Most Affordable Online Master’s Programs
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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.
What Are the Most Affordable Online Master's Programs of 2024?
- University of Florida
- California State University-Dominguez Hills
- The University of Texas Rio Grande Valley
- CUNY John Jay College of Criminal Justice
- University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill
- California State University-Fresno
- Stanford University
- California State University-Fullerton
- California State University-Northridge
- University of South Florida-Sarasota-Manatee
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.
How We Rank Schools
At BestColleges, we know it's important that you get the education you deserve. Because, let's face it, it pays to have a degree. But you don't have to break the bank to find a program that works for you. That's why we've compiled a list that takes into account more than just the basics.
When creating our ranking, we made sure all of the schools on the list met the high standards we set in our methodology. These colleges tick the box for high academic quality, a wide breadth of online offerings, and — of course — affordability.
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.
Art and Design
Business and Management
- Online Master's in Finance
- Online Master's in Project Management
- Online Master's in Sports Management
- Online Master's in Supply Chain Management
- Online Master's in Accounting
- Online Master's in Digital Marketing
- Online Master's in Entrepreneurship Programs
- Online Master's in Human Resources
- Online Master's in Business Intelligence
- Online Master's in Business Law
- Online Master's in Economics
- Online Master's in Entertainment Management
- Online Master's in Hospitality Management
- Online Master's in Management
- Online Master's in Organizational Leadership
- Online Master's in Organizational Management
- Online Master's in Real Estate
- Online Master's in Training & Development
- Online Master's in Negotiation & Conflict Management
- Online Master's in Taxation
- Online Master's in Business Administration (MBA)
- Online Master's in Public Relations
Computers and Technology
- Online Master's in Data Science
- Online Master's in Computer Engineering
- Online Master's in Computer Forensics
- Online Master's in Computer Science
- Online Master's in Cybersecurity
- Online Master's in Database Management
- Online Master's in Information Systems Security
- Online Master's in Information Technology
- Online Master's in Web Development
- Online Master's in Software Engineering
Criminal Justice and Legal
- Online Master's in Criminal Justice
- Online Master's in Corrections
- Online Master's in Crime Scene Investigation
- Online Master's in Criminology
- Online Master's in Forensic Accounting
- Online Master's in Forensic Science
- Online Master's in Homeland Security
- Online Master's in Law Enforcement Administration
- Online Master's in Legal Studies
- Online Master's in Public Safety Administration
- Online Master's in Security
Education and Teaching
- Online Master's in Education (M.Ed.)
- Online Master's in Educational Leadership
- Online Master's in School Counseling
- Online Master's in Educational Administration
- Online Master's in School Counseling
- Online Master's in Special Education
- Online Master's in Early Childhood Education
- Online Master's in Child Development
- Online Master's in Coaching
- Online Master's in Adult Education
- Online Master's in Assessment & Measurement
- Online Master's in Curriculum Instruction
- Online Master's in Educational Technology
- Online Master's in Elementary Education
- Online Master's in ESL Education
- Online Master's in Gifted & Talented Education
- Online Master's in Higher Education
- Online Master's in K12 Education
- Online Master's in Library Science
- Online Master's in Math Education
- Online Master's in Music Education
- Online Master's in Reading & Literacy
- Online Master's in Science Education
- Online Master's in Secondary Education
- Online Master's in Social Studies
- Online Master's in Special Education
- Online Master's in Online Education
Liberal Arts and Humanities
- Online Master's in Communication
- Online Master's in Creative Writing
- Online Master's in History
- Online Master's in Human & Family Development
- Online Master's in Journalism
- Online Master's in Liberal Arts
- Online Master's in Media Communication
- Online Master's in Ministry
- Online Master's in Music
- Online Master's in Political Science
- Online Master's in Public Administration (MPA)
- Online Master's in Public Policy
- Online Master's in Social Work (MSW)
- Online Master's in Sociology
- Online Master's in Theology
Nursing and Healthcare
- Online Master's in Clinical Research
- Online Master's in Emergency Management
- Online Master's in Gerontology
- Online Master's in Health Education
- Online Master's in Health Informatics
- Online Master's in Health Science
- Online Master's in Health Services
- Online Master's in Healthcare Administration
- Online Master's in Human Services
- Online Master's in Nursing Administration
- Online Master's in Nutrition
- Online Master's in Public Health
- Online Master's in Sports Medicine
- Online Master of Science in Nursing (MSN)
- Online MBA in Healthcare Management
- Online Nurse Practitioner Programs
Psychology and Counseling
- Online Master's in Addiction Counseling
- Online Master's in Behavioral Psychology
- Online Master's in Counseling
- Online Master's in Christian Counseling
- Online Master's in Educational Psychology
- Online Master's in Marriage & Family Counseling
- Online Master's in Forensic Psychology
- Online Master's in Organizational Psychology
- Online Master's in Psychology
Science and Engineering
- Online Master's in Biomedical Engineering
- Online Master's in Biotechnology
- Online Master's in Civil Engineering
- Online Master's in Construction Management
- Online Master's in Electrical Engineering
- Online Master's in Electronics Engineering
- Online Master's in Engineering
- Online Master's in Engineering Management
- Online Master's in Environmental Management
- Online Master's in Industrial Engineering
- Online Master's in Mechanical Engineering
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
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
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
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?
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?
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?
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?
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?
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.