10 Affordable Online Courses in 2025

On-campus classes may not be feasible for students with work or family commitments. Affordable online colleges provide flexible learning options without sacrificing quality.

Below, we explore liberal arts courses that do not compromise affordability or academic integrity. Students may even transfer credits toward a college degree or earn a certificate to boost career development.

Top Low-Cost Online College Courses

Online learning is a great option for students who can't attend in-person classes. Below, we discuss affordable online classes from accredited institutions.

1. Environmental Science

At Pearson Accelerated Pathways, students can choose from a range of online courses. Credits from these classes, including the self-paced environmental science course, can be transferred toward a bachelor's degree.

This particular course explores the relationship between humanity and the environment. Online learners complete assignments, quizzes, and tests at their own pace. Affordable payment plans are available to make the program cost easier to manage.

2. English Composition I

This beginners' course, offered by Arizona State University, is designed to prepare students for writing throughout their academic and professional careers. Students gain three college credits and the fundamental writing skills necessary for student success.

To register, students must pay a $25 enrollment fee. Though the course costs $400, students do not need to pay this amount if they do not pass the class. Students who pass the class may take up to a year to make the payment.

3. Astronomy: Exploring Time and Space

The University of Arizona offers an astronomy course through Coursera. Students are provided a basic overview of modern astronomy, learning about recent discoveries and scientific principles. Financial aid and scholarships are available by application.

4. U.S. History I

At Study.com, online learners may complete this lower-division U.S. History course to receive three transferrable college credits. Students may fit this course into their existing schedule and finish assignments at their own pace.

Pricing is affordable and flexible. Students may enroll in as many courses as they wish for $235 per month.

5. Principles of Accounting I

The University of Phoenix offers a five-week course in the principles of accounting. Students learn budgeting, accounting, and forecasting skills.

The cost is $398 per credit, which is competitive with other accounting programs from accredited colleges. This course may also be eligible for employer tuition reimbursement.

6. Business Communication

Online students can complete many courses through the Sophia learning platform, including the business communication class. Course participants develop a basic understanding of business communication and gain valuable career-ready skills.

The Sophia learning platform has many partnerships with colleges and universities. Those seeking a college degree may transfer three credit hours to these schools after passing the class. Online learners pay membership plans starting at $99 per month.

7. Digital Marketing

In addition to offering online degree programs, Southern New Hampshire University also offers individualized courses available to online learners. These self-paced college courses offer flexibility and autonomy for those seeking higher education.

The digital marketing program explains various marketing channels, tools, and technology. Students learn how to develop an impactful digital marketing strategy for businesses.

Students earn three credits after passing the class. Each credit costs $330, which is a relatively affordable tuition rate for college-level marketing classes.

8. Child Development

Those pursuing master's programs in psychology can take this online child development course at American Public University. The course explores modern psychological principles regarding child development and examines variations across cultures and settings.

This eight-week-long course is worth three transfer credits. Students may participate in a payment plan to help make the course more affordable.

9. Introduction to Computation

Those interested in computer science can complete an online course in computation through the University of Wisconsin. This introductory course teaches students the basics of IT.

Upon successful completion, course participants receive three transfer credits. Each credit costs $327 per credit hour, and full-time University of Wisconsin students may receive a tuition waiver.

10. Introduction to Health Management

Students pursuing bachelor's degrees in healthcare can earn transfer credits through Walden University's health management course. In the class, students learn how to improve healthcare organizations.

After finishing this online course, students may transfer five credits to their degree program. Each credit costs $350 and the school offers various tuition discounts for military members, Walden University alumni, and more.

Our Selection Criteria

The courses on this list were selected based on several different ranking factors, including:

• Learning format: The courses listed above are fully online and offer flexibility for students with other responsibilities.
• Accreditation: All online classes are accredited and may be transferred toward a degree program.
• Affordability: The schools listed offer low tuition rates, discounts, or payment plans to ensure students can pursue online education.

Tips To Make Online Courses More Affordable

Since individualized courses do not qualify for federal financial aid, students may consider alternatives to afford an online college course. Online colleges with scholarships can be difficult to find for part-time students; however, some platforms or online universities may offer tuition discounts to help make course tuition more affordable.

Additionally, online colleges with payment plans can help make the total cost more manageable by spreading out tuition over several weeks or months. Learning platforms like Sophia or Coursera sometimes run discounts or promotions on courses too.

FAQs About Low-Cost Coursework and Programs

Many people have questions about online courses. We answer some of the top questions below.

Are There Free College Courses Online?

Free online courses from accredited colleges are typically offered through a learning platform like Coursera. While students may be able to earn a certificate from free courses, generally no credits can be transferred. If you would like to earn credits to apply toward a degree at an accredited university, you will likely need to pay tuition.

How Much Do Online Classes Cost?

The cost of online classes varies widely. Expensive online schools may offer courses priced at $800 or above per credit hour. Affordable online colleges typically keep the tuition rate under $400 per credit hour.

Online colleges that accept financial aid require students to be enrolled as full-time students in a degree program. Additionally, No InterWiki reference defined in properties for Wiki called "ttps"! usually choose full-time students as recipients.

Where Can I Find Affordable Online Courses With Certificates?

Students can find many courses with certificates online. Coursera is a well-known affordable learning platform that offers certificate programs; however, community colleges and four-year colleges may also offer certificates.

Explore Online Classes and Enroll Today

Are you looking for flexible distance learning options? Explore high-quality online courses from accredited schools on Learn.org. Contact each school for more information on enrollment, start dates, and their commitment to student success.