Higher education in the USA is expensive, but online degrees are changing the game. With lower tuition, flexible schedules, and accredited programs, affordable online degrees are perfect for students, working adults, and parents alike. Here are the top 5 most affordable, fully online degree programs in the USA (2025) that offer quality education at a budget-friendly cost.
🥇 1. University of the People (UoPeople)
- 🏛️ Location: Pasadena, California (100% online)
- 💰 Cost: ~$120 per course ($2,400 total for full degree)
- ⭐ Highlights:
- Tuition-free model (only admin/assessment fees)
- Accredited in the U.S.
- Programs in Business, Computer Science, Education, and Health Science
- 🔗 uopeople.edu
🥈 2. Western Governors University (WGU)
- 🏛️ Location: Utah (fully online national model)
- 💰 Cost: ~$3,775 per 6-month term
- ⭐ Highlights:
- Competency-based model: finish faster, save money
- Recognized by employers nationwide
- IT, Business, Teaching, Healthcare programs
- 🔗 wgu.edu
🥉 3. Fort Hays State University (FHSU) – Virtual College
- 🏛️ Location: Kansas
- 💰 Cost:
$226 per credit hour ($6,780/year) - ⭐ Highlights:
- 200+ online degrees and certificates
- Well-rated public university
- Affordable for both in-state and out-of-state students
- 🔗 fhsu.edu
4. Georgia Southwestern State University (GSW) – eMajor
- 🏛️ Location: Georgia
- 💰 Cost:
$169 per credit hour ($5,070/year) - ⭐ Highlights:
- Bachelor’s programs in Business, Criminal Justice, IT, Nursing
- Accredited and public university
- Low out-of-state tuition for online students
- 🔗 gsw.edu
5. Thomas Edison State University (TESU)
- 🏛️ Location: New Jersey
- 💰 Cost: ~$399 per credit hour (flat-rate options available)
- ⭐ Highlights:
- Tailored for working adults
- Prior learning credit accepted (military, work experience)
- Multiple degree paths including business and liberal arts
- 🔗 tesu.edu
✅ Conclusion
An online degree in the USA no longer means thousands of dollars in debt.
- Choose UoPeople for the most budget-friendly tuition.
- WGU offers a fast-track model perfect for motivated learners.
- FHSU and GSW provide respected degrees for a fraction of traditional college costs.
💡 FAQs
Q1: Are online degrees recognized by employers in the USA?
Yes, as long as the school is accredited. All the universities listed above are regionally or nationally accredited.
Q2: Can I transfer credits from these programs later?
Most of them accept transfers and also let you apply prior learning toward your degree.
Q3: Can I apply for financial aid with these schools?
Yes! Most are FAFSA eligible (except UoPeople).
