The Most Affordable Online Master’s Programs
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An online master's degree provides graduates with job opportunities in most markets. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), advanced degrees can lead to significantly higher earnings and lower unemployment rates. Nevertheless, students may still struggle to justify the price of a master's degree, which cost an average of $19,314 in annual tuition in 2018-2019, according to the National Center for Education Statistics (NCES).
To save prospective students some time and help them identify their best study options, we ranked the most affordable online master's degrees across the nation. We also put together detailed information on typical coursework and costs.
Featured Cheap Online Master's Programs
Learn about start dates, transferring credits, availability of financial aid, and more by contacting the universities below.
Most Affordable Accredited Online Master's Programs
These rankings were compiled by our
BestColleges Ranking Team
and include
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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University of Florida
Gainesville, FL - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Distance Learning at UF includes affordable master's degrees in fields such as business, education, and engineering. More than half of students who enroll at Distance Learning at UF graduate with no student debt. Online enrollees take proctored exams remotely.
Applicants submit transcripts, GRE or GMAT scores, personal statements, and recommendation letters. Some departments post additional requirements.
100% Online | Self-Paced Classes
Avg. Cost per Credit
In State | $129
Out of State | $553
Credits to Graduate
30-50 for online master's programs
Program Information
Program Accreditation | Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
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.
California State University-Dominguez Hills
Carson, CA - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Part of the 23-campus California State University system, CSUDH prepares students for globally focused and multicultural workplaces. The school offers fully online and hybrid master's programs. Learners can pursue degrees in areas such as business administration, nursing, and engineering. Most online programs run asynchronously.
Applicants need a bachelor's degree from an accredited program and a 2.5 GPA. Prospective enrollees should check with their specific program for additional requirements.
100% Online and Hybrid | Self-Paced and Scheduled Classes
Avg. Cost per Credit
In State | $2,082 per semester for 0-6 credits; $3,588 for 6.1 credits or more
Out of State | $2,478 per semester for 0-6 credits; $3,984 for 6.1 credits or more
Credits to Graduate
30-50 for online master's programs
Program Information
Program Accreditation | WASC Senior College and University Commission
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.
The University of Texas Rio Grande Valley
Edinburg, TX - 4 years
- Online + Campus
UTRGV offers graduate degrees in two formats. Students can attend fully online, 16-week semesters or enroll in partially online, seven-week accelerated terms. UTRGV's master's programs include business and management, education, and liberal and fine arts.
Applicants submit official transcripts, GRE or GMAT scores, and proof of Texas residency. Individual programs may list additional admission criteria.
100% Online and Hybrid | Self-Paced and Scheduled Classes
Avg. Cost per Credit
In State | $528 per credit for a 16-week program; $444-$472 per credit for a seven-week program
Out of State | $936 per credit for a 16-week program; $444-$472 per credit for a seven-week program
Credits to Graduate
30-50 for online master's programs
Program Information
Program Accreditation | Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
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.
CUNY John Jay College of Criminal Justice
New York, NY - 4 years
- Online + Campus
John Jay's online master's in public administration features three specialties. Enrollees can choose inspection and oversight, healthcare specialization, or public policy and administration. Online learners can also pursue master of science degrees in security management or emergency management. Additional options include master of arts degrees in criminal justice, international crime and justice, and human rights.
Applicants submit transcripts, GRE or GMAT scores, and recommendations. Some programs require personal statements or writing samples.
100% Online | Self-Paced Classes
Avg. Cost per Credit
In State | $470-$545
Out of State | $545-$1,010
Credits to Graduate
36-42 for online master's programs
Program Information
Program Accreditation | Middle States Commission on Higher Education
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.
University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill
Chapel Hill, NC - 4 years
- Online + Campus
UNC-Chapel Hill offers online master's programs in areas like business, government, and journalism. Learners can also pursue master's degrees in healthcare fields like pharmacy and public health.
Some programs require in-person exams. Students may also take proctored exams online. Online enrollees should plan for in-person clinical rotations and other experiential learning components. Each program lists its own admission requirements. However, all applicants submit transcripts, recommendations, and GRE or GMAT scores.
100% Online and Hybrid | Self-Paced and Scheduled Classes
Avg. Cost per Credit
In State | $237-$1,997
Out of State | $1,155-$1,997
Credits to Graduate
30-50 for online master's programs
Program Information
Program Accreditation | Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
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.
California State University-Fresno
Fresno, CA - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Fresno State offers two online master's programs. Students can pursue a master of arts in education or a master of science in water resources management.
Master's in education students can choose to culminate their programs with a project, thesis, or comprehensive exam. Applicants need a 2.75 GPA and writing competency exam scores or coursework.
Master's in water resources management enrollees complete an onsite internship. Applicants need a bachelor's degree, a 3.0 GPA, and GIS proficiency. Prospective students submit GRE scores.
100% Online | Self-Paced and Scheduled Classes
Avg. Cost per Credit
In State | $2,082 per semester for 0-6 credits; $3,588 per semester for 6.1 credits or more; $551 per credit, water resources management
Out of State | $396 per credit
Credits to Graduate
30
Program Information
Program Accreditation | WASC Senior College and University Commission
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.
Stanford University
Stanford, CA - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Stanford offers master's degrees in several areas, including engineering, computer science, and statistics. The school's master's in chemical engineering program runs fully online. Other programs blend online classes with on-campus experiences. Students should check with their prospective program for details.
Applicants need a bachelor's degree from a regionally accredited college or university or international equivalent. Program admission requirements vary. However, all applicants submit transcripts, personal statements, and recommendation letters.
100% Online and Hybrid | Self-Paced and Scheduled Classes
Avg. Cost per Credit
In State | $1,352
Out of State | $1,352
Credits to Graduate
45
Program Information
Program Accreditation | WASC Senior College and University Commission
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.
California State University-Fullerton
Fullerton, CA - 4 years
- Online + Campus
CSUF offers online master's programs in fields such as education, environmental engineering, and instructional design and technology. Hybrid degree options include an MBA in human resources, a master's in nursing, and a master's in statistics.
Applicants need a bachelor's degree and a 2.5 GPA. Prospective students submit official transcripts. Programs may ask for work experience or GRE or GMAT scores.
100% Online and Hybrid | Self-Paced and Scheduled Classes
Avg. Cost per Credit
In State | $2,082 per semester for 0-6 credits; $3,588 for 6.1 credits or more
Out of State | $396 per credit
Credits to Graduate
30-45
Program Information
Program Accreditation | WASC Senior College and University Commission
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.
California State University-Northridge
Northridge, CA - 4 years
- Online + Campus
CSUN offers online and hybrid master's programs in fields such as nursing and engineering. The school also offers the nation's first master's in music industry administration. Many programs follow a cohort model. Some require students to complete internships, practicums, or capstone projects. Curriculums accommodate working students.
Applicants need a bachelor's degree and a 2.5 GPA. Prospective students submit a personal statement and resume. Programs may require test scores or specific prerequisites.
100% Online and Hybrid | Self-Paced and Scheduled Classes
Avg. Cost per Credit
In State | $752-$1,095 per credit
Out of State | $1,148-$1,491 per credit
Credits to Graduate
30-63
Program Information
Program Accreditation | WASC Senior College and University Commission
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.
University of South Florida-Sarasota-Manatee
Sarasota, FL - 4 years
- Online + Campus
USFSM offers several online master's programs. Learners can pursue degrees in the arts and sciences, business and education, or medicine. One program awards a master's in global sustainability. Some programs run fully online. Others include in-person clinical experiences, internships, and practicums.
Applicants need a bachelor's degree and a 3.0 GPA. Programs may require GRE or GMAT test scores, personal statements, and resumes.
100% Online and Hybrid | Self-Paced and Scheduled Classes
Avg. Cost per Credit
In State | $436
Out of State | $881
Credits to Graduate
30-50 for online master's programs
Program Information
Program Accreditation | Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
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.
Can You Get a Master's Degree Online?
Students can pursue an affordable online master's degree in most subjects. Even programs with heavy clinical components allow learners to take classes online while completing practical training at a location near them. According to the NCES, more than 1.2 million graduate students take online classes, with more than 900,000 of them studying exclusively online.
Degree-seekers choose affordable online master's programs for many reasons, but the ability to obtain a degree and advance a career while working ranks highly among them. Learners benefit from the flexible scheduling and travel requirements of online programs, while employers view them as the same as on-campus programs.
Many online graduate programs look similar, but they may differ in several areas. These programs may feature synchronous or asynchronous delivery, entirely online courses or some on-campus requirements, and standard online tuition rates that make for more affordable online master's programs for out-of-state students. Accreditation may also vary between for-profit and nonprofit schools.
Accreditation
Online college accreditation provides students, employers, and schools with quality assurances. 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 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, students may encounter national accreditation as well. This type of recognition can help degree-seekers determine quality, but credits may not transfer between nationally accredited and regionally accredited institutions.
Is It Worth Getting an Online Master's Degree?
Prospective students need to determine the value of an affordable online master's degree for themselves, but several factors can help them 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 they should pursue a master's degree at all, students need to consider the following factors.
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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 students into their desired careers more quickly, and asynchronous and part-time schedules allow learners to work while they study.
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Cost
According to the NCES, the average master's degree tuition was $12,171 at public institutions and $25,929 at private institutions in 2018-2019. However, prospective students may find the best value master's degrees online, as many schools feature lower tuition rates for online students. Out-of-state degree-seekers can often access in-state tuition rates, which allows them to expand their searches.
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Future Earning Potential
Compared to bachelor's degree-holders, master's graduates earned $240 more per week and saw 1.4% lower unemployment rates, according to the BLS. With a master's degree, professionals earn an average annual salary of $76,000 compared to $63,000 for bachelor's degree-holders, according to PayScale.
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Personal and Professional Aspirations
Prospective students should always think about their personal and professional goals when deciding on a program. An affordable online master's degree can help graduates pursue management positions and take on more responsibility. These degrees may also provide them with a greater sense of accomplishment and pride.
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Academic Opportunities
Prospective students often think about the amount of work that goes into a master's degree, but they should also consider how rewarding that experience can be. Learners get to engage in advanced discussions with their similarly educated peers and experts in their discipline. These programs also feature in-depth research and clinical assignments in subjects they enjoy.
How Much Does an Online Master's Degree Cost?
Prospective students can find affordable online master's programs among both public and private schools, but they may find more savings at private institutions when compared to on-campus programs. According to U.S. News & World Report, online in-state undergraduate students paid $5 more per credit than on-campus learners at public schools, whereas online students paid $752 less per credit at private schools.
That price does not account for additional costs, which online and on-campus students must consider. When calculating the cost of a master's degree online, for example, prospective learners should think about textbooks, campus and practicum travel, food, and room and board. They might also consider any lost wages during their studies.
In addition to the big costs, online degree-seekers may incur hidden or less visible costs, such as distance learning, technology, graduation, and assessment fees. While the most affordable graduate schools keep these costs minimal, they can add up.
Funding an Online Master's Program
Even students pursuing the most affordable online master's degrees often 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. Students who demonstrate financial need or strong financial responsibility may qualify. Loans typically feature minimal or no interest rates and repayment requirements until after the student graduates, though conditions may vary.
Scholarships & Grants
Scholarships and grants recognize students with financial need and academic excellence. Learners do not usually need to repay these financial rewards, and they may be renewable.
Fellowships
Fellowships tend to 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 students to work around their study schedules. These assignments typically go to learners who demonstrate financial need.
Types of Online Master's Degree Programs
Online learning continues to change the look of college and universities, and prospective students 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.
Art and Design
Business and Management
Computers and Technology
Criminal Justice and Legal
Education and Teaching
Liberal Arts and Humanities
Nursing and Healthcare
Psychology and Counseling
Science and Engineering
Master's Degree Cost: How Affordable is an Online Master's Degree?
Determining the cost of a master's degree depends on many factors, including school and program type, delivery method, program length, and additional services and facilities available to students. The most affordable graduate schools may not offer the appropriate support for all learners, so prospective students should always consider their priorities.
When looking for affordable online master's programs, degree-seekers should identify which schools offer standard online tuition or in-state rates for out-of-state students.
When looking for affordable online master's programs, degree-seekers should identify which schools offer standard online tuition or in-state rates for out-of-state students. In some cases, asynchronous programs can feature discounted prices because lessons do not require live instruction. Furthermore, an accelerated track can reduce educational costs in various ways if a student's schedule can accommodate it.
Other considerations may include the availability of transfer credits and prior learning assessments, which can decrease the number of credits required to graduate. Furthermore, online learners should always research their program's residency requirements to ensure they can complete them and how much they may add to the overall cost.
Which Master's Degrees Are Most In-Demand?
More students pursue master's degrees now than ever before, and the demand for graduate education among employers continues to rise. According to the NCES, the number of master's degrees awarded increased by 73% between 2000 and 2018. Below, we examine five of the most in-demand master's degrees in the country.
Nurse Practitioner
Nurse practitioners provide primary, advanced, and specialized care to patients in various fields. 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: $117,670
- Job Growth: 45%
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. The job demand results from vast organizational data usage and the need for analysis and projections.
- Median Annual Salary: $93,290
- Job Growth: 33%
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 specialities, plus extensive clinical rotations. The strong demand results from the growing population and healthcare services, along with an expanding professional scope.
- Median Annual Salary: $115,390
- Job Growth: 31%
Information Security Analyst
Information security analysts help organizations protect their data and computer systems from a growing number of cyberthreats. 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 increase as well.
- Median Annual Salary: $103,590
- Job Growth: 31%
Speech-Language Pathologist
Speech-language pathologists help people manage, overcome, and prevent various communication disorders. In master's programs for this field, 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: $80,480
- Job Growth: 25%
Frequently Asked Questions About Cheap Online Master's Programs
Are online master's degrees cheaper?
Online master's degrees may be cheaper for students than on-campus degrees depending on the school and situation. For example, the most affordable online master's degrees often feature standard online tuition rates that save out-of-state learners money. Online programs also reduce travel and room and board costs.
Are online master's degrees respected?
Delivery method does not change how people view master's degrees. While school and program reputation may influence employers, online programs cover the same material as on-campus programs and should not factor into employment decisions.
What are the most affordable graduate schools?
The most affordable graduate schools are usually public institutions because they receive more federal funding. According to the NCES, the average master's degree from public colleges and universities cost $13,758 less than at private schools.
Which master's degrees have the best value?
The best value master's degree depends on numerous factors, but students usually have to decide this on their own. Typically, prospective learners can figure this out by determining the program's return on investment. Programs that lead to lucrative careers, such as nurse practitioner, engineer, scientist, and business manager might rank highly in this regard.
Are there any free master's degrees online?
Students 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.
