Are There Tuition-Free Master's Degrees Online in New Mexico?

Although fully free online master's degrees are not available, students seeking an affordable degree path can significantly reduce costs through various financial aid options. Federal and state aid, scholarships from higher education institutions, and other funding sources can cover a portion of tuition costs for eligible students. However, it is important to note that additional costs beyond tuition may apply.

If you're ready to learn more about tuition-free online master's degree programs, keep reading. In this article, we'll talk about getting a free master's degree online in New Mexico and explore some schools in the state that make it possible to earn a tuition-free online master's degree.

Can I Get a Master's Degree Online for Free in New Mexico?

Even though it's possible to earn a very low-cost degree using financial aid, there is no such thing as a fully free degree program. Free online colleges are not available in New Mexico; however, financial aid could still reduce all costs.

In fact, the only online college in the U.S. offering free tuition is the University of the People (UoPeople). You can pursue a handful of online master's degrees at this school without paying tuition; however, it's worth noting that there are still course fees you'll have to pay at UoPeople; only tuition is $0.

How To Make Your Online Master's Degree Affordable

You can use many different types of financial aid to reduce your tuition and other expenses and fees. Let's look at some tips you can follow to secure these types of aid.

• Pursue grants and scholarships: You may be able to earn scholarships and grants from your school or various outside organizations like businesses and nonprofits. These awards may be merit-based or need-based.
• Look for graduate assistantships: Graduate students may be able to work an assistantship through their school that will cover some or all of their costs. These programs are typically competitive but provide a great way to cover college costs.
• Complete the FAFSA: All college students are encouraged to complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) to see if they qualify for government financial assistance. Attending accredited online colleges that accept FAFSA can help students save big through federal and state grants, student loans, and work-study programs.
• Use employer tuition benefits: If you have a job, find out if your employer offers tuition assistance or reimbursement. These benefits can help learners save a lot of money on both undergraduate and graduate-level studies.
• Use veteran's benefits: If you have a military background, you may have educational benefits through your GI Bill. Many colleges and universities also charge reduced tuition rates for veterans and service members.

Low-Cost Online Master's Programs

Though you probably won't be able to get a graduate degree for free, several New Mexico schools offer affordable online courses and generous financial aid options. Let's look at some of these schools that can help you get an advanced degree cheaply.

1. Eastern New Mexico University

Eastern New Mexico University is a public school in Portales. It offers some of the cheapest online master's degrees in the state thanks to its low tuition costs. Programs available include:

• nursing
• social work
• business administration (MBA)

Students are encouraged to explore the school's financial aid options, which include various scholarships and federal aid. Those who combine financial aid with low tuition may be able to earn a master's degree for nearly free at this school.

• Average in-state tuition: $5,454
• Average out-of-state tuition: $7,226
• Financial aid: Scholarships, grants, state and federal aid, military benefits
• Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission (HLC)

2. University of New Mexico

The University of New Mexico is a large public school with a significant online enrollment. Both part-time and full-time students are welcome to explore flexible master's programs that include:

• cybersecurity and business analytics
• educational leadership
• dental hygiene

The school offers a wide range of financial aid options, including fellowships for graduate students. Other options include scholarships, grants, loans, military assistance, and work-study programs.

• Average in-state tuition: $6,287
• Average out-of-state tuition: $20,442
• Financial aid: State and federal aid, scholarships, grants, fellowships, work-study
• Accreditation: HLC

3. New Mexico State University

New Mexico State University offers many online programs that working professionals can pursue at their own pace. Some of the master's degrees available include:

• information technology
• communication studies
• various MBA programs

The school strives to help students afford their education by offering scholarships, payment plans, and affordable tuition rates. Students can also earn state and federal aid and apply for assistantships.

• Average in-state tuition: $5,181
• Average out-of-state tuition: $18,023
• Financial aid: State and federal aid, grants, scholarships, assistantships
• Accreditation: HLC

4. New Mexico Highlands University

New Mexico Highlands University is a public school located in Las Vegas, NM. Learners can pursue a handful of online master's programs, such as:

• entrepreneurship
• healthcare administration
• criminology

The school offers various scholarships and military benefits and accepts employer tuition assistance. Students are also encouraged to complete the FAFSA to find out what state and federal aid they may qualify for.

• Average in-state tuition: $5,488
• Average out-of-state tuition: $10,264
• Financial aid: Scholarships, military benefits, employee assistance, grants, assistantships
• Accreditation: HLC

5. New Mexico Institute of Mining and Technology

New Mexico Institute of Mining and Technology, commonly known as New Mexico Tech, is a public school offering affordable tuition rates and several online learning options. Some of the degrees available include:

• computer science
• engineering management
• geology

Students can apply for scholarships and grants through this school, along with state and federal benefits. Various assistantships, fellowships, and other aid opportunities are also available specifically for graduate students.

• Average in-state tuition: $8,005
• Average out-of-state tuition: $26,479
• Financial aid: Assistantships, fellowships, scholarships, state and federal aid
• Accreditation: HLC

Discover Affordable Online Master's Degrees

If you're ready to start a cheap or free master's degree online, explore the colleges and universities here on Learn.org. Reach out to any of the schools to find out more about their programs and to choose the best option for you.