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Most Affordable Online Degree Programs 2024

Pursuing an online degree is a flexible and convenient way to achieve your educational goals, especially if you are balancing work, family, and other commitments. Affordability is a key factor for many students when choosing a program. This guide highlights the most affordable online degree programs of 2024, helping you find quality education that fits your budget.

Top Affordable Online Degree Programs

1. University of the People

Overview: University of the People is a non-profit, tuition-free online university offering accredited degrees in various fields.
Key Features:

  • Accredited by the Distance Education Accrediting Commission (DEAC)
  • Offers associate, bachelor’s, and master’s degrees in Business Administration, Computer Science, Health Science, and Education
  • Tuition-free model with minimal fees for assessments
    Highlights:
  • Highly affordable with no tuition costs
  • Scholarships available to help cover assessment fees
  • Flexible scheduling and global student community
    Ideal For: Students seeking a no-tuition, low-fee educational option with flexibility and accessibility.

2. Western Governors University (WGU)

Overview: WGU offers competency-based online degree programs designed to allow students to progress at their own pace.
Key Features:

  • Accredited by the Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities (NWCCU)
  • Programs in Business, IT, Education, and Healthcare
  • Flat-rate tuition model, allowing for multiple courses per term
    Highlights:
  • Affordable tuition with a pay-per-term structure
  • Emphasis on competency-based education
  • Supportive faculty mentors and robust student services
    Ideal For: Working professionals and self-motivated learners seeking a flexible, affordable degree program.

3. Southern New Hampshire University (SNHU)

Overview: SNHU offers a wide range of affordable online degree programs with a strong focus on flexibility and student support.
Key Features:

  • Accredited by the New England Commission of Higher Education (NECHE)
  • Over 200 online programs, including certificates, associate, bachelor’s, and master’s degrees
  • Competitive tuition rates with financial aid and scholarships available
    Highlights:
  • Affordable tuition with various financial aid options
  • Flexible, asynchronous course delivery
  • Strong emphasis on career services and student support
    Ideal For: Students seeking a wide variety of program options with strong support services and flexible scheduling.

4. Eastern New Mexico University (ENMU)

Overview: ENMU offers affordable online degree programs with in-state tuition rates for all online students.
Key Features:

  • Accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC)
  • Offers associate, bachelor’s, and master’s degrees in various fields
  • In-state tuition rates for all online programs
    Highlights:
  • Very affordable tuition for all online students
  • Diverse program offerings
  • Strong student support and career services
    Ideal For: Students looking for an affordable, high-quality education with in-state tuition rates regardless of residency.

5. Thomas Edison State University (TESU)

Overview: TESU provides flexible and affordable online degree programs tailored to adult learners and working professionals.
Key Features:

  • Accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education (MSCHE)
  • Offers associate, bachelor’s, and master’s degrees, as well as certificates
  • Tuition plans include per-credit and flat-rate options
    Highlights:
  • Affordable tuition with various payment plans
  • Flexible scheduling and credit for prior learning
  • Strong focus on adult learners and transfer students
    Ideal For: Adult learners and working professionals seeking affordable, flexible degree programs with options to earn credit for prior learning.

6. University of North Dakota (UND)

Overview: UND offers a variety of affordable online degree programs with the same tuition rate for in-state and out-of-state students.
Key Features:

  • Accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC)
  • Offers undergraduate and graduate programs in fields such as Business, Engineering, Nursing, and Education
  • Flat tuition rate for online programs, regardless of residency
    Highlights:
  • Affordable tuition rates with no difference between in-state and out-of-state students
  • High-quality, regionally accredited programs
  • Strong emphasis on student support and online learning resources
    Ideal For: Students seeking affordable, high-quality online programs with consistent tuition rates.

Choosing an affordable online degree program is essential for managing your educational expenses while pursuing your academic and career goals. Institutions like the University of the People, Western Governors University, Southern New Hampshire University, Eastern New Mexico University, Thomas Edison State University, and the University of North Dakota offer some of the most affordable options for 2024. Evaluate each program’s key features and highlights to find the best fit for your budget and educational needs.