Did you know the median earnings of bachelor's degree holders are 57% higher than those who only completed a high school degree? Completing a bachelor's degree program can open up more career opportunities and increase your overall earnings.
Enrolling in an online bachelor's program is a popular way to earn a four-year degree. It can be more flexible and cost-effective than traditional, in-person programs. According to the National Center for Education Statistics, in 2021, 28% of undergraduate students exclusively took online courses. This is nearly double the percentage of undergraduate students who enrolled exclusively online in 2019.
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Featured Online Bachelors Programs
Find a program that meets your affordability, flexibility, and education needs through an accredited, online school.
Most Affordable Online Bachelor's Degrees 2025
#1 Best Affordable Online Bachelor’s Degrees 2025
University of Florida
- Gainesville, FL
- 4 years
- Online + Campus
What Sets It Apart:
At the University of Florida, you can choose from 26 online bachelor's degrees. The classes run asynchronously, and you can build a courseload that suits your schedule. As an online learner, you can save up to 40% on study costs compared to in-person students by taking advantage of low tuition and optional fee packages to access on-campus services.
Cost per Credit:
In State | $129
Out of State | $553
Why Students Choose UF:
- Avoid Loans: UF reports that only 12% of students take out loans to pay for college — the lowest borrowing rate on our list.
- Online Community: The UF Online Plaza gives you 24-7 access to an online campus for networking and support.
- Experiential Learning: Online students can pursue internships, research projects, and other initiatives to gain hands-on experience.
Know Before You Enroll:
- Higher Out-of-State Tuition: If you're not a Florida resident, you'll pay a significantly higher tuition rate.
- Application Deadlines: UF offers three start dates, with application deadlines falling around three months before classes start.
- Standardized Tests: If you have no transfer credits and graduated high school within the past five years, you'll need to submit standardized test scores.
Percent Online Enrollment
57%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
#2 Best Affordable Online Bachelor’s Degrees 2025
San Diego State University
- San Diego, CA
- 4 years
- Online + Campus
What Sets It Apart:
San Diego State University Global Campus features six online and hybrid degree completion programs at the bachelor's level. Most of your classes run asynchronously, though more interactive synchronous studies may be available. In-state and out-of-state students pay the same tuition rate, but costs vary by program.
Cost per Credit:
In State | $431-$531
Out of State | $431-$531
Why Students Choose SDSU:
- Popular Majors: You can major in business administration, economics, communication, criminal justice, or other popular fields.
- Financial Aid: Most of the online bachelor's degree completion programs qualify for the same financial aid opportunities as the school's on-campus programs.
Know Before You Enroll:
- Bachelor's Degree Completion: SDSU's online bachelor's programs are degree completion options, so you'll need 60 or more transfer credits to apply.
- Delivery Format: SDSU Global Campus offers both online and hybrid programs, so check the delivery format.
- Course Fees: The tuition rate varies by program; the BA in communication is $431 per credit, while the BS in civil engineering costs $531 per credit.
Percent Online Enrollment
56%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Western Association of Schools and Colleges Senior Colleges and University Commission
#3 Best Affordable Online Bachelor’s Degrees 2025
Georgia Highlands College
- Rome, GA
- 4 years
- Online + Campus
What Sets It Apart:
You can choose from seven online bachelor's degree programs at Georgia Highlands College, including one of the country's only programs in building information modeling management. For its core general education courses, the school offers eight- and 16-week sessions and free online textbooks. In addition to its affordable tuition rate, GHC does not have any distance education fees.
Cost per Credit:
In State | $101
Out of State | $391
Why Students Choose GHC:
- Support Services: Online learners benefit from advising, counseling, tutoring, and financial aid support.
- Multiple Two-Year Degrees: You can get a head start on your bachelor's degree program in an affordable format by pursuing an online associate degree.
- Transfer Credits: You can earn transfer credits for prior learning and transfer earned credits to any school in the University System of Georgia.
Know Before You Enroll:
- Limited Majors: Because GHC primarily focuses on associate degrees, you'll have fewer options for a bachelor's degree.
- High Fees: While the GHC tuition rate is low, students also pay technology fees, student support fees, and other costs that can add up.
Out-of-state
Not provided
Acceptance Rate
Not provided
Percent Online Enrollment
74%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
#4 Best Affordable Online Bachelor’s Degrees 2025
New Mexico State University-Main Campus
- Las Cruces, NM
- 4 years
- Online + Campus
What Sets It Apart:
Access over 70 online degree and certificate programs at New Mexico State University Global Campus, including 18 at the bachelor's level. The fully online programs feature no campus requirements and run in asynchronous or synchronous formats. All online students pay the same tuition rate regardless of where they live, but New Mexico residents may be eligible to receive a scholarship covering up to 100% of their tuition.
Cost per Credit:
In State | $395
Out of State | $395
Why Students Choose NMSU:
- Generous Transfer Credit Policy: Students can transfer up to 90 credits toward a 120-credit bachelor's degree to save money.
- Academic Resources: Distance learners benefit from tutoring services, a writing center, and an office of experiential learning.
- Support Services: You can access career support, health and wellness resources, and on-demand workshops.
Know Before You Enroll:
- Tuition Discounts: Active-duty military and law enforcement personnel qualify for a discounted tuition rate of $250 per credit.
- No SAT or ACT Requirement: You can apply without SAT or ACT scores, though NMSU says submitting these scores can increase your financial aid opportunities.
Percent Online Enrollment
70%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Higher Learning Commission
#5 Best Affordable Online Bachelor’s Degrees 2025
University of Maine at Presque Isle
- Presque Isle, ME
- 4 years
- Online
What Sets It Apart:
The University of Maine at Presque Island offers more than 15 online bachelor's degrees as part of its YourPace program, which allows you to pursue a degree at the speed you want. UMPI offers its courses in six sessions per year and offers flat-rate tuition for each session, allowing you to take as few or as many courses per session as you want. You can save money if you can handle a heavier course load.
Cost per Session:
In State | $1,700
Out of State | $1,700
Why Students Choose UMPI:
- Accelerated Schedule: With six sessions per year, you can start courses without waiting for a fall start date.
- Degree Options: You can earn a BA, BS, bachelor of liberal studies, or bachelor of business administration.
Know Before You Enroll:
- No Weekly Deadlines: The YourPace program gives you flexibility, but the lack of structured deadlines could be difficult for some learners.
- Age Limits: You have to be at least 20 years old to apply to the YourPace program.
Percent Online Enrollment
67%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
New England Commission on Higher Education
#6 Best Affordable Online Bachelor’s Degrees 2025
University of Arizona
- Tucson, AZ
- 4 years
- Online + Campus
What Sets It Apart:
Tucson's University of Arizona offers more than 55 online bachelor's degree programs, including majors in business, technology, healthcare, and education. The school accommodates students from across the country with no residency requirements and no out-of-state tuition, plus asynchronous classes for all and tuition assistance for military students.
Cost per Credit:
In State | $525
Out of State | $525
Why Students Choose Arizona:
- Individual Course: You can see if online learning is a good fit by taking a class or two as a non-degree student; you can then apply up to 15 credits toward a bachelor's degree.
- Transfer Scholarships: If you're transferring from an Arizona community college, you may qualify for a $500 scholarship each semester.
- Unique Majors: You can choose from unique options like Africana studies, applied humanities, and bioinformatics.
Know Before You Enroll:
- Application Fee: You'll pay a $65 application fee.
- Multiple Start Dates: Courses start every seven and a half weeks, so you can start whenever works best for you.
Percent Online Enrollment
60%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Western Association of Schools and Colleges Senior Colleges and University Commission
#7 Best Affordable Online Bachelor’s Degrees 2025
University of Hawaii-West Oahu
- Kapolei, HI
- 4 years
- Online + Campus
What Sets It Apart:
The youngest university in the University of Hawai'i system, the University of Hawai'i-West O'ahu offers 23 bachelor's degree completion programs that feature asynchronous and synchronous delivery formats. In addition to its affordable in-state tuition, the school offers reduced rates to out-of-state students from Western Undergraduate Exchange member states.
Cost per Semester:
In State | $3,672
Out of State | $10,152
Why Students Choose UH West O'ahu:
- Business Concentrations: With the BA in business administration, you can concentrate in accounting, finance, management, marketing, or hospitality and tourism.
- Hawai'i-Focused: The school offers majors in Hawaiian-Pacific studies and Hawaiian and Indigenous health and healing.
- Student Support: Distance learners benefit from academic advising, tutoring, and financial aid support.
Know Before You Enroll:
- Degree Completion: The bachelor's programs require two years of transfer credits.
- Additional Fees: All students, including online learners, pay mandatory student and facility fees.
Out-of-state
Not provided
Percent Online Enrollment
96%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Western Association of Schools and Colleges Senior Colleges and University Commission
#8 Best Affordable Online Bachelor’s Degrees 2025
Arizona State University
- Scottsdale, AZ
- 4 years
- Online
What Sets It Apart:
Enrolling more than 96,000 online students, Arizona State University is one of the largest online schools in the country. ASU gives you a choice of more than 180 online bachelor's programs, each featuring seven-and-a-half-week classes delivered in an asynchronous format. Since ASU has no out-of-state tuition, you'll pay the same rate wherever you live, but tuition varies by program.
Cost per Credit:
In State | $663-$744
Out of State | $663-$744
Why Students Choose ASU:
- Accelerated Courses: ASU offers two sessions each semester for its online classes, allowing students to earn credits faster.
- Flexible Schedule: Most online courses use an asynchronous schedule, meaning you will have no required meeting times.
- Diverse Majors: With more than 180 bachelor's programs sortable by career demand, popularity, and transfer-friendliness, you can find the right fit for you.
Know Before You Enroll:
- Application Fee: You'll pay a $70 application fee with limited options for fee waivers.
- Transfer Credits: ASU caps transfer credits for bachelor's degrees at 64.
Percent Online Enrollment
98%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Higher Learning Commission
#9 Best Affordable Online Bachelor’s Degrees 2025
Northern Kentucky University
- Highland Heights, KY
- 4 years
- Online + Campus
What Sets It Apart:
Northern Kentucky University offers 18 bachelor's programs for online students. Most programs have multiple start dates annually and feature accelerated seven-week classes that run in an asynchronous format for ultimate flexibility. At NKU, first-time online students may qualify for discounted tuition rates with the Path to Success Scholarship.
Cost per Credit:
In State | $485
Out of State | $485
Why Students Choose NKU:
- Positive Reviews: A strong 94% of seniors say they would recommend NKU.
- Transfer Credits: Transfer up to 90 credits toward a 120-credit bachelor's degree to save time and money.
Know Before You Enroll:
- RN-to-BSN Program: The RN-to-BSN program does not qualify for the Path to Success Scholarship but has a lower tuition rate of $315 per credit.
- State Authorization: NKU's online degree programs are not authorized in every state.
Percent Online Enrollment
74%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
#10 Best Affordable Online Bachelor’s Degrees 2025
University of North Alabama
- Florence, AL
- 4 years
- Online + Campus
What Sets It Apart:
At the University of North Alabama, you can pursue one of more than 15 online bachelor's degrees. Online classes offer flexible schedules and an intimate 18-to-1 student-to-faculty ratio. UNA offers cost advantages for online students, including a complimentary first-course tuition scholarship and a flat tuition rate for full-time learners.
Cost per Semester:
In State | $5,100
Out of State | $5,100
Why Students Choose UNA:
- Scholarship Opportunities: New students in online bachelor's programs automatically receive a scholarship.
- Low Tuition: For part-time enrollment, you can pay $340 per credit or a flat rate if you're taking 12-18 credits.
Know Before You Enroll:
- Number of Majors: With about 15 online bachelor's programs as of 2025, UNA has fewer options than other online colleges.
- Admissions Requirements: First-time students need a 2.5 GPA for unconditional admission, which is higher than some schools.
Percent Online Enrollment
69%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
At Affordable Colleges Online, we use a proprietary ranking system and data from reputable sources like the U.S. Department of Education to help you find the best school for your needs. Our most important metric — affordability — accounts for 60% of our formula on our most affordable rankings. We also consider academic quality, program offerings, online enrollment, and graduation rates.
This list is from 2025. To learn more, consult our school ranking methodology.
Career and Salary Outlook for Popular Bachelor's Degrees
You can explore a variety of bachelor's degree programs that can lead to high-paying, rewarding jobs. Many careers in finance, technology, and healthcare require an undergraduate degree and offer lucrative salaries.
You can gain work experience by finding entry-level careers in the field while completing your college degree. The following are popular jobs with competitive salaries that only require a bachelor's degree.
10 Popular Careers You Can Get With an Online Bachelor's Degree
| Job |
Median Annual Salary (May 2023) |
Job Growth Rate (2022-2032) |
| Accountants and Auditors |
$79,880 |
6% |
| Data Scientists |
$108,020 |
36% |
| Financial Analysts |
$99,890 |
9% |
| Human Resources Specialists |
$67,650 |
8% |
| Information Security Analysts |
$120,360 |
33% |
| Mechanical Engineers |
$99,510 |
11% |
| Project Management Specialists |
$98,580 |
7% |
| Registered Nurses |
$86,070 |
6% |
| Technical Writers |
$80,050 |
4% |
| Web Developers and Digital Designers |
$92,750 |
8% |
Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics
3 Benefits of Getting an Affordable Online Bachelor's Degree
There are benefits to pursuing an online program that could make an online degree the right choice for you.
1. Flexibility
The most common reason for enrolling in online college is flexibility. Most courses allow you to access the content at times that are convenient for you. You can complete work and access materials from anywhere you have internet access.
2. Cost
Online programs can sometimes be cheaper than in-person degrees. Some colleges offer discount rates for online tuition. You may also save money on transportation, living costs, and campus fees.
3. Same Degree
Your diploma won't have "online" written under your degree. Most online courses are taught by the same professors with the same content and expectations as the in-person classes.
4 Ways to Make an Online Bachelor's Degree More Affordable
The rising costs of a college education can be scary. Although how much a college costs depends on several factors, you can find ways to save money on your degree. You can apply for financial aid in several ways, even if you are attending an online college.
1. Submit the FAFSA
The FAFSA, or Free Application for Federal Student Aid, is federal financial aid that is awarded based on financial need. You can receive aid in the form of grants, work-study programs, and loans.
You are able to accept or reject all forms of aid. For instance, you can accept the grant money without taking out any federal loans. Money is distributed first to your college; leftover funds can be used toward supplies or housing costs.
Being an online student doesn't disqualify you from the FAFSA. You can check your prospective colleges' eligibility on the FAFSA website.
2. Research Scholarships
College scholarships are monetary awards that you don't have to repay. Scholarships may come from private companies, non-profit organizations, or the schools you're applying to.
Each scholarship has application requirements, award amounts, and timelines, so it's important to research and understand each one. Many students may overlook smaller scholarships, but applying to any and all opportunities, no matter how small, can add up to big savings.
Websites like Scholarships.com allow you to filter your searches. You can also try searching for scholarships aimed at specific degree programs, towns, or unique talents. Don't forget to check local businesses and organizations in your area for additional opportunities. You can even get a scholarship for having duct tape prom attire.
3. Check if You Qualify for Employer-Sponsored Programs
If you are already in the workforce, you can check with your employers to see if they offer any tuition assistance opportunities.
Companies like Starbucks are well-known for their tuition reimbursement program, but more employers are offering incentives for you to further your education. Check with your human resources department to see if you qualify for any programs.
To finish degree programs quicker, you can also check with prospective colleges to learn more about earning college credit for your work experience.
4. Transfer Credits
Another way to save costs is to find out if you can transfer credits. If you have completed any college-level classes, like an AP course and exam, you may be able to get college credits for those scores.
Many colleges also accept credits from community colleges, even if you completed the courses while in high school. You may also be able to "test out" of courses by taking an exam through the college. Some programs also allow you to earn credit through professional experience.
What Should You Consider When Choosing an Affordable Online Bachelor's Program?
You should look at several factors when choosing an online bachelor's program. The best choice for you is going to be different than someone else's best options.
Things to consider include the following:
-
Tuition
College is a huge financial commitment. You need to understand the tuition costs when choosing a school. Some colleges charge per credit hour, while others may offer a flat semester rate.
Online colleges may offer a blanket tuition rate for all students, or programs may have different rates for in-state versus out-of-state residents. Some colleges may even offer tuition-free programs.
-
Fees
College costs aren't just tuition — you have to factor in fees and extra costs, like technology and school program fees.
When comparing online programs to in-person programs, you also need to factor in transportation, parking, and meals.
-
Accreditation
If a school is accredited, it means an outside organization has examined the school and determined it has academic merit and is a legitimate college. Typically, an accredited school means you will have an easier time getting federal financial aid, and you should be able to transfer credits much easier.
-
Student Services
All the colleges you look at are going to offer competitive academics, so what can really jump a school to the top of your list is the student services offered. Look at access to academic support, counseling, and student organizations.
Other student services for distance learners to look out for are virtual meet-ups, tech support, and online tutors, as well as resources such as career services and access to alumni networks.
Frequently Asked Questions About Affordable Online Bachelor's Degrees
An online bachelor's degree can be cheaper, depending on your individual circumstances. Always compare costs based on your own situation. Colleges may offer discounted tuition rates for online students. Some colleges offer a flat online rate regardless of whether you're an in-state or out-of-state resident. Online college can also mean saving money on housing, transportation, and campus fees.
An accelerated bachelor's degree program may be more affordable, since you have to pay for fewer semesters of college. An accelerated program allows you to graduate in less than four years. You can find accelerated online programs in almost every area of study.
If you are self-motivated and are able to manage your time well, an affordable online bachelor's degree can be worth the initial costs and stress of going to school. Overall, you are more likely to earn a higher salary if you hold a bachelor's degree.
Instead of completing a cheap online bachelor's program, you could complete an associate degree or a technical degree at a community college. You could also look into completing an internship or apprenticeship and joining the workforce sooner.
You can absolutely get a job with a cheap online bachelor's degree, so long as the school is accredited. When you graduate, your diploma won't have "online" written anywhere on it. Earning an online bachelor's degree will qualify you to apply for jobs requiring a four-year degree.
More Bachelor's Degree Programs
A:
actuary, aeronautics, agriculture, animation, anthropology
B:
behavioral psychology, biology, business administration, business intelligence
C:
communications, computer forensics, construction management, corrections, creative writing, criminal justice, criminology, cybersecurity
E:
economics, educational administration, emergency management, engineering management, English and humanities, English language, entrepreneurship, environmental science, exercise science
F:
fashion, film, online film, finance, forensic accounting, forensic science, forestry
G:
game design, general studies, geography, gerontology, graphic design
H:
health administration, health informatics, health science, health services administration, healthcare management, history, homeland security, hotel management, human development, human resources, human services
I:
industrial organization psychology, information technology, interior design
J:
journalism
K:
kinesiology
L:
law enforcement, legal studies, liberal arts, library science, logistics
M:
marketing, math education, media communications, mobile app development
N:
network administration, network security, nonprofit management
P:
pharmacy, philosophy, photography, physical therapy, physical therapy assisting, political science, project management, public administration, public policy, public relations
R:
real estate, respiratory therapy, risk management
S:
sales management, science education, social science, sociology, sports management, supply chain logistics, sustainability
T:
theology
W:
web design
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