Earning an associate degree can be a smart and cost-effective way to advance your education and career prospects. Affordable online associate degree programs offer flexibility and value, allowing you to pursue entry-level jobs or continue your education after graduating. These two-year programs often fulfill general requirements for bachelor's degrees at a lower tuition cost than four-year universities.
When considering an associate degree, you have numerous options to choose from. Many accredited schools offer online associate's degree programs that provide quality education at competitive prices. These programs can prepare you for various career paths or serve as a stepping stone to further academic pursuits.
By opting for an affordable online associate degree, you can save money while gaining valuable knowledge and skills. Some institutions, like Georgia State University's Perimeter College, stand out for their exceptional affordability, with tuition rates that place them among the most budget-friendly options in the United States. This makes higher education more accessible and attainable for a wider range of students.
Top 50 Most Affordable Online Associate Degrees
St. Petersburg College
Score: 100
- Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $2,682
- Out-of-State:$9,286
- Net Price: $300
- Acceptance Rate: 100%
- Retention Rate: 74%
- Graduation Rate: 37%
- Total Enrollment: 23,350
- Undergrad Students: 23,350
- Graduate Students: N/A
- Grads Salary: $33,400
- Student-to-faculty: 25:1
Eastern Gateway Community College
Score: 99.06
- Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $4,385
- Out-of-State:$6,071
- Net Price: $672
- Acceptance Rate: 100%
- Retention Rate: 57%
- Graduation Rate: 30%
- Total Enrollment: 15,493
- Undergrad Students: 15,493
- Graduate Students: N/A
- Grads Salary: $38,700
- Student-to-faculty: 22:1
Lamar State College-Orange
Score: 97.57
- Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $2,832
- Out-of-State:$13,824
- Net Price: $1,265
- Acceptance Rate: 100%
- Retention Rate: 64%
- Graduation Rate: 31%
- Total Enrollment: 3,162
- Undergrad Students: 3,162
- Graduate Students: N/A
- Grads Salary: $38,600
- Student-to-faculty: 23:1
South Texas College
Score: 97.19
- Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $5,220
- Out-of-State:$7,500
- Net Price: $1,414
- Acceptance Rate: 100%
- Retention Rate: 61%
- Graduation Rate: 28%
- Total Enrollment: 26,440
- Undergrad Students: 26,440
- Graduate Students: N/A
- Grads Salary: $27,800
- Student-to-faculty: 22:1
Southern Regional Technical College
Score: 96.18
- Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $3,122
- Out-of-State:$5,522
- Net Price: $1,816
- Acceptance Rate: 100%
- Retention Rate: 58%
- Graduation Rate: 36%
- Total Enrollment: 5,072
- Undergrad Students: 5,072
- Graduate Students: N/A
- Grads Salary: $32,700
- Student-to-faculty: 14:1
Wiregrass Georgia Technical College
Score: 95.68
- Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $3,212
- Out-of-State:$5,612
- Net Price: $2,013
- Acceptance Rate: 100%
- Retention Rate: 64%
- Graduation Rate: 44%
- Total Enrollment: 4,380
- Undergrad Students: 4,380
- Graduate Students: N/A
- Grads Salary: $32,600
- Student-to-faculty: 15:1
Trident Technical College
Score: 95.38
- Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $5,059
- Out-of-State:$8,606
- Net Price: $2,135
- Acceptance Rate: 100%
- Retention Rate: 68%
- Graduation Rate: 29%
- Total Enrollment: 14,025
- Undergrad Students: 14,025
- Graduate Students: N/A
- Grads Salary: $38,800
- Student-to-faculty: 23:1
Central Carolina Community College
Score: 95.33
- Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $2,554
- Out-of-State:$8,698
- Net Price: $2,153
- Acceptance Rate: 100%
- Retention Rate: 68%
- Graduation Rate: 41%
- Total Enrollment: 5,574
- Undergrad Students: 5,574
- Graduate Students: N/A
- Grads Salary: $30,500
- Student-to-faculty: 13:1
Coastal Pines Technical College
Score: 95.29
- Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $3,040
- Out-of-State:$5,440
- Net Price: $2,168
- Acceptance Rate: 100%
- Retention Rate: 62%
- Graduation Rate: 46%
- Total Enrollment: 4,137
- Undergrad Students: 4,137
- Graduate Students: N/A
- Grads Salary: $31,100
- Student-to-faculty: 15:1
Georgia Northwestern Technical College
Score: 94.94
- Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $3,132
- Out-of-State:$5,532
- Net Price: $2,310
- Acceptance Rate: 100%
- Retention Rate: 60%
- Graduation Rate: 34%
- Total Enrollment: 6,742
- Undergrad Students: 6,742
- Graduate Students: N/A
- Grads Salary: $32,100
- Student-to-faculty: 20:1
St. Charles Community College
Score: 94.11
- Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $4,344
- Out-of-State:$5,664
- Net Price: $2,638
- Acceptance Rate: 100%
- Retention Rate: 63%
- Graduation Rate: 23%
- Total Enrollment: 5,902
- Undergrad Students: 5,902
- Graduate Students: N/A
- Grads Salary: $34,300
- Student-to-faculty: 20:1
Seminole State College of Florida
Score: 93.48
- Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $3,227
- Out-of-State:$11,447
- Net Price: $2,889
- Acceptance Rate: 100%
- Retention Rate: 66%
- Graduation Rate: 42%
- Total Enrollment: 14,104
- Undergrad Students: 14,104
- Graduate Students: N/A
- Grads Salary: $38,100
- Student-to-faculty: 26:1
Lansing Community College
Score: 93.12
- Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $7,520
- Out-of-State:$11,030
- Net Price: $3,031
- Acceptance Rate: 100%
- Retention Rate: 64%
- Graduation Rate: 23%
- Total Enrollment: 9,207
- Undergrad Students: 9,207
- Graduate Students: N/A
- Grads Salary: $31,700
- Student-to-faculty: 12:1
Pima Community College
Score: 93.05
- Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $2,370
- Out-of-State:$7,686
- Net Price: $3,057
- Acceptance Rate: 100%
- Retention Rate: 67%
- Graduation Rate: 21%
- Total Enrollment: 15,819
- Undergrad Students: 15,819
- Graduate Students: N/A
- Grads Salary: $36,700
- Student-to-faculty: 19:1
Pensacola State College
Score: 92.1
- Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $2,348
- Out-of-State:$9,407
- Net Price: $3,436
- Acceptance Rate: 100%
- Retention Rate: 69%
- Graduation Rate: 42%
- Total Enrollment: 8,518
- Undergrad Students: 8,518
- Graduate Students: N/A
- Grads Salary: $32,900
- Student-to-faculty: 23:1
Austin Community College District
Score: 91.93
- Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $8,580
- Out-of-State:$10,590
- Net Price: $3,502
- Acceptance Rate: 100%
- Retention Rate: N/A
- Graduation Rate: 18%
- Total Enrollment: 35,600
- Undergrad Students: 35,600
- Graduate Students: N/A
- Grads Salary: $41,800
- Student-to-faculty: 18:1
Washtenaw Community College
Score: 91.72
- Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $4,584
- Out-of-State:$6,336
- Net Price: $3,588
- Acceptance Rate: 100%
- Retention Rate: 65%
- Graduation Rate: 30%
- Total Enrollment: 10,756
- Undergrad Students: 10,756
- Graduate Students: N/A
- Grads Salary: $37,500
- Student-to-faculty: 18:1
Wayne Community College
Score: 91.69
- Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $2,524
- Out-of-State:$8,668
- Net Price: $3,597
- Acceptance Rate: 100%
- Retention Rate: 70%
- Graduation Rate: 57%
- Total Enrollment: 2,883
- Undergrad Students: 2,883
- Graduate Students: N/A
- Grads Salary: $30,300
- Student-to-faculty: 12:1
Fayetteville Technical Community College
Score: 91.64
- Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $2,628
- Out-of-State:$8,772
- Net Price: $3,616
- Acceptance Rate: 100%
- Retention Rate: 58%
- Graduation Rate: 21%
- Total Enrollment: 10,877
- Undergrad Students: 10,877
- Graduate Students: N/A
- Grads Salary: $37,600
- Student-to-faculty: 17:1
Hinds Community College
Score: 91.57
- Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $3,825
- Out-of-State:$6,875
- Net Price: $3,644
- Acceptance Rate: 100%
- Retention Rate: 55%
- Graduation Rate: 42%
- Total Enrollment: 9,332
- Undergrad Students: 9,332
- Graduate Students: N/A
- Grads Salary: $31,200
- Student-to-faculty: 15:1
North Central State College
Score: 91.27
- Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $4,624
- Out-of-State:$9,102
- Net Price: $3,763
- Acceptance Rate: 100%
- Retention Rate: 92%
- Graduation Rate: 34%
- Total Enrollment: 2,451
- Undergrad Students: 2,451
- Graduate Students: N/A
- Grads Salary: $34,500
- Student-to-faculty: 17:1
Frederick Community College
Score: 91.08
- Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $7,444
- Out-of-State:$9,844
- Net Price: $3,840
- Acceptance Rate: 100%
- Retention Rate: 72%
- Graduation Rate: 35%
- Total Enrollment: 6,796
- Undergrad Students: 6,796
- Graduate Students: N/A
- Grads Salary: $38,200
- Student-to-faculty: 18:1
Washington County Community College
Score: 90.69
- Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $3,687
- Out-of-State:$6,567
- Net Price: $3,994
- Acceptance Rate: 100%
- Retention Rate: 61%
- Graduation Rate: 43%
- Total Enrollment: 685
- Undergrad Students: 685
- Graduate Students: N/A
- Grads Salary: $31,800
- Student-to-faculty: 10:1
Durham Technical Community College
Score: 90.22
- Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $1,986
- Out-of-State:$6,594
- Net Price: $4,181
- Acceptance Rate: 100%
- Retention Rate: 66%
- Graduation Rate: 36%
- Total Enrollment: 4,354
- Undergrad Students: 4,354
- Graduate Students: N/A
- Grads Salary: $29,100
- Student-to-faculty: 7:1
Hillsborough Community College
Score: 89.7
- Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $2,506
- Out-of-State:$9,111
- Net Price: $4,387
- Acceptance Rate: 100%
- Retention Rate: 60%
- Graduation Rate: 33%
- Total Enrollment: 20,004
- Undergrad Students: 20,004
- Graduate Students: N/A
- Grads Salary: $32,900
- Student-to-faculty: 23:1
Lorain County Community College
Score: 89.68
- Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $4,790
- Out-of-State:$8,730
- Net Price: $4,397
- Acceptance Rate: 100%
- Retention Rate: 68%
- Graduation Rate: 33%
- Total Enrollment: 9,410
- Undergrad Students: 9,410
- Graduate Students: N/A
- Grads Salary: $30,200
- Student-to-faculty: 14:1
Florida Gateway College
Score: 89.6
- Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $3,100
- Out-of-State:$11,747
- Net Price: $4,428
- Acceptance Rate: 100%
- Retention Rate: 79%
- Graduation Rate: 57%
- Total Enrollment: 2,837
- Undergrad Students: 2,837
- Graduate Students: N/A
- Grads Salary: $31,100
- Student-to-faculty: 14:1
Haywood Community College
Score: 89.58
- Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $2,612
- Out-of-State:$8,756
- Net Price: $4,435
- Acceptance Rate: 100%
- Retention Rate: 50%
- Graduation Rate: 44%
- Total Enrollment: 1,260
- Undergrad Students: 1,260
- Graduate Students: N/A
- Grads Salary: $32,300
- Student-to-faculty: 7:1
Lincoln Land Community College
Score: 89.47
- Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $6,960
- Out-of-State:$10,248
- Net Price: $4,478
- Acceptance Rate: 100%
- Retention Rate: 70%
- Graduation Rate: 43%
- Total Enrollment: 5,238
- Undergrad Students: 5,238
- Graduate Students: N/A
- Grads Salary: $30,300
- Student-to-faculty: 16:1
Black Hawk College
Score: 89.47
- Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $7,950
- Out-of-State:$8,100
- Net Price: $4,481
- Acceptance Rate: 100%
- Retention Rate: 68%
- Graduation Rate: 43%
- Total Enrollment: 3,853
- Undergrad Students: 3,853
- Graduate Students: N/A
- Grads Salary: $34,400
- Student-to-faculty: 17:1
Carroll Community College
Score: 89.25
- Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $7,188
- Out-of-State:$9,618
- Net Price: $4,568
- Acceptance Rate: 100%
- Retention Rate: 69%
- Graduation Rate: 47%
- Total Enrollment: 3,164
- Undergrad Students: 3,164
- Graduate Students: N/A
- Grads Salary: $36,900
- Student-to-faculty: 15:1
Hazard Community and Technical College
Score: 89.16
- Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $4,656
- Out-of-State:$6,192
- Net Price: $4,602
- Acceptance Rate: 100%
- Retention Rate: 66%
- Graduation Rate: 47%
- Total Enrollment: 3,039
- Undergrad Students: 3,039
- Graduate Students: N/A
- Grads Salary: $34,600
- Student-to-faculty: 18:1
Southeast Kentucky Community & Technical College
Score: 89.13
- Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $4,656
- Out-of-State:$6,192
- Net Price: $4,614
- Acceptance Rate: 100%
- Retention Rate: 72%
- Graduation Rate: 44%
- Total Enrollment: 3,144
- Undergrad Students: 3,144
- Graduate Students: N/A
- Grads Salary: $34,700
- Student-to-faculty: 21:1
Central Arizona College
Score: 89.05
- Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $2,250
- Out-of-State:$4,500
- Net Price: $4,645
- Acceptance Rate: 100%
- Retention Rate: 58%
- Graduation Rate: 23%
- Total Enrollment: 5,131
- Undergrad Students: 5,131
- Graduate Students: N/A
- Grads Salary: $33,400
- Student-to-faculty: 16:1
Cuyahoga Community College
Score: 88.98
- Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $4,622
- Out-of-State:$8,736
- Net Price: $4,675
- Acceptance Rate: 100%
- Retention Rate: 60%
- Graduation Rate: 29%
- Total Enrollment: 17,407
- Undergrad Students: 17,407
- Graduate Students: N/A
- Grads Salary: $37,200
- Student-to-faculty: 12:1
Metropolitan Community College
Score: 88.94
- Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $3,285
- Out-of-State:$4,815
- Net Price: $4,691
- Acceptance Rate: 100%
- Retention Rate: 68%
- Graduation Rate: 25%
- Total Enrollment: 15,964
- Undergrad Students: 15,964
- Graduate Students: N/A
- Grads Salary: $34,300
- Student-to-faculty: 19:1
Suffolk County Community College
Score: 88.66
- Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $6,440
- Out-of-State:$12,080
- Net Price: $4,799
- Acceptance Rate: 100%
- Retention Rate: 62%
- Graduation Rate: 25%
- Total Enrollment: 20,053
- Undergrad Students: 20,053
- Graduate Students: N/A
- Grads Salary: $36,900
- Student-to-faculty: 22:1
Central New Mexico Community College
Score: 88.26
- Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $1,934
- Out-of-State:$8,366
- Net Price: $4,961
- Acceptance Rate: 100%
- Retention Rate: 65%
- Graduation Rate: 29%
- Total Enrollment: 19,067
- Undergrad Students: 19,067
- Graduate Students: N/A
- Grads Salary: $34,500
- Student-to-faculty: 21:1
Albany Technical College
Score: 88.19
- Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $3,196
- Out-of-State:$5,596
- Net Price: $4,986
- Acceptance Rate: 100%
- Retention Rate: 54%
- Graduation Rate: 34%
- Total Enrollment: 2,761
- Undergrad Students: 2,761
- Graduate Students: N/A
- Grads Salary: $30,800
- Student-to-faculty: 12:1
Stanly Community College
Score: 88.16
- Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $2,672
- Out-of-State:$8,816
- Net Price: $5,001
- Acceptance Rate: 100%
- Retention Rate: 72%
- Graduation Rate: 72%
- Total Enrollment: 2,527
- Undergrad Students: 2,527
- Graduate Students: N/A
- Grads Salary: $26,000
- Student-to-faculty: 10:1
Chesapeake College
Score: 87.92
- Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $6,344
- Out-of-State:$8,504
- Net Price: $5,095
- Acceptance Rate: 100%
- Retention Rate: 67%
- Graduation Rate: 21%
- Total Enrollment: 1,980
- Undergrad Students: 1,980
- Graduate Students: N/A
- Grads Salary: $29,800
- Student-to-faculty: 14:1
Copiah-Lincoln Community College
Score: 87.91
- Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $4,000
- Out-of-State:$5,000
- Net Price: $5,098
- Acceptance Rate: 100%
- Retention Rate: 73%
- Graduation Rate: 52%
- Total Enrollment: 2,834
- Undergrad Students: 2,834
- Graduate Students: N/A
- Grads Salary: $24,600
- Student-to-faculty: 20:1
J Sargeant Reynolds Community College
Score: 87.9
- Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $5,136
- Out-of-State:$11,139
- Net Price: $5,101
- Acceptance Rate: 100%
- Retention Rate: 64%
- Graduation Rate: 30%
- Total Enrollment: 7,707
- Undergrad Students: 7,707
- Graduate Students: N/A
- Grads Salary: $36,500
- Student-to-faculty: 21:1
CUNY Bronx Community College
Score: 87.89
- Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $5,206
- Out-of-State:$8,086
- Net Price: $5,106
- Acceptance Rate: 100%
- Retention Rate: 55%
- Graduation Rate: 18%
- Total Enrollment: 6,465
- Undergrad Students: 6,465
- Graduate Students: N/A
- Grads Salary: $34,100
- Student-to-faculty: 14:1
Westmoreland County Community College
Score: 87.88
- Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $10,224
- Out-of-State:$14,424
- Net Price: $5,111
- Acceptance Rate: 100%
- Retention Rate: 60%
- Graduation Rate: 25%
- Total Enrollment: 4,275
- Undergrad Students: 4,275
- Graduate Students: N/A
- Grads Salary: $31,400
- Student-to-faculty: 15:1
Lenoir Community College
Score: 87.87
- Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $2,568
- Out-of-State:$8,712
- Net Price: $5,116
- Acceptance Rate: 100%
- Retention Rate: 57%
- Graduation Rate: 28%
- Total Enrollment: 2,387
- Undergrad Students: 2,387
- Graduate Students: N/A
- Grads Salary: $26,800
- Student-to-faculty: 10:1
Forsyth Technical Community College
Score: 87.79
- Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $2,256
- Out-of-State:$6,864
- Net Price: $5,147
- Acceptance Rate: 100%
- Retention Rate: 74%
- Graduation Rate: 28%
- Total Enrollment: 8,716
- Undergrad Students: 8,716
- Graduate Students: N/A
- Grads Salary: $28,600
- Student-to-faculty: 11:1
Wytheville Community College
Score: 87.72
- Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $4,863
- Out-of-State:$10,866
- Net Price: $5,174
- Acceptance Rate: 100%
- Retention Rate: 66%
- Graduation Rate: 45%
- Total Enrollment: 2,119
- Undergrad Students: 2,119
- Graduate Students: N/A
- Grads Salary: $31,300
- Student-to-faculty: 23:1
Camden County College
Score: 87.42
- Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $4,056
- Out-of-State:$4,056
- Net Price: $5,293
- Acceptance Rate: 100%
- Retention Rate: 68%
- Graduation Rate: 33%
- Total Enrollment: 7,591
- Undergrad Students: 7,591
- Graduate Students: N/A
- Grads Salary: $38,900
- Student-to-faculty: 21:1
Macomb Community College
Score: 87.36
- Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $6,510
- Out-of-State:$8,220
- Net Price: $5,317
- Acceptance Rate: 100%
- Retention Rate: 64%
- Graduation Rate: 16%
- Total Enrollment: 15,983
- Undergrad Students: 15,983
- Graduate Students: N/A
- Grads Salary: $37,400
- Student-to-faculty: 26:1
Decoding the Landscape
Online associate degree programs come in various fields such as business, nursing, and technology. You can typically complete these degrees in two years of full-time study. Many schools offer asynchronous learning, allowing you to access course materials and complete assignments on your schedule.
The flexibility of online programs can help you balance work, family, and education. You'll save time and money on commuting, and often have access to the same resources as on-campus students.
When selecting a program, consider factors like accreditation, transfer options, and career support services. Accreditation ensures your degree will be recognized by employers and other institutions.
Financial Aspects of Online Learning
Affordable online associate degrees can significantly reduce your educational costs. Tuition rates for online programs are often lower than their on-campus counterparts. Some schools offer flat-rate tuition regardless of residency status.Key financial factors to consider:
- Net Price
- Annual tuition
- Cost per credit
- Technology fees
- Textbook expenses
Many online students qualify for financial aid. Options include:
- Federal Pell Grants
- Scholarships
- Cost per credit
- Work-study programs
- Student loans
Comparing Online Program Affordability
When evaluating affordable online associate degree programs, look beyond just the sticker price. Consider the total cost of attendance, including fees and required materials. Factors to compare:
- Tuition rates
- Available financial aid options
- Available scholarships
- Transfer credit policies
- Accelerated program options
Some schools offer competency-based programs, allowing you to progress faster and potentially save money. Others may have partnerships with employers for tuition reimbursement.
Remember to factor in the potential return on investment. Research job prospects and average salaries for graduates in your chosen field. A slightly higher-priced program might be worth it if it leads to better career outcomes.
In-Demand Fields and Degrees
Associate's degree programs are designed with career-focused curricula. Popular fields include:
- Business Administration
- Criminal Justice
- Computer Science
- Health Science
- Human Services
- Teaching
These programs equip you with industry-specific skills. A degree in business administration prepares you for roles in management and finance. Criminal justice programs can lead to careers in law enforcement or legal support.
Medical billing and coding degrees are in high demand due to healthcare industry growth. Liberal arts degrees provide a versatile foundation for various career paths or further education.
Benefits of Earning an Education Online
Online associate's degrees offer flexibility and convenience. You can balance work, family, and education more easily. Key advantages include:
- Lower costs compared to traditional programs
- Access to a wider range of accredited institutions
- Self-paced learning options
- No commute or relocation required
Online education allows you to earn your degree from anywhere. Many programs use e-books and virtual labs, reducing additional expenses. Online classes often have higher retention rates due to their flexibility.
Transfer Credits and Continuing Education
Associate degrees can serve as a stepping stone to further education. Many programs are designed as transfer degrees, allowing you to seamlessly transition to a bachelor's program. Key points to consider:
- Credits from accredited colleges are more likely to transfer
- Some public colleges have guaranteed transfer agreements with universities
- Online learners often have the same transfer opportunities as on-campus students
You can save time and money by starting with an associate degree. Many students complete their bachelor's in just two additional years after earning an associate degree.