25 Most Affordable Online Colleges for Bachelors Degrees
Find your degree
If you want a college education but life obligations make it difficult for you to consistently attend a campus, you might already know about online bachelor’s degrees. They can be pursued affordable at any number of online colleges and universities, and they are becoming far more mainstream than just a few years ago.
Affordable online bachelor’s degree programs can benefit all kinds of students: those working full-time, military personnel, and students with family obligations. It’s not just your schedule that can benefit — sometimes the overall cost of an affordable 100% online college is lower than attending on-campus. With a laptop or mobile device, you can even study on the go while commuting on public transit, waiting between tasks, or at any time!
If you’re serious about looking for affordable online colleges offering bachelor’s degree programs, use this ranking to get started. It can help you save some time doing the initial research to find the most affordable online college programs. We’ve filtered data from NCES (National Center for Education Statistics), a bureau of the U.S. Dept. of Education, for all institutions of higher learning and present you with 50 of the most affordable online colleges for bachelor’s degrees. This is based on the reported net yearly average price, so your actual cost may vary.
Related:
- Top Online Colleges with the Best Career Services
- Best Online Colleges That Will Help Launch Your Career
- Online Colleges That Give Work & Life Experience Credit
- Free Laptops for College
- 15 Free & Most Affordable Colleges In America
25 Most Affordable Online Colleges Offering Bachelors Degrees
1. University of the People
University of the People offers tuition-free online bachelor’s degrees in fields like Business Administration, Computer Science, and Health Science. Students only pay small administrative fees, making it one of the most affordable options worldwide. The university is accredited and focuses on providing accessible, high-quality education to students across the globe.
- Yearly Average Net Price: Tuition-free (students pay only administrative fees, approximately $1,200–$4,860 for a full degree).
- In-State Tuition: $0 (tuition-free).
- Out-of-State Tuition: $0 (tuition-free).
- Graduation Rate: Approximately 18% (based on online education data).
- Transfer-Out Rate: Not publicly reported.
- Student Population: Over 126,000 students enrolled globally.
- Number of Undergraduates: Majority of the student population; precise number not specified but the institution is primarily undergraduate-focused.
2. St. Petersburg College
St. Petersburg College offers over 20 online bachelor’s degree programs, including Business, Nursing, and Technology. These programs are designed for flexibility, making it easier for working professionals and transfer students to earn their degrees. The college provides resources like online advising and career services to support student success.
- Yearly Average Net Price: $2,668
- In-State Tuition: $2,682
- Out-of-State Tuition: $9,286
- Graduation Rate: 39%
- Transfer-Out Rate: 18%
- Student Population: Approximately 24,543 students
- Number of Undergraduates: 24,421
3. Florida State College at Jacksonville
Florida State College at Jacksonville offers flexible online bachelor’s degree programs in areas like Business, Information Technology, and Education. These programs are designed to meet the needs of working adults, providing affordable tuition and career-focused curriculum. The college supports online learners with resources like academic advising, tutoring, and career services.
- Yearly Average Net Price: $3,064
- In-State Tuition: $2,830
- Out-of-State Tuition: $9,944
- Graduation Rate: 35%
- Transfer-Out Rate: 11%
- Student Population: Approximately 20,880 students
- Number of Undergraduates: 20,436
4. Indian River State College
Indian River State College offers online bachelor’s programs in fields like Organizational Management, Education, and Nursing, providing students with flexible, career-ready options. The programs are affordable and cater to working adults, featuring support services such as online tutoring and career advising. Students benefit from small class sizes and a focus on practical skills to prepare them for the workforce.
- Yearly Average Net Price: $588
- In-State Tuition: $2,764
- Out-of-State Tuition: $10,201
- Graduation Rate: 46%
- Transfer-Out Rate: 12%
- Student Population: Approximately 15,236 students
- Number of Undergraduates: 15,236
5. Florida Gateway College
Florida Gateway College offers online bachelor’s programs in fields like Nursing and Water Resources Management, designed for flexibility and career advancement. The programs emphasize hands-on learning, practical skills, and industry relevance, making them ideal for students balancing work and education. With small class sizes and dedicated faculty, students receive personalized support throughout their academic journey.
- Yearly Average Net Price: $2,792
- In-State Tuition: $3,100
- Out-of-State Tuition: $11,747
- Graduation Rate: 38%
- Transfer-Out Rate: 22%
- Student Population: Approximately 2,957 students
- Number of Undergraduates: 2,957
6. Daytona State College
Daytona State College offers affordable online bachelor’s degrees in fields like Business, Education, and Information Technology. These programs provide flexibility for working students and include robust support services like virtual tutoring and career counseling. With a focus on practical skills, Daytona State prepares graduates to meet the demands of competitive job market.
- Yearly Average Net Price: $8,842
- In-State Tuition: $3,106
- Out-of-State Tuition: $11,994
- Graduation Rate: 38%
- Transfer-Out Rate: 19%
- Student Population: Approximately 12,728 students
- Number of Undergraduates: 12,728
7. Dalton State College
Dalton State College offers online bachelor’s degree programs in fields like Business Administration, Criminal Justice, and Organizational Leadership. These programs are designed for flexibility and affordability, providing quality education that suits the needs of working students and those balancing other commitments. Dalton State emphasizes career readiness, with opportunities for internships and real-world applications integrated into the curriculum.
- Yearly Average Net Price: $5,215
- In-State Tuition: $3,683
- Out-of-State Tuition: $10,589
- Graduation Rate: 23%
- Transfer-Out Rate: 21%
- Student Population: Approximately 4,827 students
- Number of Undergraduates: 4,827
8. Fayetteville State University
Fayetteville State University offers online bachelor’s programs in diverse fields such as Criminal Justice, Business Administration, and Nursing. These programs are designed to provide affordable and flexible education, catering to the needs of working adults and distance learners. FSU emphasizes student support services, ensuring access to resources like virtual advising and online tutoring to enhance learning outcomes.
- Yearly Average Net Price: $6,969
- In-State Tuition: $5,249
- Out-of-State Tuition: $16,918
- Graduation Rate: 38%
- Transfer-Out Rate: 27%
- Student Population: Approximately 6,787 students
- Number of Undergraduates: 5,649
9. Great Basin College
Great Basin College offers online bachelor’s programs in fields like Nursing, Social Work, and Management, catering to a diverse student body. These programs are flexible and affordable, designed to support working professionals and students in rural areas. GBC provides strong student support services, including online tutoring and career guidance, ensuring a well-rounded learning experience.
- Yearly Average Net Price: $9,398
- In-State Tuition: $3,248
- Out-of-State Tuition: $10,361
- Graduation Rate: 33%
- Transfer-Out Rate: 18%
- Student Population: Approximately 3,836 students
- Number of Undergraduates: 3,760
10. College of Southern Nevada
The College of Southern Nevada (CSN) offers online bachelor’s programs in fields such as Project Management, Business Administration, and Nursing, focusing on career-ready skills. These programs are affordable and flexible, designed for students balancing education with work or other responsibilities. CSN provides robust online resources, including academic advising, tutoring, and career services, to support student success.
- Yearly Average Net Price: $7,019
- In-State Tuition: $3,848
- Out-of-State Tuition: $11,918
- Graduation Rate: 23%
- Transfer-Out Rate: 11%
- Student Population: Approximately 29,965 students
- Number of Undergraduates: 29,905
11. Middle Georgia State University
Middle Georgia State University (MGA) offers online bachelor’s degree programs in areas such as Business Administration, Information Technology, and Healthcare Management. The programs are designed to be flexible, allowing students to complete coursework at their own pace while receiving support from faculty and staff. MGA is committed to providing affordable education with an emphasis on preparing students for successful careers in their respective fields.
- Yearly Average Net Price: $6,189
- In-State Tuition: $3,119
- Out-of-State Tuition: $9,672
- Graduation Rate: 23%
- Transfer-Out Rate: 13%
- Student Population: Approximately 7,300 students
- Number of Undergraduates: 7,100
12. Peninsula College
Peninsula College offers online bachelor’s degrees in fields such as Business Administration and Early Childhood Education. The college focuses on providing flexible and affordable education to help students achieve their academic and career goals. With small class sizes and a supportive learning environment, students receive personalized attention from instructors and gain practical knowledge in their chosen fields.
- Yearly Average Net Price: $5,451
- In-State Tuition: $4,398
- Out-of-State Tuition: $4,398
- Graduation Rate: 24%
- Transfer-Out Rate: 22%
- Student Population: Approximately 1,400 students
- Number of Undergraduates: 1,300
13. Brigham Young University- Idaho
Brigham Young University-Idaho offers online bachelor’s degrees in a variety of fields such as Business Management, Information Technology, and Health Science. The university focuses on providing high-quality education with an emphasis on moral values, leadership, and service. Students enjoy a flexible, affordable learning experience that prepares them for careers in diverse industries.
- Yearly Average Net Price: $6,700
- In-State Tuition: $4,208
- Out-of-State Tuition: $4,208
- Graduation Rate: 55%
- Transfer-Out Rate: 27%
- Student Population: Approximately 17,000
- Number of Undergraduates: 16,000
14. South Texas College
South Texas College offers a range of online bachelor’s degree programs in fields like Business Administration, Criminal Justice, and Early Childhood Education. The college is dedicated to providing accessible, affordable education to students in a flexible online format. With a focus on career readiness, South Texas College prepares graduates for success in a variety of industries.
- Yearly Average Net Price: $4,432
- In-State Tuition: $2,480
- Out-of-State Tuition: $4,560
- Graduation Rate: 28%
- Transfer-Out Rate: 35%
- Student Population: Approximately 11,000
- Number of Undergraduates: 10,000
15. Georgia Southwestern State University
Georgia Southwestern State University offers a variety of online bachelor’s degree programs, including degrees in Business Administration, Early Childhood Education, and Criminal Justice. The university provides a flexible online learning environment designed for working adults and non-traditional students. Their programs emphasize practical skills and academic rigor, preparing students for professional success in their chosen fields.
- Yearly Average Net Price: $8,920
- In-State Tuition: $3,295
- Out-of-State Tuition: $9,265
- Graduation Rate: 32%
- Transfer-Out Rate: 23%
- Student Population: Approximately 2,100
- Number of Undergraduates: 1,900
16. Fort Hays State University
Fort Hays State University offers a wide range of online bachelor’s degree programs, including options in Business Administration, Education, and Nursing. The university is known for its flexible learning environment, designed to accommodate working adults and students with busy schedules. Fort Hays State emphasizes practical skills, online collaboration, and academic support to ensure student success in its fully online programs.
- Yearly Average Net Price: $13,336
- In-State Tuition: $4,142
- Out-of-State Tuition: $9,050
- Graduation Rate: 46%
- Transfer-Out Rate: 27%
- Student Population: Approximately 3,900
- Number of Undergraduates: 3,400
17. Columbia Southern University
Columbia Southern University offers a variety of online bachelor’s degree programs, including options in Business Administration, Criminal Justice, and Fire Science. The university is known for its flexible, fully online learning format, making it ideal for working adults and military service members. Columbia Southern is committed to providing affordable education with a focus on career readiness and student support.
- Yearly Average Net Price: $8,157
- In-State Tuition: $4,740
- Out-of-State Tuition: $4,740
- Graduation Rate: 23%
- Transfer-Out Rate: 32%
- Student Population: Approximately 7,100
- Number of Undergraduates: 6,800
18.Northwestern Oklahoma State University
Northwestern Oklahoma State University offers a variety of online bachelor’s degree programs, including options in Criminal Justice, Business, and Education. The programs are designed to be flexible, providing working adults and non-traditional students with the opportunity to earn a degree at their own pace. The university is dedicated to providing a supportive learning environment with resources for student success.
- Yearly Average Net Price: $8,500
- In-State Tuition: $4,680
- Out-of-State Tuition: $8,460
- Graduation Rate: 38%
- Transfer-Out Rate: 20%
- Student Population: Approximately 2,000
- Number of Undergraduates: 1,800
19. Valdosta State University
Valdosta State University offers a wide range of online bachelor’s programs, including degrees in Business, Criminal Justice, and Education. The online programs are designed to be flexible and cater to working adults and students seeking to balance their academic, personal, and professional lives. VSU provides various resources, including academic advising, tutoring, and technical support, to help online students succeed.
- Yearly Average Net Price: $9,500
- In-State Tuition: $3,380
- Out-of-State Tuition: $8,370
- Graduation Rate: 43%
- Transfer-Out Rate: 21%
- Student Population: Approximately 10,000
- Number of Undergraduates: 8,000
20. Utah Valley University
Utah Valley University offers a variety of online bachelor’s degree programs, including fields like Business Administration, Information Systems, and Social Science. The programs are designed to be flexible and accommodate students who need to balance their studies with work or family commitments. UVU provides students with access to resources such as career services, academic advising, and a supportive online learning environment.
- Yearly Average Net Price: $10,800
- In-State Tuition: $5,263
- Out-of-State Tuition: $15,330
- Graduation Rate: 37%
- Transfer-Out Rate: 28%
- Student Population: 40,000
- Number of Undergraduates: 32,000
21. Brigham Young University
Brigham Young University offers online bachelor’s degree programs in various fields, including Business Management, Psychology, and Family Studies. The online programs at BYU are designed to provide high-quality education while maintaining the flexibility needed for students to balance academic, work, and personal responsibilities. BYU’s online students have access to a supportive network of faculty, mentors, and a range of academic resources to ensure their success.
- Yearly Average Net Price: $13,000
- In-State Tuition: $5,970
- Out-of-State Tuition: $5,970
- Graduation Rate: 85%
- Transfer-Out Rate: 13%
- Student Population: 33,000
- Number of Undergraduates: 30,000
22. Thomas Edison State University
Thomas Edison State University offers flexible online bachelor’s degree programs designed for adult learners and working professionals. Programs include fields like Business Administration, Liberal Studies, and Nursing, with courses that can be completed entirely online. The university is known for its accommodating credit transfer policies, allowing students to apply prior work experience and certifications toward their degree.
- Yearly Average Net Price: $9,500
- In-State Tuition: $7,608
- Out-of-State Tuition: $7,608
- Graduation Rate: 35%
- Transfer-Out Rate: 21%
- Student Population: 6,700
- Number of Undergraduates: 6,300
23. University of Arkansas- Fort Smith
The University of Arkansas – Fort Smith offers online bachelor’s degree programs in fields such as Business Administration, Nursing, and Criminal Justice. These programs are designed for flexibility, allowing students to balance work and life while earning their degrees. Students benefit from a supportive online learning environment with access to resources like academic advising and career services.
- Yearly Average Net Price: $13,250
- In-State Tuition: $5,790
- Out-of-State Tuition: $12,270
- Graduation Rate: 27%
- Transfer-Out Rate: 26%
- Student Population: 3,200
- Number of Undergraduates: 2,600
24. Northeastern State University
Northeastern State University offers a variety of online bachelor’s degree programs, including those in Business, Psychology, and Health Sciences. The university provides flexible online learning opportunities that allow students to pursue their academic goals while managing work and family commitments. NSU’s online programs are designed to deliver quality education with personalized support from faculty and advisors.
- Yearly Average Net Price: $10,100
- In-State Tuition: $7,556
- Out-of-State Tuition: $14,590
- Graduation Rate: 36%
- Transfer-Out Rate: 30%
- Student Population: 3,500
- Number of Undergraduates: 3,000
25. University of Houston Downtown
The University of Houston-Downtown offers a wide range of online bachelor’s degree programs in fields such as Business, Criminal Justice, and Computer Science. UHD’s online programs are designed to be flexible, catering to students who need to balance work, family, and education. Students benefit from the same quality of education as on-campus programs, with strong faculty support and access to resources like virtual tutoring and career counseling.
- Yearly Average Net Price: $9,300
- In-State Tuition: $7,200
- Out-of-State Tuition: $15,000
- Graduation Rate: 22%
- Transfer-Out Rate: 27%
- Student Population: 7,500
- Number of Undergraduates: 6,000
Some of the degree and/or certification abbreviations used in this list include:
- ADN – Associate Degree Nursing
- ASN – Associate of Science in Nursing
- BA – Bachelor of Arts
- BAAS – Bachelor of Applied Arts and Sciences
- BAS – Bachelor of Applied Science
- BASS – Bachelor of Arts in Social Sciences
- BBA – Bachelor of Business Administration
- BGS – Bachelor of General Studies
- BHS – Bachelor of Health Sciences
- BIS – Bachelor of Interdisciplinary Studies
- BS – Bachelor of Science
- BT – Bachelor of Technology
- BSN – Bachelor of Science in Nursing
- RN – Registered Nurse
