Most Affordable Online Master’s Programs

Earning your degree online can be a convenient way to save money while you study. Read on to learn about affordable online master's programs in your field.
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Most Affordable Online Master's Programs

Looking to earn your master's in a way that's not only convenient but can save you money? Online master's degree programs are growing more popular every year, with major increases in online graduate program enrollments.

If you're considering joining their numbers, read on to learn about some of the best and most affordable online master's programs.

Featured Online Master's Programs

Learn about start dates, transferring credits, availability of financial aid, and more by contacting the universities below.

Cheapest Online Master's Degrees Rankings Summary

Jump to a school below using the links in the "School" column.

Rank School In-State Tuition Out-of-State Tuition Acceptance Rate
#1 The University of Texas Rio Grande Valley
Edinburg, TX
$7,002 $14,346 94%
#2 California State University-Dominguez Hills
Carson, CA
$7,176 $16,680 90%
#3 Stanford University
Stanford, CA
$54,315 $54,315 4%
#4 Duke University
Durham, NC
$57,900 $57,900 6%
#5 University of Florida
Gainesville, FL
$10,770 $27,335 30%
#6 University of North Florida
Jacksonville, FL
$8,570 $19,585 77%
#7 Texas A&M International University
Laredo, TX
$3,350 $10,694 54%
#8 Johns Hopkins University
Baltimore, MD
$58,720 $58,720 8%
#9 Georgetown University
Washington, DC
$54,672 $54,672 12%
#10 San Diego State University
San Diego, CA
$7,176 $16,680 38%

Most Affordable Accredited Online Master's Programs

We use datasets from sources like the National Center for Education Statistics to inform the data for these schools. BestColleges.com is an advertising-supported site. Featured or trusted partner programs and all school search, finder, or match results are for schools that compensate us. This compensation does not influence our school rankings, resource guides, or other editorially-independent information published on this site. from our partners appear among these rankings and are indicated as such. All data is current as of the date this article was published. Program-specific information may vary.

BestColleges.com is an advertising-supported site. Featured or trusted partner programs and all school search, finder, or match results are for schools that compensate us. This compensation does not influence our school rankings, resource guides, or other editorially-independent information published on this site.

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#1 Most Affordable Online Master’s Programs

The University of Texas Rio Grande Valley

  • Edinburg, TX
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Cost per Credit:
In-State | $741
Out-of-State | $1,161

Credits to Graduate: 36

The University of Texas Rio Grande Valley's online master's degrees include business analytics, curriculum and instruction, and educational leadership. The health science degree features five specialization options, such as clinical laboratory sciences and healthcare informatics. You can also choose from three specializations in the kinesiology program.

You can save money and graduate faster than your peers by enrolling in an accelerated master's program. Classes in these programs last only seven weeks. If you're a Texas resident with financial need and a minimum 3.0 GPA, you may qualify for the $2,000 UTRGV Graduate Resource Grant.

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$7,857
Out-of-state
$17,649
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$7,002
Out-of-state
$14,346
ROI Score

ROI Value Score: Medium

We’ve reviewed hundreds of schools to find the ones that give you the best bang for your buck.

We compared how much you could earn in 10 years with a degree from this school versus only having a high school diploma. Then we compared that amount against school costs and financial aid opportunities. A higher return for your investment results in a higher score for this school.

Our Methodology
Medium
Retention Rate
72%
Acceptance Rate
94%
Students Enrolled
31,940
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
78% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
#2 Most Affordable Online Master’s Programs

California State University-Dominguez Hills

  • Carson, CA
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Cost per Credit: $321-$600

Credits to Graduate: 30-36

Consider California State University, Dominguez Hills' online master's programs if you want to advance your career as a nurse, business leader, or quality assurance expert. Other fully online degrees include systems engineering and imaging sciences. Admission requirements vary by program.

CSUDH charges the same tuition rates regardless of your residency status, potentially saving you thousands on your education. Program websites also feature links to the latest private merit scholarships. Some are designed for California residents, women, or members of a minority group.

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$5,742
Out-of-state
$17,622
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$7,176
Out-of-state
$16,680
ROI Score

ROI Value Score: Medium

We’ve reviewed hundreds of schools to find the ones that give you the best bang for your buck.

We compared how much you could earn in 10 years with a degree from this school versus only having a high school diploma. Then we compared that amount against school costs and financial aid opportunities. A higher return for your investment results in a higher score for this school.

Our Methodology
Medium
Retention Rate
70%
Acceptance Rate
90%
Students Enrolled
17,837
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
94% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Western Association of Schools and Colleges Senior Colleges and University Commission
#3 Most Affordable Online Master’s Programs Best Value

Stanford University

  • Stanford, CA
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Cost per Credit: $1,456

Credits to Graduate: 45

Stanford University offers nine online master's degrees in subjects like aeronautics, electrical engineering, and materials science. Other majors can help you advance your career in the computer science or biomedical data field. Stanford's free classes let you preview the academic experience before applying.

A private university, Stanford does not charge out-of-state tuition rates. The university accepts financial aid applications twice annually, and you may qualify for an institutional loan depending on need. Stanford runs six financial aid support programs for those with challenging financial situations.

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$55,473
Out-of-state
$55,473
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$54,315
Out-of-state
$54,315
ROI Score

ROI Value Score: High

We’ve reviewed hundreds of schools to find the ones that give you the best bang for your buck.

We compared how much you could earn in 10 years with a degree from this school versus only having a high school diploma. Then we compared that amount against school costs and financial aid opportunities. A higher return for your investment results in a higher score for this school.

Our Methodology
High
Retention Rate
98%
Acceptance Rate
4%
Students Enrolled
17,680
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
5% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Western Association of Schools and Colleges Senior Colleges and University Commission
#4 Most Affordable Online Master’s Programs Best Value

Duke University

  • Durham, NC
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Cost per Semester: $31,310

Credits to Graduate: 30-48

Look into Duke Online if you want to earn a master's in engineering, environmental, or quantitative management. The latter offers specializations in business and health analytics. Practicing nurses can enroll in the university's fully online master of science in nursing and major in one of 11 specialty areas, including health informatics and women's health.

Each Duke graduate department runs an independent financial aid office. If you're pursuing a nursing degree, you may qualify for the DUSON Merit Scholarship. This $36,000 award does not require a separate application.

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$58,085
Out-of-state
$58,085
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$57,900
Out-of-state
$57,900
ROI Score

ROI Value Score: High

We’ve reviewed hundreds of schools to find the ones that give you the best bang for your buck.

We compared how much you could earn in 10 years with a degree from this school versus only having a high school diploma. Then we compared that amount against school costs and financial aid opportunities. A higher return for your investment results in a higher score for this school.

Our Methodology
High
Retention Rate
98%
Acceptance Rate
6%
Students Enrolled
17,620
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
24% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
#5 Most Affordable Online Master’s Programs Best Value

University of Florida

  • Gainesville, FL
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Cost per Year:
In-State | $12,740
Out-of-State | $30,134

Credits to Graduate: 30-36

University of Florida's online master's programs include aerospace engineering, biostatistics, and civil engineering. Programs such as curriculum and instruction, entomology and nematology, and mass communication feature many concentration options. Depending on your program, you may need to meet an undergraduate GPA cutoff and submit an academic writing sample.

UF restricts many institutional scholarships and grants to Florida residents. However, if you're an out-of-state student with financial need, you can still receive federal grants by submitting the FAFSA. UF also offers student loans with competitive interest rates.

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$4,477
Out-of-state
$25,694
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$10,770
Out-of-state
$27,335
ROI Score

ROI Value Score: High

We’ve reviewed hundreds of schools to find the ones that give you the best bang for your buck.

We compared how much you could earn in 10 years with a degree from this school versus only having a high school diploma. Then we compared that amount against school costs and financial aid opportunities. A higher return for your investment results in a higher score for this school.

Our Methodology
High
Retention Rate
97%
Acceptance Rate
30%
Students Enrolled
55,781
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
57% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
#6 Most Affordable Online Master’s Programs

University of North Florida

  • Jacksonville, FL
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Cost per Credit:
In-State | $524
Out-of-State | $1,074

Credits to Graduate: 30-45

University of North Florida Online features an online master's degree in American Sign Language with concentrations in interpretation, general practice, and pedagogy. Other online education degrees include curriculum and instruction and educational technology training and development.

You must submit official undergraduate transcripts and may need to meet a GPA cutoff to be admitted, depending on the program. The $10,000 Graduate Student Award assists learners whose FAFSA results show financial need. Other requirements include maintaining a minimum 3.0 GPA. Apply early, as funding may run out.

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$3,996
Out-of-state
$16,799
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$8,570
Out-of-state
$19,585
ROI Score

ROI Value Score: Medium

We’ve reviewed hundreds of schools to find the ones that give you the best bang for your buck.

We compared how much you could earn in 10 years with a degree from this school versus only having a high school diploma. Then we compared that amount against school costs and financial aid opportunities. A higher return for your investment results in a higher score for this school.

Our Methodology
Medium
Retention Rate
79%
Acceptance Rate
77%
Students Enrolled
16,594
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
77% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
#7 Most Affordable Online Master’s Programs

Texas A&M International University

  • Laredo, TX
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Cost per Credit:
In-State | $367
Out-of-State | $1,030

Credits to Graduate: 30-36

Texas A&M International University Online offers online master's degrees in business, criminal justice, education, or nursing. If you're pursuing a bilingual education degree, you can specialize in one of four areas, including educational leadership and special education. These and other programs may require a minimum 2.75 undergraduate GPA.

Out-of-state students can expect to pay about three times the in-state tuition rate. The TAIMU Fund$Finder can help you explore and apply for many private scholarship opportunities. TAIMU may require tax returns to process your institutional financial aid application.

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$3,818
Out-of-state
$13,610
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$3,350
Out-of-state
$10,694
ROI Score

ROI Value Score: Medium

We’ve reviewed hundreds of schools to find the ones that give you the best bang for your buck.

We compared how much you could earn in 10 years with a degree from this school versus only having a high school diploma. Then we compared that amount against school costs and financial aid opportunities. A higher return for your investment results in a higher score for this school.

Our Methodology
Medium
Retention Rate
74%
Acceptance Rate
54%
Students Enrolled
8,455
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
62% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
#8 Most Affordable Online Master’s Programs

Johns Hopkins University

  • Baltimore, MD
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Cost per Credit: $1,120-$1,737

Credits to Graduate: 30-60

Johns Hopkins University offers almost 30 online master’s programs, including graduate options in writing, finance, education, and public health. Beyond popular programs like these, Johns Hopkins also offers niche master’s programs centered on topics like museum studies and cultural heritage management through its Krieger School of Arts and Sciences. 

Admission requirements vary by program, with some asking potential students to submit a 750-word “statement of purpose.” Johns Hopkins offers Hopkins Scholarships to students who demonstrate financial need, as well as a variety of merit-based awards. 

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$58,720
Out-of-state
$58,720
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$58,720
Out-of-state
$58,720
ROI Score

ROI Value Score: Medium

We’ve reviewed hundreds of schools to find the ones that give you the best bang for your buck.

We compared how much you could earn in 10 years with a degree from this school versus only having a high school diploma. Then we compared that amount against school costs and financial aid opportunities. A higher return for your investment results in a higher score for this school.

Our Methodology
Medium
Retention Rate
96%
Acceptance Rate
8%
Students Enrolled
32,049
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
80% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Middle States Commission on Higher Education
#9 Most Affordable Online Master’s Programs

Georgetown University

  • Washington, DC
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Cost per Credit: $1,573

Credits to Graduate: 30-36

Georgetown University’s online master’s programs span industries, including marketing and communications, real estate, and information technology. The private institution also offers business and management master’s degrees in areas like sports industry management, higher education administration, and project management. 

All-in-all, Georgetown provides 13 online master’s options through its School of Continuing studies — all of which can be taken on a part-time or full-time basis. The university offers merit-based scholarships to students in its master’s programs, as well as semester- or year-long stipends. 

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$59,784
Out-of-state
$59,784
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$54,672
Out-of-state
$54,672
ROI Score

ROI Value Score: Medium

We’ve reviewed hundreds of schools to find the ones that give you the best bang for your buck.

We compared how much you could earn in 10 years with a degree from this school versus only having a high school diploma. Then we compared that amount against school costs and financial aid opportunities. A higher return for your investment results in a higher score for this school.

Our Methodology
Medium
Retention Rate
98%
Acceptance Rate
12%
Students Enrolled
20,935
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
38% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Middle States Commission on Higher Education
#10 Most Affordable Online Master’s Programs Best Value

San Diego State University

  • San Diego, CA
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Cost per Credit: $543-$1,100

Credits to Graduate: 24-51

SDSU Global Campus offers online and hybrid master’s degree programs. Among its online-only offerings are master’s degrees in computer science, electrical engineering, educational leadership, and public health. The public university also has hybrid programs for a master of hospitality and tourism management and a master’s in meeting and event management. 

SDSU offers over 700 scholarship opportunities to support its students. The university’s Aztec Scholarships application portal allows students to apply for all available scholarships with one single application. All SDSU students in good academic standing can apply, including graduate and online students. 

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$5,742
Out-of-state
$17,622
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$7,176
Out-of-state
$16,680
ROI Score

ROI Value Score: High

We’ve reviewed hundreds of schools to find the ones that give you the best bang for your buck.

We compared how much you could earn in 10 years with a degree from this school versus only having a high school diploma. Then we compared that amount against school costs and financial aid opportunities. A higher return for your investment results in a higher score for this school.

Our Methodology
High
Retention Rate
90%
Acceptance Rate
38%
Students Enrolled
36,484
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
64% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Western Association of Schools and Colleges Senior Colleges and University Commission

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Our rankings are grounded in a few guiding principles and use the latest statistical data available from trusted sources. Read our ranking methodology. We hope our approach helps you find the school that is best for you.

Finding an Online Master's Degree That's Right for You

As you begin your online master's journey, there are a few different things to consider when deciding if a program is right for you. Here are some key factors to bear in mind:

Accreditation

Online college accreditation provides students, employers, and schools with quality assurance. The Council for Higher Education Accreditation recognizes various organizations that accredit the colleges and universities that meet or exceed the highest educational standards in their area. Employment, federal financial aid, licensure, and your ability to transfer credits all depend on regional accreditation.

Similarly, programmatic accreditation may be required for licensure in certain fields while being preferred or recommended in others.

When dealing with for-profit schools, you may encounter national accreditation as well. This type of recognition can help you determine quality, but credits may not transfer between nationally accredited and regionally accredited institutions.

Types of Online Master's Degree Programs

Online learning continues to change the look of colleges and universities, and you can enjoy an array of affordable online master's programs to choose from. The following lists highlight some of the options available, and the corresponding pages offer program details, guides, and rankings.

What Is the Cost of an Online Master's Degree?

It's no secret that even the most affordable graduate programs can come with a high price tag. According to the National Center for Education Statistics, the average annual graduate student tuition and fees for an in-state program totaled $11,554 in 2022-23. And that's before considering living expenses and relocation costs.

Online master's programs can save you money on living expenses and transportation costs, but make sure you have a plan in place for how you're going to fund your online graduate education.

Funding Your Online Master's Program

Even students pursuing the most affordable online master's degrees need assistance to fund their education. The following list explores some of the major types of financial aid, the differences between them, and eligibility requirements.

  • Loans: College loans may come from federal financial aid packages or banking institutions. If you demonstrate financial need or strong financial responsibility, you may qualify. Loans typically feature minimal or no interest rates.
  • Scholarships & Grants: Scholarships and grants recognize students with financial need and academic excellence. You do not need to repay these financial rewards, and they can be renewable.
  • Fellowships: Fellowship programs offer graduate students a stipend in return for work or research. Fellowships provide high-achieving learners with professional development, funding, and possible career opportunities.
  • Work-Study: Federal work-study jobs offer funding in return for part-time work on or nearby the campus. Most positions allow you to work around your study schedules. These assignments typically go to learners who demonstrate financial need.

How Affordable Is an Online Master's Degree?

An online master's degree program can be an affordable grad school option, especially compared to an in-person degree. As an online master's student, you'll be spared the hidden costs of relocating to campus. Plus, the flexible nature of online classes makes it easier to keep a job while you study.

As you're considering the cost of your online graduate degree, you should also ask yourself if you plan to study full or part time and what kind of master's you want (MS, MA, MBA, etc.), as these factors can impact costs.

Is Getting an Online Master's Degree Worth It?

You need to determine the value of an affordable online master's degree for yourself, but several factors can help you figure that out. Graduate degrees can lead to more lucrative jobs, along with better advancement opportunities.

When weighing the pros and cons of online and on-campus programs —or simply deciding if you should pursue a master's degree at all — you should consider the following factors.

Program Length

Most affordable online master's degrees take students between 1-2 years to complete. However, many online programs offer accelerated, asynchronous, or part-time scheduling options, which can make them more accessible for some learners. Accelerated degrees launch you into your desired career more quickly, and asynchronous and part-time schedules allow you to work while you study.

Cost

The cost of your online master's program can be best measured by calculating your return on investment, or ROI. That is, an affordable online master's program can lead to a greater return on your investment, as you sacrifice less money for the same degree that helps boost your earnings after graduation.

Future Earning Potential

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the average master's degree holder in 2022 made over $200 more per week compared to someone with only a bachelor's. Depending on your field, the "master's increase" can be even higher.

Which Master's Degrees Are Most In Demand?

Looking for a master's degree that will have employers excited to hire you? Check out these highly in-demand fields to consider:

Nurse Practitioner

Nurse practitioners provide primary, advanced, and specialized patient care. A master's degree in this discipline covers assessments, diagnostics, and treatment plans and may focus on specific demographics. The incredible demand for professionals results from an aging population and the increasing scope of practice for nurse practitioners in an array of healthcare settings.

Median Annual Salary
$125,900

Job Growth
38% increase from 2022-2032

Information Security Analyst

Information security analysts help organizations protect their data and computer systems from a growing number of cyber threats. Master's degrees in cybersecurity delve into advanced threat analysis, prevention, and protection software design. As cyberattacks continue to increase in frequency and intelligence, the demand for information security analysts will also increase.

Median Annual Salary
$112,000

Job Growth
32% increase from 2022-2032

Mathematician and Statistician

These professionals use their mathematical and statistical analysis expertise to support and solve problems for various organizations and industries. At the graduate level, mathematics programs may focus on different types of modeling, analyses, and research groups, such as financial and discrete mathematics.

Median Annual Salary
$99,960

Job Growth
30% increase from 2022-2032

Physician Assistant

Physician assistants support healthcare teams by providing patient examinations and completing minor procedures. Master's programs in this discipline feature advanced research and medicine training in various departments and specialties, plus extensive clinical rotations.

Median Annual Salary
$126,010

Job Growth
27% increase from 2022-2032

Speech-Language Pathologist

Speech-language pathologists help people manage, overcome, and prevent various communication disorders. In speech-language pathology master's programs, students engage in advanced research in speech science and clinical applications of developmental and acquired language disorders. The increased demand results from increasing health conditions that lead to communication issues and better detection and treatment methods.

Median Annual Salary
$84,140

Job Growth
19% increase from 2022-2032

Frequently Asked Questions About Cheap Online Master's Programs

What’s the cheapest master's degree online?

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Generally speaking, an online master's degree from a state school where you qualify for in-state tuition will be one of your most affordable options. However, many schools offer tuition reductions for groups like veterans, scholarship opportunities, and more. This means that the most affordable option for you will depend on your personal circumstances.

Are online master’s degrees expensive?

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Online master's degrees can vary significantly in terms of cost. Factors such as whether you're attending a public or private school, if you're eligible for in-state tuition, and scholarship availability can greatly affect how much you pay. With that said, online master's programs are often cheaper than in-person programs, as you will save on relocation expenses.

What’s the easiest master's degree to get into?

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Which master's degree you'll find easiest to get into will depend on your academic record and personal strengths and weaknesses. Be sure to look out for online master's programs that offer rolling admissions, multiple start dates, and no-GRE admissions, as you may find these easier to apply for and be accepted to.

How to afford an online master’s degree?

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There are many different ways you can fund your online master's program. Saving money towards your tuition can be extremely helpful, as can applying for scholarships and other forms of financial aid. Be sure to fill out your FAFSA to see if you qualify for any government-subsidized loans or grants.

Are there any free master's degrees online?

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You may find tuition-free master's programs at certain schools across the country. These degrees typically require work or military service in return for tuition waivers. Some schools may offer tuition waivers for county residents or students in specific disciplines who demonstrate critical financial need.

Note: The insights on this page — excluding school descriptions — were reviewed by an independent third party compensated for their time by BestColleges. Page last reviewed November 15, 2023.

BestColleges.com is an advertising-supported site. Featured or trusted partner programs and all school search, finder, or match results are for schools that compensate us. This compensation does not influence our school rankings, resource guides, or other editorially-independent information published on this site.

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