The most affordable schools for online master’s degrees offer students a pathway to career advancement without the high cost of traditional graduate education. Each institution on this list features master's tuition rates under $8,000 per year.
Key Takeaways:
- California Coast University ranks #1, offering the lowest annual tuition at just $4,875.
- Union Commonwealth University and Kennesaw State University follow closely, with tuition rates under $6,000.
To ensure accurate and fair comparisons, we manually collected and verified tuition rates and selected a representative master’s degree at each school — the program that most closely reflects the institution’s overall median pricing for graduate-level tuition. This approach provides a realistic benchmark for prospective students evaluating costs across different online graduate programs. For more details, see our methodology.
Popular Online Programs
| a | Online Schools | Programs | Alumni Salary |
|---|---|---|---|
| 279 | 668 | $92,020 | |
| 36 | 84 | $125,050 | |
| 14 | 41 | $75,510 | |
| 23 | 73 | $102,950 | |
| b | Online Schools | Programs | Alumni Salary |
| 57 | 214 | $78,730 | |
| c | Online Schools | Programs | Alumni Salary |
| 46 | 70 | $62,870 | |
| 32 | 126 | $48,110 | |
| 57 | 139 | $99,440 | |
| 202 | 561 | $78,850 | |
| 150 | 365 | $126,210 | |
| 226 | 542 | $58,940 | |
| 34 | 77 | $56,100 | |
| 216 | 600 | $63,250 | |
| 203 | 383 | $81,960 | |
| d | Online Schools | Programs | Alumni Salary |
| 149 | 244 | Not reported | |
| e | Online Schools | Programs | Alumni Salary |
| 41 | 103 | $108,070 | |
| 790 | 4,390 | $66,590 | |
| 410 | 1,060 | $72,530 | |
| 68 | 187 | $143,210 | |
| 160 | 400 | $59,960 | |
| 65 | 153 | $95,780 | |
| 113 | 259 | $125,320 | |
| 112 | 200 | $55,870 | |
| 122 | 316 | $77,200 | |
| 130 | 254 | $66,320 | |
| 65 | 147 | $61,820 | |
| f | Online Schools | Programs | Alumni Salary |
| 269 | 511 | $133,350 | |
| 18 | 45 | $62,960 | |
| 53 | 131 | $81,960 | |
| h | Online Schools | Programs | Alumni Salary |
| 130 | 199 | $88,280 | |
| 362 | 904 | $89,180 | |
| 321 | 750 | $90,050 | |
| 66 | 156 | $59,420 | |
| 93 | 272 | $94,790 | |
| 54 | 103 | $65,870 | |
| 234 | 524 | $82,050 | |
| 150 | 447 | $54,450 | |
| i | Online Schools | Programs | Alumni Salary |
| 43 | 97 | $108,330 | |
| 230 | 727 | $117,800 | |
| j | Online Schools | Programs | Alumni Salary |
| 49 | 93 | $70,720 | |
| l | Online Schools | Programs | Alumni Salary |
| 94 | 188 | $57,400 | |
| m | Online Schools | Programs | Alumni Salary |
| 684 | 2,433 | $108,190 | |
| 253 | 465 | $92,720 | |
| 35 | 95 | $58,940 | |
| 96 | 200 | $97,760 | |
| 677 | 3,306 | $108,190 | |
| 52 | 131 | $116,980 | |
| 32 | 99 | $48,140 | |
| 129 | 341 | $64,840 | |
| 88 | 173 | $40,050 | |
| n | Online Schools | Programs | Alumni Salary |
| 157 | 922 | $122,910 | |
| 448 | 2,177 | $122,910 | |
| 108 | 271 | $63,440 | |
| o | Online Schools | Programs | Alumni Salary |
| 464 | 1,095 | $108,190 | |
| p | Online Schools | Programs | Alumni Salary |
| 11 | 27 | Not reported | |
| 74 | 174 | $61,770 | |
| 32 | 115 | $94,490 | |
| 149 | 299 | $108,190 | |
| 198 | 634 | $61,720 | |
| 281 | 724 | $80,400 | |
| 213 | 605 | $88,280 | |
| 45 | 99 | $81,810 | |
| r | Online Schools | Programs | Alumni Salary |
| 167 | 790 | $52,210 | |
| s | Online Schools | Programs | Alumni Salary |
| 86 | 251 | $60,550 | |
| 118 | 337 | $59,960 | |
| 21 | 59 | $64,610 | |
| 53 | 93 | $155,130 | |
| 23 | 40 | $62,820 | |
| 315 | 1,002 | $69,840 | |
| 15 | 47 | $67,270 | |
| 174 | 379 | $61,820 | |
| 45 | 85 | $58,940 | |
| 124 | 194 | $108,190 | |
| 70 | 154 | $151,170 | |
| t | Online Schools | Programs | Alumni Salary |
| 392 | 1,706 | $61,620 | |
| 86 | 283 | $62,040 | |
| w | Online Schools | Programs | Alumni Salary |
| 12 | 23 | $111,090 |
Most Affordable Schools for Online Master's Degrees
Overview of Online Master's Degrees
The growth of online programs has students across the country considering earning their master's degree online. Many online students prefer distance learning because it's more convenient and makes it easier to fit classes into an already busy schedule. Enrolling online might give students more choices when selecting a school or program; depending on what's available in your local area, you might find a more affordable option or a program that better fits your needs online.
People go to graduate school for different reasons. Some choose to pursue an online master's degree to gain subject-area expertise or specialize in their field, while others choose master's programs to gain new skills for a career change. Earning a master's degree may also be necessary for professional certification or licensure in fields such as counseling or healthcare.
What Is A Master's Degree?
Master's programs are advanced degrees that allow students to focus solely on their field of study and gain skills and knowledge targeted for specific careers. Master's degrees usually include 30-40 credits, but some programs require as many as 60 credits, depending on the degree. Most master's programs take two years to complete, but this also depends on if students enroll at a full- or part-time pace.
Master's Degree Quick Facts
Average Credits: 30-40
Average Duration: Two years
You'll need to have a bachelor's degree from an accredited university to enroll in a master's program, and many graduate schools require at least a 3.0 GPA, although some schools only ask that you earned a 2.5 or 2.75 GPA during your undergraduate studies. If you choose a master's program in a field similar to your bachelor's degree, you'll likely meet most course prerequisites. For students seeking a degree in a new field, there may be additional coursework requirements you'll need to complete prior to enrollment.
Some master's programs require applicants to submit standardized test scores along with their application. The most common ones are the Graduate Record Examination (GRE), the Graduate Management Admission Test (GMAT), the Law School Admission Test (LSAT), and the Medical College Admission Test (MCAT). Although it's fairly common for one of these tests to be required, there are online options that do not require standardized testing in the application process.
Can You Get a Master's Degree Online?
Today's graduate students have access to thousands of online master's degree programs offered by accredited and respected universities across the country. Whether you're looking for a master's degree in computer science or social work, there are many more options available to you due to the rapid growth of online degrees.
Many online master's degrees are geared toward working adults, offering flexible schedules and a quicker path to completion.
When choosing an online degree, it's important to note that there are a few major differences between online options. One of the most significant differences is between nonprofit and for-profit schools. Nonprofit schools are generally seen as the better option, as there is a long history of predatory practices and evidence for poor student outcomes at for-profit schools overall. However, this is not always true. There are for-profit colleges that offer quality degree programs and have good reputations. It's best to do some research if you're considering a for-profit institution to ensure you'll have the support you need.
Accreditation
Accreditation is crucial when considering an online master's degree, as it signifies that a school and its programs meet universal academic quality standards set by accrediting bodies. Accredited schools can receive federal funding, allowing students to use federal and state financial aid. Choosing an accredited program ensures that a degree is recognized by employers and other institutions, enables the use of financial aid, allows for the transfer of credits, meets requirements for doctoral or post-master's programs, and is often necessary for certification and licensure.
At OnlineU, we only feature accredited schools to guarantee quality education options, with accreditation information available under our rankings to help you make informed decisions.
Are Online Master's Degrees Respected?
Some still worry that an online degree won't be taken seriously, but this perception has changed significantly as prestigious universities like Harvard and Dartmouth now offer online master's degrees. The key factors that ensure a degree is respected are the school's accreditation, its reputation, and the quality of its programs. Online degrees are becoming increasingly popular and are often identical in curriculum and value to their on-campus counterparts. Accredited degrees, whether earned online or in-person, meet the requirements for licensure, credit transfer, further education, and employment. Choosing an accredited program from a reputable institution ensures your online degree will be seen as legitimate by employers and other institutions.
Additionally, most diplomas do not indicate whether the degree was earned through an online program. This means you won't need to disclose this information to potential employers unless you wish to. In fact, mentioning it could be advantageous if you are seeking a remote job, as it demonstrates your capability to work and learn in an online environment.
Is It Worth Getting an Online Master's Degree?
There are many benefits to earning a master's degree. An advanced credential may be helpful If your interest is in job advancement, a career change, or certification or licensure in your field. However, it is a significant financial investment and takes hard work, dedication, and time to achieve. Many people struggle with the decision to enroll in a campus-based master's program because it often means they have to take time off work and either move to a new city to pursue their chosen program or be limited to the options available in their area.
Graduate students are more likely to choose an online degree, in part because they often have specific professional goals and can clearly identify how their master's degree will help them achieve those goals. The growth of online learning has opened up many opportunities for graduate students – it's now much easier to find an online degree you can fit in around your work schedule, and you can enroll in the program you really want without uprooting and moving to a new city. These added benefits that come with online learning might make it more worth it for students who are on the fence about enrolling.
Here are some other things to consider when weighing your options for graduate school:
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Return on Investment — When considering a master's degree, it's essential to weigh the cost of the degree against potential salary growth. If your degree won't significantly increase your earnings, you may face a heavier burden of student loan debt. Opting for an affordable program can reduce education costs, but you should also research median salaries in your field for those with master's degrees to better understand your financial outlook post-graduation.
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Industry Standards — For some industries, such as higher education, counseling, and social work, a master's degree is a standard requirement for many positions. For others, such as communications, healthcare, and construction, there are more job opportunities available with a lower level of education. Whether or not a master's degree will benefit you will depend on the field you work in and if a graduate degree is standard for your field.
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Personal and Professional Aspirations — A master's degree is sometimes necessary for certification or licensure, or to apply for a doctoral program. Master's degrees can also help you make a career change – earning a degree in another field can better prepare you for a role in a new industry, or give you a unique skill set when paired with your undergraduate degree.
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Academic Opportunities — This last consideration can also play a big role in deciding if you want to go to graduate school. Depending on what program you choose, you could have the opportunity to do critical research in your field or participate in an internship or fellowship you might not have access to otherwise.
Are Online Master's Degrees Cheaper?
The cost of a master's degree varies depending on what type of degree you earn, how long your program is, what school you attend, whether you live in-state or out-of-state, and other factors. According to data from the National Center for Education Statistics (NCES), schools range from $12,596 for in-state students at public schools to $28,017 for students at private colleges. However, total costs for a master's program at the most prestigious schools can be more than $200,000.
While keeping these numbers in mind might be helpful, you should note that the NCES does not provide online-specific tuition data, so the cost of your online program may be significantly different from these numbers. In addition, NCES uses a single tuition rate for all master's programs, but the cost per credit can vary significantly across programs.
According to our rankings of the most affordable schools for online master's degrees, annual tuition ranges from $4,875 to $7,999. California Coast University leads with the lowest tuition at $4,875 per year, while New Mexico State University rounds out the list at $7,999 annually. Most schools fall between $5,500 and $7,500, offering a competitive and affordable selection for graduate students seeking flexibility without sacrificing quality.
Funding an Online Master's Program
While bachelor's degree students typically get more financial aid from federal grants and loans than graduate students do, there is funding available to help cover the cost of a master's degree. The first place to check for financial aid opportunities should be your school's financial aid website. There, any institutional grants, scholarships, fellowships, and other funding opportunities should be listed. After you've exhausted this resource, you can look for external funding sources to help cover tuition and other costs. Students should always rely on gift aid they don't have to pay back before turning to student loans to make up the difference.
Here is a breakdown of the financial aid opportunities that may be available to online grad students:
Scholarships and Grants
Scholarships and grants can be offered by schools, nonprofits, private organizations, federal and state governments, and other entities. Grants are typically need-based, while scholarships can be need- or merit-based. Filling out the FAFSA may qualify you for some federal, state, and school grants and scholarships. Others will require a separate application. There may be specific scholarships or research grants available to you based on your field of study, your financial need, or a specific demographic you fit into.
Fellowships
Fellowships are typically awarded based on academic achievement and can be awarded internally by your school or department, or from an external source such as government agencies, nonprofits, or private organizations. Fellowships can be competitive and typically have early application deadlines. There are fellowships available for specific fields of study, to increase diversity in a given area, to fund research on certain topics, for academic excellence, and many other reasons.
Work-study
The Federal Work-Study Program is based on financial need and allows students to work part-time on campus or with a private nonprofit or public agency. The work-study program provides funding to schools and other organizations to hire eligible students, and those who participate in the program earn a paycheck just like any other job. It can be harder to find a work-study position as an online student, but some online schools partner with organizations or provide remote and in-person work-study positions for students at campus locations across the country. If you qualify for work-study funding, contact your school to find out what options are available to you.
Employer Tuition Assistance
One of the most underutilized sources of funding is education benefits offered by employers. Employer tuition assistance is a benefit program where employers provide financial support to employees for their education expenses. This assistance can cover tuition fees, textbooks, and other educational costs for courses or degree programs related to the employee's current job or career advancement. The aim is to help employees gain new skills, improve job performance, and advance their careers, while also benefiting the employer by fostering a more skilled and educated workforce. Schools with a wide selection of online options also often partner with companies to provide education and training options.
Choosing the Right Online Master's Program
Making the decision to enroll in an online master's degree program is an exciting first step, but it's easy to get overwhelmed once you realize how many options are available to you. Some master's programs have been quickly and naturally adapted for the online space, and are more popular with distance learners. For other programs, you may have to do some research to find one that best meets your professional needs. Some of the most popular programs for online graduate students include accounting, counseling, psychology, social work, criminal justice, public administration, healthcare administration, and MBA programs.
You might think about this decision in two ways: choosing a degree that will help you advance in your current field, or choosing a new area of study that allows you to make a career switch or approach your field from a new perspective. Many people choose to get an MBA or a master's in a business-related field to gain administrative experience and leadership skills they can apply in their current field. Others pursue a master's in education to become certified as a teacher.
Once you've landed on a field of study and have a clear idea of your professional goals, take some time to research what programs are out there. There are a few factors to consider, including:
- Does a school offer a general master's degree in a field, or is there more than one option and multiple concentrations available?
- Will a Master of Arts or Master of Science will be better for your professional goals?
- What degree concentrations are available in your chosen field?
- Will you need to complete an in-person component such as an internship, residency, or clinical hours?
- What kind of online program will best fit your learning style?
If you're starting your educational journey, explore our list of affordable online bachelor's degrees for inspiration. Also, consider our list of the most affordable online doctorates to plan your future.
Student Reviews of Online Master's Programs
After reading the reviews here, including a "review of the reviewers", I have found that basic education in this country has failed in monumental proportions. I have never seen so many grammatical, spelling and punctuation errors in a space dedicated to reviewing ... A SCHOOL! Lower case "i" when it's "I", "there" being used for "their", "your" for "you're" and vice versa ... and ENDLESS sentences with the use of several conjunctions doesn't even begin to cover it! I've even read the word "their"... Read More
Review Date: 12/17/2013
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: Yes
There are no face-to-face meetings with instructors or colleagues, but you can attend class 24/7.
Review Date: 5/11/2014
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: No
The Pros- Online classes allow me the freedom to go online when I want to and not be chained to the classroom. I am able to get a 360-degree view of what I want to do for my classes. If there is a problem, the facilitators are there to help (via email). The cons- There is still the idea that online schools and degrees are not up to par with brick and mortar institutions. However, more and more schools are turning to online classes, because of the return non-traditional students to school and their... Read More
Review Date: 8/14/2013
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: No
i agree with all students who have poorly rated this school, hind site is 20/20, now I want back the money they took for courses without sny results due to the lack effective teachers. there is nothing else I can say they're only interested in getting your student loan money and having the Professor is getting paid for their time. they charge way too much from what they give them return and I have yet to receive a career for the money spent on previous masters degrees which I have graduated from... Read More
Review Date: 10/1/2024
Would Recommend: No
Helpful for Career: No
The professors, academics, and learning management system are pretty good. However, this school has the worst financial aid department of any school I've ever attended. You never get an actual person on the phone; if you make an appointment for a call, they don't call you. When you do get a person, they never seem to know the answer to your question. If you're using veteran tuition benefits they know even less. The field placement has been terrible, given the online nature of the course, they were... Read More
Review Date: 10/3/2024
Would Recommend: No
Helpful for Career: No
I have limited experience with online education and have always preferred the traditional classroom setting, where I can engage in discussions with classmates and professors. However, as a full-time registered nurse, an online program was my only viable option. Initially, I had many doubts and concerns about whether I could succeed in an online learning environment.
Fortunately, Chamberlain University’s system is intuitive and user-friendly, making the transition much easier. I appreciate their well-structured... Read More
Review Date: 3/11/2025
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: Yes
I do appreciate the university for providing a platform to vouce our experiences, opinions, and feedback. Overall, I have not been pleased with the program flow or teaching methods, as there is very little "teaching" being provided. I have asked since the beginning of the program if we could have the hybrid/on campus courses' lectures made available to us, to no avail. Luckily, I have been in a unique position where my husband is an M.D. so his knowledge has helped me through the program, but I have... Read More
Review Date: 6/25/2025
Would Recommend: No
Helpful for Career: No
There is no transparency to this school. Once your onboard you are left to your own device. The other day they did an ACH from bank account unauthorized. I am currently in the process of leaving the school. Getting out while I am still early before any more errors on their behalf which I suffer the consequences from their actions.
Review Date: 7/7/2023
Would Recommend: No
Helpful for Career: No
I have just graduated from CTU online with a bachelor's in science of business administration with a concentration in healthcare management. GO CLASS OF 2025 and congratulations to all of the 2025 graduates! I have enjoyed every day of learning here at CTU and the instruction of my professors! They were the best and I will always remember their time, style of instruction, support, constructive criticism, availability for questions/concerns and words of encouragement. Thank you so much! I am currently... Read More
Review Date: 5/30/2025
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: No
I was so excited to attend this school in the beginning because of the Walden Facebook groups and what the students there were saying. Financial Aid department was so unprofessional and informed about any concerns I had. When I was a student there, I could not believe the amount of work was given in such tight frame time to complete. Every course was 11 weeks and we would take 2-3 classes each term. I felt as though it was too fast and I did not learn anything. I had a great experience with the teacher... Read More
Review Date: 8/21/2025
Would Recommend: No
Helpful for Career: No
Coming from the traditional way of receiving an education (in person), the online structure was initially intimidating. The University of Phoenix (UoPx) has gone above and beyond to ensure I was comfortable and prepared to enter this virtual educational experience. Their academic advisors touch base regularly with encouragement, motivation, and time for questions and/or concerns. The instructors/professors are available, experienced, and knowledgeable. I have had a great experience with UoPx.
Review Date: 5/28/2025
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: Yes
Never told my degree would be useless, now I have to pay for another masters degree elsewhere. Useless. DO NOT GO HERE AND PURSUE THE PSYCHOLOGY PROGRAM IF YOU WANT TO ACTUALLY WORK IN PSYCHOLOGY OR SOCIAL WORK IN ANY CAPACITY. WASTE OF TIME AND MONEY.
Review Date: 4/21/2025
Would Recommend: No
Helpful for Career: No
My overall experience while attending University of Phoenix was knowledgeable, challenging, and impactful. I learned many skills while attending. The grit, determination, and perseverance make the outcome even more amazing. I recommend to anyone wanting to further themselves and gain skills utilized in todays work environment.
Review Date: 7/22/2025
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: Yes
I am working in a development role with a nonprofit and I feel that every assignment I’ve had has tied directly into my profession. I have even used programs and events that I am in charge of to do assignments! I feel like this degree program has been extremely important in my growth professionally and am excited to see how my career flourishes as a result!
Review Date: 3/27/2025
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: Yes
The university offers a perfect blend of academic excellence and a supportive community that fosters both personal and professional growth.One of the standout features of Chamberlain University is its dedicated faculty. Professors are not only experts in their fields but also deeply invested in their students' success. They encourage critical thinking, creativity, and hands-on learning, making the educational experience truly engaging.
Review Date: 3/20/2025
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: Yes
I’ve received three degrees here as well as a undergrad cert. I will be back to obtain my doctorate. I learned a lot and also became more disciplined with my time and energy. Having the opportunity to focus on the end goal and being able to see already the doors that are opening for me is a blessing. Thanks UOP!
Review Date: 5/28/2025
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: Yes
University of Pheonix is a great learning institution. The counselors and professors are always readily available to assist you with knowledge, kindness and patience.
I've learned so much at UOP. I now look at the world with a different set of lens.
Review Date: 7/30/2025
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: Yes
This school has exceeded my expectations in every way. Each assignment has a clear purpose and intent to assist in my career goals. The teachers are helpful, educated and professional. Financial aid is helpful any time I’ve contacted them, the only thing negative is calling financial aid sometimes takes 45 minutes. I can totally handle that. I’m SO excited to continue my education and so glad I made this choice.
Review Date: 9/7/2023
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: Yes
This is not a review on the campus learning, but specifically with the online education. If you're just looking for a quick upgraded degree to further an already established career, then Liberty online is great. But if you're returning after a long period away from school, or you're trying to go in a different direction from your B.A., LUOnline - or any 8 week, Online course -is not a good idea, especially if your desire is to LEARN your subject, not merely pass the requirements of the course.
I started... Read More
But for the Christian who is working towards a firm, reliable and applicable foundation of faith to build on, accept that 8 week classes may not be enough, and in the case of Liberty University's Online program, when you finish, you leave with the paper, and the feeling that you have been undernourished in what you were hoping to be fed on - God's Word.
In the meantime, I've decided that I'll complete the courses I'm taking now, drop the courses I planned for the second half of the fall term, and concentrate on clearing my mind of the courses taken here. I'll be moving on to Midwestern Theological Seminary in the Spring, and looking forward to the real education I was looking for when I started at LUOnline.
Review Date: 10/5/2024
Would Recommend: No
Helpful for Career: No
The flexibility is really the only good thing about their program. But at the same time it’s a double edged sword. The classes are not challenging, they are very repetitive, and I do not feel like it bettered my career.
The worst part however is the customer service. I am in a dispute with debt collector, because I withdrew from a class I did not want to be in and they failed to actually remove me. This resulted in me getting an incomplete F and my federal loan being revoked without any notice. They... Read More
Review Date: 6/2/2025
Would Recommend: No
Helpful for Career: No