Top 20 Colleges for Cheap Online Master’s Degrees 

Studying online has become the new normal. It is efficient, flexible, and well structured. Although it possesses these characteristics, many are not affordable especially when you want to further your studies.

With their ranking, we highlight the colleges with the cheapest online master’s degree programs in the U.S. In recent years, multiple reports have identified an increase in graduate school students.

Publications like Inside Higher Ed and Vox point to job (and salary) growth in fields that require advanced degrees as the main reasons for this increase.

Many individuals, however, don’t pursue a master’s degree because these programs can be expensive. In fact, graduate school graduates with a master’s degree hold an average of $30,000-$120,000 of debt.

However, cheap master’s degrees do exist. In particular, online graduate programs are becoming more attractive because they grant students the flexibility to continue working while they are in school.

If you’re thinking about going to grad school but want to avoid serious debt, these 20 colleges can help you do just that!

How Much Does an Online Masters Degree Cost?

Seeing that online master’s programs are quite different from on-campus studies, its financial implication may be a bit higher. It is important to have an idea of how much an online masters program cost.

On average, an online Master’s degree may cost between $30,000 and $40,000, though some programs may exceed $120,000. Similar to on-campus programs, the price of an online master’s program varies for several reasons.

For example, private institutions often charge higher tuition than public universities. Online universities generally provide a cost that includes tuition and book expenses, since many of their materials are online.

What is the Easiest Masters Degree to Get Online?

Looking at the word “easiest”, you could deduce that it is a bit difficult to conclude that a particular degree is easier to get than the other. This is because every online degree program has its own peculiarities.

In truth, no master’s degree is the easiest to get online. If you desire to pursue a particular career and wish to do the program online, find out the corresponding study process required for it, and follow it through with diligence and seriousness. You will scale through it.

Can I Finish an Online Master’s Degree in A Year?

The Internet has brought us many amazing things, but the revolution that has it triggered in higher education may be the greatest. Professionals who want to improve their education and transcripts no longer have to attend evening classes for years.

The fastest online Master’s degree program can be completed in less than a year, and there are still accelerated online Master’s degree programs that only last 15 or 18 months. They can even keep working while they get their masters.

In fact, in almost all areas there are one-year master’s degrees from accredited, prestigious colleges and universities.

How long does a masters degree take online?

Online programs differ from one school to another, especially at the graduate level. The differences are demonstrated through differences in credit time requirements, available specializations, term schedules, transfer, and credit limits.

These are the factors that could lengthen or shorten the amount of time you would spend in the virtual school. It is important to consider these factors if you work full time or have other obligations.

Some schools are more flexible with programs than others, and knowing which program can be tailored to their needs is critical to completing their degree.

The biggest determination of how long it will take you to complete your degree is how you decide to attend the program: full-time or part-time?

Full-time students can often complete a graduate degree in as little as 18 months, while part-time students often take up to five years to meet all requirements.

Usually, an online master’s program will take about 1 year to complete as a full-time student. For part-time students, it can take 2 to 3 years. Some schools offer accelerated programs that can be completed in just 12 to 18 months.

These accelerated programs are going at an intensive pace that can be difficult to maintain for employed students.

Selection Criteria

For the purposes of this ranking, qualifying schools are defined as public or private non-profit/not-for-profit colleges and universities with well-developed graduate programs that have a significant online presence.

This means schools that offer at least 15 master’s degrees (in total), at least 10 of which are available online.

Ranking Factors

To identify the colleges with the best cheap online master’s degrees, we primarily considered three factors.

First, we calculated eligible schools’ average tuition cost per credit using in-state and out-of-state tuition data from the National Center for Education Statistics Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System (IPEDS). This measure of affordability accounted for 30% of each school’s final score.

We also considered each college’s focus on graduate education, both overall and specifically regarding online learning. To do this, we looked at the number of master’s degrees and the percentage of master’s degrees available online at each school.

High scores in both categories indicate a significant dedication of time, attention, and resources to online graduate education. These measures accounted for 60% of each school’s final score (30% x 2).

Lastly, we paid attention to “extra” features that enhance the online learning experience for students. Specifically, we looked at whether or not each school offers course credit for past experience and/or evening and weekend classes. These measures accounted for 10% of each school’s final score (5% x 2).

Note that after we had tallied all the results, we rated the final scores on a curve so that the college with the best cheap online master’s degrees (ranked #1) earned the maximum 100 points.

20. University of Louisiana at Monroe

The University of Louisiana at Monroe offers nearly 20 online master’s degree programs through its ULM distance learning initiative. The programs offered are varied spanning from business and public administration to healthcare, human services, and the humanities.

In addition, more than 30% of ULM’s cheap online master’s degrees are targeted toward teachers and educational administrators. This includes four M.A. in Teaching degrees (which cover all grade levels plus special education) as well as three M.Ed. programs in educational leadership, technology, and curriculum/instruction.

But regardless of which degree you choose, you’ll have access to dedicated services for distance learners, such as specialized academic advising, an online orientation, and even an electronic Help Desk.

Distance learners can access course information for their online graduate program through the university’s myULM electronic portal.

Average Cost per Credit: $451
Score: 80.39

School Site

19. Prescott College

Prescott is probably not the first college that comes to mind when you think of affordable online master’s programs. And for a good reason; the school is not known primarily for its adult education programs or flexible learning formats.

However, Prescott does have a well-deserved reputation as a defender of “the Liberal Arts, the Environment, and Social Justice.” But if those topics fit your interests, this may be your best online college.

Prescott’s online master’s degrees include programs you’d be hard-pressed to find anywhere else, from social ecology and adventure education to social justice and community organizing.

Prescott has some of the best online master’s programs for students who are passionate about social and environmental issues.

Average Cost per Credit: $796
Score: 80.52

School Site

SEE ALSO: 10 Best Online Masters In Graphic Design Programs | Schools, Requirements, Cost

18. Faulkner University

As a Christian university, Faulkner’s affordable online master’s degrees (many of which take a religious bent) won’t appeal to everyone. But in addition to graduate programs in Christian Ministry, Biblical Studies, and Christian Counseling, the graduate school also provides secular degrees in business, education, and the humanities.

In any case, Faulkner’s appeal stems less from its range of programs and more from its depth of commitment to distance learning. In fact, online courses are just the most recent addition to its portfolio – the school also offers evening and weekend classes and maintains three “extended campuses” at sites throughout Alabama.

Between its low tuition rates and generous financial aid (96% of students receive assistance), Faulkner has some of the most affordable online graduate programs around.

Average Cost per Credit: $525
Score: 80.52

School Site

17. Mercy College

Interested in practical education in a high-demand field? If so, Mercy College probably has what you need. Its top online master’s programs cover all the “hot topics” in career-relevant training, from education and nursing to business and leadership.

Mercy also offers advanced degrees in burgeoning fields like Cybersecurity and Health Services Management. And working adults will be happy to hear that Mercy offers both weekend and evening classes as well as course credit for prior experience.

But the choices don’t end there. When it comes to online learning, you can pick the format that’s best for your schedule: pure (100%) online, blended, or web-enhanced.

In addition to financial aid, Mercy funds an enormous selection of in-house scholarships to offset the cost of its top online graduate degrees.

Average Cost per Credit: $828
Score: 81.03

School Site

16. University of the Cumberlands

The University of the Cumberland’s list of accredited online master’s degrees reads like a “what’s what” of the most popular programs in America. UC has the supply to meet students’ demands for business, education, healthcare, and information technology.

Two particularly noteworthy graduate programs are the Ph.D. and PsyD in Clinical Psychology. Although not APA-accredited, the curricula are nonetheless designed to adhere closely to American Psychological Association standards while maintaining the convenience of a hybrid-online delivery format.

With so many great options to choose from, it’s no wonder that this university enrolls more than twice as many graduate students as undergrads.

At the University of the Cumberlands, you can pursue your cheap online master’s degree by taking both synchronous and self-paced classes.

Average Cost per Credit: $315
Score: 82.32

School Site

15. Wayland Baptist University

If you’ve never taken an online class before, you may be a little worried about what to expect. Fortunately, Wayland Baptist University goes above and beyond to provide the information, resources, and support you’ll need as a distance learner.

From frequently asked questions to an “Online Courses Checklist,” WBU’s website offers a treasure trove of useful information. Students can also get tips for how to succeed in an online class, register, and take tutorials on using Blackboard, the school’s digital learning portal.

Thanks to this comprehensive support, Wayland Baptist stands out as having one of the best online graduate programs for those who are new to distance education.

Nearly 80% of WBU’s master’s programs are also available as affordable online graduate degrees.

Average Cost per Credit: $540
Score: 83.61

School Site

14. University of the Southwest

At the University of the Southwest, you only have two online master’s programs from which to choose: business administration and education. But don’t be fooled into thinking this school lacks variety because these degrees are some of the most comprehensive you’ll find at any online college.

The MBA, for example, is really a dozen degrees in one. Students select their area of study from 10 pre-approved areas of specialization – or they can design their own! USW’s Master of Science in Education is similarly versatile.

Degree options include Early Childhood Education, Educational Administration or Diagnostics, plus two types of counseling and three different Curriculum and Instruction programs.

This university takes distance learning seriously and warns online master’s degree students that they should expect to spend 15-20 hours a week on each course.

Average Cost per Credit: $580
Score: 85.03

School Site

13. Tiffin University

All of Tiffin University’s online programs share three qualities: they are flexible, tailored to specific career goals, and designed “to maximize personal and professional growth.” Indeed, Tiffin advertises many of the very same perks that distance learners put at the top of their wish lists, including no application fees and convenient start dates.

And when it comes to the variety of programs, this university easily exceeds expectations. In addition to accredited online graduate degrees in traditional areas – like business and education – Tiffin also provides less common options, including an MS in Criminal Justice and a Master of Humanities (with four and five concentrations, respectively).

Students who want a career in law enforcement or a creative field will appreciate Tiffin’s top online graduate programs in criminal justice and the humanities.

Average Cost per Credit: $700
Score: 86.84

School Site

12. Concordia University-Wisconsin

Few colleges have embraced the concept of distance education the way that Concordia has. The Wisconsin branch alone consists of nine satellite centers throughout the state, plus a tenth location in Michigan!

By establishing this network of campuses, CUW ensures that even the most commute-restricted residents can access a traditional learning environment if they desire.

But considering the university also offers more than two-dozen programs completely online, students can just as easily earn their degree without traveling at all.

Opportunities to take weekend and evening classes and earn credit for life experience only strengthen Concordia’s reputation as a top online graduate program.

Concordia has some of the best cheap online master’s degrees for distance learners who are also interested in taking on-campus courses.

Average Cost per Credit: $548
Score: 87.61

School Site

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11. Bellevue University

One of the benefits of attending a university like Bellevue is that nearly 100% of its programs are available online. Why does this matter?

Well, not only is it indicative of how much time and money the school has invested in distance learning, but it also suggests a certain level of expertise in online instruction.

After all, Bellevue didn’t build a digital learning environment, design web-based curricula for all its programs, and create online versions of its student support services overnight!

Fortunately, you can get overnight access to all these perks – like Bellevue’s unique “Cyber-Active Online Classroom” and online research library – just by enrolling in one of its top online master’s degree programs.

For maximum convenience, Bellevue offers open enrollment and provides several start dates a year for most of its cheap online graduate programs.

Average Cost per Credit: $525
Score: 89.16

School Site

10. Saint Leo University

Like Bellevue, Saint Leo University offers 100% of its graduate degrees online. And SLU’s selection of regionally accredited online master’s programs is quite extensive. Yes, you can earn your MBA or M.Ed. Degree, but you can also study a variety of less conventional subjects – many of which are related to social and helping professions.

These include programs in criminal justice (with six optional concentrations), emergency and disaster management, social work, psychology, and theology. But before you commit to attending Saint Leo, you can test the waters by downloading a free “online learning toolkit.”

This toolkit includes an online degree e-book and comparison guide that will help match you with the right program for your goals.

Participants in SLU’s cheap online master’s degree programs can watch free career webinars to prepare for their post-college job hunt.

Average Cost per Credit: $485
Score: 89.55

School Site

9. University of Maryland-University College

On this top cheap online master’s degree ranking, the University of Maryland’s University College stands out for its sharp focus on high-tech, 21st-century career training.

Even the traditional staples get a contemporary twist at UMUC. Education programs, for example, focus on instructional technology and e-learning.

Business programs cover growing fields like cybersecurity, environmental management, and health informatics administration. The university has even pioneered cutting-edge graduate degrees in biotechnology, digital forensics, and data analytics.

In other words, if you want to train for a future-oriented career that practically guarantees job security for decades, UMUC is the place to be.

UMUC has perhaps the best online graduate degrees for tech-savvy professionals; it even offers a program in cloud computing architecture.

Average Cost per Credit: $559
Score: 90.71

School Site

8. Concordia University-Saint Paul

If you live in the northern Midwest, you’re especially lucky to have access to not one, but two universities in the Concordia system. We’ve already mentioned Concordia University in Wisconsin, but the Saint Paul campus deserves a shout-out all its own.

In particular, CSP is notable for its Concordia Partnership Advantage program, which helps make its cheap online graduate degrees even more affordable. More specifically, the program grants $2,000 tuition discounts and priority admission to students who are employed with one of the university’s corporate partners.

Current participants include several Minnesota-based companies as well as national organizations like AT&T, Lifetime Fitness, and Best Buy.

CSP supports accredited online master’s programs in unique fields like forensic behavioral health and exercise science.

Average Cost per Credit: $420
Score: 92.65

School Site

6. Western Governors University

Western Governors University has been a leader in distance education ever since it opened its doors in 1997 – before most people had even heard of online courses. Ever since, the university has been leveraging its experience to craft meaningful, accessible programs for commute-challenged students.

One of the features that have arisen from this experience is WGU’s unique competency-based approach to learning. Instead of judging students’ progress in their online master’s programs by credit hours earned, WGU awards “competency units” as degree candidates demonstrate their knowledge.

This means that you can take tests and complete assignments on your own time, earning your degree just as fast as you can learn the material.

Offering high-quality and accredited cheap online master’s programs is a central part of WGU’s mission as a university.

Average Cost per Credit: $276
Score: 93.94

School Site

5. National University

National University earns the majority of its points for these top online graduate degrees ranging from the sheer volume of programs it offers. In fact, the university is so large that it separates its programs into six individual schools and colleges, covering everything from health and engineering to professional studies and liberal arts to business and education.

While 100% of these programs are available online, National also offers traditional classes through a sprawling network of satellite campuses (28 to be exact) across California and Nevada.

This network also includes almost a dozen learning centers near military bases, where members of the armed services can take classes for a reduced tuition rate.

National University proudly provides some of the best cheap online master’s degrees for military students and their dependents.

Average Cost per Credit: $406
Score: 94.58

School Site

4. Indiana Wesleyan University

It’s hard to find a downside to attending one of Indiana Wesleyan University’s online graduate programs. Between the affordable tuition rates, credit for past experience, and evening and weekend classes, IWU offers all the convenience and flexibility you could need.

Plus, all of its online programs have the backing of a traditional, nearly century-old university that takes education very seriously.

And there are roughly 30 such programs for graduate students, which range in topic from accounting to social work. In addition, IWU’s Wesley Seminary provides a select number of Christian-oriented online degrees, like the Master of Divinity and the Master of Arts in Children, Youth, and Family Ministry.

Indiana Wesleyan University is a great source of top online master’s degrees for Christian students who want to focus their careers on their faith.

Average Cost per Credit: $515
Score: 94.58

School Site

3. Nova Southeastern University

Nova Southeastern University takes the cake when it comes to the sheer size of its graduate school. Not only does it have more than 50 accredited online master’s degrees, but that’s only half the total number of graduate programs (on-campus + online) it offers!

Even better, NSU is a participating member in the Southern Regional Education Board’s “Electronic Campus” initiative, which individually approves programs that adhere to “Principles of Good Practice.”

Around 69% of the university’s online graduate degrees already have SREB approval, and that figure will likely continue to grow.

To supplement its cheap online master’s programs, NSU offers evening and weekend classes at several regional campuses throughout Florida.

Average Cost per Credit: $931
Score: 97.16

School Site

2. Pennsylvania State University-World Campus

Penn State’s “World Campus” represents an ideal model for online education. Backed by a large public university will well over 100 years of experience in higher education, PSU-World offers credible, respectable degrees for an affordable price.

And by leveraging its parent university’s wide range of academic resources, this web-based campus can also provide top online master’s programs in unconventional fields like Applied Demography, Enterprise Architecture, Nutritional Sciences, and Renewable Energy/Sustainability Systems.

But regardless of which topic you choose, you’ll enjoy the convenience of asynchronous learning in an interactive virtual environment.

PSU-World’s accredited online graduate programs offer courses that are typically 12-15 weeks in length.

Average Cost per Credit: $805
Score: 99.87

School Site

1. Southern New Hampshire University

What does it take to build the university with the best affordable online master’s programs? Start by creating 30-40 graduate degrees, then make most of them (more than 80%) available online.

Be sure to vary the types of programs you offer, then throw in some atypical options – like Applied Economics and Creative Writing – so you really stand out.

It also helps to develop a particularly robust curriculum in the more popular fields; for example, an MBA program with 50 (yes, 50!) specializations. Top it all off with a bunch of digital support services – including a virtual writing centre and 24/7 online tutoring. Or, you could get all these features – and more – just by enrolling in SNHU!

With a whopping 50 concentration options, SNHU has perhaps the most versatile, comprehensive online graduate degree for MBA students.

Average Cost per Credit: $627
Score: 100

School Site

References

• online.org – Most Affordable Online Colleges Offering Masters
• greatvaluecolleges.net – Top 45 Cheap Online Master’s Degree Programs

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