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.
Most Affordable Accredited Online Master's Programs of 2024
We use trusted sources like
Peterson's Data
and the National Center for Education Statistics to inform the data for these schools.
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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The University of Texas Rio Grande Valley
Edinburg, TX - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Cost per Credit:
In-State | $741
Out-of-State | $1,161
Credits to Graduate: 36
The University of Texas Rio Grande Valley's online master's degrees include business analytics, curriculum and instruction, and educational leadership. The health science degree features five specialization options, such as clinical laboratory sciences and healthcare informatics. You can also choose from three specializations in the kinesiology program.
You can save money and graduate faster than your peers by enrolling in an accelerated master's program. Classes in these programs last only seven weeks. If you're a Texas resident with financial need and a minimum 3.0 GPA, you may qualify for the $2,000 UTRGV Graduate Resource Grant.
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.
California State University-Dominguez Hills
Carson, CA - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Cost per Credit: $321-$600
Credits to Graduate: 30-36
Consider California State University, Dominguez Hills' online master's programs if you want to advance your career as a nurse, business leader, or quality assurance expert. Other fully online degrees include systems engineering and imaging sciences. Admission requirements vary by program.
CSUDH charges the same tuition rates regardless of your residency status, potentially saving you thousands on your education. Program websites also feature links to the latest private merit scholarships. Some are designed for California residents, women, or members of a minority group.
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
Cost per Credit: $1,456
Credits to Graduate: 45
Stanford University offers nine online master's degrees in subjects like aeronautics, electrical engineering, and materials science. Other majors can help you advance your career in the computer science or biomedical data field. Stanford's free classes let you preview the academic experience before applying.
A private university, Stanford does not charge out-of-state tuition rates. The university accepts financial aid applications twice annually, and you may qualify for an institutional loan depending on need. Stanford runs six financial aid support programs for those with challenging financial situations.
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.
Duke University
Durham, NC - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Cost per Semester: $31,310
Credits to Graduate: 30-48
Look into Duke Online if you want to earn a master's in engineering, environmental, or quantitative management. The latter offers specializations in business and health analytics. Practicing nurses can enroll in the university's fully online master of science in nursing and major in one of 11 specialty areas, including health informatics and women's health.
Each Duke graduate department runs an independent financial aid office. If you're pursuing a nursing degree, you may qualify for the DUSON Merit Scholarship. This $36,000 award does not require a separate application.
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 Florida
Gainesville, FL - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Cost per Year:
In-State | $12,740
Out-of-State | $30,134
Credits to Graduate: 30-36
University of Florida's online master's programs include aerospace engineering, biostatistics, and civil engineering. Programs such as curriculum and instruction, entomology and nematology, and mass communication feature many concentration options. Depending on your program, you may need to meet an undergraduate GPA cutoff and submit an academic writing sample.
UF restricts many institutional scholarships and grants to Florida residents. However, if you're an out-of-state student with financial need, you can still receive federal grants by submitting the FAFSA. UF also offers student loans with competitive interest rates.
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 North Florida
Jacksonville, FL - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Cost per Credit:
In-State | $524
Out-of-State | $1,074
Credits to Graduate: 30-45
University of North Florida Online features an online master's degree in American Sign Language with concentrations in interpretation, general practice, and pedagogy. Other online education degrees include curriculum and instruction and educational technology training and development.
You must submit official undergraduate transcripts and may need to meet a GPA cutoff to be admitted, depending on the program. The $10,000 Graduate Student Award assists learners whose FAFSA results show financial need. Other requirements include maintaining a minimum 3.0 GPA. Apply early, as funding may run out.
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.
Texas A&M International University
Laredo, TX - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Cost per Credit:
In-State | $367
Out-of-State | $1,030
Credits to Graduate: 30-36
Texas A&M International University Online offers online master's degrees in business, criminal justice, education, or nursing. If you're pursuing a bilingual education degree, you can specialize in one of four areas, including educational leadership and special education. These and other programs may require a minimum 2.75 undergraduate GPA.
Out-of-state students can expect to pay about three times the in-state tuition rate. The TAIMU Fund$Finder can help you explore and apply for many private scholarship opportunities. TAIMU may require tax returns to process your institutional financial aid application.
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.
Johns Hopkins University
Baltimore, MD - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Cost per Credit: $1,120-$1,737
Credits to Graduate: 30-60
Johns Hopkins University offers almost 30 online master’s programs, including graduate options in writing, finance, education, and public health. Beyond popular programs like these, Johns Hopkins also offers niche master’s programs centered on topics like museum studies and cultural heritage management through its Krieger School of Arts and Sciences.
Admission requirements vary by program, with some asking potential students to submit a 750-word “statement of purpose.” Johns Hopkins offers Hopkins Scholarships to students who demonstrate financial need, as well as a variety of merit-based awards.
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.
Georgetown University
Washington, DC - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Cost per Credit: $1,573
Credits to Graduate: 30-36
Georgetown University’s online master’s programs span industries, including marketing and communications, real estate, and information technology. The private institution also offers business and management master’s degrees in areas like sports industry management, higher education administration, and project management.
All-in-all, Georgetown provides 13 online master’s options through its School of Continuing studies — all of which can be taken on a part-time or full-time basis. The university offers merit-based scholarships to students in its master’s programs, as well as semester- or year-long stipends.
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.
San Diego State University
San Diego, CA - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Cost per Credit: $543-$1,100
Credits to Graduate: 24-51
SDSU Global Campus offers online and hybrid master’s degree programs. Among its online-only offerings are master’s degrees in computer science, electrical engineering, educational leadership, and public health. The public university also has hybrid programs for a master of hospitality and tourism management and a master’s in meeting and event management.
SDSU offers over 700 scholarship opportunities to support its students. The university’s Aztec Scholarships application portal allows students to apply for all available scholarships with one single application. All SDSU students in good academic standing can apply, including graduate and online students.
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.
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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
$126,260
Job Growth
38% 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
$120,360
Job Growth
32% 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
$116,440-$134,950
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
$130,020
Job Growth
27% 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
$89,290
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.