College education is a need for today’s competitive job industry. Thousands of students are currently enrolled in college, pursuing their academic goals, and preparing for their dream career ahead. But being able to pay for college is not easy and may not be for everyone. Unfortunately, the cost of higher education has risen over the past few years.
Many students assume that high quality education means high tuition fee. But this isn’t necessarily the case. A number of renowned universities are offering affordable online degree programs without compromising on quality. Online programs enable students to save on travel and textbook expenses, lowering the overall costs and making college affordable. Here is a list of the 30 most affordable online colleges with quality programs available for students:
Rowan University
- City: Glassboro
- State: New Jersey
- Online costs per credit: $448
- 6-year graduation rate: 70%
Rowan University is a prominent public institution that has been offering high-quality education services since its establishment in 1923. The university offers over 80 bachelor degree programs, 65 graduate programs, and 2 doctoral programs. Students can also opt for online degree programs or hybrid programs in business management, humanities, performing arts, nursing, communication and creative arts, and engineering. These online programs are more affordable and accessible for employed individuals. Rowan University uses latest online learning tools and multi-media technologies to provide students with an interactive online learning environment.
- City: Clinton
- State: Mississippi
- Online costs per credit: $459
- 6-year graduation rate: 53%
Founded in 1826, Mississippi College is one of the oldest institutions in the state. Over 5000 students are currently pursuing their degrees at this prestigious college. The college offers campus-based programs and also a wide range of online degree programs. Students can choose from over 80 undergraduate majors and 50 graduate majors. Mississippi College aims at providing students with quality education at affordable prices. Forbes Magazine has ranked Mississippi College among the top 25 “Best College Buys”.
- City: Boone
- State: North Carolina
- Online costs per credit: $145
- 6-year graduation rate: 44%
Appalachian State University is a distinguished educational institution located in the beautiful town of Boone in North Carolina. The university offers a wide range of undergraduate and graduate degree programs and has over 18,000 students currently enrolled. Appalachian State University is helping many working professionals pursue higher education through distance learning. These online programs have proved to be affordable, convenient, and flexible, and are offered in popular academic disciplines such as business, child development, health promotion, language arts, and management. US News and World Report have listed Appalachian State University in the top Southern Masters Universities.
Brigham Young University
- City: Rexburg
- State: Idaho
- Online costs per credit: $156
- 6-year graduation rate: 54%
Brigham Young University is a private institution located in Provo, Utah. It is a leading institution in the field of distance education, and is offering 550 online courses. Students can look forward to an interactive virtual learning experience where the coursework is covered through instructor tutorials, videos, one-on-one mentoring, and various online tools. Brigham Young University has been listed among the 2015 edition of Best Colleges by US news and World Report.
- City: Lubbock
- State: Texas
- Online costs per credit: $198
- 6-year graduation rate: 59%
Texas Tech University is a recognized research institution located in Lubbock, Texas. The university was established in 1923 and is the fourth-institution of the Texas tech university system. Over the decades, Texas Tech has expanded its degree programs and offers over 150 areas of study to students. Texas Tech has dedicated its resources to quality education and is promoting a wide range of online degrees and certification preparation programs. Students located all across the nation can easily access online learning here and prepare for their future goals.
- City: Laramie
- State: Wyoming
- Online costs per credit: $133
- 6-year graduation rate: 54%
The University of Wyoming was established in 1886 and is a public flagship university located in Laramie, WY. The university offers 190 programs to undergraduates and graduates. Alongside the on-campus academic programs, Wyoming is among the first institutions to introduce online degree programs. Wyoming University aims at reaching students living in far off areas and other states, and helping them pursue education with convenience. Applied sciences, engineering, law, and business are just a few of the many specializations students can choose from.
University of Nebraska- Lincoln
- City: Lincoln
- State: Nebraska
- Online costs per credit: $241
- 6-year graduation rate: 67%
The University of Nebraska is the oldest and largest educational institution in the state of Nebraska. For over 145 years, UNL has served as a leader in the field of education, and continues to help students pursue their academic goals. The university has a large pool of highly qualified teachers who provide services to on-campus and online students. UNL’s online programs have proved to be accessible and cost-friendly for many.
- City: Bellingham
- State: Washington
- Online costs per credit: $250
- 6-year graduation rate: 69%
Located in Bellingham, Western Washington University is one of the 6 public universities in the state set up in 1893. WWU aims at giving students a fulfilling academic experience and preparing them for competitive careers ahead. Quality education services, experienced faculty, and diversity of programs give Western Washington University a high ranking among leading institutions. The institute also offers a wide array of online graduate and undergraduate programs to students.
- City: Oswego
- State: New York
- Online costs per credit: $257
- 6-year graduation rate: 58%
SUNY College is one of 13 colleges of the SUNY college system. The institute offers degree programs to over 4,400 students at both undergraduate and graduate level. Business, arts, and education are among the 110 academic areas offered for study here. SUNY College has expanded its reach by introducing “Open SUNY”, a collaborative effort to promote online learning. Students can earn college credits and pursue a degree which fits their schedule and their budget.
University of Northern Iowa
- City: Cedar Falls
- State: Iowa
- Online costs per credit: $278
- 6-year graduation rate: 66%
The University of Northern Iowa is a public educational institution situated in Cedar Falls, Iowa. The university was set up in 1876 and has gained nationwide appreciation for its quality services. Princeton Review ranked UNI among the “Best in the Midwest”. Apart from the traditional campus degrees, the university offers a range of affordable online programs. The availability of online programs has helped many students access higher education and prepare for their careers.
- City: Plymouth
- State: New Hampshire
- Online costs per credit: $483
- 6-year graduation rate: 56%
Plymouth State University is a well-known institution that was originally set up in 1871 as a teacher training school. Over the years, the university has expanded greatly and comprises of a number of departments. Over 4,000 students are currently enrolled in PSU’s online and campus based degrees. PSU has invested greatly in making college education accessible and affordable for everyone by introducing distance learning programs. Students can choose from a variety of majors at both undergraduate and graduate level here.
- City: Harrisonburg
- State: Virginia
- Online costs per credit: $403
- 6-year graduation rate: 81%
Located in the beautiful Shenandoah Valley, James Madison University is a prestigious learning institution that has been serving students since 1908. The University aims at providing students with exceptional learning opportunities, and helping them explore their academic goals and develop their social skills. JMU offers a wide variety of degree programs on-campus and online. US News and World Report has ranked James Madison’s online graduate business programs among the best in the country.
Murray State University
- City: Murray
- State: Kentucky
- Online costs per credit: $388
- 6-year graduation rate: 84%
Murray State University is a four-year public institution situated in Murray, Kentucky. Over 11,000 students are currently enrolled at the university. The institute was set up in 1922 and has been providing quality services ever since. Murray State University has built repute for offering a wide range of campus-based and online degree programs. When it comes to affordability, Murray State takes a top spot. Washington Monthly ranked Murray State University in the “Best Bang for the Buck” category in 2014.
- City: Fitchburg
- State: Massachusetts
- Online costs per credit: $386
- 6-year graduation rate: 50%
Fitchburg State University is dedicated to offering high quality professional programs to students. The university was established in 1894 in the city of Fitchburg. Over the years, FSU has broadened its program offerings. Students can choose from 30 undergraduate programs, 22 graduate programs, and a range of certificate programs. Students who wish to earn a degree from this renowned institution can enroll in online programs as well. Online education at FSU is helping thousands of students pursue higher studies.
- City: Richmond
- State: Virginia
- Online costs per credit: $353
- 6-year graduation rate: 57%
Virginia Commonwealth University is a public research university founded in 1838. The university has helped thousands of students achieve their goals through their programs. The university offers more than 200 degree and certificate programs. Alongside the traditional campus-learning module, VCU has a well-established distance learning platform. Students from all across the globe can access high quality online programs at VCU. These programs are affordable and are helping many fulfill their academic goals.
North Greenville University
- City: Tigerville
- State: South Carolina
- Online costs per credit: $350
- 6-year graduation rate: 55%
North Greenville University is a privileged higher education institution located in Tigerville, SC. Unlike other institutions, North Greenville integrates Christian learning in the philosophy of education and is recognized among the best liberal arts universities in the region. Students can choose from a wide array of degree programs on campus. Those who cannot commit to college-based studies can still pursue their academic goals with North Greenville’s distance learning programs. MBA and MAT are among the many online degrees offered here.
- City: Cookeville
- State: Tennessee
- Online costs per credit: $320
- 6-year graduation rate: 51%
Tennessee Technological University is a popular public university which was formerly known as Tennessee Polytechnic Institute. The university has partnered with renowned teachers from across the country to provide quality educational services to students. Tennessee Technological University strongly believes in “thinking out of the box” and does not limit learning within classroom walls. It has introduced online degrees in nursing, business, education, and professional studies. These programs are covered with the help of interactive media, video, and conferencing. Not only has this mode of learning proved to be affordable, but is convenient and accessible for many students.
- City: Heathrow
- State: Florida
- Online costs per credit: $313
- 6-year graduation rate: 70%
Remington College is a non-profit higher education institution located in Heathrow, FL. The college maintains a competitive edge over other institutions by keeping their approach towards learning practical and creative. Remington College aims at providing students with hands-on learning and professional skills that will help them succeed in the professional world. Students can opt for online courses here, which are taught by experienced faculty members. These programs put students in the center, are flexible and cost-effective.
Bloomsburg University of Pennsylvania
- City: Bloomsburg
- State: Pennsylvania
- Online costs per credit: $302
- 6-year graduation rate: 62%
Established in 1839, Bloomsburg University of Pennsylvania has been helping many students prepare for successful futures in the corporate world. Being the largest institution in the northeastern region of the state, BU offers 54 undergraduate majors, 44 minors, and 20 graduate programs. BU has extended its reach by introducing online programs as well. These programs are comprehensively designed to give students the opportunity to pursue academics from any location. Bloomsburg University of Pennsylvania was ranked in the “Best Bang for the Buck” category by Washington Monthly in 2013.
- City: Morgan Town
- State: West Virginia
- Online costs per credit: $290
- 6-year graduation rate: 63%
West Virginia University was established in 1867 as a public land grant research university. Over the years, it has grown to become one of the most popular institutions in the state, catering to over 29,000 students. The university strongly follows its motto of “add to your faith virtue and virtue to knowledge”. West Virginia University also promotes online learning by offering a wide range of online undergraduate, graduate, and certificate programs in multiple academic disciplines.
- City: Charleston
- State: Illinois
- Online costs per credit: $283
- 6-year graduation rate: 60%
Eastern Illinois University is a public university that offers comprehensive degree programs at baccalaureate and masters level. The university was established 120 years ago and has evolved into a recognized higher education institution. Eastern Illinois University has developed an online learning center that allows students in different locations to pursue online courses. Students can pursue their academic goals online in an affordable and flexible manner. The university promises to deliver excellent services without compromising on quality.
Westfield State University
- City: Westfield
- State: Massachusetts
- Online costs per credit: $260
- 6-year graduation rate: 59%
Located in Westfield, MA, Westfield State University is a comprehensive public university that was originally founded in 1838. The institution offers a wide range of campus-based and online degree programs to students seeking academic excellence. Many students are currently enrolled in Westfield’s online programs that can be completed in a shorter time period and within a reasonable budget. Students can choose from over 31 undergraduate majors, 8 graduate majors, and 6 degree completion programs.
- City: Delaware
- State: Newark
- Online costs per credit: $454
- 6-year graduation rate: 45%
University of Delaware is a renowned institution that started off as a small academy in 1743. With years of dedication to excellence and hard work, Delaware University is now a globally recognized institution that aims at providing quality education services. Over 13,000 students from all over the world are currently pursuing on-campus and online studies at the University of Delaware. US News and World Report have ranked this institution among the 2015 edition of Best Colleges.
- City: Fairfax
- State: Virginia
- Online costs per credit: $424
- 6-year graduation rate: 41%
George Mason University is the largest research university in the state of Virginia, with student enrollment exceeding 33,000. The university was established in 1957 and as a branch of the University of Virginia. Students can choose from a wide variety of on-campus degrees and online programs. Mason Online was developed to promote learning online and help aspiring students earn college credits. Education, human development, gerontology, accounting, and business are a few academic disciplines covered online.
Slippery Rock University of Pennsylvania
- City: Slippery Rock
- State: Pennsylvania
- Online costs per credit: $388
- 6-year graduation rate: 63%
Also known as “The Rock”, Slippery Rock University of Pennsylvania is a prestigious institution located in Slippery Rock, PA. Despite having a large campus with state of the art facilities, many students are pursuing online programs offered here. Students can choose from a wide range of distance learning programs that are flexible and cost-friendly. Slippery Rock University of Pennsylvania has emerged as a leader in distance learning education and is ranked in the 2015 edition of Best Colleges by US News and World Report.
- City: Mount Pleasant
- State: Michigan
- Online costs per credit: $387
- 6-year graduation rate: 59%
Central Michigan University is a nationally acclaimed public university situated in Mount Pleasant, Michigan. The university has over 200 academic programs at undergraduate, graduate, and doctorate level. Music, journalism, and psychology are a few of the popular academic disciplines the institute has on offer. With a drive for excellence and technological advancement, Central Michigan University also provides online learning courses at its global campus. These programs are designed to meet the needs of individuals who wish to continue or pursue education online.
- City: Daytona Beach
- State: Florida
- Online costs per credit: $335
- 6-year graduation rate: 58%
Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University was founded in 1926 as a private institution. US News and World Report have ranked this institution among the “Best Colleges for Veterans” and “Best Regional Colleges” categories. Students interested in preparing for careers in aeronautics and engineering can consider enrolling in Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University. Alongside the campus degrees, the university also offers online programs in the field of business, science, aviation, safety and security, and computer and technology. These programs are cost-friendly, flexible, and can go well with the busy lifestyles of working individuals.
University of Alabama
- City: Tuscaloosa
- State: Alabama
- Online costs per credit: $333
- 6-year graduation rate: 67%
Ranked among the top public schools by US News and World Report, the University of Alabama is a renowned institution situated in Tuscaloosa, AL. The university is the flagship campus of the University of Alabama system. Over 29,000 students are currently enrolled in the university. Apart from campus based degrees, students seeking online degrees can explore a variety of online programs offered by UA’s “Bama by Distance” distance learning department. These programs are flexible and can suit individuals with busy lifestyles.
- City: Grand Forks
- State: North Dakota
- Online costs per credit: $323
- 6-year graduation rate: 53%
Founded in 1883, University of North Dakota is a public institution that has earned a spot in the list of Best Colleges. US News and World Report has ranked UND among the leading institutions in the region. Students can choose from a wide variety of specializations and majors at undergraduate and graduate level. UND also offers professional courses through its distance learning programs. Over 11,000 students are currently enrolled here, receiving education from a highly trained faculty.
California State University – Chico
- City: Chico
- State: California
- Online costs per credit: $292
- 6-year graduation rate: 56%
California State University is one of the 23 campuses of the California State University System. It is located in Chico, CA, and was established in 1887. Students can choose from 126 undergraduate programs and 35 masters programs. California State University has expanded its educational programs in recent years and now specializes in distance learning programs as well. These programs can be pursued online and provide flexibility to off-campus students.
The abovementioned institutions understand how tough it is get a college education these days. This is the reason why most of them offer an impressive graduation rate and affordable fee structure. Students are recommended to check the financial aid option the school offers before they apply. This can go along way when paying for college in future.