7 Most Affordable Online Colleges in Colorado 2025

Choosing the right college is essential for balancing affordability and quality education. Affordable online colleges in Colorado provide students with excellent opportunities to earn a college degree through distance learning programs.

With the numerous affordable online colleges to choose from, students can achieve their academic goals without accumulating a large amount of debt. These inexpensive colleges offer a wide range of degree programs tailored to meet the needs of online learners.

With options ranging from bachelor's degree programs to graduate degrees, these institutions cater to diverse academic interests and career paths. For students seeking cheap online colleges, the following schools offer quality education and affordable tuition rates.

List of the Cheapest Online Colleges in Colorado

The list below highlights some of the best accredited online colleges in Colorado. We'll focus on institutions known for their affordability, flexibility, and diverse program offerings.

1. Metropolitan State University of Denver

Metropolitan State University of Denver offers the opportunity to major in fields such as aviation and aerospace management, communication studies, marketing, healthcare, and political science. The school provides a supportive learning environment with a career center that hosts job fairs and career guidance events to prepare students for success after graduation.

At $420 per credit hour, MSU Denver is an affordable four-year school option for in-state students. The Road Runner Promise program covers in-state tuition and fees for qualifying students, while renewable school-based scholarships help reduce costs further.

2. University of Colorado Denver

The University of Colorado Denver provides over 25 fully online programs with affordable tuition rates. Students can pursue bachelor's, master's, and doctoral degrees in diverse fields such as business, architecture, animation, and bioengineering. These programs align with career goals, ensuring accessibility for all students.

Colorado residents benefit from the College Opportunity Fund stipend, which reduces the cost per credit hour to $390 for undergraduate programs. This makes it an excellent choice for students seeking flexibility and affordability.

3. Colorado Tech

Colorado Tech offers undergraduate and graduate degrees in fields ranging from criminal justice and project management to information technology and psychology. The CTU Fast Track program allows students to earn college credit for prior knowledge, helping them complete degrees faster.

With tuition for online undergraduate programs at $340 per credit hour, Colorado Tech is one of the most affordable options. Financial aid and degree completion programs, such as the RN to BSN program at $260 per credit hour, make it an even more attractive choice for learners.

4. University of Denver

The University of Denver combines synchronous and asynchronous learning formats to accommodate various student needs. Degree options include human resources, computer science, education, and organizational leadership, providing numerous career opportunities.

Although bachelor's degrees are priced at $781 per credit hour, nearly 100% of students receive scholarships. The university also offers need-based and merit-based scholarships, along with other financial aid resources, to support students.

5. University of Northern Colorado

The University of Northern Colorado accepts the College Opportunity Fund stipend, reducing the cost per credit hour to $362 for Colorado residents. Students can major in fields such as nursing, cybersecurity, literary studies, liberal arts, and speech-language pathology.

This university provides a supportive environment for online learners, combining affordability with high-quality education. Its diverse program offerings make it a strong contender for students seeking flexibility and academic excellence.

6. Colorado State University Global

At Colorado State University Global (CSU Global), online students can pursue degrees in diverse fields such as agricultural business, economics, business administration, and exploratory studies. With flexible online learning options, CSU is a great choice for working adults seeking a convenient academic environment.

Undergraduate tuition is $476 per credit hour, making it an affordable option for many students. The university accepts financial aid to help reduce costs and make higher education accessible to a broader range of learners. The online school offers various scholarship opportunities and resources for online students.

7. Regis University

Regis University offers online bachelor's and master's programs, as well as doctoral degrees in various disciplines. The school emphasizes a personalized learning experience and provides comprehensive student support services.

At $515 per credit hour, Regis University is a mid-range option in terms of affordability. Its commitment to high-quality education and flexibility makes it a great choice for college students pursuing online learning. Students can use financial aid to lower the cost of their online degree program.

Our Selection Criteria

When evaluating the best online colleges for this list, we considered the following factors:

• Accreditation: Each program is accredited which ensures the programs meet high-quality academic standards.
• Affordability: We prioritize low tuition rates and the availability of financial aid options.
• Flexibility: They offer part-time and full-time options for online students and those with other commitments to balance.
• Program focus: We assess the programs to ensure the coursework for each program is comprehensive.
• Support services: These schools have numerous resources available for online students, such as financial aid assistance, career services, and academic advising.

How Much Do Colorado Online Colleges Cost?

Online colleges in Colorado vary in cost, with tuition rates ranging from $260 to $781 per credit hour. Programs like the College Opportunity Fund stipend for Colorado residents help lower costs further, making online education more accessible.

Additionally, financial aid and scholarships are widely available to reduce expenses for eligible students.

How Can I Make an Online Degree Affordable in Colorado?

Making an online degree affordable requires a combination of smart financial planning and exploring available options. Filling out the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) is a crucial first step. It helps you access various financial aid options, including scholarships, loans, grants, and work-study programs. It's the foundation for determining your eligibility for financial assistance.

You can also consider federal scholarships, field-specific scholarships, and merit-based scholarships; many scholarships that are typically available for on-campus students also extend to their online counterparts. Make sure to look into grants designed for online students as well.

Online students who are employed can also take advantage of employer tuition reimbursement programs. In fact, a significant percentage of online students have used this option. To find out if your employer offers tuition reimbursement, it's advisable to contact your HR department.

Learn more on how to make an online degree more affordable below:

• accredited online colleges that accept FAFSA
• accredited online colleges that accept grants
• accredited online colleges that accept transfer credits
• accredited online colleges with the most scholarships
• scholarships for online students
• accredited online colleges with payment plans
• accredited online colleges with no application fee

FAQs About Cheap Colleges in Colorado Online

These FAQs can help you make a more informed decision about your online education.

What Is the Cheapest Online College in Colorado?

Colorado Tech offers some of the lowest tuition rates, with online undergraduate degrees priced at $340 per credit hour. Programs like the RN to BSN degree completion program cost even less, at $260 per credit hour. Master's programs and other graduate programs tend to have more expensive tuition costs.

Are Cheap Colleges in Colorado Accredited?

Yes, the affordable colleges listed here are accredited by recognized organizations such as the Higher Learning Commission. Accreditation ensures that the programs meet high-quality educational standards.

What Is the Easiest Online College To Get Into in Colorado?

Community colleges and institutions like Colorado Tech often have more flexible admissions requirements, making them accessible to a wide range of students.

Do You Have To Live In Colorado To Attend Online College in Colorado?

No, many online programs in Colorado are open to out-of-state students. However, in-state residents often benefit from reduced tuition rates and state-specific financial aid programs.

Find Accredited Online Programs

Affordable online colleges in Colorado provide students with the flexibility and affordability needed to achieve their academic goals. With diverse program offerings and extensive financial aid options, these institutions ensure access to quality education for Colorado students. Explore these accredited programs to find the best fit for your needs.