Cheapest and Most Affordable Online Colleges of 2024. Since the 19th century, when students used the US mail service to complete correspondence courses, remote learning has advanced significantly. Thanks to modern technology, students can now finish an online bachelor’s degree program from any location on the globe.
More and more reasonably priced online college programs are opening up as more students decide to continue their education beyond high school online. An alternative to the typical college experience is provided by these programs.
75% of the more than 19 million college students enrolled in degree-granting postsecondary institutions in the fall of 2020 were enrolled in at least one online course. 7.0 million, or 44% of all undergraduate students, are only enrolled in online courses.
All fifty states and Washington, D.C., are included in the data, along with institutions offering associate degrees or above. Federal financial aid programs are also accepted by these establishments.
Cheapest and Most Affordable Online Colleges of 2024
1. Kennesaw State University
Kennesaw State University (KSU) is renowned for its exceptional online education programs. With an annual tuition of $18,212 and an 83% acceptance rate, KSU offers over 15 diverse online undergraduate programs in areas like software engineering, logistics, marketing, sociology, and criminal justice.
The university is committed to providing comprehensive support to its online students, offering services such as academic advising, financial aid counseling, and mental health support.
KSU’s online programs are designed to be flexible and engaging, with dedicated faculty trained in effective online teaching methods. The university offers a wide range of online offerings, including undergraduate and graduate degrees, certificates, and professional development courses.
While some programs that require hands-on or clinical work may have limitations online, KSU addresses this creatively to ensure a high-quality learning experience for all students. Overall, KSU remains dedicated to providing accessible and high-quality online education.
2. Georgia Southern University
Georgia Southern University is a well-regarded institution in Georgia, offering a variety of online programs. With an annual tuition of $15,851 and a high acceptance rate of 91%, the university provides online students with access to a range of subjects, including world languages and cultures, interdisciplinary studies, information technology, and nursing (RN-BSN).
Notably, Georgia Southern has received recognition as a military-friendly school. The university’s online students, alumni, and employers have access to Handshake, an online platform that connects them to internship, co-op, and job opportunities, as well as career services such as advising and resume assistance.
While online programs offer flexibility, in-person programs provide face-to-face interaction and hands-on experiences. Georgia Southern emphasizes the quality of its online education, ensuring that students receive comprehensive support to help them succeed.
It seems like you’re providing information about universities and their online programs. If you have any questions or need further assistance with this information, feel free to ask!
3. The University of Wisconsin-Green Bay
The University of Wisconsin-Green Bay, established in 1965, offers a variety of online undergraduate and master’s programs, with an annual tuition of $13,654 and an acceptance rate of 90%.
These programs cover fields such as accounting, nursing, psychology, human resources management, and more. The university also provides accelerated programs in organizational leadership, business administration, coding, and data analytics through “boot camps.” Students can choose between fully online, hybrid, or on-campus formats for certain programs.
UWGB is recognized for its strong online education, offering diverse and high-quality programs in a flexible and convenient online format. The university provides comprehensive support services, including advising, tutoring, and career counseling, to ensure that online students have access to the resources they need.
While maintaining academic rigor and faculty engagement, UWGB’s online programs offer flexibility that sets them apart from traditional in-person programs. The university aims to deliver comparable content and learning outcomes across its online offerings. Overall, UWGB provides a rewarding online learning experience through its combination of quality, flexibility, and support.
4. Western Carolina University
Western Carolina University (WCU), established in 1889, offers an array of online services, including 24/7 access to tutoring through Smarthinking. As part of the University of North Carolina system, WCU serves over 10,000 students from 48 states and 35 countries.
WCU is renowned for its exceptional online education, diverse programs, and robust student support services. Backed by experienced faculty and rigorous standards, WCU’s online programs are highly respected. Students can choose from various disciplines and degree levels, accessing resources like online libraries and tutoring. While traditional programs offer in-person interaction, WCU’s online offerings prioritize flexibility and accessibility without compromising collaborative learning. Overall, WCU is committed to academic excellence and student success.
5. Arkansas State University
Arkansas State University Online, ranked as the #6 most affordable online university, offers a variety of high-quality online programs approved by the Higher Learning Commission and the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business International.
With an annual tuition of $13,430 and an acceptance rate of 63%, the university boasts a graduation rate of 53% and a high number of students receiving financial aid (100%). The online division has seen over 10,000 graduates and offers more than 20 undergraduate programs in areas such as business administration, criminology, political science, and strategic communication.
These programs feature rolling start dates, allowing students to begin coursework throughout the year. Arkansas State University Online provides the same rigorous academic standards as its traditional programs, offering undergraduate and graduate degrees as well as certificates in various fields. The university offers support services like academic advising, online tutoring, library resources, and career counseling.
While online programs offer flexibility and a diverse student body, self-discipline and time management skills are essential for success. Overall, Arkansas State University Online is dedicated to providing excellent education and comprehensive support for online learners.
6. Valdosta State University
Valdosta State University, established in 1913, offers a range of online bachelor’s degree programs in subjects like criminal justice, management, organizational leadership, French, psychology, Spanish, workforce education and development, and office administration and technology. The university provides the Online Readiness Indicator, a survey designed to assist those uncertain about online learning, offering personalized feedback and resources.
Located in Valdosta, Georgia, Valdosta State University (VSU) provides high-quality online education with diverse programs. VSU’s online courses are designed to be engaging and interactive, making use of advanced technologies and experienced faculty.
Online students have access to advising, career services, library resources, and technical support. Offering flexibility for students managing multiple responsibilities, VSU’s online programs maintain the same quality and academic rigor as its on-campus counterparts. VSU stands as a convenient, robust, and supportive option for students pursuing their educational goals.
7. Western Governors University
Western Governors University (WGU) was established by 19 governors of the United States and offers competency-based education. Its annual tuition is $11,835, and it has an acceptance rate of 100%, with a graduation rate of 64% and 73% of students receiving financial aid.
WGU’s unique approach focuses on skills and knowledge rather than credit hours, allowing students to progress by passing assessments. The university offers over 60 online bachelor’s and master’s programs, providing flexible learning and personalized support through personal mentors and a comprehensive online platform. While different from traditional programs, WGU emphasizes quality, flexibility, and support in online higher education.
8. The University of North Carolina
The University of North Carolina at Pembroke (UNCP) is recognized as the third most affordable online college in the United States, with an annual tuition of $11,160. UNCP is a public university offering a variety of affordable online undergraduate and graduate degree programs. These programs provide students with the flexibility of earning a degree online while maintaining the same quality as on-campus programs.
UNCP’s online degree programs are taught by the same faculty who teach on campus and follow the same curriculum. Online students have access to resources and support services such as academic advising, tutoring, and career counseling. The university offers online degrees in fields like business, education, nursing, and criminal justice.
The online courses are designed to be flexible, allowing students to complete coursework at their own pace. UNCP offers six undergraduate online degrees in criminal justice, sociology, business administration, nursing, interdisciplinary studies, and education. To be eligible for these programs, students must meet the same admission requirements as on-campus students and have access to a computer and a stable internet connection.
9. Clayton State University
Clayton State University ranked second among affordable accredited online colleges, offers eTuition, a reduced tuition rate for select online programs. This adjusted rate is designed for distance learners and excludes certain standard fees associated with on-campus attendance.
The university provides over 40 bachelor’s degree programs in diverse fields such as dental hygiene, biology, health sciences, English, music, nursing (RN-BSN), theatre, philosophy, pre-engineering, pre-pharmacy, and dual degrees in chemistry and chemical engineering, computer science and engineering, and integrative studies and engineering.
As a public institution in Georgia, Clayton State University emphasizes quality online education and traditional programs. Its online learning environment features interactive courses and dedicated faculty, with support services like advice and virtual organizations available to students. While offering flexibility, the university maintains academic rigor and comparable curriculum standards across online and in-person programs. Clayton State University focuses on student success and prepares students for their professional careers.
10. Eastern New Mexico University
Eastern New Mexico University-Main Campus (ENMU) is an affordable online college, offering an annual tuition of $4,994. With an acceptance rate of 51% and a graduation rate of 40%, the university is known for its accessibility and financial aid opportunities, with 97% of students receiving financial assistance.
ENMU is authorized to offer online courses across state lines and provides in-state tuition rates to Texas students within a 135-mile radius. It is a federally designated Hispanic-serving institution and a member of the Hispanic Association of Colleges and Universities.
ENMU is a reputable public university located in Portales, New Mexico, offering high-quality online education supported by advanced technology and expert faculty.
The university offers diverse programs in fields like business, education, nursing, and more. Students have access to robust support services, including academic advisors, online libraries, tutoring, and technical assistance.
ENMU’s online programs offer flexibility while maintaining the academic standards of traditional in-person programs, making it an excellent choice for students seeking quality online education and support.