Cheapest Online Bachelor's Degrees in 2027 (Under $10,000)
Published: January 2027 | Updated regularly
You don't need to spend $50,000+ to earn an accredited bachelor's degree. With competency-based programs and affordable state universities, you can complete your bachelor's degree for under $10,000. Here are the top affordable online bachelor's degrees for 2027.
Top 10 Affordable Online Bachelor's Programs for 2027
1. Western Governors University (WGU)
- Tuition: $8,300 per year (flat rate, competency-based)
- Total Cost: $16,600–$25,000
- Accreditation: NWCCU
- Why it's great: Flat-rate tuition. Finish faster, pay less.
2. University of the People
- Tuition: $4,860 total
- Accreditation: DEAC
- Why it's great: Tuition-free model with only assessment fees.
3. Thomas Edison State University
- Tuition: $5,400–$8,000 per year
- Accreditation: MSCHE
- Why it's great: Accepts more transfer credits than almost any other school.
4. Charter Oak State College
- Tuition: $425 per credit
- Accreditation: NECHE
- Why it's great: Credit for prior learning and exams.
5. Fort Hays State University
- Tuition: $245 (in-state) / $312 (out-of-state) per credit
- Accreditation: HLC
- Why it's great: Extremely low tuition with regional accreditation.
6. University of Maryland Global Campus (UMGC)
- Tuition: $312 per credit
- Accreditation: MSCHE
- Why it's great: Very military-friendly and generous transfer credit policy.
7. Florida International University (FIU Online)
- Tuition: $229 per credit (in-state)
- Accreditation: SACSCOC
- Why it's great: One of the lowest in-state online tuitions.
8. Arizona State University (ASU Online)
- Tuition: $550–$650 per credit
- Accreditation: HLC
- Why it's great: Highly ranked and flexible.
9. Penn State World Campus
- Tuition: $600+ per credit
- Accreditation: MSCHE
- Why it's great: Big-name degree with extensive alumni network.
10. Capella University
- Tuition: $390–$460 per credit
- Accreditation: HLC
- Why it's great: Flexible, self-paced, with accelerated options.
Comparison Table: Cheapest Online Bachelor's Programs 2027
| University |
Tuition |
Total Cost (Est.) |
Accreditation |
| University of the People | $4,860 total | ~$4,860 | DEAC |
| WGU | $8,300/year | $16,600–$25,000 | NWCCU |
| Fort Hays State | $245–$312/credit | $15,000–$18,000 | HLC |
| Charter Oak State | $425/credit | $20,000–$25,000 | NECHE |
| Thomas Edison | $5,400–$8,000/year | $22,000–$32,000 | MSCHE |
| FIU Online | $229/credit (in-state) | ~$27,500 | SACSCOC |
| Capella | $390–$460/credit | $30,000–$45,000 | HLC |
| UMGC | $312/credit | ~$37,000 | MSCHE |
| ASU Online | $550–$650/credit | $50,000–$65,000 | HLC |
| Penn State World Campus | $600+/credit | ~$60,000 | MSCHE |
How to Save Money on Your Degree
- Transfer Credits: Apply community college credits, AP exams, or military training.
- Apply for Scholarships: Even $500–$2,000 per year helps.
- File FAFSA: Pell Grants can cover up to $7,395 per year.
- Competency-Based Education: Finish faster by demonstrating knowledge.
- In-State Tuition: Choose a university in your state to save 50%+.
- Employer Tuition Assistance: Many employers reimburse $5,250/year.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Are cheap online degrees accredited?
A: Many are — always check for regional accreditation (MSCHE, HLC, SACSCOC, NWCCU, NECHE) before enrolling. Regional accreditation is required for federal financial aid.
Q: Can I really finish a bachelor's degree for under $10,000?
A: Yes — schools like University of the People ($4,860 total) and WGU (with acceleration) make it possible.
Q: How long does an online bachelor's degree take?
A: Typically 2–4 years. Competency-based programs allow faster completion.
Q: Do employers accept degrees from these universities?
A: Yes, as long as the program is regionally accredited. Employers focus on accreditation, not format.
Q: What's the difference between regional and national accreditation?
A: Regional accreditation is more prestigious and required for federal aid. National accreditation (like DEAC) is accepted but less transferable.
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