Most Affordable Online Associate Degrees in North Dakota 2025

Are you searching for a cheap online associate degree? You're in luck; students in North Dakota and beyond can choose from many local colleges that offer an affordable associate degree online. These programs are a great first step toward an undergraduate degree or entering a career.

Plus, with distance education opportunities, you won't need to put your life on hold. These convenient and flexible online programs are perfect for those who live far away or have competing responsibilities. Keep reading to find the cheapest online associate degree in North Dakota.

How Much Does an Associate Degree Cost in North Dakota?

Students can choose from several affordable online colleges, offering low tuition and aid opportunities.

The cost of earning an associate degree in North Dakota depends on the type of school and program. If you're looking for the cheapest online associate degree in North Dakota, public community colleges offer the most affordable options, with in-state tuition typically clocking in under $10,000 for a two-year degree.

Online programs can lower costs further by eliminating expenses like housing, transportation, and campus fees. But, some fields � especially technical or healthcare programs � may include extra costs for labs or equipment. Many students qualify for financial aid, scholarships, or tuition waivers, which can significantly reduce the total cost regardless of where they enroll and the program type.

Ready to find an affordable associate degree online? Below, we'll rank the top North Dakota programs.

Cheapest Online Associate Degree Programs

If you're looking for affordable degree options, check out these online colleges in North Dakota. Discover several options with low tuition rates and extensive financial aid opportunities.

1. Williston State College

Williston State College offers several fully online associate degree programs. These flexible learning opportunities provide the same quality education as on-campus classes; online students receive individualized attention from instructors as they pursue their degrees.

Students can choose from several majors, including agriculture, business management, and cybersecurity. The school offers free online tutoring to help students succeed.

Average in-state tuition: $137.92 per credit hour

Average out-of-state tuition: $137.92 per credit hour

Program length: 24 months

Financial aid: Students can apply for federal and state financial aid. Additionally, over 45 institutional scholarships are available to students who meet certain criteria, often geographic and merit stipulations.

Accreditation: HLC

2. North Dakota State College of Science

Though North Dakota State College of Science's main campus is in Wahpeton, it also has a thriving online campus. Students can complete their programs entirely online, eliminating geographic barriers to higher education. Various online programs are available, including health information technology, software engineering, and web design.

Average in-state tuition: $156.11 per credit hour

Average out-of-state tuition: $187.33 per credit hour

Program length: 24 months

Financial aid: Loans, grants, and scholarships are available to qualifying students. The school awards over $1.4 million to scholarship recipients yearly.

Accreditation: HLC

3. Bismarck State College

Bismarck State College offers flexible, fully online associate degrees in fields like business, cybersecurity, and energy. These programs are designed for career entry or transfer and combine practical skills with general education. Students benefit from affordable tuition, expert faculty, and support services for online learners, like tutoring and advising.

Average in-state tuition: $173.63 per credit hour

Average out-of-state tuition: $260.45 per credit hour

Program length: 24 months

Financial aid: Students can complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). Students should also apply for institutional scholarships; the school awards over $1.3 million annually.

Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission (HLC)

4. Rassmussen University

Rasmussen University is a private, for-profit institution with locations nationwide, including one in Fargo. Many of the Fargo-based programs can also be completed fully online, such as accounting, business management, and criminal justice. Students benefit from an engaging curriculum and learning experience that often includes hands-on virtual labs, live discussions with instructors, and project assessments.

Average in-state tuition: Varies by program but ranges from $210 to $330 per credit hour

Average out-of-state tuition: Varies by program but ranges from $210 to $330 per credit hour

Program length: 24 months

Financial aid: Students can apply for government and state financial aid opportunities.

Accreditation: HLC

5. Lake Region State College

At Lake Region State College, students can study several fully online associate degree programs. Subjects range from early childhood education to business administration. These online programs feature asynchronous courses, so students with busy schedules can fit assignments and lectures whenever works best for them.

Average in-state tuition: $215.52 per credit hour

Average out-of-state tuition: $215.52 per credit hour

Program length: 24 months

Financial aid: Several forms of financial aid are available, including scholarships, loans, and grants.

Accreditation: HLC

6. Dakota College at Bottineau

Dakota College at Bottineau offers online associate degrees in areas like accounting, human resource management, and bookkeeping. Programs are designed for flexibility, affordability, and transferability toward a bachelor's degree. Students gain career-ready skills through interactive coursework and personalized support, making it a strong choice for those balancing education with work or family responsibilities.

Average in-state tuition: $248.34 per credit hour

Average out-of-state tuition: $286.09 per credit hour

Program length: 24 months

Financial aid: Several institutional scholarships are available to qualified students, including the New Student Scholarship, which ranges from $1,000 to $2,500.

Accreditation: HLC

Other Affordable Online Associate Degrees in the U.S.

While North Dakota residents can choose from several online schools offering associate degrees, there are also out-of-state options. We've rounded up some top affordable schools offering online college degrees.

Cossatot Community College of the University of Arkansas

Cossatot Community College offers several cheap online associate programs in fields such as general studies, business, and psychology. These convenient online courses provide the same rigorous education as on-campus programs and are taught by the same knowledgeable and helpful faculty members.

Average in-state tuition: $84 for in-district students

Average out-of-state tuition: $103 per credit hour

Program length: 24 months

Financial aid: Students may receive grants, scholarships, or loans to help pay for school.

Accreditation: HLC

Metropolitan Community College

Metropolitan Community College is based in Nebraska, though it offers several fully online programs that students living outside of the state can pursue. Some of the programs include criminal justice, accounting, and business administration. The school provides extensive tutoring for online students in writing, math, and course-specific studies.

Average in-state tuition: $70 per credit hour

Average out-of-state tuition: $105 per credit hour

Program length: 24 months

Financial aid: Institutional scholarships are available. Students can also apply for government aid to help manage costs.

Accreditation: HLC

Umpqua Community College

At Umpqua Community College, students can choose several remote two-year degree programs. Online programs range from business to computer science and can be transferred to a four-year degree program. The school is committed to providing a quality learning experience and offers support services such as technical help, tutoring, and peer mentorship.

Average in-state tuition: $120 per credit hour

Average out-of-state tuition: $120 per credit hour

Program length: 24 months

Financial aid: Students may qualify for loans, grants, and scholarships to help manage tuition costs.

Accreditation: Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities (NWCCU)

Yavapai College

Yavapai College in New Mexico offers various online associate degree programs priced affordably for out-of-state students. Some programs include elementary education, computer science, and paralegal studies. Yavapi instructors are committed to providing quality learning experiences. Students can also take advantage of the school's learning resources, like tutoring, to help spur academic success.

Average in-state tuition: $108 per credit hour

Average out-of-state tuition: $162 per credit hour

Program length: 24 months

Financial aid: Students may qualify for loans, grants, or scholarships to help pay for college.

Accreditation: HLC

How We Rank Schools

We've selected the schools on this list based on several ranking factors. Some of our considerations include:

• Accreditation: All schools are accredited by recognized organizations. This credential ensures that full-time, qualified students are eligible for government aid and that the degrees are well-respected.
• Affordability: We chose the cheapest online colleges that accept FAFSA.
• Program reputation and quality: We chose distance learning programs that offer comprehensive curricula and knowledgeable instructors to ensure students are adequately prepared for further education or to enter the workforce.
• Online format: These schools offer programs that are available in a 100% online learning format.

FAQs About the Cheapest Associate Degrees in North Dakota

North Dakota has some affordable higher education options. If you're thinking about earning an associate degree, learn more about cheap programs in-state.

What Is the Easiest Associate Degree To Get Online in North Dakota?

Degrees in general studies, liberal arts, or business administration are often considered among the easiest to complete online. These programs typically have fewer technical requirements, a flexible curriculum, and broad course options that appeal to students with diverse interests or transfer goals.

What Is the Cheapest Degree To Get in North Dakota?

The cheapest option is from Williston State College at $137.92 per credit hour. If the associate program requires 60 credits, the total cost of the degree would be $8,275. Of course, financial aid, like grants or scholarships, can lower the total cost of this degree.

Accelerated programs can also help lower the total cost of a degree. If you're looking for something fast and affordable, consider 6-month online associate degrees.

Are There Any Free Online Degrees in North Dakota?

While fully free degrees are rare, North Dakota students can access significant financial aid, scholarships, grants, and tuition waivers that greatly reduce costs. For example, the North Dakota State Grant awards up to $1,375 per semester to eligible students.

Some colleges offer employer partnerships or workforce training programs that may cover tuition. It's worth contacting each school to explore available funding options.

How Much Does a 2-Year Degree Cost?

Costs vary by school, but in-state students at North Dakota's community colleges typically pay between $137 and $248 per credit hour. Online students often save on commuting and housing, and many qualify for financial aid, making these programs even more affordable.

Explore Online Degrees

Ready to take the next step? Browse accredited online associate degree programs on Learn.org to compare options. Reach out to individual schools for personalized advice, tuition details, and enrollment support.