Top 10 Free Online STEM Degrees in 2025

Are you looking to pursue a career in science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM) but are wary of the costs of higher education? You're not alone. Thankfully, there are many affordable STEM degrees you can choose from.

These affordable options are also available online, which is great for working individuals and people with busy schedules. With these STEM programs, you don't have to worry about money and in-class attendance getting in the way of achieving your dreams.

Can You Get an Online STEM Degree for Free?

Unfortunately, there are no free online STEM degree programs. However, you can affordably earn a STEM degree online with financial aid options such as scholarships, grants, work-study programs, tuition reimbursement, and more.

We explore these options further in the article. Also, although online STEM degrees aren't free, there are many free online courses in STEM education. Ensure an accredited institution provides the course before enrolling in a free online STEM course.

Top Affordable Online STEM Programs

Below are great options for an affordable online bachelor's degree program from top STEM schools in various fields. Many of these programs are self-paced and lead to worthwhile STEM careers.

The coursework in each degree program varies but be prepared to learn about topics such as:

• STEM fundamentals
• artificial intelligence
• robotics
• healthcare
• data analysis

1. Southern New Hampshire University � BS in Computer Science

Southern New Hampshire University offers a fully online Bachelor of Science in computer science. This degree will teach you about computer programming fundamentals and coding languages such as Python, Java, and HTML.

There are 40 courses in this eight-week program, including:

• Operating Platforms
• Software Development Lifecycle
• System Analysis and Design
• Computational Graphics and Visualization

2. University of Arizona Global Campus � BA in Applied Behavioral Science

The University of Arizona Global Campus provides an online Bachelor of Arts in applied behavioral science. Students pursuing this degree can expect to learn about intrapersonal intervention levels, ethical practices, and human behavior.

This behavioral science degree explores the impact of problems facing families, communities, and organizations. Relevant courses include:

• Introduction to Applied Behavioral Science
• Psychology of Criminal Behavior
• Communication & Conflict
• Social Psychology

3. Arizona State University � BS in Biochemistry

Arizona State University Online (ASU Online) has an online Bachelor of Science in biochemistry. This degree teaches students how biological systems work and the chemical processes in living organisms.

Students pursuing this degree can complete their lab courses in person or online. If you complete your lab requirements online, at-home lab kits will be provided. The practical experience learned through these hands-on labs is great for real-world careers as biochemists, pharmacists, medical doctors, and more.

4. National University � BS in Cybersecurity

National University has a Bachelor of Science in cybersecurity for aspiring cybersecurity professionals. The demand for these professionals is high because of the need to protect sensitive personal and financial information.

Many companies hire cybersecurity degree graduates because of their specialized training and knowledge. Some of the courses in this program include:

• Introduction to Networking
• Operating System Fundamentals
• Introduction to Cybersecurity
• Data Fundamentals for Cybersecurity

5. University of Maryland Global Campus � Bachelor's in Biotechnology

The University of Maryland Global Campus offers an online bachelor's degree in biotechnology. A bachelor's degree in biotechnology prepares students for career paths in biomedical research or pharmaceuticals.

Biotechnology majors learn about genetic engineering, bioprocessing, and cell culture. Courses in this degree program include:

• Inquiries in Biological Science
• Molecular and Cellular Biology
• Laboratory Management and Safety
• Fundamentals of Physics I & II

6. Colorado State University Global � BS in Information Technology

Colorado State University Global (CSU Global) provides a fully online Bachelor of Science in information technology. Data analytics and software engineering skills are in high demand as companies are desperate for workers with these skills.

This degree program explores computer-based systems, coding languages, and information technology concepts. The courses in this program include:

• Introduction to Computer-Based Systems
• Web Design and Development
• Information Technology Project Management
• Network Enterprise Solutions

7. Florida International University � BA in Biological Sciences

Florida International University offers a fully online Bachelor of Arts in biological sciences. This degree program explores human physiology, psychology, and nutrition. Some common career paths for biological sciences majors are dietitians, physician assistants, and paramedics.

Core courses in this program include:

• Science and Career Literacy
• Cellular Chemistry
• Ecology
• Genetics

8. Capella University � BS in Public Health

Capella University's online Bachelor of Science in public health prepares students for careers as public health analysts, health educators, and public health administrators. This degree teaches about evaluating public health data and communicating that information.

Some of the courses include:

• Introduction to Theories of Social and Behavioral Change
• Introduction to Public Health Policy and Management
• Introduction to Environmental Health
• Introduction to Biostatistics

9. Eastern New Mexico University � BS in Aviation Science

Eastern New Mexico University's Bachelor of Science in aviation science can be completed online or through a hybrid option. Common career paths for aviation science majors are pilots, flight instructors, and air traffic controllers.

Courses included in the BS in aviation science degree include:

• Aircraft Construction and Materials & Laboratory
• Aviation Safety & Human Factors
• Contemporary Issues in Aviation
• FAA Regulations

10. American Public University � BS in Data Science

American Public University's Bachelor of Science in data science leads to rewarding careers as data scientists, data analysts, and machine learning engineers. Data science majors can expect to learn about data management, programming languages, and artificial intelligence.

Some major-required courses include:

• Functional Methods and Coding
• Exploratory Data Analysis
• Intermediate Data Science
• Fundamentals of Simulation

Tips for Saving Money on Online Degrees

Student learners seeking to improve their STEM skills online can reduce costs by following the tips below.

1. Complete the FAFSA

The first step to receiving financial aid such as student loans is to fill out the FAFSA online application form. You must create an FSA ID, gather the necessary documents, and apply early.

Ensure you complete the correct year's form and provide accurate information. Once you apply, check back to review your Student Aid Report (SAR). From there, you can determine what financial aid you are eligible for.

2. Explore Scholarship Options

Scholarships help to reduce tuition and make it easier to earn your degree. There are many STEM scholarships available, such as:

• Elevate Women in Technology Scholarship
• GeneTex Scholarship Program
• Amazon Future Engineer Scholarship

Check to see what scholarships your school offers. Many schools offer scholarships for specific majors to help students cover tuition expenses.

3. Consider Attending a Community College

Community colleges offer STEM undergraduate degrees for low prices and many are online. Attending a community college is cheaper than a four-year university. A popular option is completing the general education course requirement at a community college and then moving to a four-year university. This is possible because many community colleges provide bridge programs to four-year universities

4. Look for Employer Benefits

Employer tuition assistance or reimbursement can help cover or eliminate tuition costs. Leading industries such as Microsoft, Amazon, and NVIDIA provide employees with tuition reimbursement. This benefits employers and employees because it incentivizes employees to stay working at the company.

5. Use Free Online Resources

There are various free online resources available for people wanting to learn more about STEM skills, such as:

• Khan Academy
• Coursera
• edX
• MIT OpenCourseWare

You can learn about multiple STEM topics on these free online platforms during your free time. Some of the skills you learn may help you to launch or improve your career.