Most Affordable Online Bachelor's Degrees in Massachusetts 2025

Pursuing an online bachelor's in Massachusetts is a smart way to save both time and money. You can choose from many different reputable schools in the state and elsewhere.

With online options, getting your bachelor's degree in Massachusetts has never been easier. An online degree can give you the same depth without in-person responsibilities. Best of all, it's a great way to save money on your education.

Are you looking for the cheapest online bachelor's degree? If so, keep reading to learn about affordable bachelor's degrees online.

How Much Does an Online Bachelor's Degree Cost in Massachusetts?

While there's no single price that encompasses all affordable online bachelor's degree programs in Massachusetts, you can expect to pay less at a public university. Still, private universities tend to offer lower rates for their online programs compared to their in-person ones.

At the most affordable online learning institutions, the tuition is around $500 per credit hour or less.

Cheapest Online Bachelor's Degree Programs in Massachusetts

Many cheap online colleges that accept financial aid are your best chance at getting the most out of higher education. Consider the following affordable schools.

1. University of Massachusetts Global

The University of Massachusetts (UMass) Global is one of the best online colleges that accept transfer credits. UMass Global emphasizes convenience and flexibility, which is why most students work and pursue their college degree at the same time. Over half of UMass students also have one or more dependents.

Program options include everything from business to healthcare.

Average in-state tuition: $500 per credit

Average out-of-state tuition: $500 per credit

Financial aid: Federal Pell Grant, Federal Supplemental Education Opportunity Grant, Federal TEACH Grant, etc.

Accreditation: WSCUC Senior College and University Commission (WSCUC)

2. Fitchburg State University

Anyone with an interest in business should consider Fitchburg State University's 100% online, fast-track business administration program. It features a seven-week coursework format. You can choose between five different concentrations, including accounting, marketing, and more.

This option is perfect for people working a full-time job or balancing other responsibilities.

Average in-state tuition: $436 per credit

Average out-of-state tuition: $436 per credit

Financial aid: Merit-based and need-based scholarships

Accreditation: New England Commission of Higher Education (NECHE)

3. Westfield State University

Anyone who has completed a Massachusetts community college program or MassTransfer Compact can take advantage of Westfield State University's online degree programs. You can choose anything from a bachelor's in nursing to one in criminal justice or history.

It's one of the most dependable online colleges with scholarships.

Average in-state tuition: $379 per credit

Average out-of-state tuition: $379 per credit

Financial aid: FAFSA, merit scholarships, STEM-ACT scholarship, etc.

Accreditation: NECHE

4. Bay Path University

Bay Path University is home to a wide variety of online programs exclusively for women. At this private university, you can study accounting, child psychology, and operations management, among other options. There are also six 100% online certificate programs to choose from.

It's one of the most reliable online colleges with tuition payment plans based on employer reimbursement.

Average in-state tuition: $410 per credit

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

Financial aid: FAFSA, employer tuition reimbursement, veterans educational benefits, etc.

Accreditation: NECHE

5. University of Massachusetts Lowell

You can choose from over 10 online undergraduate programs at the University of Massachusetts Lowell. If you want to continue your education after earning your bachelor's, the university also has 30 online graduate programs.

You'll be glad to know that UMass Lowell was named as having one of the best online programs in 2025 by U.S. News.

Average in-state tuition: $385 per credit

Average out-of-state tuition: $385 per credit

Financial aid: FAFSA, merit scholarships, Federal Pell Grant, etc.

Accreditation: NECHE

6. Lesley University

Lesley University prioritizes convenience and flexibility by offering over 20 fully online programs to choose from. Examples include art and design, business management, psychology, and more.

It's also one of many online colleges that accept the Pell Grant. That way, you can reduce your tuition rates significantly.

Average in-state tuition: $525 per credit

Average out-of-state tuition: $525 per credit

Financial aid: Lesley Merit Scholarships, City of Boston Scholarship, Federal Pell Grant, etc.

Accreditation: NECHE

7. University of Massachusetts Dartmouth

Whether you work part-time or full-time, the online degree options at the University of Massachusetts Dartmouth can fit your busy schedule. Concentrations include accounting, economics, and healthcare administration, just to name a few.

Average in-state tuition: $359 per credit

Average out-of-state tuition: $359 per credit

Financial aid: Success by Degrees program, need-based aid, Ryan Reaves Scholarship for Online Undergraduates, etc.

Accreditation: New England Association of Schools and Colleges

Other Affordable Online Bachelor's Degrees in the U.S.

One of the greatest advantages of earning an online degree is that you don't have to commute. As such, you can also widen your search by looking into other cheap online bachelor's programs like the following.

New England College

Those who see their career fueled by sustainability and entrepreneurship should check out New England College's online Bachelor of Business Administration. The three concentrations include computer information systems, human resource management, and general management.

Anyone who graduates from this program can continue their professional development by enrolling in this college's accelerated Master of Business Administration program.

Average in-state tuition: $375 per credit

Average out-of-state tuition: $375 per credit

Financial aid: Merit-based scholarships, Henniker-Area Scholarships, Federal Pell Grant, etc.

Accreditation: NECHE

University of Maryland Global Campus

You'll never run out of choices at the University of Maryland Global Campus because it features over 135 degrees and certificates. A majority of these are 100% online for your convenience.

Some potential majors include English, accounting, and computer science.

Average in-state tuition: $324 per credit

Average out-of-state tuition: $499 per credit

Financial aid: Pillars of Strength Scholarship Program, Maryland Completion Scholarship, Veterans Assistance Fund, etc.

Accreditation: Middle States Commission on Higher Education

University of West Georgia

The University of West Georgia has a respectable variety of fully and partially online undergraduate programs. Some of them include political science, sociology, and criminology.

The university also has plenty of graduate programs, making it easy for college students to take their education to the next level.

Average in-state tuition: $187 per credit

Average out-of-state tuition: $187 per credit

Financial aid: FAFSA, the Zell Miller Scholarship, Pell Grant, etc.

Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

How We Rank Schools

Even though it's worth finding the most affordable degree program, you shouldn't compromise on quality. That's why our schools are ranked based on essentials, such as accreditation and reputation.

  • Accreditation: Quality schools should feature either local or national accreditation.
  • Affordability: None of the above schools have tuition that's higher than $525 per credit hour.
  • Program reputation and quality: The featured community colleges and universities are known for supporting students, attracting talented faculty, and offering a well-rounded education.
  • Online format: Some schools allow you to complete your online courses at your own pace, while others follow a stricter timeframe. Either way, you're sure to find an online format that fits your needs.

FAQs About the Cheapest Bachelor's Degrees in Massachusetts

You may feel unsure about pursuing an online degree instead of an in-person one. The following questions and answers can help you have a clearer picture.

What Is the Cheapest Online Bachelor's Degree in Massachusetts?

While the cost of tuition can fluctuate based on your major, it's worth comparing and contrasting the fees across different schools. That way, you can find the most affordable option while still pursuing your specific career goals.

What Is the Cheapest Way To Get a Bachelor's Degree?

If your finances are limited, you should focus on online education programs that offer a wealth of scholarship and grant opportunities. Be sure to apply to the FAFSA so that you can further reduce your expenses.

Is Online College Worth It?

It's true that the on-campus experience can help people feel part of a supportive community. Still, there are many online resources that can contribute to your success. Also, since many online schools have accreditation, you can be confident that your degree is worth the investment.

What Other Fees Should I Expect for an Online Bachelor's Degree?

Aside from tuition, you can expect to pay for required textbooks, lab kits, and other virtual classroom items. Don't forget about possible enrollment and application fees. It's also common for schools to charge a technology fee that allows you to access all of the relevant platforms and software programs.

Explore Online Bachelor's Degrees

Online bachelor's degrees make it easy to continue your education without worrying about in-person responsibilities. For more information on schools and financial aid, check out the content on Learn.org.