50 Most Affordable Online Degree Programs For In-State Students

Contents

In this article, we highlight the 50 most affordable online degree programs for in-state students.

Not all accredited online degree programs are affordable. Some come with a hefty price tag. To get the best bang for your buck, students are turning to schools located in their own state. Attending a school in your state allows you to take advantage of in-state tuition rates.

In recent years, online colleges and universities that offer in-state tuition rates have expanded their boundaries. They allow students living in nearby states to also take advantage of in-state tuition prices. More and more affordable options are available.

Methodology

We researched the most affordable online degree programs for in-state students. We looked at over 200 institutions that offer one or more online degree programs. We pulled the 50 most affordable schools based on the in-state net price listed by the National Center for Education Statistics (NCES College Navigator). All of the schools listed in our article are regionally or nationally accredited. Many have received rankings from major publications like U.S. News and World Report. We listed the top 50 schools in order of affordability. Since tuition rates are subject to change without notice, it is important to check with the school directly to receive the most recent price.

50 Most Affordable Online Degree Programs For In-State Students 2018

Below is our list of the 50 most affordable online degree programs for in-state students.

#50 – University of Minnesota

Crookston, Minnesota

School Profile

Undergraduate tuition: $11,646

The Digital Campus at University of Minnesota offers a mix of online and hybrid degree programs. Depending on student needs, course work for certain programs may be completed entirely online or with limited sessions required on campus. Undergraduate, master’s, and doctorate programs are offered online. Some of the most popular online programs include:

  • the bachelor of science in accounting
  • the bachelor of science in health management
  • the master’s in computer science

The doctoral programs require minimal campus visits and are offered in a hybrid format. A post-master’s doctor of nursing is offered through the University of Minnesota. The school has received numerous rankings from U.S. News and World Report. In fact, the online bachelor’s programs are ranked #63 out of more than 1,200 programs surveyed by the publication.

#49 – University of Illinois

Springfield, Illinois

School Profile

Undergraduate tuition: $11,413

The University of Illinois offers affordable online degree programs designed for the busy and working student. In-state tuition rates are available for Illinois residents, which makes education costs less expensive. Online bachelor’s degree programs include:

  • business administration
  • English
  • history
  • information systems security
  • liberal studies
  • psychology

Online master’s degree programs include:

  • education
  • environmental studies
  • public administration
  • public health

Major publications like U.S. News and World Report rank the institution among the best regional universities in the Midwest. The online programs are also ranked. These rankings include:

  • #30 among the best bachelor’s programs
  • #18 among the best online graduate business programs
  • #104 among the best online graduate education programs.

#48 – Fitchburg State University

Fitchburg, Massachusetts

School Profile

Undergraduate tuition: $9,935

Fitchburg State University offers online degree options that are affordable for in-state residents. The school offers two undergraduate programs, including the business administration bachelor’s degree and the RN to BSN, which are entirely online. Students do not need to visit the campus to complete any part of the program. The online nursing program may be completed on a part-time or full-time basis, with clinical placements arranged to fit the student’s schedule and geographic location. This means that students may complete their clinical requirement in the town or city of residence. The school’s online programs have earned rankings with U.S. News and World Report. The online bachelor’s programs are ranked #135 and. The online MBA programs are ranked #124 out of over 1,200 programs.

#47 – Baker College

Flint, Michigan

School Profile

Undergraduate tuition: $8,640

Residents of Michigan can earn accredited online degrees from Baker College that are highly affordable. Baker College is considered to be the largest independent college in the state and boasts a 97 percent employment rate among its graduates. The school offers over 40 online degree programs in a wide variety of disciplines. According to Baker’s website, online classes are small, averaging 12-15 students per course. Popular online programs include:

  • bachelor’s degrees in business administration
  • criminal justice
  • health service administration
  • information systems
  • web development

Popular master’s degree programs available online include the MBA and MSN. Baker College is one of the most affordable online schools for in-state students seeking online degree options.

#46 – University of Tennessee

Chattanooga, Tennessee

School Profile

Undergraduate tuition: $8,356

The University of Tennessee (UT) offers accredited online degrees that provide affordable educational options for in-state students. There are five undergraduate programs and four graduate programs that may be completed through UT Online. Bachelor’s degree programs include:

  • business administration
  • agriculture (agribusiness and farm and ranch management)
  • interdisciplinary studies
  • nursing

Students pursuing an online BS in business administration have the option of earning a management concentration. Popular online graduate degree programs include:

  • MBA
  • MS in Agriculture
  • MS in Education.

UT’s online MBA program earned a #66 ranking in U.S. News and World Report’s edition of Best Colleges.

#45 – Youngstown State University

Youngstown, Ohio

School Profile

Undergraduate tuition: $8,317

Youngstown State University offers four online bachelor’s degree programs and seven online master’s degrees through its distance education division. Online undergraduate degree programs include:

  • allied health
  • nursing (RN to BSN)
  • public health
  • respiratory care

Online master’s degree programs include:

  • business administration (MBA)
  • engineering with a management option
  • financial economics
  • health and human services
  • respiratory care
  • teacher education

Youngstown is ranked by major publications like U.S. News and World Report as being among the best regional universities in the Midwest. The institution’s online graduate criminal justice program and the graduate physical therapy program have also earned rankings.

#44 – Columbia College

Columbia, Missouri

School Profile

Undergraduate tuition: $8,240

Columbia College offers a variety of associate’s and bachelor’s degree programs for students who want to learn online. Some of the most popular degree programs include bachelor’s in:

  • business administration
  • computer information systems
  • nursing (RN to BSN)
  • public administration

Online master’s degree programs include the MBA with various concentrations and the master’s in educational leadership. Columbia College’s online programs have earned rankings with major publications like U.S. News and World Report. These rankings include:

  • #106 among the best online bachelor’s programs
  • #107 among the best online MBA programs
  • #146 among the online graduate education programs
  • #6 among the best online graduate criminal justice programs.

#43 – Arkansas State University

Jonesboro, Arkansas

School Profile

Undergraduate tuition: $8,050

Arkansas State University offers affordable online degrees in various disciplines. Both undergraduate and graduate degree programs are available. They may be completed entirely online at the student’s pace. Popular online bachelor’s degree programs include:

  • business administration
  • communication studies
  • criminology
  • nursing (BSN)
  • political science
  • sociology

Online master’s programs include:

  • business administration (MBA)
  • engineering management
  • public administration
  • sport administration

Arkansas State has earned rankings from major publications like U.S. News and World Report. The institution is ranked #53 among the best regional universities in the South and the 41st best college for veterans. The school’s online MBA program is ranked #10 in the nation.

#42 – Sam Houston State University

Huntsville, Texas

School Profile

Undergraduate tuition: $7,618

Sam Houston State University offers undergraduate and graduate degree programs 100% online. The programs support flexible learning in a convenient method for a balance between educational demands and life obligations. Popular online bachelor’s degree programs include:

  • criminal justice
  • general business administration
  • history
  • nursing (BSN)
  • psychology

Over 25 online master’s degree programs are available. Popular master’s programs offered online include:

  • curriculum and instruction
  • library science
  • political science
  • public administration

Sam Houston’s online programs are ranked with major publications like U.S. News and World Report. In fact the online bachelor’s programs are ranked:

  • the online bachelor’s programs are ranked#72
  • the online MBA programs are ranked #66
  • the online graduate education programs are ranked #30
  • the online graduate criminal justice programs are ranked #3.

#41 – Murray State University

Murray, Kentucky

School Profile

Undergraduate tuition: $7,608

Murray State University is a regionally ranked institution that offers affordable online degree programs for busy adults. U.S. News and World Report ranks the institution as:

  • the 28th best regional university in the South
  • the 9th top public school
  • the 6th best college for undergraduate teaching.

Online programs are offered through the university’s academic outreach division. They include six bachelor’s degrees and 11 master’s degrees. Students looking for an online bachelor’s degree may choose from:

  • business administration
  • computer information systems
  • integrated studies
  • logistics and supply chain management
  • RN to BSN
  • telecommunication systems management

Online master’s degree programs include:

  • business administration
  • information systems
  • library media.

#40 – Utah State University

Logan, Utah

School Profile

Undergraduate tuition: $7,260

Utah State University offers affordable online degrees for in-state students. The school offers eight undergraduate degrees and six graduate degrees, delivered entirely online. Popular online programs include the bachelor’s degree in:

  • agribusiness
  • economics
  • liberal arts
  • psychology

Online master’s degree programs include:

  • career and technical education
  • instructional technology
  • professional studies in horticulture

An online MHR (master’s in human resources) is also available. The school’s online degree programs have earned rankings with major publications like U.S. News and World Report. The online bachelor’s programs are ranked 20th and the online graduate education programs are ranked 17th in the nation.

#39 – West Texas A&M University

Canyon, Texas

School Profile

Undergraduate tuition: $7,041

Students in Texas find accredited and affordable online degrees offered by West Texas A&M University. For nearly 100 years, the university has offered educational options to students. Today, busy students require online options to balance their education and work-life obligations. West Texas A&M offers online bachelor’s and master’s degree programs that are administered entirely online. Popular online bachelor’s degrees include:

  • business administration (BBA)
  • criminal justice and administration (BA and BS)
  • general studies (BGS)

RN to BSN degree completion is also available online. Graduate programs offered 100% online include:

  • business administration (MBA)
  • instructional design and technology (MEd)
  • RN to MSN completion.

#38 – Northwestern State University

Natchitoches, Louisiana

School Profile

Undergraduate tuition: $7,006

Northwestern State University offers affordable online degree programs designed for working and busy adults. Northwestern’s global campus is Louisiana’s first and largest electronic campus. Over 38 online degree programs are available, from associate’s to doctorate degrees. Online bachelor’s degree programs include:

  • accounting
  • addiction studies
  • business administration
  • computer information systems
  • psychology

Online master’s degree programs include:

  • adult learning and development
  • education
  • English
  • nursing (MSN)

The online nursing degree offers five areas of concentration. Northwestern’s online programs have been ranked by U.S. News and World Report. The online bachelor’s program ranks #143 and the online graduate nursing program ranks #69.

#37 – Appalachian State University

Boone, North Carolina

School Profile

Undergraduate tuition: $6,852

Appalachian State University offers affordable online degree programs for in-state students. Undergraduate degree completion programs include:

  • child development (BS)
  • communication and advertising (BS)
  • communication studies (BS)
  • health promotion (BS)
  • management (BS, BA)
  • nursing (RN to BSN).

Most of the online programs may be completed on a part-time or full-time basis, and are administered 100% online. Students are not required to attend informational meetings or visit the campus to complete most of the online degrees. Online graduate degree programs include:

  • educational media (MA)
  • library science (MLS)
  • nursing (MSN)
  • school administration (MSA).

U.S. News and World Report ranks Appalachian State’s online bachelor’s programs as the 212th best in the country.

#36 – Valley City State University

Valley City, North Dakota

School Profile

Undergraduate tuition: $6,800

Valley City State University offers accredited online degree programs in some of the most popular disciplines. Online bachelor’s degree programs include:

  • business education
  • English education
  • history education
  • music

Master’s degrees are also available in an online format and include programs in business and education. Programs are nationally accredited. The online education degrees meet the North Dakota teacher licensure requirements. Valley City State has earned high rankings with major publications like U.S. News and World Report. In fact, the 2016 edition of Best Colleges ranked the institution as the #1 top public school. The university’s online bachelor’s programs have earned a #143 ranking. The online graduate education program has earned a #83 ranking.

#35 – Western Carolina University

Cullowhee, North Carolina

School Profile

Undergraduate tuition: $6,623

Western Carolina University offers affordable distance and online degree programs with convenient class schedules and in-state tuition rates. North Carolina residents may take advantage of the in-state tuition while earning an undergraduate degree in any one of the eight programs offered. Popular undergraduate degrees include bachelor’s programs in:

  • criminal justice
  • emergency medical care
  • engineering technology
  • entrepreneurship,
  • RN to BSN

Graduate online degree programs are also available and include:

  • master in nurse leadership
  • master of project management
  • master of entrepreneurship

Western Carolina’s online programs have earned rankings with major publications like U.S. News and World Report. In fact, the publication ranks the school’s online bachelor’s programs #72 and the online graduate business programs #48.

#34 – East Carolina University

Greenville, North Carolina

School Profile

Undergraduate tuition: $6,580

East Carolina University offers low-price online degree programs for in-state students. Undergraduate programs include:

  • BSBA in General Business
  • BS in Communication
  • BS in Education
  • RN to BSN.

The school also offers various online master’s degree programs in:

  • business administration
  • communication
  • computer science
  • education
  • library science
  • nursing
  • technology systems

Over 80 online degree and certificate programs are available from East Carolina University. The school and its online programs are ranked by major publications like U.S. News and World Report. Rankings include:

  • 14th among the best online graduate education programs
  • 30th among the best online graduate criminal justice programs
  • 23rd among the best online graduate nursing programs.

#33 – University of South Florida

Tampa, Florida

School Profile

Undergraduate tuition: $6,410

The University of South Florida offers accredited online degrees for both undergraduate and graduate students. In-state tuition rates are available for Florida residents, making the online programs affordable. Popular bachelor’s degree programs available online include:

  • criminal justice
  • information studies
  • public health
  • women’s and gender studies

Online graduate degrees include programs in:

  • cybersecurity
  • engineering
  • global sustainability
  • music education
  • public health

The University of South Florida is highly ranked with major publications like U.S. News and World Report. The institution’s online degree programs have also earned recognition:

  • the online graduate business programs rank #22
  • the online graduate education programs rank #36
  • the online graduate engineering programs rank #20
  • the online graduate computer information technology programs rank #14.

#32 – Minot State University

Minot, North Dakota

School Profile

Undergraduate tuition: $6,390

For residents of North Dakota, Minot State University offers affordable online degrees with in-state tuition rates. The institution offers entirely online:

  • 10 undergraduate degrees
  • seven graduate degrees
  • three undergraduate certificates
  • one graduate certificate

Popular bachelor’s degree programs available online include:

  • applied business information technology
  • human services
  • management
  • management information systems
  • marketing

Online graduate degree programs include:

  • information systems (MSIS)
  • management (MSM)
  • special education

Minot State has earned rankings from U.S. News and World Report. The university’s online bachelor’s programs are ranked #191 and the online graduate business programs (excluding the MBA) are ranked #78.

#31 – Washburn University

Topeka, Kansas

School Profile

Undergraduate tuition: $6,350

Washburn University’s School of Business, Nursing, and Applied Studies and about 29 departments in the College of Arts and Sciences offer online degree programs. Online programs include bachelor’s degrees in:

  • criminal justice
  • health science
  • human services
  • integrated studies
  • technology administration

There are five online-only certificate programs offered by the allied health department. Washburn has received regional rankings from major publications like U.S. News and World Report. The school is ranked 92nd among the best regional universities in the Midwest and 30th among the top public schools, according to the edition of Best Colleges.

#30 – Luther Rice College and Seminary

Lithonia, Georgia

School Profile

Undergraduate tuition: $6,336

Luther Rice College and Seminary offers nine fully accredited online degree programs. The school reports that over 96% of graduates of Luther Rice indicate satisfaction with the accessibility of faculty in their online courses. Online degree programs include bachelor’s in religion with three areas of emphasis:

  • biblical counseling
  • Christian worldview
  • ministry

Graduate degrees include master’s programs in:

  • apologetics
  • biblical counseling
  • Christian studies
  • leadership
  • ministry

Seminary degree programs are also available online and offer a master’s in divinity and doctorate of ministry.

#29 – Chadron State College

Chadron, Nebraska

School Profile

Undergraduate tuition: $6,220

Chadron State College offers accredited online degree programs in various disciplines. Students can earn online bachelor’s or master’s degrees in:

  • applied sciences
  • business
  • counseling
  • education
  • psychology

According to the school’s website, the most popular undergraduate programs include:

  • business
  • education
  • organizational management

The popular undergraduate business program allows students to focus their studies in a specific area of interest. Business administration concentrations include:

  • accounting
  • agri-business
  • business information systems
  • finance
  • marketing

Courses are offered in an eight-week format so students can accelerate their education and program completion. Part-time and full-time completion options are available.

#28 – Arkansas Tech University

Russellville, Arkansas

School Profile

Undergraduate tuition: $6,192

Arkansas Tech University offers affordable online degrees for students who want to balance work and life obligations with education. The university offers online associate’s degrees in early childhood education and general studies and bachelor’s degrees in:

  • education
  • emergency management/administration
  • nursing (RN to BSN).

Online master’s degrees are also available in some programs. These include:

  • business administration
  • emergency management
  • health informatics
  • teaching English

Arkansas Tech is ranked with major publications like U.S. News and World Report. In fact, the publication lists the institution as the 42nd top public school and the 87th best regional university in the South. The university’s online bachelor’s program ranks #193 out of approximately 1,200 programs.

#27 – University of Alaska Southeast

Juneau, Alaska

School Profile

Undergraduate tuition: $6,132

The University of Alaska Southeast offers the most expansive and affordable online degree programs of any Alaska university. In-state residents can take advantage of low tuition rates and the convenience of learning from home. The online programs are designed for working students and those in need of balancing life obligations with schooling. Online bachelor’s degree programs include:

  • business administration (BBA)
  • elementary education
  • social science
  • special education

Online master’s degree programs include educational leadership (M.Ed.) and public administration (MPA). The university’s graduate public affairs program has received rankings from U.S. News and World Report in recent publications.

#26 – Western Governors University

Salt Lake City, Utah

School Profile

Undergraduate tuition: $6,070

Western Governors University offers affordable online degree programs in areas of:

  • business
  • education
  • information technology
  • nursing

In fact, the online bachelor’s degree programs include:

  • online teacher licensure degrees
  • BS in business management and related fields
  • RN to BSN
  • BS in information technology

Online master’s degree programs include:

  • teaching and education
  • MBA
  • MSN
  • MS in information technology.

Western Governors University is popular among working teachers who want to complete teacher preparation programs or endorsements. Several of these programs are available online. Western Governors’ graduate nursing program has been recognized by U.S. News and World Report in recent publications.

#25 – Columbus State University

Columbus, Georgia

School Profile

Undergraduate tuition: $6,011

Columbus State University offers seven online undergraduate degree programs and 18 graduate degree programs. In-state residents can take advantage of affordable tuition rates offered by the university. Online bachelor’s degree programs include:

  • business
  • communication studies
  • information technology
  • international business
  • liberal arts
  • nursing (RN to BSN)
  • sociology

Some of the online graduate degree programs include:

  • computer science
  • educational leadership
  • nursing (MSN)
  • teacher leadership

Several Columbus State’s online programs are ranked with major publications like U.S. News and World Report. In the 2016 edition of Best Colleges, Columbus State’s online MBA programs rank #62 and the online graduate education programs rank #89.

#24 – City Vision University

Kansas City, Missouri

School Profile

Undergraduate tuition: $6,000

City Vision University is a nonprofit Christian institution that provides online education options for busy adults. Online programs are designed with the working student in mind. Classes are scheduled conveniently and programs may be completed on a part-time or full-time basis. The institution is accredited by the Distance Education Accrediting Commission, which is recognized by the US Department of Education. Online bachelor’s degree programs include:

  • addiction studies
  • business
  • nonprofit management
  • urban missions

For students interested in ministry, an online master’s in technology and ministry is available. Students may also earn a graduate certificate in technology and ministry and an associate’s degree in business entirely online.

#23 – Western New Mexico University

Silver City, New Mexico

School Profile

Undergraduate tuition: $5,704

Western New Mexico University offers fully accredited online degree programs that are highly affordable for in-state students. Students may choose from a variety of undergraduate and graduate studies. Online bachelor’s degrees may be earned in:

  • criminal justice
  • elementary education
  • general business
  • nursing
  • psychology
  • social work

Graduate online degrees include:

  • business administration
  • education
  • educational leadership
  • social work

Three online associate’s degrees are also available. They include:

  • criminal justice
  • human services
  • liberal studies

Western New Mexico University is ranked with U.S. News and World Report. The school’s occupational therapy graduate degree program ranks #127 out of 1,200.

#22 – Kent State University

Liverpool, Ohio

School Profile

Undergraduate tuition: $5,664

Kent State University offers accredited online degrees at the undergraduate and graduate level. It offers online bachelor’s degree programs in:

  • insurance studies
  • nursing
  • public health
  • technical and applied studies

The RN to BSN program is offered in an accelerated online format and may be completed in less than two years. Graduate online programs offered at Kent include master’s degrees in:

  • art education
  • criminal justice
  • education
  • geographic information science
  • health informatics
  • journalism

Kent’s online graduate education program has earned a best program ranking from U.S. News and World Report. In fact, the program ranks 136th out of more than 1,200 programs.

#21 – Cameron University

Lawton, Oklahoma

School Profile

Undergraduate tuition: $5,580

Cameron University offers undergraduate and graduate online programs for busy and working students. Many of the traditionally taught undergraduate programs are available entirely online or in hybrid format. Online graduate programs include:

  • Master of Business Administration
  • MS in Education
  • MS in Educational Leadership
  • MS in Organizational Leadership

The MBA is taught entirely online, while the MS in Educational Leadership program can be completed 64% online. Cameron University is ranked as a best regional university by U.S. News and World Report. The publication also lists the institution’s online MBA program as the 131st best program of its kind.

#20 – University of North Carolina at Pembroke

Pembroke, North Carolina

School Profile

Undergraduate tuition: $5,564

The University of North Carolina at Pembroke offers accredited online degree programs designed for working adults. Students may choose from eight undergraduate programs and three master’s degree programs. Online bachelor’s degree programs include:

  • business administration (finance and management tracks)
  • criminal justice
  • sociology

Online master’s degree programs include:

  • business administration (MBA)
  • elementary education
  • public administration

UNC-Pembroke is a highly ranked institution by major publications like U.S. News and World Report. In fact, the 2016 edition of Best Colleges ranks the school as the 93rd best regional university in the South and the 47th top public school. The online bachelor’s programs rank #212. The online graduate education programs rank #53.

#19 – Missouri Southern State University

Joplin, Missouri

School Profile

Undergraduate tuition: $5,523

Missouri Southern State University is a regionally accredited institution that offers online degree programs for busy adults. The university recently expanded its boundaries, allowing residents of Missouri, Kansas, Oklahoma, Arkansas, and several counties in Illinois to qualify for in-state tuition. Online bachelor’s options include programs in:

  • business administration
  • criminal justice
  • environmental health and safety
  • various health science degrees

The online BSBA degree offers six areas of concentration, including:

  • accounting
  • general business
  • human resource management
  • international business
  • management
  • marketing

The university is ranked by major publications like U.S. News and World Report as having one of the best online bachelor’s programs in the nation.

#18 – Albany State University

Albany, Georgia

School Profile

Undergraduate tuition: $5,490

Albany State University offers seven accredited online degree programs at the undergraduate and graduate level. Three online bachelor’s degrees are available and include:

  • business information systems
  • fire services administration
  • RN to BSN.

Online graduate programs include master’s degrees in:

  • criminal justice
  • education (early childhood and special education)
  • nursing

The online MSN program requires students to hold a current RN license to practice in Georgia, prior to admission. Albany State University is a highly ranked institution. In fact, U.S. News and World Report ranks the school as the 93rd best regional university in the South. The university’s graduate nursing school has also been ranked in prior years.

#17 – Clayton State University

Morrow, Georgia

School Profile

Undergraduate tuition: $5,340

Clayton State University offers affordable online degree programs for busy adults located anywhere in the world. Students may choose from various online bachelor’s degrees and select online master’s programs. Online undergraduate programs include bachelor’s degrees in:

  • business administration
  • English
  • history
  • integrative studies
  • nursing (RN to BSN).

Two master’s degree programs are available exclusively online. They are archival studies (MAS) and nursing (MSN). Clayton is ranked with major publications like U.S. News and World Report as being one of the best regional colleges in the South. The institution’s online graduate nursing program is ranked #88 out of 1,200 similar programs.

#16 – The University of Texas of the Permian Basin

Odessa, Texas

School Profile

Undergraduate tuition: $5,250

The University of Texas of the Permian Basin offers low-price online degree programs for working and busy students. Online bachelor’s degree programs include:

  • communications
  • humanities
  • management
  • marketing
  • nursing (RN to BSN)
  • psychology
  • sociology

Online master’s degree options include:

  • business administration (MBA)
  • computer science
  • criminal justice administration
  • professional accountancy (MPA)
  • public administration

The University of Texas of Permian Basin is a regionally ranked institution. U.S. News and World Report ranks the school’s online bachelor’s programs #92 in the nation. Other rankings include #115 for best online MBA programs and #136 for best online graduate education programs.

#15 – Langston University

Langston, Oklahoma

School Profile

Undergraduate tuition: $5,042

Langston University offers low-price online degree programs in business for residents of Oklahoma. The School of Business offers online studies and degree completion for students who want to earn a bachelor’s in business or management. Degree options include a BBA with several areas of emphasis. Students may earn a general business administration degree or focus on a particular area of interest, such as:

  • entrepreneurship
  • human resource management
  • international business
  • marketing
  • supply chain management

Langston University is a historically black college and has earned recognition from major publications like U.S. News and World Report for being among the best colleges of its kind.

#14 – University of Wyoming

Laramie, Wyoming

School Profile

Undergraduate tuition: $4,892

The University of Wyoming’s Division of Outreach Credit Programs offers undergraduate, graduate and certificate programs at a distance. Bachelor’s degree programs delivered online include:

  • business administration
  • criminal justice
  • nursing
  • psychology

Online master’s degree programs include:

  • education
  • English
  • human development and family sciences
  • nursing
  • public administration
  • speech pathology

The University of Wyoming is highly ranked with major publications like U.S. News and World Report. In fact, the publication lists the institution as the 168th best national university and the 134th best college for veterans in the nation.

#13 – Fayetteville State University

Fayetteville, North Carolina

School Profile

Undergraduate tuition: $4,885

Fayetteville State University offers affordable online degree programs for residents of North Carolina who want to take advantage of in-state tuition rates. FSU’s undergraduate online programs are considered to be degree completion. This means upper level courses may be taken online as long as core requirements have been satisfied. FSU’s online bachelor’s programs include:

  • business administration
  • criminal justice
  • nursing (RN to BSN)
  • psychology
  • sociology.

Currently, online master’s degree programs are available in business administration (MBA) and criminal justice. Both Fayetteville’s online graduate degree programs have earned rankings with U.S. News and World Report. U.S. News ranks the online MBA program #91 and the online criminal justice programs #33.

#12 – Florida Atlantic University

Boca Raton, Florida

School Profile

Undergraduate tuition: $4,831

Florida Atlantic University (FAU) offers various online degree programs from six of its colleges. The most popular online programs at FAU are in the school’s Colleges of Business, Education, and Nursing. Students may earn:

  • a bachelor of business administration with various concentrations
  • a master’s in education
  • RN to BSN

Also offering online bachelor’s and master’s degrees are:

  • The College of Engineering and Computer Science
  • College of Science
  • College of Design and Social Inquiry

The university’s online MBA program is ranked 100th in the nation, according to U.S. News and World Report’s 2016 publication of Best Colleges. Other rankings include #42 among best online graduate nursing programs and #26 among best graduate business programs (excluding the MBA).

#11 – New Mexico Highlands University

Las Vegas, New Mexico

School Profile

Undergraduate tuition: $4,800

New Mexico Highlands University offers six online degree programs for working or busy students. New Mexico residents can take advantage of affordable in-state tuition rates designed to lower the cost of higher education. Online programs at the university include:

  • business (MBA)
  • education (MA)
  • nursing (RN to BSN)
  • oil and gas management (BS)

The master’s in education program offers three areas of concentration, including:

  • curriculum and instruction
  • rehabilitation counseling
  • special education

All programs are accredited with the Higher Learning Commission. According to U.S. News and World Report, the institution’s rehabilitation counseling and social work graduate schools have received rankings in the 2016 edition of Best Colleges.

#10 – Fort Hays State University

Hays, Kansas

School Profile

Undergraduate tuition: $4,654

Fort Hays State University offers a large number of affordable, fully accredited bachelor’s and master’s degrees. Online undergraduate programs include bachelor’s degrees in:

  • business education
  • computer science
  • elementary education
  • international business
  • nursing (RN to BSN)
  • sociology

Thirteen online master’s degree programs are available. Popular online master’s programs include:

  • business administration (MBA)
  • education
  • health and human performance
  • liberal studies
  • nursing administration
  • nursing education

Fort Hays State’s online programs are ranked with major publications like U.S. News and World Report. In fact, the school’s online bachelor’s programs rank #24. The online graduate education programs rank #48, and the online MBA program ranks #91.

#9 – College of Coastal Georgia

Brunswick, Georgia

School Profile

Undergraduate tuition: $3,971

The College of Coastal Georgia offers affordable online degrees for busy adults who want to balance work-life obligations with education. The school offers online bachelor’s degree programs in:

  • criminal justice
  • French
  • Spanish
  • legal studies
  • organizational leadership.

The BS in Organizational Leadership offers four areas of concentration:

  • health care administration
  • legal office administration
  • office administration and technology
  • public service administration

The institution’s online bachelor’s programs have been recently ranked by major publications like U.S. News and World Report. In the 2016 edition of Best Colleges, the ranking is recognized but not published.

#8 – Middle Georgia State University

Macon, Georgia

School Profile

Undergraduate tuition: $3,890

Middle Georgia State University offers accredited online degree programs for busy students seeking non-traditional schooling. From associate’s to master’s degrees, Middle Georgia State offers a wide variety of programs with online completion options. Online undergraduate programs include bachelor’s degrees in information technology (BS) and nursing (BSN). Online graduate degree programs include information technology (MS) and nursing (MSN). Several associate degree specialties are available online. Middle Georgia State University is ranked by major publications like U.S. News and World Report. In fact, the 2016 edition of Best Colleges lists Middle Georgia State among the best regional colleges in the South.

#7 – Brigham Young University Idaho

Rexburg, Idaho

School Profile

Undergraduate tuition: $3,830

Online learning at Brigham Young University is affordable for Idaho residents. BYU-Idaho offers in-state tuition rates for residents of the state. Online certificates, associate, and bachelor’s degree programs are designed with the working student in mind. Online bachelor’s degree programs include:

  • applied management
  • business management
  • computer information technology
  • healthcare administration
  • nursing (RN to BSN)
  • software engineering

BYU Idaho is a regionally ranked institution by major publications like U.S. News and World Report. In the 2016 edition of Best Colleges, the university is ranked #13 among the best regionally colleges in the West.

#6 – South Texas College

McAllen, Texas

School Profile

Undergraduate tuition: $3,486

South Texas College offers affordable online degree programs for in-state students. The school offers four baccalaureate degrees online, as well as several types of associate degrees. Online bachelor’s degree programs include:

  • computer and information technologies
  • medical and health services management
  • organizational leadership
  • technology management

Associate degrees available online allow students to focus their studies on an area of interest. Specialties include:

  • accounting
  • anthropology
  • business administration
  • computer information systems
  • criminal justice
  • education

The school reports that its online programs are designed for working students, military members and veterans, and traditional students looking for flexible online learning options.

#5 – Removed by editor

#4 – Daytona State College

Daytona Beach, Florida

School Profile

Undergraduate tuition: $3,282

Daytona State College offers online degree programs and certificates for adults who want to continue working and balancing life obligations while attending school. Online degree programs  at Daytona State include bachelor’s and associate degrees. The online bachelor’s degree programs include:

  • engineering technology
  • information technology
  • supervision and management.

Daytona State College has earned rankings from major publications like U.S. News and World Report. In fact, the 2016 edition of Best Colleges ranks Daytona’s online bachelor’s programs as the 7th best in the nation. The online bachelor’s programs feature a 2+2 model. This requires students to complete an associate’s degree during the first two years of study followed by two years of baccalaureate coursework.

#3 – Great Basin College

Elko, Nevada

School Profile

Undergraduate tuition: $2,805

Great Basin College offers online degree programs for working students who need flexible scheduling and non-traditional educational options. The school offers fully online bachelor’s degree programs in:

  • English
  • nursing (RN to BSN)
  • applied science

Some of the applied science degree options include:

  • digital information technology
  • graphic communications
  • land surveying and geomatics
  • management in technology

The school also offers fully online associate’s degrees in areas such as:

  • early childhood education
  • graphic communication
  • human services office technology

All online programs can be completed on a part-time or full-time basis.

#2 – College of Southern Nevada

Las Vegas, Nevada

School Profile

Undergraduate tuition: $2,805

College of Southern Nevada offers low-price online degree programs that are fully accredited and designed for working students. Online associate’s and bachelor’s degrees are available for students who need to balance work and life obligations while attending school. There are four types of associate degrees available, along with numerous areas of emphasis. For instance, students may earn an Associate of Applied Science in Business Management, and Associate of Arts in Criminal Justice, or and Associate of Business. Currently, only one bachelor’s degree program is available online – the online BS in Dental Hygiene.

#1 – Broward College

Fort Lauderdale, Florida

School Profile

Undergraduate tuition: $2,753

Broward College offers online accelerated degree programs. They’re designed for working adults to complete an associate’s degree in less than two years. Broward’s online degree programs include associate degrees in:

  • business administration
  • general business
  • computer systems specialist

The program can be completed in less 15 months, and sometimes sooner if the student has completed required coursework elsewhere. Most of the courses do not require textbook purchases, according to the school’s website. This reduces costs. Broward offers in-state tuition rates for residents of Florida. Completion of the online associate’s degree prepares students for four-year universities, or one of the bachelor’s degree programs offered at Broward.

Brenda Rufener
Author

Julie McCaulley
Expert

Carrie Sealey-Morris
Editor-in-Chief