How Much Does an Online Degree Cost in 2026? Complete Pricing Breakdown

Online degree pricing spans an enormous range - from under $15,000 for a complete bachelor's at WGU to over $100,000 for an online MBA at a top-20 school. Understanding what drives these differences helps you find the best value for your career goals.

Bachelor's Degree Costs

Budget tier ($10,000-$20,000 total): WGU ($4,000/term, most finish in 4-6 terms = $16,000-$24,000), SNHU ($330/credit x 120 credits = $39,600, but most transfer credits reduce this to $15,000-$25,000), and UMGC ($324/credit in-state). These schools compete aggressively on price and serve the highest volume of online students.

Mid tier ($25,000-$50,000 total): Purdue Global, Arizona State Online, Penn State World Campus, and University of Florida Online. These offer stronger brand recognition at moderate prices. Financial aid can reduce costs significantly.

Premium tier ($50,000-$100,000+ total): Online programs from top-50 universities that charge near-campus rates. The credential carries more weight, but the price is steep. Worth considering only if your field specifically values institutional prestige.

Master's Degree Costs

MBA programs: $12,000 (WGU) to $150,000+ (top-20 schools). The sweet spot for most working professionals is $20,000-$40,000 at a regionally accredited school with AACSB accreditation. Master's in IT/Computer Science: $7,000 (Georgia Tech OMSCS) to $60,000. Georgia Tech's program is the standout value at under $8,000 total with a top-10 CS program credential. Master's in Education: $10,000-$30,000. WGU's education programs are among the most popular, with many teachers completing in 12-18 months. Master's in Healthcare: $20,000-$60,000. Nursing, health administration, and public health programs vary widely.

Certificate Programs

Professional certificates ($150-$5,000): Google Career Certificates ($150-$300), IBM certificates ($200-$500), and university continuing education certificates ($1,000-$5,000). Completion time: 3-12 months. Graduate certificates ($3,000-$15,000): Focused on specific professional areas (data science, project management, cybersecurity). Often stackable toward a full master's degree. Completion time: 6-12 months.

Hidden Costs to Watch For

Technology fees ($100-$500/term), proctoring fees for exams ($25-$75 per exam), textbooks and materials ($500-$1,500/year unless the school provides free materials), graduation fees ($100-$300), and transcript fees ($5-$25 per copy). WGU and UMGC include course materials in tuition. Others don't. These hidden costs can add $2,000-$5,000 to the total, so always ask about the all-in cost.

Financial Aid for Online Students

Online students at accredited institutions qualify for the same federal financial aid as on-campus students. This includes Pell Grants (up to $7,395/year for qualifying undergrads - free money), federal student loans (subsidized and unsubsidized), state grants (varies by state and program), employer tuition assistance (many employers offer $5,250/year tax-free), and military benefits (GI Bill, Tuition Assistance, Yellow Ribbon). Complete the FAFSA even if you think you won't qualify - many students receive more aid than expected.