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Most Affordable Online Bachelor’s in Psychology Programs of 2024
Most Affordable Online Bachelor’s in Psychology Programs of 2024
Find your program in minutes!
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Higher education can be expensive, but it doesn’t have to be. Money-savvy students eager to secure a high-quality, affordable online bachelor’s degree in psychology will know that navigating the landscape of higher education can be a financial minefield. Fortunately, Intelligent.com is here to guide you toward success without exceeding your budget.
In this all-encompassing guide, we’ll explore the most affordable online bachelor’s in psychology programs for 2024, providing valuable insights into the cost of a degree, the different types of financial aid, and expert tips on selecting the program that aligns with your academic and financial goals.
Cost Breakdown for an Online Bachelor’s in Psychology Program
Online degrees offer flexibility and convenience; some may even provide additional cost savings compared to their in-person counterparts. However, it’s essential to understand the associated costs, including:
Tuition: Online programs can charge tuition per credit hour or term. Costs will vary widely depending on the institution and degree level.
Fees: Institutions often assess fees for tech support, academic resources, libraries, and more. These fees can add up over time, significantly influencing the overall cost.
Personal Technology: Online students must provide their own computer and high-speed Wi-Fi, which can be a considerable upfront investment.
Books and Materials: Digital textbooks and learning materials may incur costs, although they are often cheaper than physical versions.
Despite these fees, online learners save money by avoiding a daily commute and being spared from costs related to on-campus amenities.
Factors Influencing the Cost of an Online Bachelor’s in Psychology Program
The ultimate cost of earning your degree online will vary depending on the program you attend, and multiple factors can influence tuition costs — including the following:
Public vs. private institution: Public universities often offer lower tuition rates for in-state students than out-of-state students, while private schools generally have a consistent tuition rate for all students, regardless of residency.
Nonprofit vs. For-Profit: Nonprofit universities often prioritize education over profit and may offer competitive tuition rates, whereas for-profit institutions tend to have higher tuition costs due to a profit-driven strategy.
Student Residency Status: In-state students benefit from reduced tuition rates at public universities, making education more affordable. Out-of-state students may face higher tuition costs when attending public institutions.
Student Military Status: Active-duty personnel, veterans, and their dependents may qualify for military tuition discounts, reducing the overall cost of the program. Some schools may offer additional military-friendly initiatives and financial aid options.
Considering these factors, it’s essential to carefully assess your residency status and military affiliation to determine the most cost-effective path to earning your degree, whether through public or private, nonprofit or for-profit institutions.
Most Affordable Online Bachelor’s in Psychology Programs
#2 Best Colleges #5 Public Service Degrees #10 Get Educated
School Information
Miami, FL
Graduation Rate:
67%
Admission Rate:
64%
Urbanicity:
Suburban
School Size:
Large
Considered one of the top choices among online Bachelor in Psychology programs in Florida is the program at the University of Florida Online. This public university's online Bachelor in Psychology offers a science-based liberal arts focus. A self-paced program, this allows students much flexibility in the pace of their studies. The faculty in this program specialize in five areas of psychology, including developmental psychology and cognitive neuroscience. Core courses for this program are centered in psychology, mathematics, statistics, and biology. Freshman and sophomore students already enrolled in the University of Florida can transfer to the program according to the Freshman and Lower Division Admittance Requirements.
Award
Delivery Format
Online
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
120
Department
Estimated Cost per Credit
Resident: $228 Non-Resident: $345
accreditation
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
One of the top online bachelor's in psychology programs in the nation, the Florida International University-Online offers an exceptional, self-paced Bachelor in Psychology. This program has an average enrollment of over 2,400 psychology majors with a large number of students minoring in psychology. The Psychology program at Florida International University-Online is particularly proud of its Success Coach model. Under this model, the program assigns each of its enrolled students a qualified academic advisor to ensure their success in the program. As students can sometimes feel anonymous in online programs, psychology students at Florida International University-Online benefit greatly from this personal attention.
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Delivery Format
Online
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
120
Department
Estimated Cost per Credit
$400
accreditation
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
The University of Louisiana-Monroe offers one of the best online Bachelor in Psychology programs in the South, which provides full-time or part-time students with a self-paced degree plan supported by the resources of a large university. Some of these resources include access to virtual databases, remote counseling, and technical support throughout the duration of the student's enrollment. One of the foremost goals of the University of Louisiana-Monroe's Bachelor of Psychology Program is to prepare their students for careers in counseling, human resources, or case management as well as for graduate degrees. Some courses of note offered by the University of Louisiana-Monroe's program are the cutting-edge electives in Evolutionary Psychology and Positive Psychology.
#1 Best Health Degrees #3 Public Service Degrees #6 Best Colleges
School Information
Fayetteville, NC
Graduation Rate:
43%
Admission Rate:
82%
Urbanicity:
City
School Size:
Medium
Though a private university, Park University's tuition for its online Bachelor in Psychology is highly affordable. This Missouri university offers students the option of majoring or minoring in Psychology. The Psychology Department at Park University offers students the chance to work with experienced faculty with active research interests and specialized training to teach remote courses effectively. Additionally, the Psychology Department provides both major and minor students with remote independent study and fieldwork opportunities to prepare them for a career in psychology. The program caps all online courses at 20 so students can benefit from a personalized experience with their peers and instructors.
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Delivery Format
Online, On-Campus
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
120
Department
Estimated Cost per Credit
In-State: $237 Out-of-State: $720
accreditation
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
At the University of Alaska-Fairbanks, students can pursue a Bachelor of Arts, Bachelor of Science, or minor in Psychology entirely online. Whether students pursue a Bachelor of Arts or Science, they will receive a thorough education on the connection between cultural diversity, health, and well-being. The faculty in the University of Alaska-Fairbanks' Psychology Department are known for their diverse research interests and connections to working professionals across the state. In addition to teaching courses, the Department of Psychology faculty personally supervises students' practicum experience and thesis projects. The University of Alaska-Fairbanks is the most affordable option in the Northern part of the country; both in- and out-of-state students can expect to pay approximately $226 per credit hour.
Award
Delivery Format
Online
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
120
Department
Estimated Cost per Credit
In-State: $318 Out-of-State: $499
accreditation
Middle States Commission on Higher Education
This list features some of the most affordable online bachelor’s in psychology programs in the U.S. All are offered at nonprofit, accredited institutions, either public or private, with a high standard of academic quality for post-secondary institutions.
We evaluated each degree program on tuition costs, admission, retention and graduation rates, faculty, reputation, and student resources. Then, we calculated the Intelligent Score on a scale of 0 to 100. Read more about our ranking methodology.
Next, we compared our picks to a list of aggregated college rankings from reputable publications like the U.S. News & World Report, among others, to simplify a student’s college search. We pored through these rankings so students don’t have to.
How to Pay for an Online Bachelor’s in Psychology Degree
Out-of-pocket
For some students and their families, paying out-of-pocket may be possible and even more beneficial to other financial aid options because it provides a payment method without incurring interest rates from loans. While some may be able to use their savings to cover tuition, others may enroll in tuition payment plans offered by their university. These plans break down the annual tuition into manageable monthly installments, reducing the upfront financial burden.
Federal student loans
Federal student loans are also a good option for students looking to finance their degrees. They are generally preferable to private loans due to lower interest rates and flexible repayment terms. You can access federal loans by completing the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA), which determines student eligibility.
You may encounter both subsidized and unsubsidized loans after submitting your FAFSA. Subsidized loans are need-based, with the government covering interest while you’re in school. On the other hand, unsubsidized loans are available to all students regardless of need but will accrue interest during enrollment — making them more costly over time.
Private education loans
As an undergraduate student, the option to take out a private education loan is always available, but it’s typically a last resort. Private loans often come with higher interest rates and less flexible repayment terms than federal ones. Students who cannot secure federal aid or have exhausted other options can turn to private loans if they qualify. However, it’s crucial to understand the long-term financial implications and practice responsible borrowing.
Scholarships
When financing your degree, scholarships are a highly preferable form of financial aid because they don’t require repayment. Scholarships are available for students who fulfill various criteria, including academic achievements, community involvement, and even specific interests within psychology.
Recognizing that these opportunities are competitive is essential, so starting the application process early and conducting thorough research on available options is essential. Explore local, national, and institutional scholarships to maximize your chances of securing funds to offset the cost of your education.
Grants
Grants are another preferable form of financial aid because, just like scholarships, they don’t require repayment. However, grants typically focus on financial need rather than merit, and eligibility is often determined through the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). Determining eligibility based on need helps to ensure that students with limited resources can access higher education without the burden of repayment.
Federal and state governments and institutions offer grants to assist students in covering tuition and related costs.
Work-study
Work-study initiatives, often facilitated by universities, provide on-campus or community-based part-time employment opportunities. Students can earn income to cover tuition and living expenses while gaining valuable work experience related to their field of study.
Federal work-study is a standard option, allowing eligible students to secure jobs aligned with their academic goals. These programs provide financial support and serve as a resume booster, helping students network within the field of psychology and making them a practical means of financing their degree.
Employer tuition assistance
Many employers offer tuition assistance as a benefit to employees seeking to advance their education. It involves the employer covering part or all of the tuition costs in exchange for a commitment to remain with the company for a specified period. This option not only reduces the financial burden but also supports career development.
If you’re currently employed, explore your employer’s policies and requirements for tuition assistance to ensure alignment with your educational and professional goals. Leveraging employer support can be a valuable strategy to find your degree while maintaining job security.
Applying for Financial Aid
You must first submit the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) to apply for financial aid. The FAFSA determines your eligibility for federal grants, loans, work-study programs, and state and institutional aid.
Gather necessary documents like tax information, Social Security numbers, and bank statements. You can easily complete the FAFSA online, providing accurate financial details and selecting the schools to which you want to send the information.
Learn more about the FAFSA
For most college students, submitting the FAFSA is crucial in securing financial support for their educational pursuits — but it can be daunting. To help guide students through this process, Intelligent.com’s Ultimate FAFSA Guide provides comprehensive insights on navigating the application, understanding eligibility criteria, and how to answer questions on immigration status and family structure. Using this guide, you can confidently access federal grants, loans, and work-study programs to support your education without unnecessary financial stress.
Student loan forgiveness and repayment
At the federal level, student loan forgiveness regularly appears and disappears from the legislative agenda. Therefore, it’s crucial to consider repayment if you plan to take out student loans. Many students benefit from beginning this process early, even while they’re still in school. “You can pay off your student loans while you’re still in college,” says college counselor Dana Marvin. “Let’s say you make a few extra hundred dollars during a summer job, or your parents get a big job bonus. You can use that money to start paying off your loans while still in school.” Since interest rates can accumulate, paying off any amount of your loans early can make a considerable difference to your loan balance after graduation.
Some federal loan forgiveness programs exist for graduates who meet specific criteria. For example, Teacher Loan Forgiveness is available for full-time teachers working at a low-income school or educational service agency for five consecutive years. In addition, Public Service Loan Forgiveness is available for those who have made 120 qualifying monthly payments while working full-time at a qualifying public service organization — typically a government or nonprofit entity.
How to Choose the Online College or University that’s Right for You
Choosing the right program and specialty for your bachelor’s in psychology is a personal journey, so carefully considering your current circumstances and long-term goals is essential. For example, individuals with a full-time job may prefer to enroll in a part-time, asynchronous program for ultimate flexibility. Alternatively, students with more time to focus on their studies may be able to enroll full-time to complete their degrees quickly.
You’ll also want to consider your future career goals, as tailoring your education to a particular specialty can help align your education with your professional pursuits. To illustrate, a concentration in clinical psychology is ideal for students interested in working directly with clients diagnosing and treating mental health disorders. In contrast, forensic psychology may be better for those interested in applying psychological principles to criminal investigations. Students interested in working in educational settings may enjoy a concentration in school or educational psychology, while those intrigued by human development across the lifespan may prefer developmental psychology.
Step 2: Research schools and programs
Once you have your intended specialty and ideal learning format, you can effectively research the schools and programs that best suit your educational needs.
Start by verifying institutional and programmatic accreditation, ensuring a high-quality learning experience that future employers will recognize. Social media platforms like LinkedIn and Reddit can help you research current and former student experiences, as they will lend valuable first-hand perspectives. Ask questions like:
Is the school’s online learning platform accessible and engaging?
What is the program’s student-to-faculty ratio?
Which specializations are available, and will this coursework help me meet my professional goals?
Many online universities make this information readily accessible on their website, but you can also search for it on student review sites and accreditation websites. Feel free to contact admissions counselors to get answers to specific questions or to clarify any doubts.
Step 3: Prepare for applications and tests
Start by reviewing each school’s specific online application requirements and deadlines. While many undergraduate institutions share standard requirements, some may have unique criteria for standardized test scores and personal essays, which will make the application process slightly different for each school.
Consider enrolling in a test prep program to maximize your ACT and SAT scores, especially if schools have standardized test requirements.
Remember that online degrees often have flexible admission and enrollment terms, emphasizing motivation and readiness for virtual education. Thoroughly preparing for applications and tests can significantly improve your chances of admission to your desired program.
Step 4: Select your program
After receiving offers of admission, it’s essential to focus on how well each program aligns with your career goals. Double-check that the program offers your intended specialty — if not, review the curriculum to ensure that it has ample coursework to support your interests.
You should also explore available financial aid options — including institutional scholarships and grants to alleviate expenses. Pay attention to factors like faculty experience, internship opportunities, and networking potential within the program, as these factors can significantly influence your educational experience while ultimately making you more competitive in the job market.
Ultimately, prioritize a program that fits your academic aspirations and offers a financially viable path to success.
Step 5: Determine how you’ll pay for your degree
Financing your degree can feel intimidating, but there are many resources to help alleviate the debt burden. Start by researching scholarships and grants to see what you qualify for, and apply for these opportunities. While these options can be competitive, they don’t require repayment and can significantly offset tuition expenses. Additionally, explore work-study programs affiliated with your school to earn income while enrolled.
While federal loans provide essential support, avoiding heavy reliance and borrowing responsibly is crucial. Consider a part-time job, careful budgeting, and minimizing unnecessary expenses to manage costs effectively. Striking the right balance between financial aid, earnings, and responsible borrowing is crucial to a sound, sustainable financial strategy for pursuing higher education.
