Most Affordable Online Associate Degrees in Nevada 2025

Earning an affordable associate degree online can be a smart, flexible, and cost-effective way to begin your higher education journey or advance your career. In Nevada and across the U.S., students have access to accredited programs that combine quality and affordability. If you're looking to find the cheapest online associate degree, keep reading to explore your best options.

How Much Does an Associate Degree Cost in Nevada?

The cost of an online associate degree in Nevada varies by school and program type. Public colleges like Western Nevada College offer the cheapest online associate degree in Nevada, while private or out-of-state options can exceed $300 per credit. On average, students earning an affordable associate degree online can expect to pay between $3,000 and $10,000, with financial aid significantly lowering out-of-pocket costs.

Cheapest Online Associate Degree Programs

With the choice of several affordable online colleges, students can easily find a cheap online associate degree in Nevada that balances cost and quality. Programs are not only flexible but also affordable, with low tuition and generous financial aid--making higher education more accessible than ever.

1. Great Basin College

Great Basin College, based in Elko, NV, serves over 4,000 students annually through online and on-campus programs. It offers affordable associate degrees online in various academic, technical, and career fields, including land surveying, business, early childhood education, criminal justice, accounting, and more. Its flexible, fully online options attract students nationwide.

Average in-state tuition: $198.00

Average out-of-state tuition: $198.00

Program length: 24 months

Financial aid: GBC students can access financial aid through scholarships, federal grants, student loans, and Parent PLUS loans to help fund your education.

Accreditation: Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities

2. College of Southern Nevada

The College of Southern Nevada, with campuses across Las Vegas and Henderson, offers fully online two-year degree programs in fields like casino management, cybersecurity, psychology, special education, and sociology. These flexible online education programs allow students to complete coursework and exams and interact with instructors entirely remotely, meeting academic standards without in-person attendance.

Average in-state tuition: $123.75

Average out-of-state tuition: $136.25

Program length: 24 months

Financial aid: Grants, work study, scholarships, and loans are available to students at the College of Southern Nevada for financial aid.

Accreditation: Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities

3. Truckee Meadows Community College

Truckee Meadows Community College, a public two-year institution in Reno, NV, serves over 20,000 students annually. It offers online associate degrees in anthropology, communication studies, history, political science, social work, office management, and many more specializations.

TMCC also provides non-credit courses, online certificate programs, bachelor's degrees, and over 70 programs focused on flexibility, low cost, and transfer credits.

Average in-state tuition: $136.50

Average out-of-state tuition: $136.50

Program length: 24 months

Financial aid: Grants, work study, scholarships, and FAFSA loans are offered to students seeking financial aid at Truckee Meadows Community College.

Accreditation: Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities

4. Western Nevada College

Western Nevada College (WNC) offers associate degrees designed for transfer and career readiness. The Associate of Arts degree supports majors in liberal arts, communication, psychology, social sciences, and social work. The Associate of Applied Science includes options in business, graphic design, automotive mechanics, welding, programming, construction, and more.

Average in-state tuition: $62

Average out-of-state tuition: $62

Program length: 24 months

Financial aid: Students at WNC can take advantage of grants, loans, scholarships, and work study when affording their distance education.

Accreditation: Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities

Other Affordable Online Associate Degrees in the U.S.

Across the country, many accredited institutions offer affordable, fully online associate degrees tailored for flexibility and career growth. See below for more higher education options available to Nevada residents.

University of Phoenix

The University of Phoenix is one of the best online colleges that offers fully online associate degrees in fields such as business, criminal justice, cybersecurity, and technology. Designed for flexibility, these programs cater to working adults seeking career advancement or degree completion, with personalized support and a structured, accessible learning environment.

Average in-state tuition: $398

Average out-of-state tuition: $398

Program length: 24 months

Financial aid: Students at the University of Phoenix can access various financial aid options, including federal and state grants, scholarships, military benefits, and federal student loans.

Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission (HLC)

Southern New Hampshire University

Southern New Hampshire University (SNHU) offers flexible, transfer-friendly associate degrees with concentrations like accounting, business, computer science, and more. Students enjoy 24/7 online access, affordable tuition, and expert instructors with real-world experience. With one of the most affordable tuition rates in the country and financial aid available to those who qualify, SNHU makes higher education more accessible.

Average in-state tuition: $330

Average out-of-state tuition: $330

Program length: 24 months

Financial aid: SNHU students can afford the cost of their college degree through transfer credits, military discounts, FAFSA-based aid, scholarships, and employer tuition assistance.

Accreditation: New England Commission of Higher Education

Strayer University

Strayer University offers associate degree programs in fields like accounting, business administration, information technology, marketing, and acquisition and contract management. With 23 degree options, students can study online or at campuses nationwide. Most students take online courses part-time, while full-time options are also available for added flexibility and convenience.

Average in-state tuition: $338

Average out-of-state tuition: $338

Program length: 24 months

Financial aid: Online students can use scholarships, employer tuition assistance, veteran's benefits, FAFSA, and grants to pay for their degree.

Accreditation: Middle States Commission on Higher Education

Waldorf University

Waldorf University is a private, faith-based, nonprofit institution offering associate, bachelor's, and master's degree programs both online and on-campus in IA. Students can pursue associate degrees in fields such as business, communications, criminal justice, education, fire science, homeland security, human resources, leadership, and more � combining flexibility with a strong academic foundation.

Average in-state tuition: $330

Average out-of-state tuition: $330

Program length: 24 months

Financial aid: Grants, loans, work study programs, and federal aid are all available to Waldorf students.

Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission

Liberty University

Liberty University is a private nonprofit college offering over 600 online degrees, with all courses taught from a biblical perspective. In addition to online bachelor's, master's, and doctorate degrees, students at Liberty University who are just beginning their higher education journeys can gain an affordable associate degree online in paralegal studies, physics, psychology, religion, creative writing, accounting, biblical studies, business, and other concentrations.

Average in-state tuition: $390 to $455

Average out-of-state tuition: $390 to $455

Program length: 24 months

Financial aid: Students at Liberty University can fund their online degree programs using FAFSA, grants, scholarships, tuition discounts, and payment plans.

Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

California Coast University

California Coast University offers fully online associate, bachelor's, master's, and doctoral degrees. Associate programs include concentrations in criminal justice, psychology, general studies, health care administration, business administration, and marketing. With no group projects, set meeting times, or fixed exam dates, motivated students can progress quickly � making it possible to earn one of the fastest associate degree/degrees online

Average in-state tuition: $170

Average out-of-state tuition: $170

Program length: 24 months

Financial aid: California Coast University offers interest-free payment plans, tuition discounts, and employer reimbursement options, but does not participate in federal or state financial aid programs.

Accreditation: Distance Education Accrediting Commission (DEAC)

How We Rank Schools

We rank schools using key criteria to ensure each program offers a high-quality, affordable, and flexible online education students can trust. This includes:

• Accreditation: We prioritize schools with recognized accreditation, ensuring academic standards and respected degrees.
• Affordability: We evaluate tuition, financial aid, and overall value to find affordable programs.
• Program reputation and quality: We assess program reputation, student satisfaction, and success rates.
• Online format: We consider the flexibility, user experience, and accessibility of online learning platforms.

FAQs About the Cheapest Associate Degrees in Nevada

Find quick answers to common questions about affordable online associate degrees in Nevada, including costs, financial aid, and program options.

What Is the Easiest Associate Degree To Get Online in Nevada?

The easiest associate degree to get online in Nevada often depends on a student's interests and strengths. However, liberal arts or general studies programs at schools like Western Nevada College are typically considered less intensive, offering flexible coursework and a broad curriculum ideal for transfer or career exploration.

Are There Any Free Online Degrees in Nevada?

While no colleges offer completely free online degrees, several institutions provide low-cost tuition and substantial financial aid. Low tuition costs and options like scholarships, grants, and work study can make it possible for Nevada students to earn a cheap online associate degree.

How Much Does a 2-Year Degree Cost?

A 2-year online associate degree in Nevada can range from $1,488 to $9,552 in total tuition, depending on the school. Western Nevada College is the most affordable, while Great Basin College and Truckee Meadows Community College offer moderate rates. Out-of-state and private online schools average higher, around $8,000 to $11,000 total.

What Is the Cheapest Way To Get an Associate Degree in Nevada?

The cheapest way to get an associate degree in Nevada is to attend an in-state public college like Western Nevada College, where tuition starts at just $62 per credit. To make your education even more affordable, consider exploring cheap online colleges that accept FAFSA, which can provide access to federal grants, scholarships, and work-study programs � potentially reducing or even eliminating out-of-pocket costs.

Discover Online Degrees

Nevada's online associate degree programs offer flexible, affordable, and accessible distance learning. Whether you're starting college or changing careers, accredited schools in Nevada and nationwide provide convenient education pathways all from home.