Education is a noble pursuit, fueling the minds of future generations and shaping the world we live in. If you aspire to become an educator, you may have encountered the obstacle of high tuition costs associated with pursuing a bachelor’s degree in education. However, fear not! We have meticulously curated a list of the 8 cheapest online bachelor’s degrees in education, ensuring that your dream of becoming an educator can be realized without breaking the bank.
These affordable online programs offer a gateway to a fulfilling career in education, combining affordability with flexibility and high-quality instruction. Designed to accommodate the busy schedules of aspiring educators, these degrees allow you to pursue your educational goals from the comfort of your own home, removing geographical barriers and providing access to accredited universities and esteemed institutions.
10 Cheapest Online Bachelor’s Degrees in Education
ST. PETERSBURG COLLEGE
Established in 1927, St. Petersburg College is a highly affordable public institution of higher education located in Clearwater, Florida. With a student population of over 65,000, the college is renowned for awarding a substantial number of associate degrees in the United States. However, it also offers four-year bachelor’s programs. Accredited by the Florida Department of Education, St. Petersburg College provides a range of Bachelor of Science degrees in Educational Studies, Elementary Education, Exceptional Student Education, and Middle Grades Education (Math or Science).
These online programs incorporate an English For Speakers of Other Language (ESOL) infused curriculum, preparing certified teachers for the diverse classrooms of Florida. As part of the program, students are required to complete a 15-week student teaching internship.
Tuition: $3,352.
ASPEN UNIVERSITY
Formerly known as the International Academy, Aspen University is a private, for-profit distance learning institution based in Denver, Colorado. The university, accredited by the Distance Education Accreditation Commission (DEAC), caters to approximately 3,600 students.
Aspen University has gained recognition for its innovative approach to affordable education, earning the distinction of being named the #2 Most Affordable Online College by The Business Journals. Within its School of Education, Aspen offers an online Bachelor of Science in Early Childhood Education. Students can choose between a standard 120-credit track or an accelerated 60-credit degree completion track. Graduates of Aspen University’s program qualify for the prestigious Child Development Associate (CDA) credential, enabling them to teach children from birth through the age of eight.
Tuition: $3,750
FORT HAYS STATE UNIVERSITY
Fort Hays State University, governed by the Kansas Board of Regents, is a public institution of higher learning offering both on-campus and online education to approximately 11,200 students. Located in Hays, Kansas, the university has been recognized by the U.S. News and World Report as having the 24th best online bachelor’s degree programs in the nation.
Fort Hays State University’s College of Education, accredited by the Council for Accreditation of Educator Preparation (CAEP), provides an online Bachelor of Science in Education. Students can choose from several emphases, including Early Childhood Unified, Elementary, Elementary/Special Education, and Business Education. These four-year programs, requiring 127 credits each, feature immersive practica experiences that fulfill the licensure qualifications in Kansas.
Tuition: $4,654
WESTERN GOVERNORS UNIVERSITY
Western Governors University (WGU) stands out as a leading online institution, serving over 70,000 students with its regionally accredited, private, non-profit status. Based in Salt Lake City, Utah, WGU has earned recognition as the “College For-Profits Should Fear” by Washington Monthly, being a recipient of the USLA 21st Century Award. It also boasts the esteemed title of America’s #1 Best Value Teacher Preparation by the National Council on Teacher Quality.
Tuition at WGU is incredibly affordable, with a cost of $6,070. This affordability, coupled with the institution’s commitment to academic excellence and practical training, makes WGU an excellent choice for aspiring teachers looking to pursue their education degree without incurring substantial financial burdens.
EAST CAROLINA UNIVERSITY
East Carolina University (ECU), a prominent public sea-grant research institution located in Greenville, North Carolina, has a strong reputation for providing quality education. With an endowment of $187 million, ECU educates approximately 28,200 students and is ranked the 194th Best National University by U.S. News and World Report, with its education school recognized as the 140th Best.
ECU’s commitment to delivering high-quality education is reflected in its affordable tuition rate of $6,580.
VALLEY CITY STATE UNIVERSITY
Valley City State University (VCSU) traces its roots back to 1890 when it was established as a public, land-grant technical institution in Barnes County, North Dakota. With a student population of around 1,370, VCSU is recognized as the #1 Midwestern Public School and the 143rd Top Online Bachelor’s Program by the U.S. News and World Report. As a “laptop” campus, VCSU has embraced technology and innovation in education.
With a tuition cost of $6,800, VCSU provides an affordable avenue for individuals passionate about pursuing a career in education.
GRANITE STATE COLLEGE
Granite State College, situated in New Hampshire’s capital, is a regionally accredited public institution serving approximately 3,300 for-credit students. Renowned for its commitment to social mobility, Granite State College has been ranked as New England’s #1 Liberal Arts College for this purpose by Washington Monthly. Additionally, it offers the 79th Best Online Bachelor’s Degrees at an affordable rate of $293 per credit.
Granite State College’s commitment to accessibility and affordability is evident in its tuition rate of $7,257. This competitive cost, coupled with its focus on social mobility and high-quality education, makes Granite State College an excellent choice for individuals seeking an affordable online bachelor’s degree in education.
UNIVERSITY OF SOUTHERN MISSISSIPPI
The University of Southern Mississippi, classified as a public, doctoral-granting RU/H research institution, is committed to providing quality education to over 14,800 students, both online and on-site in Hattiesburg and Long Beach. Recognized as the 164th Best Online Bachelor’s Program in the country, it also holds the prestigious 177th spot among the Best Public Colleges according to Forbes. The College of Education & Psychology at Southern Mississippi boasts accreditation from the National Council for Accreditation of Teacher Education (NCATE), offering online Bachelor of Science programs in Special Education and Elementary Education.
These comprehensive 62-credit degree completion programs cater specifically to teacher aides seeking their certification, providing valuable hands-on experience with two student teaching placements in lower and upper grades.
Tuition: $7,334
STEPHEN F. AUSTIN STATE UNIVERSITY
Stephen F. Austin State University, regionally accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, stands as Texas’ third most selective public teaching institution, serving approximately 13,000 students in Nacogdoches and online. Ranked as the 87th Best Regional College in the West and the 35th Top Public School by the U.S. News and World Report, the university offers a remarkable opportunity for aspiring educators.
The James Perkins College of Education adheres to the guidelines set forth by the National Council for Accreditation of Teacher Education (NATE) and provides an online Bachelor of Science in Interdisciplinary Studies. This program allows students to specialize in Elementary (K-6), Special Education (K-12), or Middle Level (4-8) certification. Paraprofessionals with at least 45 collegiate credits are eligible to apply and pursue their teaching career through this flexible online program.
Tuition: $7,560
BEMIDJI STATE UNIVERSITY
Established in 1919 as a teacher’s college, Bemidji State University has grown into a prominent public, co-educational institution in Minnesota, with an enrollment of over 6,300 students. Recognized for its commitment to online education, Bemidji State is ranked as the 187th Best Online Bachelor’s Program in the nation, while also being named the 34th Best Public Midwest College by the U.S. News and World Report.
The university’s Extended Learning Division oversees the online Bachelor of Science in Elementary Education (K-8) program, which consists of 63 credits. This program ensures students meet the requirements set by the Minnesota Board of Teaching. While primarily delivered online, students are required to attend three face-to-face sessions in Minneapolis, enhancing the interactive and immersive nature of the program.
Tuition: $8,366
Don’t let financial constraints deter you from pursuing your passion for education. The 10 cheapest online bachelor’s degrees in education showcased in this article open doors to a rewarding career as an educator while ensuring that you can achieve your goals without undue financial burden.
These affordable programs not only prioritize affordability but also maintain a commitment to delivering high-quality education. Accredited universities and esteemed institutions offer comprehensive curricula that cover essential educational theories, teaching methodologies, and classroom management strategies. You can rest assured that the knowledge and skills you acquire through these programs will equip you with the competence and confidence necessary to excel in the field of education.
Beyond affordability and flexibility, these online programs often emphasize practical experience. Internships, practicums, and field placements provide opportunities for you to observe and participate in real-world educational settings under the guidance of experienced mentors. This hands-on experience enhances your understanding of effective teaching practices and cultivates your ability to address the diverse needs of students.
As you embark on this transformative educational path, it is important to research and evaluates each program’s specifics, including curriculum, faculty expertise, student support services, and accreditation. This will ensure that you select the program that aligns with your educational goals, personal circumstances, and desired career outcomes.