How Much Do Online Degrees Really Cost?

Online degrees are an attractive alternative to the often-expensive traditional approach to on-campus education. It’s common idea that online degrees are more affordable than traditional college enrollment. But is this really the case?

Online colleges have many of the same registration fees that traditional, on-campus schools have. These fees may range from around $30 to $100 dollars. However, some online colleges do waive fees.

When it comes to tuition, many online colleges set their fees differently than most traditional schools, which charge tuition by the semester. Because students who earn their degree online have the benefit of being able to take their classes whenever they want and often have longer than a semester to complete a course, many online colleges charge by the class or by the credit hour. Online degree courses cost slightly more than traditional courses: $252 for an online course and $239 for a traditional course. But, keeping the perk of flexibility in mind, it may just be work the extra $13 to take a class online.

Most students will agree that a large part of their education expenses is due to textbooks. On average a bachelor’s degree will cost $1,947 in books. This cost could either increase or decrease with an online degree program, depending on resources. If a student’s reading materials are available online, the cost may decrease. If the student is required to by additional materials to compensate for the lack of a traditional classroom experience, the cost will increase.

A computer with an Internet connection is an essential part of an online education. This may add to the bottom line if a student needs to purchase a computer, instead of using one they have or using one on campus, like they would in a traditional program. Internet prices vary depending on the provider and the bandwidth, but the average cost is about $20 each month. That could add up to more than one thousand dollars, depending on how long it takes a student to finish the program.

Graduation fees apply to both traditional and online educations. Students who want to participate in the graduation ceremony will need to purchase a cap and gown. Most schools charge a graduation fee to process the final paperwork for obtaining a degree.

Overall, the costs for earning online degrees are very similar to those for earning a degree on campus. It all comes down to personal preference; since the costs are very similar for both approaches, students should look at the benefits and perks of enrolling in both types of programs.