10 Cheapest Online Bachelor’s Degrees in 2025

Earning a bachelor’s degree doesn’t have to be expensive. Affordable online universities allow students to study from anywhere while keeping costs low. With tuition rates rising at traditional colleges, finding the cheapest online bachelor’s degrees can help you save thousands while still earning a respected degree.

In this guide, we’ve researched and ranked the 10 most affordable online bachelor’s degree programs for 2025. Whether you’re looking for a tuition-free university or a low-cost accredited program, this list will help you find the best option for your budget and career goals.

Key Takeaways

• These cheapest online bachelor’s degree options provide accredited degrees at a fraction of the cost of traditional degrees.
• Accreditation matters: choosing a recognized institution ensures your degree is respected by employers and other universities.
• Flexibility and career benefits: affordable online degrees allow you to study while working and can open doors to better job opportunities.

Why Choose an Affordable Online Bachelor’s Degree?

A college degree can significantly boost your career prospects, but the rising cost of education leaves many students searching for the cheapest online university to keep tuition fees manageable. Affordable online bachelor’s degrees offer a flexible and cost-effective alternative to traditional programs, making higher education more accessible than ever.

Benefits of Choosing a Low-Cost Online Degree

• Lower Tuition Costs: Online programs often have reduced overhead expenses, making them cheaper than traditional colleges.
• Study on Your Schedule: Many programs allow students to complete coursework at their own pace, making it easier to balance work and family commitments.
• No Need to Relocate: Studying online eliminates the need for commuting, housing, and campus fees, cutting additional costs.

Accredited and Respected: Many affordable online universities hold accreditation, ensuring their degrees are recognized by employers and other institutions.

Top 10 Most Affordable Online Bachelor’s Degrees in 2025

Online education has made earning a degree more accessible and affordable than ever. Whether you’re looking for a low-cost online degree or a tuition-free university, there are plenty of accredited programs that can help you reach your career goals without overwhelming student debt.

Below, we’ve compiled a list of the 10 cheapest online bachelor’s degree programs for 2025. Each school offers high-quality education at an affordable price, ensuring you get the best value for your investment.

University of the People (UoPeople)

As the world’s first tuition-free, accredited online university, UoPeople is one of the most affordable paths to earning a bachelor’s degree. Its innovative model makes higher education accessible to students worldwide, offering flexible programs in business, computer science, and health sciences.

Annual Tuition: Tuition-free; students pay a $60 application fee and a $120 assessment fee per course.

Accreditation: Distance Education Accrediting Commission (DEAC)

Degrees Offered: Business Administration, Computer Science, Health Science, MBA, M.Ed.

Why It’s Affordable:

UoPeople operates on a tuition-free model, requiring students to pay only minimal fees for applications and course assessments. This approach makes higher education accessible to a global student body.

Why Choose This Program?

• 100% online and flexible
• No tuition fees—only minimal assessment costs
• Accredited and recognized by employers globally

Tennessee State University (TSU)

Tennessee State University provides cost-effective online degree programs, especially for in-state students, with various financial aid options to help further reduce tuition expenses.

Annual Tuition:

• In-State Students: Approximately $8,568
• Out-of-State Students: Approximately $22,284

Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC)

Degrees Offered: Tennessee State University offers affordable online bachelor’s degree programs in multiple disciplines, including business, psychology, healthcare, criminal justice, and interdisciplinary studies. 

Why It’s Affordable:

TSU offers competitive tuition rates, especially for in-state students. Additionally, the university provides various financial aid options and scholarships to help offset costs. For out-of-state students enrolled exclusively in online courses, TSU offers an eRate, which is a reduced tuition rate compared to traditional out-of-state fees.

Why Choose This Program?

• Diverse Program Offerings: TSU provides a wide range of online bachelor’s degree programs tailored to meet the needs of today’s job market.
• Flexibility: Designed for working adults, TSU’s online programs offer the flexibility to study at your own pace and schedule.
• Accredited and Recognized: TSU is accredited by SACSCOC, ensuring that its programs meet high academic standards and are recognized by employers nationwide.

Aspen University

With a unique monthly payment plan, Aspen University makes higher education financially accessible, allowing students to budget their degree costs over time.

Annual Tuition: Aspen University offers bachelor’s degree programs at a rate of $250 per credit hour. The total program tuition is estimated at $30,000, with additional fees and textbook costs bringing the total to approximately $40,125.

Accreditation: Distance Education Accrediting Commission (DEAC)

Degrees Offered: Bachelor of Science in Business Administration, Bachelor of Science in Early Childhood Studies, Bachelor of Science in Health Care Administration, and more.

Why It’s Affordable:

Aspen University is committed to offering high-quality degrees at affordable rates. They provide monthly payment plans, allowing students to pay $325 per month, making education financially accessible without incurring significant debt.

Why Choose This Program?

• Flexible Payment Options: The monthly payment plan enables students to manage tuition costs effectively.
• Diverse Program Selection: Aspen offers various bachelor’s programs tailored to current industry demands.
• Accredited Education: Programs are accredited, ensuring recognized and respected degrees.

Georgia Southwestern State University (GSW)

GSW is a public university with competitive tuition rates, particularly for business-related degrees accredited by the AACSB.

Annual Tuition: For online undergraduate programs, GSW offers a tuition rate of $174 per credit hour. The total cost will depend on the number of credits required for the specific program.

Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC)

Degrees Offered: Bachelor of Business Administration (BBA) degrees in Accounting, Human Resources, Management, and Marketing.

Why It’s Affordable:

GSW provides competitive tuition rates for its online programs, making higher education accessible. The university also offers various scholarships and financial aid options to further assist students.

Why Choose This Program?

• Accredited Business Programs: GSW’s BBA programs are accredited by the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB), placing them among the top 5% of business programs worldwide.
• Flexible Online Learning: Designed to accommodate diverse lifestyles, allowing students to balance studies with other commitments.
• Reputable Institution: GSW is recognized for its quality education and value.

University of Derby Online Learning (UDOL), United Kingdom

A strong option for international students, UDOL offers affordable online programs with a transparent tuition model and global recognition.

Annual Tuition: Tuition fees for online bachelor’s degree programs vary depending on the course. For example, the BA (Hons) Business and Management is approximately £5,250 per year.

Accreditation: The University of Derby is accredited by the UK’s national accrediting bodies and recognized globally.

Degrees Offered: UDOL offers a range of online bachelor’s degrees, including Business and Management (BA), Computing and Information Technologies (BSc), and Psychology (BSc).

Why It’s Affordable:

The University of Derby Online Learning offers a transparent fee structure, ensuring students clearly understand tuition costs and can plan their finances effectively. The university also provides scholarships and funding options, helping to make higher education more accessible and manageable for students looking to reduce their overall expenses.

Why Choose This Program?

• Established Institution: With a history of providing quality education, the University of Derby offers reputable online programs with experienced faculty.
• Student Support Services: Online students have access to resources such as academic advising, tutoring, and career services.
• Diverse Program Options: UDOL’s online programs cater to various interests, allowing students to pursue their desired career paths.

Fort Hayes State University (FHSU)

FHSU is one of the most affordable online universities in the U.S., offering a wide range of career-focused degrees with flexible scheduling.

Annual Tuition: FHSU offers online undergraduate courses at a rate of $242.76 per credit hour. For a typical full-time load of 30 credit hours per year, the estimated annual tuition is approximately $7,282.80.

Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission (HLC)

Degrees Offered: FHSU provides a wide range of online bachelor’s programs, including degrees in Accounting, Business Education, Computer Science, Criminal Justice, Education, Information Networking & Telecommunications, Management, Marketing, Nursing (RN to BSN), Psychology, and more.

Why It’s Affordable:

FHSU is recognized for its commitment to providing quality education at an affordable price. The university offers competitive tuition rates and a variety of financial aid options to assist students in managing their educational expenses.

Why Choose This Program?

• Diverse Program Selection: With over 200 online degree and certificate programs, FHSU caters to a wide array of academic interests and career goals.
• Flexible Learning Environment: Designed to accommodate the needs of adult learners, FHSU’s online programs offer the flexibility to balance studies with personal and professional commitments.
• Reputable Institution: FHSU has a long-standing history of delivering quality education and is recognized as a leader in distance learning.

Valdosta State University (VSU)

VSU’s all-inclusive tuition model ensures students know the full cost upfront, with accelerated course options to speed up graduation.

Annual Tuition: VSU’s Online College for Career Advancement offers undergraduate programs at a rate of $299 per credit hour. For a standard full-time enrollment of 30 credit hours per year, the estimated annual tuition is $8,970. This rate is all-inclusive, covering tuition and all course materials, with no additional fees.

Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC)

Degrees Offered: VSU offers fully online bachelor’s degrees in high-demand fields such as Criminal Justice, Psychology, Management, Organizational Leadership, Elementary Education, Computer Information Systems, General Business, and Interdisciplinary Studies.

Why It’s Affordable:

VSU’s transparent tuition structure ensures that students are aware of the total cost upfront, with no hidden fees. Additionally, the university provides financial aid opportunities to eligible students, further enhancing affordability.

Why Choose This Program?

• Accelerated Course Formats: Many courses are offered in 8-week formats, allowing students to progress through their degrees more quickly.
• Comprehensive Support Services: VSU provides robust support services for online students, including academic advising, tutoring, and career services.
• High-Quality Education: As a regionally accredited institution, VSU ensures that its online programs meet rigorous academic standards.

The Open University (OU), United Kingdom

OU offers pay-as-you-go tuition, allowing students to control costs while earning a globally recognized degree.

Annual Tuition: For part-time international students, the annual fee is £3,736. A typical honors degree requires 360 credits, usually completed over six years of part-time study, bringing the total cost to approximately £22,416.

Accreditation: The Open University is accredited by the UK’s national accrediting bodies and is recognized globally.

Degrees Offered: OU offers a wide range of online bachelor’s degrees across various fields, including Business Management, Computing & IT, Psychology, Education Studies, and Health & Social Care.

Why It’s Affordable:

The Open University follows a pay-as-you-go model, allowing students to pay for modules individually rather than committing to full tuition upfront. This flexible approach makes budgeting easier and helps students manage costs over time. Additionally, eligible students can apply for a Part-Time Tuition Fee Loan, which covers tuition costs upfront and is only repaid once they start earning above a certain income threshold.

Why Choose This Program?

• Flexibility: OU’s programs are designed for distance learning, enabling students to study at their own pace and schedule.
• Global Recognition: Degrees from OU are respected worldwide, providing graduates with opportunities both domestically and internationally.
• Diverse Course Offerings: With a broad spectrum of subjects, students can tailor their education to their interests and career goals.

Marshall University

Known for its affordable tuition and strong student support, Marshall University provides career-driven online degree programs in multiple disciplines.

Annual Tuition: For the 2024–2025 academic year, undergraduate tuition per semester is as follows:

• West Virginia Residents: $4,581
• Metro Residents: $6,584
• Non-Residents: $10,171

Assuming two semesters per year, the annual tuition is approximately $9,162 for residents, $13,168 for metro residents, and $20,342 for non-residents.

Accreditation: Marshall University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC).

Degrees Offered: Marshall offers online bachelor’s degree programs in fields such as Nursing (RN to BSN), Medical Laboratory Science, Geography, and Regents Bachelor of Arts.

Why It’s Affordable:

Marshall University offers competitive tuition rates, making it a cost-effective choice for students seeking an accredited online degree. The university also provides various financial aid opportunities, including scholarships, grants, and loan options, helping students further reduce their overall education costs.

Why Choose This Program?

• Established Institution: With a rich history, Marshall University offers a reputable education with experienced faculty.
• Student Support Services: Online students have access to resources such as academic advising, tutoring, and career services.
• Diverse Program Options: Marshall’s online programs cater to various interests, allowing students to pursue their desired career paths.

University of Essex Online, United Kingdom

With modular payment plans, the University of Essex Online makes it easier for students to spread tuition costs while earning a degree from a respected UK institution.

Annual Tuition: For part-time online bachelor’s degree programs, the tuition fee is approximately £5,099 per year. The total cost for a standard four-year program is around £20,400.

Accreditation: Degrees are awarded by the University of Essex, which is accredited by the UK’s national accrediting bodies and recognized globally.

Degrees Offered: The University of Essex Online provides a variety of online bachelor’s degrees, including Business and Management (BA), Criminal Psychology (BSc), and Law with Criminology (LLB).

Why It’s Affordable:

The University of Essex Online offers competitive tuition rates, making it an accessible option for students seeking a quality education at a lower cost. To provide financial flexibility, students can pay per module rather than upfront for the entire program, allowing them to manage expenses more effectively while progressing through their degree at their own pace.

Why Choose This Program?

• Flexibility: Programs are designed for online learning, enabling students to study at their own pace and schedule.
• Global Recognition: Degrees from the University of Essex are respected worldwide, providing graduates with opportunities both domestically and internationally.
• Diverse Course Offerings: With a broad spectrum of subjects, students can tailor their education to their interests and career goals.

How to Choose the Right Affordable Online Bachelor’s Degree for You

Finding a cheap online bachelor’s degree requires more than just comparing tuition costs. Accreditation is key—degrees from accredited institutions are recognized by employers and other universities, ensuring your education holds value. Check for accreditation from bodies like DEAC, SACSCOC, or HLC to confirm legitimacy.

Beyond tuition, consider total costs, including technology fees, textbooks, and transfer credit policies. Some programs charge per credit hour, while others offer flat-rate tuition, which may be more cost-effective for full-time students. Accelerated programs can also help you graduate faster and reduce overall expenses.

Finally, think about career outcomes. Research job placement rates, alumni success, and program reputation to ensure your degree provides a strong return on investment. The best affordable online bachelor’s degrees balance low costs with flexibility, accreditation, and career opportunities, making them a smart choice for students seeking quality education without excessive debt.

The Bottom Line

Choosing an affordable online bachelor’s degree allows students to advance their careers while keeping tuition costs manageable. However, affordability shouldn’t come at the expense of quality. The best programs combine low tuition rates with strong accreditation, flexible learning formats, and career-focused coursework. By comparing program costs, reviewing accreditation, and exploring available financial aid, students can find a degree that fits both their budget and their long-term goals.

Online education has made earning a degree more accessible than ever. With careful planning—such as applying for scholarships, selecting an accelerated program, or using employer tuition assistance—it’s possible to graduate with a valuable degree while minimizing student debt. Higher education is an investment, and with the right choices, it can be one that pays off without financial strain.

FAQs

Are affordable online bachelor’s degrees legitimate?

Yes, if they come from an accredited university. Accreditation ensures the degree meets academic and industry standards and is recognized by employers and other institutions. Always check for accreditation from recognized agencies like DEAC, SACSCOC, or HLC before enrolling.

Will employers take my online degree seriously?

Employers view accredited online degrees in the same way as traditional ones. As long as the school is reputable and accredited, the format doesn’t matter. What’s more important is the skills gained and how well the degree prepares you for the job market.

Can I transfer credits from a cheap online bachelor’s degree?

Some online programs accept transfer credits, which can reduce costs and time to graduation. However, policies vary by university, so check whether your chosen school accepts prior coursework before enrolling.

Can I get financial aid for an affordable online degree?

Yes, most accredited online programs qualify for federal financial aid, scholarships, and grants. Some also offer tuition discounts for military personnel, working professionals, or international students. Contact the financial aid office to explore your options.

What are the cheapest online bachelor’s degree programs?

The most affordable programs are often in business, computer science, education, and healthcare. Some universities, like University of the People, even offer tuition-free degrees, requiring only small assessment fees. Public universities also tend to have lower tuition rates.

How can I save even more on an online degree?

Applying for scholarships and grants can reduce costs significantly. Many employers offer tuition reimbursement, and some programs allow you to earn credits through exams or prior learning assessments. Choosing an accelerated program can also help you graduate faster and save on tuition.