Information
Jonesboro, AR
Graduation Rate: 55%
Admission Rate: 70%
Urbanicity: City
School Size: Medium
Award
Delivery Format
Online
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
30-63
Department
Estimated Cost per Credit
$340 - $514
accreditation
Higher Learning Commission
more program informationEmail:
[email protected]
Phone:
866-621-8096
Delivery Format
Online
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
30-63
intelligent score 74.08
Award
Rankings
School Information
Boca Raton, FL
Graduation Rate: 62%
Admission Rate: 81%
Urbanicity: City
School Size: Large
Award
Delivery Format
Online
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
30-46
Department
Estimated Cost per Credit
$304
accreditation
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
more program informationEmail:
[email protected]
Phone:
561-297-3624
Delivery Format
Online
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
30-46
intelligent score 74.01
Award
Rankings
School Information
Huntington, WV
Graduation Rate: 53%
Admission Rate: 97%
Urbanicity: City
School Size: Medium
Award
Delivery Format
Online
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
30-60
Department
Estimated Cost per Credit
$522 - $648
accreditation
Higher Learning Commission
more program informationEmail:
[email protected]
Phone:
304-464-9418
Delivery Format
Online
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
30-60
intelligent score 73.93
Award
Rankings
School Information
Tallahassee, FL
Graduation Rate: 82%
Admission Rate: 25%
Urbanicity: City
School Size: Large
Award
Delivery Format
Online
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
30-61
Department
Estimated Cost per Credit
In-State: $444Out-of-State: $1,076
accreditation
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
more program informationEmail:
[email protected]
Phone:
850-644-4635
Delivery Format
Online
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
30-61
intelligent score 70.57
Award
Rankings
School Information
Warrensburg, MO
Graduation Rate: 56%
Admission Rate: 71%
Urbanicity: Town
School Size: Medium
Award
Delivery Format
Online
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
30-60
Department
Estimated Cost per Credit
$425
accreditation
Higher Learning Commission
more program informationEmail:
[email protected]
Phone:
660-543-4729
Delivery Format
Online
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
30-60
Discover More Options
How we rank schools
This list features some of the most affordable online master’s degree programs in the U.S. All are offered at nonprofit, accredited institutions, either public or private, with a high standard of academic quality for post-secondary institutions.
We evaluated each online master’s program on tuition costs, admission, retention and graduation rates, faculty, reputation, and student resources. Then, we calculated the Intelligent Score on a scale of 0 to 100. Read more about our ranking methodology.
Next, we compared our picks to a list of aggregated college rankings from reputable publications like the U.S. News & World Report, among others, to simplify a student’s college search. We pored through these rankings so students don’t have to.
How to Pay for an Online Master’s Degree
Out-of-pocket
For some online students, paying for their tuition out-of-pocket is a money-saving endeavor that can benefit them for years to come. Students can use their personal savings to avoid costly student loans with interest rates if available.
Many online master’s degree programs also provide flexible payment plans that allow students to break their total tuition into manageable installments, making higher education financially feasible.
Federal student loans
Federal student loans are another option to finance your online degree and are generally more favorable than private education loans. Federal loans offer flexible repayment terms and typically come with lower interest rates.
Graduate students commonly receive two types of loans after submitting the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA): Direct Unsubsidized Loans and Direct PLUS Loans.
While federal student loans provide accessible and cost-effective financing options, avoiding overborrowing and pursuing other financial aid is essential to avoid incurring significant debt.
Private education loans
While private education loans are an option to fund your education, they should generally be used as a last resort. These loans often come with high interest rates and inflexible repayment terms, making them a costly choice compared to federal loans or personal savings.
It’s advisable to exhaust all other financial aid options before considering private loans, as they can lead to significant debt burdens and financial strain after graduation.
Scholarships
Scholarships are an excellent option to offset the cost of your online education. Scholarships are often awarded for various reasons, including merit-based, need-based, and subject-specific opportunities. These opportunities are available from multiple sources, including universities, private organizations, and government entities.
Explore your chosen institution’s scholarship programs to find scholarships for your studies. The financial aid office of your graduate school can connect you with opportunities ideal for your background and needs.
Grants
You can also leverage grants as a source of financial aid for your education. Grants, like scholarships, do not require repayment but differ in their origin; grants are often government-funded, while scholarships come from various organizations and institutions.
Graduate students are not eligible for federal grants like the Pell Grant, as it’s predominantly awarded to undergraduates. However, the Teacher Education Assistance for College and Higher Education (TEACH) Grant is available for qualifying graduate students and grants up to $4,000 annually. State-specific and institutional grants might also be an option, depending on your chosen online master’s program and location.
Work-study
Work-study programs can help graduate students fund their online education with part-time employment opportunities that align with their field of study. While work-study opportunities are often awarded based on financial need, graduate-level positions for online learners might involve virtual research, teaching assistantships, or administrative roles.
These programs allow students to gain practical experience and earn money to cover educational costs. Even better, work-study options for online graduate students are designed to be flexible, accommodating your study schedule while providing valuable skills and financial support.
Employer tuition assistance
Those currently employed can explore employer tuition assistance, a valuable benefit where employers partially or fully cover educational expenses. This support not only eases the financial burden but also supports career development.
To discover if your employer offers this benefit, contact your HR department. Some employers may require students to pursue degrees related to their current roles, while others have more flexible policies.
Applying for Financial Aid
The Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) process for graduate students involves a few key steps.
First, you must create an FSA ID and gather your financial documents, including tax returns and bank statements. Next, complete the FAFSA form online, providing personal and financial information. Then, specify the graduate schools you are planning to apply to. After submission, review your Student Aid Report (SAR) for accuracy.
The SAR will then be sent to your chosen schools to determine your eligibility for federal financial aid programs, including grants and loans. Be sure to adhere to deadlines and keep your information up-to-date for a smooth financial aid process.
Learn more about the FAFSA
For those seeking a comprehensive resource on navigating the FAFSA, check out Intelligent.com’s Ultimate FAFSA Guide.
This guide offers invaluable insights into the types of funding available, a step-by-step how-to list for completing the form, and tips on handling questions related to family size and immigration status.
Student loan forgiveness and repayment
Amid ongoing debates and legislative efforts surrounding student loan forgiveness in the United States, current and prospective college students must consider their financial future responsibly. Making a well-informed plan for loan repayment is essential to ensure financial stability after graduation.
College counselor Dana Marvin emphasizes this significance: “First, take out what you need and nothing more.” She continues, “For example, if you’re eligible to take out a loan for $12,500 per year but only need $8,000, there’s no need to take out a loan for that extra funds. Remember, every dollar you take out in a loan will not only be paid back, but with interest!” While federal loans can be helpful, it’s essential to avoid overborrowing to set yourself up for financial success in the future.
How to Choose the Online College or University that’s Right for You
Step 1: Clarify what you want
Deciding to seek higher education is an excellent way to take your career to the next level or pivot to a new field, and the path to success starts with gaining clarity on several crucial factors before committing to an online master’s program.
First, determine your area of study. While this decision may be relatively straightforward for those planning to stay in their current field, it may require more thought from those seeking a new career. After all, a master’s degree in accounting will prepare you for a vastly different future than a master’s degree in psychology, computer science, criminal justice, or any other field.
Next, consider the program type: a traditional master’s degree program, executive program, or specialized track. Assess the program’s delivery format and schedule to ensure it fits your lifestyle. Addressing these vital components will prepare you for a more rewarding and tailored education journey.
Step 2: Research schools and programs
Once you’ve clarified your educational goals, it’s time to research schools and programs that are well-equipped to help you achieve those objectives. First, check for institutional and programmatic accreditation to ensure you’re eligible for federal funding.
Then, consider the following questions to help guide your research:
- Does the online master’s program align with your career objectives?
- What is the curriculum structure, including core and elective courses?
- Is the faculty experienced in online teaching?
- Are there opportunities for networking and student support services?
- Are there hybrid programs available that allow online students to take some classes on campus?
- How affordable is the school compared to your other options?
You can gather this information by exploring school websites, attending virtual or in-person open houses, contacting program coordinators, speaking with current students, and examining program reviews and rankings.
Step 3: Prepare for applications and tests
Now that you have shortlisted your preferred online graduate programs, you can begin preparing for the application process. Ensure you meet all application requirements, including transcripts, letters of recommendation, essays, and a resume.
If your selected programs require Graduate Record Examinations (GRE) or Graduate Management Admission Test (GMAT) scores, consider enrolling in a test prep program to improve your scores. A strong test score can boost your competitiveness as an applicant, and test prep programs for both the GRE and the GMAT can help get you there with test-taking strategies and structured study plans.
Step 4: Select your program
Two strategies exist when applying to online graduate schools: a focused approach that prioritizes one or two ideal schools and a broader approach that casts a wider net for increased acceptance chances. Each has its merits, depending on your priorities.
For those with multiple acceptance letters, deciding on which online master’s program you will attend requires thoughtful consideration. Now is an excellent time to revisit factors like program fit, faculty expertise, financial aid, and career prospects post-graduation. You can also seek insights from current students, attend program webinars, and evaluate each program’s curriculum and support services.
Step 5: Determine how you’ll pay for your degree
Paying for your online master’s degree can feel intimidating, but it doesn’t have to be.
Prioritize scholarships and grants, as they don’t require repayment and can significantly offset expenses. Federal loans should be your next choice due to their lower interest rates and flexible repayment terms compared to private loans. Additionally, explore work-study options, as these opportunities will help you secure employment while completing your online master’s program.
By strategically combining these financial resources, graduate students can make their educational investment more accessible and financially manageable.