Going to college can be expensive, but there are ways to get a degree without breaking the bank. In this article, we will discuss the top 4 cheapest degrees to go to college for, including associate degrees in health-related fields, bachelor’s degrees in education, associate degrees in information technology (IT), and bachelor’s degrees in business administration. We will also explore online and hybrid learning formats, as well as scholarships, grants, and financial aid options to help make college more affordable.
For those interested in pursuing an associate degree in a health-related field, admission requirements may vary depending on the specific program. Generally, applicants will need a high school diploma or GED, as well as a strong interest in healthcare and helping others. Some programs may also require prerequisite courses in biology or anatomy, as well as a minimum GPA.
To apply for admission to a university offering affordable bachelor’s degrees in education, students typically need to have a high school diploma or equivalent. Some programs may also require a background check, letters of recommendation, and a personal statement outlining their interest in teaching and education. Additionally, applicants may need to pass a basic skills test or entrance exam.
To begin the admission process for a university offering one of the cheapest bachelor’s degrees in business administration, prospective students will typically need to submit an application form, high school transcripts, letters of recommendation, and standardized test scores (such as the SAT or ACT). Some programs may also require a personal statement or essay, as well as an interview with an admissions counselor. It’s important to research the specific admission requirements for each program and university to ensure a successful application process.
Top 10 Cheap Online Bachelor’s Degrees
We did the research and have compiled a list of 10 cheapest bachelor’s degrees available online in 2020.
1. University of the People
- Annual fee: $1,015
University of the People (UoPeople) is an American accredited, tuition-free university. This means that there is no charge for teaching and instruction. Their goal is to make higher education accessible and affordable to all, anytime, anywhere, based on the belief that education is a basic human right.
There is no charge for tuition, annual enrolment or course materials, but to help maintain the university’s high standards, there is a $60 application fee and an assessment fee ($100 for undergrad, and $200 for graduate) per course completed.
If a student is unable to afford these fees, there are scholarships available. UoPeople provides Associate and Bachelor’s degrees in Business Administration, Computer Science and Health Science. They also provide an MBA and an M.Ed.
2. Tennessee State University, USA
- Annual fee: $4,200
In the heart of Nashville, Tennessee State University lives by the motto: “Think. Work. Serve.” They are accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC) to award associate, baccalaureate, master’s, education specialist, and doctoral degrees.
Although they have a physical campus, they are another great option for cheap online degrees! Tennessee State University offers 18 affordable online bachelor’s degree programs. in sociology, urban studies, and professional studies with multiple concentrations.
3. Aspen University – USA
- Annual fee: $4,500
Aspen University offers degree programs in Business Administration, Criminal Justice, Early Childhood Education and Health Care Administration. Their programs blend traditional learning with innovation by providing students with courses covering both essential topics and cutting edge issues. If you have already taken some college courses, Aspen University allows you to transfer your prior learning credit.
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4. Georgia Southwestern State University, USA
- Annual fee: $5,970
Georgia Southwestern State University offers 40 bachelor’s degree programs in business administration, education and nursing, computing and mathematics, arts and sciences. One of their more unusual degrees is a BSc in Criminal Justice in order to prepare students for a career in law enforcement, probation and juvenile justice.
5. Derby University
- Annual Fee: £4,740 = $6,228
UDOL (University of Derby, UK, Online) is the distance learning division of the University of Derby, UK. The University of Derby’s recent great success is that it jumped from 54th place in the UK Guardian university rankings to 29th place, ranked according to student satisfaction, teaching, feedback and student-to-staff ratio. A list of their selection of online degrees are available here. Their Business Management BSc degree is an excellent choice and very cost-effective.
6. Fort Hayes State University
- Annual fee: $6,570
Fort Hayes State University offers over 200 affordable, accredited online programs using the latest in learning technology specifically designed for adult learners. A list of available bachelors degrees can be found here. Fort Hayes State University prides itself on being one of the most affordable online colleges for degree programs in the USA.
7. Valdosta State University
- Annual fee: $6,780
Valdosta State University Online provides undergraduate degrees in the fields of Art & Design, Education, Health, STEM subjects, Business, Humanities and Social Sciences. It has been ranked by thebestschools.org and affordablecolleges.org as exceptional online education.
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8. Open University – UK
- Annual fee: $7,704
The Open University, UK are specialists in distance learning and provide over 200 courses in a wide selection of subjects. Most bachelor’s degrees can be completed within 3-4 years if studying full-time and 6 years if studying part-time. The courses are specifically designed for busy, working students and give you all the flexibility that you will need to complete your degree.
The Open University also offers an Open degree, in which you can study any subjects you like in any combination, building a qualification that is unique to you. This suits students who are unsure which area they want to specialize in or who want to gain a broad knowledge base before deciding on their career direction.
9. Marshall University
- Annual fee: $7,627
Marshall University offers academic degrees in Nursing, Geography, Medical Laboratory Science and a Regent’s degree. It has been recognized for its academic value by US News and World Report, College Choice and Best Value Schools.
10. University of Essex – UK
- Annual fee: £9,250 = $12,065
The University of Essex has just won the award “The University of the Year 2018” at The Times, Higher Education Awards. It is similar to winning an Oscar but in the field of education. The University of Essex offers a selection of undergraduate degrees in the fields of law, criminology, business, marketing, psychology and healthcare.
If you are unsure as to whether this is the right program for you, you can take one of their free taster courses in order to try it out. This gives you the opportunity to see if you enjoy the subject or if you are able to fit learning into your busy schedule.
Wrapping Up
So, if you have decided to get ahead and jumpstart your career this year, take these 3 steps:
- Decide on the subject that you want to study.
- Research online schools until you find the most suitable learning solution. Take into account cost, accreditation, learning method, flexibility and reputation.
- Research scholarships. You may be entitled to a scholarship to help you with the cost of your studies.
Then, go ahead and make your applications. An online degree will allow you to combine your busy schedule with getting ahead in your career. If you want to study but can’t take the time off or make the financial commitment, an accredited online degree will enable you to overcome these barriers to learning and give you a brighter future with the skills, knowledge and confidence to get that dream job.
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