Best Affordable Online Associate Degrees in Michigan 2025

Earning an associate degree is the first step toward a bachelor's degree or entering a rewarding career; however, investing in higher education can feel intimidating since it often costs thousands of dollars. Fortunately for Michigan students, many in-state schools offer students the chance to earn a convenient and affordable associate degree online.

If you're ready to begin your academic journey, consider a cheap online associate degree in Michigan. We'll discuss 10 schools offering associate degrees under $10,000 for in-district students. Plus, learn about scholarships and financial aid opportunities to make your education even more affordable. Keep reading to find an affordable associate degree online that's right for you.

How Much Does an Associate Degree Cost in Michigan?

Prospective students can choose from many affordable online colleges for their associate degrees. These programs offer the convenience of flexible scheduling and eliminate the need for commuting, helping students save time and money. Pursuing an affordable associate degree online is an excellent way to earn a credential without the high cost of traditional college.

If you're looking for the cheapest online associate degree in Michigan, you'll want to consider your district's community college. Most online programs for in-district residents are under $200 per credit hour. Students residing outside of the district or out-of-state will likely need to pay more, sometimes as much as double the cost.

Many of the schools on this list offer institutional scholarships to lower the total cost of attendance. Additionally, students can access federal and state aid programs to help manage tuition.

Cheapest Online Associate Degree Programs

If you're looking for affordable higher education, you're in luck; Michigan has numerous affordable associate degrees. Keep reading to learn about tuition rates, scholarships, and more important program details.

1. Grand Rapids Community College

Students can pursue various associate degrees online at Grand Rapids Community College. These online programs include:

• computer information systems
• business
• cyber security
• history
• sociology

As flexible two-year degrees, they provide a solid foundation for further studies. Students can transfer these credits toward a public university degree without hassle, as the school's dedicated Academic Advising and Transfer Center helps with this process.

Average in-state tuition: $124 per credit hour

Average out-of-state tuition: $249 per credit hour

Program length: four semesters

Financial aid: Students can complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) to qualify for government aid. The school also offers over 300 scholarship opportunities.

Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission (HLC)

2. Lansing Community College

Lansing Community College offers fully online associate degree programs in fields such as criminal justice, business, and communications. These programs are designed for flexibility, enabling students to complete their studies entirely online, making them ideal for working adults or those requiring adjustable schedules.

Average in-state tuition: $120 per credit hour

Average out-of-state tuition: $360 per credit hour

Program length: four semesters

Financial aid: Students can complete the FAFSA or apply to the many institutional scholarships available, which typically range from $500 to $3,000.

Accreditation: HLC

3. Washtenaw Community College

Washtenaw Community College offers over 50 fully online associate degree programs. Most offer flexible asynchronous learning, though several may have fixed times for online classes. Students can choose from several majors, including business administration, general studies, and secondary education.

Average in-state tuition: $112 per credit hour

Average out-of-state tuition: $139 per credit hour

Program length: four semesters

Financial aid: Students can apply for government aid or institutional scholarships to help pay for college.

Accreditation: HLC

4. Macomb Community College

Macomb Community College offers several associate degrees online in subjects like cloud computing, global supply chain management, and health information technology. Online learners can access many student support services during their programs, including help from the Academic Success Center, which provides free tutoring and writing support.

Average in-state tuition: $113 per credit hour

Average out-of-state tuition: $270 per credit hour

Program length: four semesters

Financial aid: There are many scholarships and tuition assistance programs for Macomb students, including the Macomb Tuition Advantage and the Community College Guarantee. Students may also use tuition payment plans to help manage out-of-pocket costs.

Accreditation: HLC

5. Oakland Community College

At Oakland Community College (OCC), students can pursue numerous online degree programs. Popular programs include business administration, healthcare administration, and social work. Online classes are taught by the same instructors as on-campus programs, ensuring that distance learners receive the same quality education as other students.

Average in-state tuition: $115 per credit hour

Average out-of-state tuition: $217 per credit hour

Program length: four semesters

Financial aid: Students should complete the FAFSA to qualify for government loans and grants. In addition, students can apply for multiple scholarships, like the Chancellor's Scholarship and the OCC Foundation Scholarships, through one convenient platform.

Accreditation: HLC

6. Schoolcraft College

Schoolcraft College in Livonia offers several fully online associate degrees, including business, marketing, and fire and emergency management. The online courses in these programs may include asynchronous or synchronous classes for flexibility. Additionally, students benefit from remote learning support, like tutoring or academic coaching.

Average in-state tuition: $139 per credit hour

Average out-of-state tuition: $270 per credit hour

Program length: four semesters

Financial aid: Students should complete the FAFSA for federal and state aid, as well as pursue outside scholarships for additional financial help.

Accreditation: HLC

7. St. Clair County Community College

At St. Clair County Community College in Port Huron, students needing a flexible learning schedule can choose from several fully online associate degree programs. Some of the offerings include business, humanities, and social sciences. Career help and tutoring are available to online learners.

Average in-state tuition: $153 per credit hour

Average out-of-state tuition: $410 per credit hour

Program length: four semesters

Financial aid: Students may qualify for several aid opportunities, including loans, grants, and scholarships, like the Michigan Achievement Scholarship. Payment plans are also available.

Accreditation: HLC

8. Northern Michigan College

Northern Michigan College in Traverse City offers three different types of associate degrees online:

• general studies
• science & arts
• business administration

Courses may include asynchronous online learning or scheduled livestreams; however, regardless of learning format, all assignments must be completed at specified deadlines. Additionally, some classes, though fully online, may require proctored testing.

Average in-state tuition: $126 per credit hour

Average out-of-state tuition: $350 per credit hour

Program length: four semesters

Financial aid: Students are automatically considered for institutional and outside scholarships after completing their admission applications. Students must complete the FAFSA to receive these awards and additional government aid.

Accreditation: HLC

9. Mid Michigan College

Mid Michigan College in Harrison offers numerous fully online or hybrid associate degree programs. Some of the 100% online programs include criminal justice, early childhood education, and business. The school is committed to ensuring the successful completion of these programs; it provides virtual support services, such as personalized mentoring and writing help, to all online learners.

Average in-state tuition: $155 per credit hour

Average out-of-state tuition: $347 per credit hour

Program length: four semesters

Financial aid: Scholarships, loans, and grants are available. Students can also participate in payment plans.

Accreditation: HLC

10. Mott Community College

At Mott Community College, students can choose from online associate degrees in various fields such as accounting, data analytics, and business management. The credits from these degrees can then be transferred into bachelor's degree programs.

Online students may access support services throughout their studies, including free tutoring and technology help. Additionally, advisors can help you map out your academic path to ensure you meet your goals.

Average in-state tuition: $160 per credit hour

Average out-of-state tuition: $299 per credit hour

Program length: four semesters

Financial aid: Students can apply for institutional scholarships and government aid to help shoulder tuition costs.

Accreditation: HLC

How We Rank Schools

Many schools offer associate degrees in Michigan. To compile this list, we ranked them by using specific criteria. Some of our ranking factors include:

• Accreditation: All schools are accredited by a recognized accrediting agency. On this list, all schools have received accreditation from the HLC, ensuring academic excellence.
• Affordability: We chose the cheapest online colleges that accept FAFSA and cost under $10,000.
• Program reputation and quality: We selected programs that are well-known for their quality instructors and curriculum.
• Online format: All schools on this list offer at least three fully online degree programs.

FAQs About the Cheapest Associate Degrees in Michigan

Taking the first step toward an associate degree is exciting; however, you may have some questions about the process. Below, we'll break down common questions to ensure you're prepared for your academic journey.

Can I Get an Associate Degree Online in Michigan?

Yes, many Michigan colleges offer fully online associate degree programs in fields like business, healthcare, IT, and liberal arts. These programs are designed for flexibility and can be completed from anywhere, making them ideal for working adults or students with busy schedules.

What Is the Cheapest and Fastest Way To Get an Associate Degree in Michigan?

The most affordable and efficient path is through community colleges offering in-district tuition and accelerated courses. At Washtenaw Community College, the tuition rate is only $112 per credit hour for in-district students, which is the lowest option on this list.

While low tuition rates affect affordability, scholarships and tuition waivers can significantly lower the cost of higher education. In Michigan, some in-state students may qualify for the Michigan Reconnect scholarship program. With this option, any student over the age of 25 who hasn't already completed a college degree can receive free tuition at their in-district community college.

Are There Any 6-Month Associate Degrees in Michigan?

Associate degrees in Michigan generally take two years for full-time students; however, some schools may offer accelerated options or a heavier course load to fulfill the 60-credit requirement faster than normal. Many institutions also offer stackable six-month certificate programs; while these are not degrees, the credits can be used toward an associate degree.

While Michigan doesn't have many half-year programs, some out-of-state schools may offer 6-month online associate degrees. It's important to ensure that these programs meet your academic and transfer needs, so connect with an admissions counselor to see if this option is the right fit.

What Are Some of the Fastest Associate Degrees You Can Get Online?

Some of the fastest online associate degrees you can earn include programs in business administration, criminal justice, health sciences, information technology, and early childhood education. These degrees are often available in accelerated formats, allowing completion in 12 to 18 months with year-round courses or transferred credits.

Many community colleges in Michigan and nationwide offer flexible accelerated options to help students finish quickly and start working or transfer to a four-year university sooner.

Earn Your Associate Degree Online

Earning your associate degree online in Michigan is a smart, flexible, and affordable way to jumpstart your career or continue your education. If you're ready to get started, explore the associate degree programs here on Learn.org. Reach out to individual schools for more information on next steps.