8 Cheapest Online Master's Degrees in Maryland 2025

Online master's degrees help working professionals advance their careers without disrupting their schedules. Flexible classes and around-the-clock access to virtual learning platforms make it easy for students to learn from any location when their schedules permit.

In Maryland, students ready to earn a reputable degree can find several affordable online master's programs. If you want to reduce the cost of your graduate education, keep reading. Below, we'll highlight cheap online master's degree programs across the state.

8 Most Affordable Online Master's Programs in Maryland

An online master's degree is a good option for students too busy to attend scheduled in-person classes. Review the following list of institutions to discover where to find cheap online master's degrees in Maryland.

1. University of Maryland Eastern Shore

Students interested in furthering their education at the University of Maryland Eastern Shore will find virtual master's degree programs. The Master of Science (MS) in applied cybersecurity engineering is a 36-credit program preparing students to use proper security measures to protect computer networks and information.

The school's MS in human ecology is a 30-credit program offering non-thesis and thesis options. Enrollees can choose focuses for this graduate degree from nutrition and wellness, family and consumer sciences, child development, clinical nutrition, and fashion merchandising tracks.

• Average cost per credit hour: starting at $353 part-time (in-state)
• Financial aid: Students can use scholarships, work-study jobs, loans, and other financial aid to reduce costs.
• Accreditation: Middle States Commission on Higher Education (MSCHE)

2. Bowie State University

Bowie State University enrollees can choose from five online master's degree programs, including technical programs like the MS in computer science, the MS in information systems and sciences, and the MS in Internet of Things (IoT) and internet technologies.

Learners ready to further their careers in education can pursue a Master of Education (MEd) in culturally responsive teacher leadership that teaches how to create culturally responsive learning environments. The school's MEd in reading education prepares enrollees to become better reading specialists and literacy instructors.

• Average cost per credit hour: $457 (in-state)
• Financial aid: Scholarships, loans, federal work-study, and other financial aid are available to make learning more affordable.
• Accreditation: Middle States Commission on Higher Education (MSCHE)

3. Frostburg University

At Frostburg University, professionals seeking master's degrees that pay well can find several online programs with affordable rates. Low-cost degrees include an MS in recreation and parks management and an MEd in special education.

The university offers a budget-friendly online Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) for bachelor's degree holders with family nurse practitioner (FNP), leadership and management, and education tracks. Additional online programs include a Master of Business Administration (MBA) and a Master of Applied Computer Science.

• Average cost per credit hour: starting at $483 (in-state)
• Financial aid: Graduate students can reduce the cost of tuition and fees with scholarships, assistantships, military benefits, and outside sources of aid.
• Accreditation: Middle States Commission on Higher Education (MSCHE)

4. Morgan State University

Morgan State University in Baltimore is home to several affordable online science, technology, and education programs. Degree options include the MS in advanced computing, MEd in community college administration and instruction, and MS in applied neuroscience.

Morgan also offers a low-cost Master of Public Health (MPH) and MS in project management. To help learners excel while enrolled and after graduating, the university offers online access to the school library and career development services.

• Average cost per credit hour: Starting at $485 (in-state)
• Financial aid: The university provides institutional scholarships, federal work-study, education grants, military educational benefits, and more to reduce costs.
• Accreditation: Middle States Commission on Higher Education (MSCHE)

5. Stevenson University

Learners attending Stevenson University can choose from over a dozen online master's programs in varying areas of study. Some of the school's most affordable graduate programs include the MA in community-based education and leadership, the MEd in integrative learning, and the Master of Teaching (MAT).

Stevenson also offers cost-friendly programs in nursing, communication, healthcare management, and digital transformation and innovation. Once enrolled, students enhance their learning experiences with academic advising, library services, and other student support.

• Average cost per credit hour: starting at $510
• Financial aid: Graduate school enrollees save with state grants, scholarships, assistantships, and loans.
• Accreditation: Middle States Commission on Higher Education (MSCHE)

6. University of Maryland Global Campus

The University of Maryland Global Campus offers over 40 online master's degrees and concentrations for students interested in studying business, technology, education, healthcare, and more at the graduate level. Programs explore biotechnology, cybersecurity, distance education, and data analytics.

Enrollees can also study human resource management, information systems, strategic communications, and information technology. To help online learners excel in their online courses, UMGC provides student success coaches, tutors, mentors, advisors, and other support services.

• Average cost per credit hour: starting at $534 (in-state)
• Financial aid: Students looking for ways to save can apply for scholarships and financial aid.
• Accreditation: Middle States Commission on Higher Education (MSCHE)

7. Mount St. Mary's University

Online master's degrees and graduate certificate programs at Mount St. Mary's University prepare learners for career advancement in several fields. Master's programs are available in business administration, education, health administration, sport management, and beyond.

Enrollees interested in graduate certificates can study data science, instructional leadership, organizational development, and project management. Peer tutoring, writing center access, and other student services support learners' academic journeys at the university.

• Average cost per credit hour: starting at $610
• Financial aid: Students receive up to full tuition in academic scholarships alongside need-based aid.
• Accreditation: Middle States Commission on Higher Education (MSCHE)

8. Capital Technology University

At Capital Technology University, students can find dozens of unique online master's degrees. For instance, the institution offers Master of Philosophy (MPhil) degrees in artificial intelligence, aeronautical accident investigation, and cyber engineering.

Master of Research (MRes) programs are available in areas of study such as construction science and management, human factors, quantum computing, and systems engineering. These programs include interactive coursework, discussion boards, and peer-to-peer activities to keep students connected.

• Average cost per credit hour: $630
• Financial aid: Capitol Tech offers tuition discounts, military benefits, loans, and additional savings options.
• Accreditation: Middle States Commission on Higher Education (MSCHE)

Other Affordable Online Master's Programs

Do you want to explore additional low-cost online master's programs? Expand your search by reviewing schools in other states offering degrees Maryland residents can pursue.

Northeastern State University

Northeastern State University in Oklahoma offers several online degrees for master's degree seekers looking for affordable tuition rates. Program options include an MBA, MEd in early childhood education, MSN, and MS in library media and information technology.

Learners can also study criminal justice, public relations, health and sport medicine, and school administration. After enrolling in a program, NSU students benefit from academic advising, tutoring access, and career services.

• Average cost per credit hour: Starting at $291.92
• Financial aid: Student employment, scholarships, and loans are a few options for learners seeking opportunities to save on tuition and fees.
• Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission (HLC)

Liberty University

Liberty University delivers over 300 online master's programs with flexible schedules and affordable tuition. Most degrees are offered 100% online with an eight-week course format and generous transfer credit policy for faster degree completion.

Aeronautics, business, communication, engineering, and nursing are a few areas of study available to master's degree seekers. Specific programs include an MA in linguistics, an MBA in nonprofit leadership and management, an MA in pastoral counseling, and an MS in healthcare administration.

• Average cost per credit hour: $565 (full-time); $615 (part-time)
• Financial aid: Scholarships, tuition discounts for first responders and military personnel, and other financial aid reduce school costs.
• Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC)

How We Rank Schools

Our team rigorously vetted the colleges and universities in this rank list to confirm they met the following criteria for delivering a quality experience in higher education:

• Accreditation: Each institution is accredited by a nationally recognized organization such as the MSCHE or HLC.
• Affordability: The schools above lower costs with affordable tuition rates, scholarships, military benefits, assistantships, and other financial aid.
• Program reputation: We verified that the institutions in this list provide quality programs for on-campus and online students.

FAQs About Cheap Online Master's Programs in Maryland

Are you ready to pursue a low-cost online master's degree in Maryland? Before getting started, review the frequently asked questions below.

How Much Does an Online Master's Degree Cost in Maryland?

Several factors impact the cost of earning an online master's degree in Maryland, including where you live (in-state vs. out-of-state), your enrollment status (part-time vs. full-time), and your program of study (ex. educational leadership vs. information systems). If you're looking for affordable programs in Maryland, consider degrees at the University of Maryland Eastern Shore that start at $353 per credit.

Is There Financial Aid for Online Master's Programs in Maryland?

Yes, financial aid is available for students pursuing online master's degrees in Maryland. Depending on the selected school and program, graduate students can reduce tuition costs with federal financial aid like work-study jobs and student loans. The Maryland Higher Education Commission offers programs specific to graduate students.

Institutions might also offer grants, scholarships, and work-related tuition discounts. Assistantships and fellowships are funds often granted in exchange for work, research, or graduate study.

Are Online Master's Degrees Cheaper Than In-Person Programs?

The cost of online and on-campus master's degrees is typically comparable. Some institutions reduce the cost of tuition for online graduate students or increase the price with a distance education fee. Other schools give online and in-person students the same tuition rates. If you're unsure how an online education impacts the cost of attending your preferred institution, contact the financial aid office for more information.

How Long Does an Online Master's Program Take?

Earning an online master's degree can take the traditional timeframe of two years; however, some schools offer accelerated programs to help learners graduate and continue their careers or qualify for doctoral programs in a fraction of the time. If you want to graduate in 12 or fewer months, look for online schools with shorter course terms, self-paced learning, flexible scheduling, and multiple start dates. Also, consider schools that accept prior learning credits.

Find an Online Master's Degree

Start an exciting journey in higher education by exploring the degree programs on Learn.org. Contact schools to discover how they can help you achieve your academic and career goals.