Best Affordable Online Colleges

Sterling College

Sterling College, a private Christian institution, has offered online bachelor's degree programs since 2007-2008. Students can access recorded and archived lectures at their convenience, making the programs flexible for working adults and non-traditional learners.

In general, Sterling emphasizes servant leadership with a focus on mentoring, free tutoring, and support from faculty and staff. Courses are delivered through the advanced Canvas Learning Management System, ensuring a seamless learning experience. Known for cost-effective tuition, Sterling College fosters the development of creative, thoughtful leaders rooted in a maturing Christian faith.

Florida International University

Florida International University offers 40 fully online bachelor's degree programs and 32 master's programs. Students can engage with a vibrant community through over 300 associations, professional societies, cultural organizations, and interest groups.

Sterling College's fully online bachelor’s degrees are distinguished by their comprehensive support system, including a Success Coach model and dedicated academic advisors. Each online student is paired with a dedicated academic advisor from enrollment to graduation. Advisors help students articulate their educational goals, create clear academic plans, and provide guidance to ensure success.

Athens State University

Athens State University, a public institution, offers a diverse selection of 23 online bachelor's degree programs across fields such as education, psychology, and business management. These programs are delivered through the Blackboard learning management system, supplemented by resources like faculty office hours and tutoring for enhanced support.

The university boasts a 59% graduation rate, and prospective undergraduate students must have 36 transfer credit hours from an accredited institution and a minimum 2.0 GPA. With a range of co-curricular activities, including student organizations, leadership opportunities, and cultural events, Athens State provides a holistic educational experience that goes beyond the classroom. 

Slippery Rock University

Situated in the picturesque town of Slippery Rock, Pennsylvania, Slippery Rock University (SRU) has been making waves in the realm of sustainable energy. The innovative projects showcase Slippery Rock University's leadership in environmental stewardship and have received accolades for their impact on both campus operations and the broader community.

Slippery Rock University is renowned for its strong emphasis on experiential learning and career readiness. The university's SRU Guarantee program stands out with access to comprehensive career development resources, internships, and co-op opportunities, ultimately guaranteeing a job within six months of graduation or admission to graduate school.

Boise State University

Boise State University, located in the vibrant city of Boise, Idaho, has earned a reputation for its innovation and academic excellence. Established in 1932, the university has experienced remarkable growth and transformation, becoming the largest institution of higher education in the state. Home to the iconic blue turf football field "Boise State's football program has gained national attention and become a symbol of the university's distinctive spirit.

Beyond athletics, Boise State is recognized for cutting-edge research and technology. The College of Engineering, for instance, stands out for its advancements in materials science and engineering, contributing to the university's status as a Carnegie-classified doctoral research institution.

University at Buffalo-SUNY

The University at Buffalo (UB), part of the State University of New York (SUNY) system, has been offering online bachelor's degree programs since 2012-2013. These programs are flexible with all classes being recorded and archived, allowing students to access materials whenever they like.

The rolling admissions process means students can apply throughout the year, with no fixed deadlines. This approach supports a diverse range of learners, especially those balancing work or family commitments, and ensures they can complete their degrees without rigid scheduling constraints. UB maintains its academic standards while providing accessible, high-quality online education options.

University of North Carolina at Greensboro

The University of North Carolina at Greensboro (UNCG) is a renowned public research university located in Greensboro, North Carolina. Established in 1891, UNCG has a rich history of academic excellence and community engagement.

With a diverse student body exceeding 20,000 students, UNCG offers a welcoming and inclusive environment that celebrates cultural diversity and fosters innovation. The university's pledge to student success is evident through its comprehensive range of undergraduate, graduate, and professional programs, spanning disciplines such as arts, sciences, business, education, and health sciences.

Utah State University

Utah State University has been offering online degrees since 1995. Students can choose from 15 fully online bachelor's degree programs and five bachelor's completion programs. USU also offers 20 online graduate degrees, including specialized programs in veterinary public health, aerospace engineering, and natural resources.

USU offers online tutoring for undergraduate courses, writing, engineering, and select graduate-level subjects to help you succeed. A high 94% acceptance rate makes USU an accessible option for many students. Students have access to a variety of scholarships, including those from private, community, corporate, and university sources.

Liberty University

Liberty University, situated in Lynchburg, Virginia, is one of the largest and most affordable online colleges and private universities in the United States. The university's providing a distinctly Christian education is evident in its comprehensive range of undergraduate and graduate programs, covering fields such as business, theology, education, and health sciences. 

Liberty University has become a major player in online education, offering over 450 online programs, making it a leader in distance learning with a significant impact on the higher education landscape.

Franklin University

Franklin University, founded in 1902 in Columbus, Ohio, is a private, nonprofit institution with a rich history of providing career-focused education for adult learners. Known for its innovative approach to learning, Franklin University has been a pioneer in catering to the needs of working professionals and non-traditional students.

Being accessible, the university offers a range of flexible programs, including undergraduate, graduate, and doctoral degrees, designed to accommodate busy schedules. Franklin University is particularly recognized for its emphasis on experiential learning, integrating real-world applications into its curriculum to ensure students are well-prepared for their respective industries.

College of Coastal Georgia

The College of Coastal Georgia, nestled in Brunswick, Georgia, boasts a stunning campus that spans over 193 acres of marsh and maritime forest along the southeastern coast. With its unique location, the college offers students unparalleled opportunities for hands-on learning in fields such as marine science, coastal ecology, and sustainability studies.

Notably, the College of Coastal Georgia excels in preparing students for career success, boasting impressive outcomes such as a 92% job placement rate for graduates within six months of graduation. The institution offers many academic programs, including bachelor's degrees in high-demand fields like nursing, business administration, and education.

Ozark Christian College

Ozark Christian College, located in Joplin, Missouri, is a small, private Christian institution that has been dedicated to preparing students for careers in ministry since its founding in 1942. With a mission centered on biblical education and training, Ozark Christian College offers undergraduate programs in ministry, theology, and biblical studies.

The college has gained recognition for its commitment to providing a strong foundation in biblical principles while fostering practical skills for effective ministry.

University of Florida

The University of Florida (UF), established in 1853, is a public institution known for its academic excellence and vibrant campus life. As of fall 2024, the university has an undergraduate enrollment of 34,924 students. UF is located in a city setting, with a sprawling 2,000-acre campus, and operates on a semester-based academic calendar.

The university offers outstanding value in online education, providing 26 fully online bachelor's degrees. It offers affordable tuition, making it a competitive option for students both locally and nationally.

Siena Heights University

Established in 1919, Siena Heights University is a private Roman Catholic institution located in Adrian, Michigan, with a rich history of providing quality education rooted in the Dominican tradition.

 What sets Siena Heights apart is its fostering of a diverse and inclusive community, exemplified by the fact that it consistently ranks among the top 25 most diverse universities in the Midwest. This dedication to diversity enhances the learning experience, encouraging students to engage with different perspectives and backgrounds.

The university offers over 70 undergraduate and graduate programs, and notably, its online programs have gained acclaim for their flexibility and accessibility. Siena Heights University's innovative approach to education extends to its renowned Saints' Advantage Program, designed to give students a competitive edge by combining experiential learning, leadership development, and career preparation.

Thomas Edison State University

Thomas Edison State University, established in 1972, is renowned for its commitment to providing flexible and accessible education to adult learners. The university offers a diverse array of undergraduate and graduate degree programs designed to accommodate the busy schedules of working professionals.

A distinctive feature of Thomas Edison State University is its focus on serving military-affiliated and veteran students. The university has been designated as a military-friendly institution, demonstrating comprehensive support services and academic programs tailored to the unique needs of military personnel. TESU's dedication to flexibility extends to its credit transfer policies, allowing students to bring in previously earned credits seamlessly.

Arizona State University

At Arizona State University, students can choose from over 180 fully online undergraduate programs and 140 graduate degrees. With more than 100,000 graduates from ASU Online to date, the university is a leader in online education. As an online student, you'll learn from world-class faculty and have access to ASU's comprehensive support services and resources. Guided by its charter, ASU emphasizes inclusion.

Moreover, online students actively participate in student government, connecting to the global student network. It spans across numerous peers worldwide, all while learning from home.

Additionally, beyond general scholarships, ASU offers tailored financial aid for military members, veterans, foster youth, and American Indian students which is a foundation for accessibility and commitment to social values.

University of the Potomac

The University of the Potomac, a private institution with campuses in Washington, D.C., and Virginia, offers a distinctive educational experience with a strong emphasis on preparing students for successful careers. This university prioritizes small class sizes and a student-centric approach, fostering close interactions between students and faculty.

Additionally, the University of the Potomac stands out for its strong ties to industry partners, facilitating experiences, internships, and networking opportunities that enhance students' readiness for the workforce. With a focus on practical skills and student success, the University of the Potomac is a valuable choice for those seeking a dynamic and career-focused education.

University of Houston-Downtown

The University of Houston-Downtown (UHD) is a dynamic institution situated in the heart of Houston, Texas, contributing significantly to the city's vibrant academic and cultural landscape. Established in 1974, UHD is a public university that has evolved into a diverse and inclusive educational hub.

With a focus on providing accessible, high-quality education, UHD caters to a student body of over 14,000, representing a rich tapestry of backgrounds and experiences. The university is particularly known for being among the best affordable online colleges serving non-traditional and commuter students, offering flexible class schedules and a robust range of online programs to accommodate various needs.

Florida Atlantic University

Florida Atlantic University (FAU), nestled in Boca Raton, Florida, stands out as a vibrant institution with a rich academic history. Established in 1961, FAU has evolved into a comprehensive public research university committed to fostering innovation and excellence in education.

Among the cheap accredited online colleges, the university's diverse student body, representing various backgrounds and cultures, contributes to a dynamic learning environment. FAU is recognized for its outstanding research contributions, particularly in areas such as ocean engineering, biotechnology, and environmental science.

At the University of Arizona, students can choose from over 50 fully online degree programs, including 29 bachelor's degrees. These programs cover diverse fields such as nursing, health and human services, organizational management, project management, and child development. Also, there is a robust online resource hub offering workshops, financial aid guidance, and disability support services.

Moreover, the university offers flexible payment terms and scholarships. Students can pay per credit, tailoring their learning pace and budget. Plus, active-duty service members and veterans may qualify for tuition assistance up to $250 per credit.