Everyone is searching for affordable online degree options these days. Tuition keeps rising, and studying from home does not automatically make things cheaper. If you plan to earn your bachelor’s degree online, it is important to choose a school that gives you value, steady support, and a learning structure that actually works for your lifestyle. These things do not come cheap, so it helps to know which universities offer quality programs without putting too much pressure on your budget.
To make your search easier, we compared respected rankings, checked tuition pages, and reviewed each school’s online learning setup. The schools listed in this article are strong, reputable institutions that still manage to keep costs low. They offer flexible schedules, clear course paths, and programs that fit the needs of students studying from home.
Explore the top ten affordable online bachelor’s programs below and learn what each school offers, how their online classes work, and what you can expect as a student.
Most Affordable Online Bachelor’s Degree Programs
1. National University — Tuition: $370 per quarter unit
National University’s online programs are built around short six-week courses. This gives students room to focus on one subject at a time and still move at a steady pace. The school offers many bachelor’s degrees in areas like business, education, health, and cybersecurity. Everything is fully online, and most classes let you study on your own schedule.
The university also supports adult learners with academic advisors and plenty of start dates during the year. It is a practical option if you want a simple online structure that fits around work and family.
2. Western Governors University (WGU) — Tuition: $8,300 per year
WGU runs a competency-based model, so you advance by showing you understand the material. This creates a flexible path for students who prefer working at their own speed. The university offers programs in business, IT, healthcare, and teaching.
Courses are fully online, and every student is paired with a mentor who guides them throughout the program. The structure is organised, clear, and built for people balancing work and study. It is a good choice if you want an online degree that focuses on real skills instead of long classroom hours.
3. Thomas Edison State University (TESU) — Tuition: $440/credit (NJ); $573/credit (non-resident)
TESU is designed for adults who already have work experience or previous college credits. The school accepts a wide range of transfer units, military credits, and professional training. Its online programs cover business, technology, liberal arts, nursing, and other professional areas. Classes are flexible, and students can choose between guided courses or independent study.
TESU also offers credit-by-exam options, which help students finish faster. The university’s strength is its ability to build a degree around what you already know and help you complete the rest online at your own pace.
4. California Coast University — Tuition: $170 per unit
California Coast University offers self-paced online programs with simple course structures. You choose when to start, and you move through each subject according to your own schedule. Degrees include business, psychology, criminal justice, and several technical fields.
The school focuses on straightforward learning materials, flexible deadlines, and one-to-one support when needed. Students who prefer working quietly and independently tend to enjoy this setup. The university also has friendly transfer policies, which make it easy to continue a degree you started elsewhere.
5. Kennesaw State University (KSU Online) — Tuition: $159–$190 per credit (program-dependent)
KSU runs a strong online system that includes full bachelor’s programs and eCore general-education courses. Many students start with eCore because it transfers easily into KSU’s degree pathways. The university offers online options in business, IT, nursing, and social sciences.
Courses follow a semester calendar, so you still enjoy structure while studying from home. Students get access to tutoring, online labs, and academic advisors. KSU is a good fit if you want the support of a large public university with the flexibility of online learning.
6. Columbia Southern University (CSU) — Tuition: $278 per credit
CSU focuses on career-oriented online programs. Popular areas include business, criminal justice, fire science, homeland security, and safety fields. Courses run year-round, giving students freedom to choose when to begin. The university uses an easy-to-follow online format with clear weekly tasks.
Many programs connect directly to industry certifications, which helps with job advancement. CSU also provides student services like writing support, advising, and career guidance. It is well-suited for working adults who want programs tied closely to real-world jobs.
7. Fort Hays State University (FHSU Online) — Tuition: $265 per credit
FHSU offers one of the most established online programs among public universities. It has a long list of bachelor’s degrees, including business, education, health sciences, technology, and social sciences. Courses are structured and instructor-led, but still flexible enough for people with busy schedules. Students receive access to digital libraries, tutoring, and academic advisors.
FHSU is known for its supportive online community and clear program maps that help learners stay on track. It works well for students who want a traditional university feel delivered online.
8. Colorado State University Global (CSU Global) — Tuition: $375 per credit
CSU Global is a fully online campus within the Colorado State University System. The school offers programs in business, IT, criminal justice, project management, and healthcare administration. All classes are online and start every month, so students do not need to wait long to begin a course. The learning style is structured, assignment-based, and easy to follow.
CSU Global also provides coaching, career tools, and skill-based specialisations you can add to your degree. It is a good option for students who want a clear, organised digital learning environment.
9. University of the People — Tuition: $160 assessment fee per course (no tuition)
University of the People runs a tuition-free model. Students only pay small assessment fees at the end of each course. Programs include business administration, computer science, health science, and education. The learning style is fully online and uses weekly discussions, readings, and assignments. Courses are structured around peer interaction and instructor guidance.
UoPeople also offers scholarships for students who cannot afford assessment fees. It is a simple and flexible setup for people who want a recognised online degree with minimal financial pressure.
10. Southern Utah University (Online) — Tuition: about $307 per credit
Southern Utah University offers several online pathways, including full bachelor’s degrees and its flexible general studies program. Students can choose structured semester-based courses or faster options depending on the program. SUU’s online degrees cover business, communication, education, and general studies.
The university provides strong advising, writing support, and career guidance. Courses are easy to navigate and allow students to manage school alongside other responsibilities. It is a solid choice for people looking for a reputable public university offering online study options.
FAQs
1. Are online bachelor’s degrees respected by employers?
Yes. Most employers now accept accredited online degrees the same way they accept traditional ones, as long as the school is properly accredited and the program is relevant to the job.
2. Will I need to attend physical classes or campus activities?
No. All the schools listed here offer programs that are fully online. Some may have optional campus events, but they are not required.
3. Can I transfer credits from another school?
Most of these universities accept transfer credits. Some accept military training, professional certificates, or credits by exam. Each school sets its own rules, so it is best to check its transfer policies.
4. How fast can I finish an online bachelor’s degree?
A typical bachelor’s degree takes four years, but many online students finish faster. Competency-based programs like WGU allow you to move at your own speed, while others let you take extra courses each term.
5. Do online students get access to support services?
Yes. Online learners usually get the same support as on-campus students, including tutoring, advising, library access, technical help, and career services.