what is the average cost of a four year college degree vs an online degree

The Cost of a Four-Year College Degree vs. an Online Degree

A college education is a significant investment, and the cost can vary greatly depending on the type of degree and the institution you choose. One of the biggest decisions students have to make is whether to attend a traditional four-year college or pursue an online degree. In this article, we’ll take a closer look at the average cost of a four-year college degree vs. an online degree.

First, let’s take a look at the average cost of a four-year college degree. According to the College Board, the average annual tuition and fees for an in-state student at a public four-year college was $10,560 for the 2020-2021 academic year. For out-of-state students, the average annual tuition and fees at a public four-year college was $26,590. For private four-year colleges, the average annual tuition and fees was $37,650.

When you factor in room and board, the total cost of a four-year college degree can be quite substantial. According to the College Board, the average annual room and board for students living on campus at a public four-year college was $11,830 for the 2020-2021 academic year. For students living off-campus, the average annual room and board was $12,880.

Now, let’s take a look at the average cost of an online degree. According to the National Center for Education Statistics (NCES), the average annual tuition and fees for an online degree program at a public college was $8,660 for the 2019-2020 academic year. For private online colleges, the average annual tuition and fees was $19,960.

It’s worth noting that the cost of an online degree can vary depending on the type of program, the institution, and the level of degree. Additionally, some online degree programs may have additional costs such as technology fees or textbooks, which can increase the overall cost.

Another factor to consider is the flexibility of the program. Online degree programs can be more flexible than traditional four-year college programs, which can be beneficial for students who are working full-time or have other responsibilities.

In conclusion, the cost of a four-year college degree vs. an online degree can vary greatly depending on the type of degree and the institution you choose. While the cost of a four-year college degree can be quite substantial, online degree programs tend to be more affordable. However, it’s important to keep in mind that the cost of an online degree can vary and factor in additional costs. Additionally, it’s worth considering the flexibility of the program when making your decision.