5 Cheapest Online Colleges in Massachusetts

5 Cheapest Online Colleges in Massachusetts
By Dr. James Barham
Reviewed By Dr. Jed Macosko
Published:

Key Takeaways

  • A majority of online colleges in Massachusetts offer scholarships, grants, and work-study programs to assist students financially.
  • Several affordable universities in Massachusetts provide in-state tuition between $10,000 and $60,000.
  • Fitchburg State University offers one of the cheapest online programs.

Cheapest Online Colleges in Massachusetts

Sort by:
  1. University of Massachusetts Boston
  2. University of Massachusetts Lowell
  3. Lesley University
  4. Fitchburg State University
  5. New England College of Business and Finance
  1. University of Massachusetts Boston
  2. University of Massachusetts Lowell
  3. Lesley University
  4. Fitchburg State University
  5. New England College of Business and Finance
  1. University of Massachusetts Lowell 86%
  2. Fitchburg State University 86%
  3. Lesley University 86%
  4. University of Massachusetts Boston 81%
  1. University of Massachusetts Lowell 17 to 1
  2. University of Massachusetts Boston 16 to 1
  3. Fitchburg State University 12 to 1
  4. Lesley University 10 to 1
  1. Lesley University $31,364
  2. University of Massachusetts Lowell $15,462
  3. University of Massachusetts Boston $14,542
  4. Fitchburg State University $970
  1. Lesley University $18,900
  2. University of Massachusetts Boston $18,894
  3. University of Massachusetts Lowell $14,956
  4. Fitchburg State University $3,510
  1. New England College of Business and Finance
  2. Fitchburg State University
  3. Lesley University
  4. University of Massachusetts Lowell
  5. University of Massachusetts Boston
  1. New England College of Business and Finance
  2. Fitchburg State University
  3. Lesley University
  4. University of Massachusetts Lowell
  5. University of Massachusetts Boston
  1. University of Massachusetts Boston 81%
  2. Lesley University 86%
  3. Fitchburg State University 86%
  4. University of Massachusetts Lowell 86%
  1. Lesley University 10 to 1
  2. Fitchburg State University 12 to 1
  3. University of Massachusetts Boston 16 to 1
  4. University of Massachusetts Lowell 17 to 1
  1. Fitchburg State University $970
  2. University of Massachusetts Boston $14,542
  3. University of Massachusetts Lowell $15,462
  4. Lesley University $31,364
  1. Fitchburg State University $3,510
  2. University of Massachusetts Lowell $14,956
  3. University of Massachusetts Boston $18,894
  4. Lesley University $18,900

While we see names like Harvard University and MIT stealing the spotlight with astronomical fee structures, many students wonder, “What does Massachusetts offer for students on a budget? We understand how challenging it can get to keep up with living expenses and costly tuition.

In this blog, we have compiled a list of the most affordable online colleges in Massachusetts to help you find the best that fits your budget.

Woman sitting on a couch while reading a book

Cheapest Online Colleges in Massachusetts

Education is everyone’s right. However, the climbing tuition fees in Massachusetts often leave students wondering if college is a worthwhile investment. MIT graduates’ average student loan debt is $25,556, the second highest in the U.S.

Luckily, the Bay State offers inexpensive options to level the competition and give everyone a chance to receive quality education.

Here are the cheapest Massachusetts colleges where you can still get a stellar online education.

  1. #1

    University of Massachusetts Boston

    Boston , MA
    #2 Best Public Colleges in Massachusetts 2024 #2 Most Affordable Colleges in Massachusetts Ranked for Students in 2024 #10 Best Research Universities in Massachusetts 2025 #7 Fastest Accelerated Online Bachelor's of Nursing Degree Programs 2024

    Tuition + fees

    $15K

    Acceptance

    81%

    Graduation

    51%

    Student body

    19K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1190/26

    Career Outlook for degree at University of Massachusetts Boston

    Cost of Degree: $15,495
    Expenses: $21,578
    Starting Salary: $53,700
    Cost Recoup Time: 13 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary

    Overview of UMass Boston

    • Specializations: Business Analytics or Finance
    • Flexible Learning Options: Online, On-Campus, Hybrid
    • Affordable Tuition: Starting at $20,700 for online students

    What do we love about UMass Boston?

    Located on Boston’s scenic waterfront, UMass Boston is known for its diverse student body and strong emphasis on urban engagement.

    It offers an AACSB-accredited MBA program, perfect for professionals eager to stay ahead in the dynamic business world. Whether you’re passionate about business analytics or finance, this program has your back.

    Moreover, the flexibility is unbeatable – choose from online, on-campus, or hybrid modes without compromising academic quality. The best part is that the online program is incredibly cost-effective, starting at just $20,700.

    • UMass Boston is great for students who: Seek a robust selection of degree programs and the opportunity to study at a research-intensive institution.
    • UMass Boston might not be the best fit for students who: Are looking for small college settings in Massachusetts, as UMass Boston is a large, urban public university with a substantial student body.
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  2. #2

    University of Massachusetts Lowell

    Lowell , MA
    #3 Best Public Colleges in Massachusetts 2024 #3 Most Affordable Colleges in Massachusetts Ranked for Students in 2024 #2 Best Online Associate Degrees in Massachusetts 2025 #2 Best Online Associate in Information Technology
    Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $16K

    Acceptance

    86%

    Graduation

    71%

    Student body

    22K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1259/28

    Career Outlook for degree at University of Massachusetts Lowell

    Cost of Degree: $16,570
    Expenses: $17,994
    Starting Salary: $57,200
    Cost Recoup Time: 12 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary

    Overview of UMass Lowell

    • Credit Transfer: Up to 90 credits
    • Tuition: $585 per credit hour
    • Concentrations Available: Finance, Marketing, and more

    What do we love about UMass Lowell?

    As the online branch of the University of Massachusetts Lowell, UMass Lowell is renowned for its flexible and comprehensive distance learning programs.

    With its Bachelor of Science in Business Administration (BSBA) program, you can become a global business leader. U.S. News & World Report recognizes this program for its excellence. Moreover, you can transfer up to 90 college credits.

    With a tuition rate of $585 per credit hour, it’s an affordable path to success. Another perk of this program is you can pick your major according to your interest – from Finance to Marketing.

    • UMass Lowell is great for students who: Appreciate a university that offers a wide range of online programs with competitive tuition rates and a strong emphasis on practical experience.
    • UMass Lowell might not be the best fit for students who: Prefer more personalized attention, as larger class sizes in online settings might not provide the individualized support some students need.

    University of Massachusetts Lowell’s Online Degrees

    BS in Business Administration
    • Required Credits: 122
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BS in Information Technology
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BS in Information Technology Second Degree
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BS in Information Technology: Business Minor
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BS in Criminal Justice
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BA in English Literature And Criticism
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BLA in Liberal Arts
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
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  3. #3

    Lesley University

    Cambridge , MA
    #11 Best Online Master's Programs in Massachusetts 2025 #13 Best Online Colleges in Massachusetts 2024 #20 Best Online Bachelor's in Psychology Degree Programs for Students 2025

    Tuition + fees

    $31K

    Acceptance

    86%

    Graduation

    61%

    Student body

    5K

    Career Outlook for degree at Lesley University

    Cost of Degree: $32,780
    Expenses: $22,800
    Starting Salary: $40,500
    Cost Recoup Time: 19 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary

    Overview of Lesley University

    • Interdisciplinary Curriculum: Economics, Globalization, Technology
    • Accelerated Master’s Degree Option: Bachelor’s and master’s in 5 years
    • Total Tuition Cost: $15,720

    What do we love about Lesley University?

    Based in Cambridge, Lesley University is famous for its education, fine arts, and counseling programs. It provides an opportunity to complete an online Bachelor of Science in Business Management. It focuses on economics, globalization, technology, and organizational behavior, ensuring a well-rounded education.

    Moreover, Lesley offers an accelerated master’s degree program, allowing you to earn both a bachelor’s and master’s degree in five years. The program costs $15,720.

    • Lesley University is great for students who: Are interested in programs with a strong foundation in the liberal arts and human services, as Lesley University is known for its emphasis on creativity and social impact.
    • Lesley University might not be the best fit for students who: Are looking for the lowest possible tuition rates, as Lesley’s tuition, while competitive, may not be the cheapest among online learning options in Massachusetts.

    Lesley University’s Online Degrees

    BA in Liberal Studies
    Degree Concentrations
    • Business Management
    • Marketing Or Nonprofit Management
    • Human Services
    • Marketing Or Nonprofit Management
    • Human Services
    • Development Psychology
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BS in User Experience
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BS in Human Services
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BA in Interdisciplinary Humanities
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
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  4. #4

    Fitchburg State University

    Fitchburg , MA
    #8 Best Public Colleges in Massachusetts 2024 #9 Most Affordable Colleges in Massachusetts Ranked for Students in 2024 #7 Best Online Colleges in Massachusetts 2024 #13 Top 20 Most Affordable Online MBA Degree Programs Ranked 2025
    Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $11K

    Acceptance

    86%

    Graduation

    56%

    Student body

    10K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1120/25

    Career Outlook for degree at Fitchburg State University

    Cost of Degree: $11,046
    Expenses: $17,825
    Starting Salary: $47,400
    Cost Recoup Time: 12 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary

    Overview of Fitchburg State University

    • Fast-Track Program: Complete in 12 months
    • Affordable Tuition: $13,080 total
    • Focus: Analytics Project Design and Data Tools

    What do we love about Fitchburg State University?

    Fitchburg State University is famous for its excellent nursing and education programs.

    It offers an online MBA program specializing in business analytics management. This program focuses on developing your expertise in analytics project design and data tool utilization. You can complete it in as little as 12 months.

    With a total tuition of $13,080 and a per-credit-hour cost of $436, it prepares you for senior-level roles in various data-related fields without breaking the bank.

    • Fitchburg State University is great for students who: Desire a cost-effective education with various accredited online degree and certificate programs.
    • Fitchburg State University might not be the best fit for students who: Are seeking a large university atmosphere, as Fitchburg State offers a more intimate, focused academic setting.

    Fitchburg State University’s Online Degrees

    BSN in Nursing: RN to BSN
    • Required Credits: 32
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
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    5. Dartmouth College

  6. #5

    New England College of Business and Finance

    Overview of New England College of Business and Finance

    • Wide Range of Programs: AS in Business Administration, BS in International Business, Master of Healthcare Management
    • Annual Tuition: $12,120
    • Awards: 2017 Brandon Hall Group Excellence in Technology Award

    What do we love about New England College of Business and Finance?

    New England College of Business and Finance specializes in offering comprehensive business and finance education. It is particularly known for its online learning options.

    The College educates over 1,200 students. It is famous for its impressive 50% retention rate. Exclusively teaching online, the College utilizes Canvas and offers resources through its Center for Professional & Executive Development.

    U.S. News & World Report recognizes New England College for excellence in graduate-level education online. The average in-state tuition here is $12,120, which is affordable for college students seeking quality education in business and finance.

    • New England College of Business and Finance is great for students who: Are seeking to advance their careers with a focused business education that is accessible and affordable online.
    • New England College of Business and Finance might not be the best fit for students who: Prefer a broad-based education with a wide array of non-business programs, as NECB specializes in business and finance degrees

    New England College of Business and Finance’s Online Degrees

    BS in Accounting
    Degree Concentrations
    • Finance
    • Management Accounting
    • Public Accounting
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BS in Business Administration
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BS in Digital Marketing
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BS in Quality Systems And Improvement Management
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BS in Social Entrepreneurship Management
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    Compare school
Man writing notes on his notebook with his laptop beside him

Student Submitted Questions About Massachusetts’ Cheapest Online Colleges

What can you do if college in Massachusetts is still too expensive?

If even one of the affordable online colleges in our ranking is too expensive, there are other ways that you can still take advantage of online degree programs.

Many students in Massachusetts begin their college education at a community college. Earning an associate degree at a two-year college can be done for a fraction of the cost of a four-year college or university. Once you have earned an associate degree, it is possible to transfer your credits into a bachelor’s degree program.

This method not only brings significant savings on tuition costs, but you may be able to avoid housing costs during those two years as well.

An associate degree may even help you to qualify for an entry-level position, which can not only boost your resume for future career prospects, but can also help to fund your education. Win-win. For an affordable way to get started, check out the 50 Best Community Colleges in the United States.

Financial aid and scholarships are often overlooked. Even if you think you will not qualify for federal financial aid, apply anyway.

There are also numerous scholarship opportunities out there. It is worth an investigation of what is available. Categories include:

  • Religious scholarships
  • Academic scholarships
  • First-generation scholarships
  • Athletic scholarships
  • Military scholarships
  • Creative scholarships
  • Homeschool scholarships

...and many others. Again, apply for everything you can.

Typically public colleges and universities are the most affordable options, but some private colleges do award more needs-based grants and merit scholarships, and may be an even more affordable option that a public school. Don’t discount a private college until you have a more clear picture of your final costs.

If the college or university has a work study program, that can significantly cut your tuition costs. Some colleges offer free tuition in exchange for working on campus.

What is the easiest online college to get into?

Students can easily get into the University of Massachusetts-Dartmouth. Although the competition is very high in Massachusetts, the acceptance rate of this university is higher than others.

What is the cheapest university in Boston for international students?

Cambridge College in Boston and the Benjamin Franklin Institute of Technology are the cheapest universities in Boston for international students.

Is Massachusetts a cheap state to live in?

Massachusetts’s overall cost of living is 50% above the national average. This makes it an expensive state to live in. However, being home to several of the top universities in the country, finding student-friendly accommodation in Massachusetts is a safe and easy process.

Conclusion

Massachusetts is famous for premium academic colleges. However, there are plenty of options for students on a budget with its affordable institutes. These institutions provide high-quality education at a fraction of the cost, making higher education more accessible and manageable for students from various backgrounds.

Do you have a question about this topic? Ask it here