Getting a master’s degree, especially in your field, can really help you move up in your career and even increase your pay. Studies show that people with a master’s degree make about 25% more on average than those with just a bachelor’s degree.
As a working professional trying to grow in your career, you’ll want a program that’s flexible enough to fit around your job, which is exactly what online master’s programs offer.
The thing is, master’s programs don’t come cheap these days. So, besides flexibility, affordability is something you will need to watch out for. You want a school that gives you a solid, respected program but doesn’t cost a fortune.
We have done the research across multiple universities and platforms, and put together a list of the most affordable online master’s programs that give you both quality and value.
Most Affordable Online Master’s Degrees
1. California Coast University (CCU)
California Coast University (CCU) is a fully online university accredited by the Distance Education Accrediting Commission (DEAC). All of its master’s programs are 100% online and self-paced, allowing students to study on their own schedule.
CCU offers programs in areas such as Criminal Justice, Psychology, Health Care Administration, Business Administration, Marketing, Business Management, and Education. Tuition is very affordable at $250 per credit unit, with most master’s programs requiring 39 credits, totaling approximately $9,750.
2. Union Commonwealth University
Union Commonwealth University, based in Barbourville, Kentucky, offers affordable online master’s programs designed for flexibility and convenience. Tuition is $370 per credit hour, and courses run in 8-week sessions, starting six times a year, so students can progress at their own pace without needing GRE scores.
The university is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC), which ensures its programs meet high academic standards.
3. Kennesaw State University (KSU)
Kennesaw State University (KSU), located in Georgia, offers affordable online master’s programs designed for flexibility and accessibility. Tuition for online graduate courses is approximately $393 per credit hour, with additional fees totaling around $340 per semester for online learners. This structure allows students to manage their educational expenses effectively while pursuing advanced degrees from the comfort of their homes.
KSU provides a range of online master’s programs, including fields such as Business Administration, Information Technology, Education, and Engineering.
4. University of the Cumberlands (UC)
University of the Cumberlands (UC), nestled in Williamsburg, Kentucky, offers online master’s programs that are both affordable and flexible. Tuition for online graduate courses is approximately $355 per credit hour, making it an economical choice for those seeking quality education without breaking the bank.
UC’s programs are accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC).
5. University of Florida
If you are looking for an affordable online master’s program, the University of Florida’s UF Online is worth checking out. You can earn your degree entirely online, so there’s no need to commute or relocate.
For in-state students, tuition runs around $10,770 a year, with out-of-state students paying a bit more, which is still very reasonable compared to many other programs. UF Online offers degrees in fields like Business, Education, Nursing, and Public Health, all designed to fit into a busy schedule.
6. Purdue University
Purdue University offers flexible online master’s programs through its main campus and Purdue Global, accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC). It is designed for working professionals, so many programs feature asynchronous coursework and part-time options. Tuition averages $9,718 for in-state and $28,520 for out-of-state students, with financial aid and scholarships available.
Programs cover engineering, business, technology, and public health. Popular options include the online Master of Science in Electrical, Industrial, and Mechanical Engineering, the MBA with industry-specific tracks, and the CEPH-accredited Master of Public Health (MPH).
7. University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign
The University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign (UIUC) offers an online master’s programs through Illinois Online, designed for flexibility and global accessibility. Tuition varies by program, ranging from $535 per credit hour for standard courses to $1,183 per credit hour for specialized programs like the Master of Engineering in Bioengineering.
UIUC’s online programs are accredited by recognized bodies, ensuring high-quality education. They span fields such as engineering, business, education, and information sciences, and are tailored for working professionals with asynchronous coursework and part-time options.
8. Florida Atlantic University
Florida Atlantic University (FAU)’s online master’s programs is designed to accommodate the schedules of working professionals. These programs are delivered in both fully online and hybrid formats, providing flexibility to students.
Tuition rates are competitive, with Florida residents paying $371.82 per credit hour and non-residents paying $1,026.81 per credit hour for graduate courses.
FAU’s online master’s programs are accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC).
9. University of Central Missouri
The University of Central Missouri (UCM) offers an online Master of Science in Cybersecurity and Information Assurance, designed to prepare students with the skills needed to secure critical infrastructure and respond to emerging cyber threats.
The program is recognized as a National Center of Academic Excellence in Cyber Defense by both the Department of Homeland Security and the National Security Agency, highlighting its quality and industry relevance.
Students benefit from round-the-clock access to online labs for exercises in ethical hacking and digital forensics.
10. University of Washington
The University of Washington’s Seattle campus provides 14 online master’s programs designed for flexibility, making it easier for working professionals to balance their studies with career and personal commitments. Tuition averages $17,004 per year for in-state students and $30,477 for out-of-state students.
Programs cover a range of fields, including sustainability, library and information science, and clinical informatics. Courses are structured to accommodate varying schedules, often offering asynchronous options, allowing students to progress at their own pace.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Which online master’s programs are the most affordable?
Many public universities, such as California Coast University, Purdue University, and the University of Central Missouri, offer some of the lowest tuition rates for online master’s degrees while maintaining quality and accreditation.
2. Can I work full-time while pursuing an online master’s degree?
Yes! Most online programs are designed for working professionals, offering flexible schedules, asynchronous coursework, and part-time options to fit your lifestyle.
3. Are online degrees respected by employers?
Absolutely. Accredited online master’s programs from recognized universities carry the same weight as on-campus degrees and are widely accepted by employers in business, engineering, technology, public health, and more.
4. How long does it take to complete an online master’s degree?
Program lengths vary. Many degrees can be completed in 15–24 months, though some fields may take longer depending on course load and whether you study part-time or full-time.
5. Can I get financial aid for an online master’s program?
Yes. Most universities offer scholarships, grants, and payment plans for online students, making it easier to manage tuition costs.
6. Which online programs lead to the most lucrative careers?
Fields like cybersecurity, business administration (MBA), data science, and engineering tend to offer strong career prospects and higher earning potential for graduates.
7. How do I choose the right online master’s program for me?
Consider tuition, accreditation, flexibility, course offerings, program length, and career support. Align these factors with your professional goals to find the best fit.