Affordable Degree Guide

Affordable Online Degree Programs in Massachusetts

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Massachusetts blends world-class universities with a strong public higher-ed system and growing affordability initiatives. 

From coastal communities to the Berkshires, students can tap flexible online options, transfer-friendly pathways, and expanded state aid that lowers (or even eliminates) tuition and fees for many residents. 

This guide hits the highlights—economy & education context, cost considerations, statewide programs, and FAQs—so you can plan a budget-smart online degree in the Bay State.

In this guide

Tuition and Fee Overview in Massachusetts

Massachusetts offers multiple affordability levers for residents, especially at public colleges and community colleges, plus a large catalog of online programs through the UMass system.

When evaluating the cost of higher education in Massachusetts, prospective students face a clear financial hierarchy across three main sectors.

The most affordable entry point is offered by Community Colleges and Technical Colleges, where state programs like MassReconnect and MassEducate have made tuition and fees effectively free for many eligible residents, although students still cover living costs and books.

Community Colleges & Technical Colleges

Based on 16 associate degree programs,
Lowest tuition: Middlesex Community College at $12,540
Highest: University of Massachusetts Amherst at $33,000
Average: $19,746

Associate degree programs in Massachusetts

  1. Middlesex Community College

    Bedford, Massachusetts
    Tuition: $12,540
    Delivery method: Online
    2024/2025 Cost per credit: $209 in-state | $319 out-of-state
    Credits: 60
    Number of degree programs: 26
    Learn more: Program details

  2. North Shore Community College

    Danvers, Massachusetts
    Tuition: $13,620
    Delivery method: Online
    2024/2025 Cost per credit: $227 in-state | $459 out-of-state
    Credits: 60
    Number of degree programs: 1
    Learn more: Program details

  3. Quinsigamond Community College

    Worcester, Massachusetts
    Tuition: $14,074
    Delivery method: Online
    2024/2025 Cost per credit: $227 in-state | $433 out-of-state
    Credits: 62
    Number of degree programs: 7
    Learn more: Program details

  4. Mount Wachusett Community College

    Gardner, Massachusetts
    Tuition: $14,400
    Delivery method: Online
    2024/2025 Cost per credit: $240 in-state | $445 out-of-state
    Credits: 60
    Number of degree programs: 6
    Learn more: Program details

  5. Berkshire Community College

    Pittsfield, Massachusetts
    Tuition: $14,580
    Delivery method: Online
    2024/2025 Cost per credit: $243
    Credits: 60
    Number of degree programs: 3
    Learn more: Program details

  6. Bristol Community College

    Attleboro, Massachusetts
    Tuition: $14,880
    Delivery method: Online
    2024/2025 Cost per credit: $248 in-state | $454 out-of-state
    Credits: 60
    Number of degree programs: 10
    Learn more: Program details

  7. Massachusetts Bay Community College

    Wellesley Hills, Massachusetts
    Tuition: $14,940
    Delivery method: Online
    2024/2025 Cost per credit: $249 in-state | $455 out-of-state
    Credits: 60
    Number of degree programs: 12
    Learn more: Program details

  8. Northern Essex Community College

    Haverhill, Massachusetts
    Tuition: $16,080
    Delivery method: Online
    2024/2025 Cost per credit: $268 in-state | $509 out-of-state
    Credits: 60
    Number of degree programs: 3
    Learn more: Program details

  9. Quincy College

    Quincy, Massachusetts
    Tuition: $16,380
    Delivery method: Online
    2024/2025 Cost per credit: $273
    Credits: 60
    Number of degree programs: 35
    Learn more: Program details

  10. Springfield Technical Community College

    Springfield, Massachusetts
    Tuition: $21,060
    Delivery method: Online
    2024/2025 Cost per credit: $351 in-state | $568 out-of-state
    Credits: 60
    Number of degree programs: 1
    Learn more: Program details

  11. Bay Path University

    Longmeadow, Massachusetts
    Tuition: $24,600
    Delivery method: Online
    2024/2025 Cost per credit: $410
    Credits: 60
    Number of degree programs: 4
    Learn more: Program details

  12. Holyoke Community College

    Holyoke, Massachusetts
    Tuition: $24,900
    Delivery method: Online
    2024/2025 Cost per credit: $415 in-state | $621 out-of-state
    Credits: 60
    Number of degree programs: 9
    Learn more: Program details

  13. University of Massachusetts Lowell

    Lowell, Massachusetts
    Tuition: $25,025
    Delivery method: Online
    2024/2025 Cost per credit: $385
    Credits: 65
    Number of degree programs: 3
    Learn more: Program details

  14. Fisher College

    Boston, Massachusetts
    Tuition: $25,740
    Delivery method: Online
    2024/2025 Cost per credit: $429
    Credits: 60
    Number of degree programs: 8
    Learn more: Program details

  15. Cambridge College

    Boston, Massachusetts
    Tuition: $30,120
    Delivery method: Online
    2024/2025 Cost per credit: $502
    Credits: 60
    Number of degree programs: 4
    Learn more: Program details

  16. University of Massachusetts Amherst

    Amherst, Massachusetts
    Tuition: $33,000
    Delivery method: Online
    2024/2025 Cost per credit: $550
    Credits: 60
    Number of degree programs: 3
    Learn more: Program details

Tuition and cost data in this table, researched in October 2025 from university websites, are statewide averages and exclude additional costs like housing, meals, books, and fees. Rates are subject to change; verify current information directly with institutions.


Public and Private Institutions

Stepping up in price are the Public Universities (the UMass and State University systems), which offer a subsidized value; in-state residents pay considerably lower tuition and fees (typically in the low-to-mid five figures) compared to non-residents, making them a primary option for an affordable four-year degree.

Based on 20 online programs,
Highest: Merrimack College at $204,352
Lowest: Quincy College at $33,033
Average: $77,703

Bachelor’s degree programs in Massachusetts

  1. Quincy College

    Quincy, Massachusetts
    Tuition: $33,033
    Delivery method: Online
    2024/2025 Cost per credit: $273
    Credits: 121
    Number of degree programs: 3
    Learn more: Program details

  2. Fitchburg State University

    Fitchburg, Massachusetts
    Tuition: $39,240
    Delivery method: Online
    2024/2025 Cost per credit: $327
    Credits: 120
    Number of degree programs: 5
    Learn more: Program details

  3. University of Massachusetts Dartmouth

    Lowell, Massachusetts
    Tuition: $44,400
    Delivery method: Online
    2024/2025 Cost per credit: $370
    Credits: 120
    Number of degree programs: 11
    Learn more: Program details

  4. University of Massachusetts Lowell

    Dartmouth, Massachusetts
    Tuition: $46,200
    Delivery method: Online
    2024/2025 Cost per credit: $385
    Credits: 120
    Number of degree programs: 22
    Learn more: Program details

  5. Bay Path University

    Longmeadow, Massachusetts
    Tuition: $49,200
    Delivery method: Online
    2024/2025 Cost per credit: $410
    Credits: 120
    Number of degree programs: 36
    Learn more: Program details

  6. Fisher College

    Boston, Massachusetts
    Tuition: $51,480
    Delivery method: Online
    2024/2025 Cost per credit: $429
    Credits: 120
    Number of degree programs: 9
    Learn more: Program details

  7. Anna Maria College

    Paxton, Massachusetts
    Tuition: $51,720
    Delivery method: Online
    2024/2025 Cost per credit: $431
    Credits: 120
    Number of degree programs: 2
    Learn more: Program details

  8. Cambridge College

    Boston, Massachusetts
    Tuition: $60,240
    Delivery method: Online
    2024/2025 Cost per credit: $502
    Credits: 120
    Number of degree programs: 8
    Learn more: Program details

  9. Lesley University

    Cambridge, Massachusetts
    Tuition: $63,000
    Delivery method: Online
    2024/2025 Cost per credit: $525
    Credits: 120
    Number of degree programs: 6
    Learn more: Program details

  10. Simmons University

    Boston, Massachusetts
    Tuition: $64,000
    Delivery method: Online
    2024/2025 Cost per credit: $500
    Credits: 128
    Number of degree programs: 8
    Learn more: Program details

  11. Springfield College

    Springfield, Massachusetts
    Tuition: $67,440
    Delivery method: Online
    2024/2025 Cost per credit: $562
    Credits: 120
    Number of degree programs: 2
    Learn more: Program details

  12. Bridgewater State University

    Bridgewater, Massachusetts
    Tuition: $73,320
    Delivery method: Online
    2024/2025 Cost per credit: $406 in-state | $611 out-of-state
    Credits: 120
    Number of degree programs: 9
    Learn more: Program details

  13. Westfield State University

    Westfield, Massachusetts
    Tuition: $74,760
    Delivery method: Online
    2024/2025 Cost per credit: $421 in-state | $623 out-of-state
    Credits: 120
    Number of degree programs: 10
    Learn more: Program details

  14. University of Massachusetts Amherst

    Amherst, Massachusetts
    Tuition: $78,720
    Delivery method: Online
    2024/2025 Cost per credit: $656
    Credits: 120
    Number of degree programs: 15
    Learn more: Program details

  15. Salem State University

    Salem, Massachusetts
    Tuition: $80,520
    Delivery method: Online
    2024/2025 Cost per credit: $424 in-state | $671 out-of-state
    Credits: 120
    Number of degree programs: 4
    Learn more: Program details

  16. Elms College

    Chicopee, Massachusetts
    Tuition: $81,120
    Delivery method: Online
    2024/2025 Cost per credit: $676
    Credits: 120
    Number of degree programs: 9
    Learn more: Program details

  17. Massachusetts College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences

    Boston, Massachusetts
    Tuition: $111,000
    Delivery method: Online
    2024/2025 Cost per credit: $925
    Credits: 120
    Number of degree programs: 6
    Learn more: Program details

  18. Lasell University

    Newton, Massachusetts
    Tuition: $113,520
    Delivery method: Online
    2024/2025 Cost per credit: $946
    Credits: 120
    Number of degree programs: 9
    Learn more: Program details

  19. Endicott College

    Beverly, Massachusetts
    Tuition: $166,800
    Delivery method: Online
    2024/2025 Cost per credit: $1,390
    Credits: 120
    Number of degree programs: 7
    Learn more: Program details

  20. Merrimack College

    North Andover, Massachusetts
    Tuition: $204,352
    Delivery method: Online
    2024/2025 Cost per credit: $1,648
    Credits: 124
    Number of degree programs: 6
    Learn more: Program details

Tuition and cost data in this table, researched in October 2025 from university websites, are statewide averages and exclude additional costs like housing, meals, books, and fees. Rates are subject to change; verify current information directly with institutions.

Finally, Private Institutions present the highest published tuition, often exceeding $50,000 annually. Crucially, however, these private schools use their substantial endowments to provide generous institutional grants, meaning their final net price for students with financial need is often drastically reduced, sometimes rivaling or even falling below the cost of public universities.

Among 17 online master’s degrees researched,
Highest: Boston College costs $69,180
Average: $28,772
Lowest: Worcester State University at $11,370

Master’s degree programs in Massachusetts

  1. Worcester State University

    Worcester, Massachusetts
    Tuition: $11,370
    Delivery method: Online
    2024/2025 Cost per credit: $379
    Credits: 30
    Number of degree programs: 8
    Learn more: Program details

  2. Fitchburg State University

    Fitchburg, Massachusetts
    Tuition: $13,080
    Delivery method: Online
    2024/2025 Cost per credit: $436
    Credits: 30
    Number of degree programs: 41
    Learn more: Program details

  3. Bridgewater State University

    Bridgewater, Massachusetts
    Tuition: $16,080
    Delivery method: Online
    2024/2025 Cost per credit: $536
    Credits: 30
    Number of degree programs: 12
    Learn more: Program details

  4. University of Massachusetts Lowell

    Lowell, Massachusetts
    Tuition: $18,300
    Delivery method: Online
    2024/2025 Cost per credit: $610
    Credits: 30
    Number of degree programs: 32
    Learn more: Program details

  5. University of Massachusetts Dartmouth

    Dartmouth, Massachusetts
    Tuition: $18,510
    Delivery method: Online
    2024/2025 Cost per credit: $617
    Credits: 30
    Number of degree programs: 9
    Learn more: Program details

  6. University of Massachusetts Amherst

    Amherst, Massachusetts
    Tuition: $19,680
    Delivery method: Online
    2024/2025 Cost per credit: $656
    Credits: 30
    Number of degree programs: 19
    Learn more: Program details

  7. Cambridge College

    Cambridge, Massachusetts
    Tuition: $21,150
    Delivery method: Online
    2024/2025 Cost per credit: $705
    Credits: 30
    Number of degree programs: 12
    Learn more: Program details

  8. Springfield College

    Springfield, Massachusetts
    Tuition: $22,350
    Delivery method: Online
    2024/2025 Cost per credit: $745
    Credits: 30
    Number of degree programs: 7
    Learn more: Program details

  9. Merrimack College

    North Andover, Massachusetts
    Tuition: $23,200
    Delivery method: Online
    2024/2025 Cost per credit: $725
    Credits: 32
    Number of degree programs: 7
    Learn more: Program details

  10. Lasell University

    Newton, Massachusetts
    Tuition: $25,524
    Delivery method: Online
    2024/2025 Cost per credit: $709
    Credits: 36
    Number of degree programs: 36
    Learn more: Program details

  11. Anna Maria College

    Paxton, Massachusetts
    Tuition: $25,920
    Delivery method: Online
    2024/2025 Cost per credit: $720
    Credits: 36
    Number of degree programs: 7
    Learn more: Program details

  12. Elms College

    Chicopee, Massachusetts
    Tuition: $31,808
    Delivery method: Online
    2024/2025 Cost per credit: $994
    Credits: 32
    Number of degree programs: 6
    Learn more: Program details

  13. Salem State University

    Salem, Massachusetts
    Tuition: $37,650
    Delivery method: Online
    2024/2025 Cost per credit: $1,059 in-state | $1,255 out-of-state
    Credits: 30
    Number of degree programs: 14
    Learn more: Program details

  14. Massachusetts College

    North Adams, Massachusetts
    Tuition: $38,880
    Delivery method: Online
    2024/2025 Cost per credit: $1,215
    Credits: 32
    Number of degree programs: 23
    Learn more: Program details

  15. Simmons University

    Boston, Massachusetts
    Tuition: $42,480
    Delivery method: Online
    2024/2025 Cost per credit: $1,180
    Credits: 36
    Number of degree programs: 10
    Learn more: Program details

  16. Tufts University

    Medford, Massachusetts
    Tuition: $53,970
    Delivery method: Online
    2024/2025 Cost per credit: $1,799
    Credits: 30
    Number of degree programs: 4
    Learn more: Program details

  17. Boston College

    Chestnut Hill, Massachusetts
    Tuition: $69,180
    Delivery method: Online
    2024/2025 Cost per credit: $2,306
    Credits: 30
    Number of degree programs: 4
    Learn more: Program details

Tuition and cost data in this table, researched in October 2025 from university websites, are statewide averages and exclude additional costs like housing, meals, books, and fees. Rates are subject to change; verify current information directly with institutions.

Ultimately, choosing the most economical path requires careful consideration of institutional aid packages against the subsidized public tuition rate.

Notable Statewide Initiatives in Massachusetts

  • Free Community College (All Ages, All Incomes): Massachusetts now covers full tuition and fees at public community colleges statewide. Eligibility and how to apply are outlined on Mass.gov.
  • MassReconnect (Adults 25+): Launched in 2023, provides cost-free community college for residents 25 or older without a prior degree; the program has driven significant adult-learner enrollment growth.
  • MASSGrant (Need-Based): Flagship state grant for undergraduates at eligible public and independent institutions; residency and enrollment rules apply.
  • MASSGrant Plus / MASSGrant Plus Expansion: “Last-dollar” aid that can cover full tuition and fees at public two- and four-year colleges for eligible students; recent expansion extends help to some non-Pell-eligible families meeting SAI criteria.
  • MassTransfer & Commonwealth Commitment (2+2 Pathways): Start at a community college and transfer to a state university or UMass with tuition/fee freezes, rebates, and guaranteed credit transfer when requirements are met.
  • UMass Online & UMass Global: Hundreds of fully online and hybrid programs across the UMass system, plus UMass Global for working adults.
  • “Go Higher” Campaign: State awareness effort spotlighting free community college and expanded aid at four-year public schools—useful hub for prospective students.

Cost of Attendance Beyond Tuition

  • Books & Supplies: Varies by program and course load; OER or inclusive-access can lower costs.
  • Technology: Reliable internet, laptop, and proctoring fees where applicable.
  • Occasional Travel: Some programs require on-site labs, intensives, or licensure exams.
  • Opportunity Costs: Balance study time with work hours; ask employers about tuition assistance.
  • Aid Interaction: “Last-dollar” MA aid (e.g., MASSGrant Plus) stacks after Pell and institutional grants—potentially reducing your net tuition/fees to zero at eligible schools. 

State-Funded Grants & Scholarships

  • Complete the FAFSA: It’s the gateway for Pell and state aid (including MASSGrant and MASSGrant Plus). Then follow your college’s priority dates.
  • MASSGrant / MASSGrant Plus: Core need-based awards; MASSGrant Plus can wipe out remaining tuition/fees at public colleges for qualifying students.
  • MassReconnect: If you’re 25+ without a prior degree, this program makes community college tuition- and fee-free.
  • Transfer Savings: Plan an A2B (Associate-to-Bachelor’s) major map under MassTransfer or the Commonwealth Commitment to lock in predictable, lower costs on the 2+2 route.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the most affordable online degree options for Massachusetts residents?

Massachusetts residents can reduce costs by starting at public community colleges (now tuition- and fee-free for many students) and finishing a bachelor’s through MassTransfer/Commonwealth Commitment. Learners who want fully online programs can explore UMass Online and other in-state publics for competitive in-state pricing.

How much do online associate degrees cost in Massachusetts?

Based on 16 associate programs researched, the lowest tuition is Middlesex Community College at $12,540, the highest is $33,000, and the average is $19,746. Pairing these prices with state aid and last-dollar programs can further reduce your out-of-pocket cost.

What is the price range for Massachusetts online bachelor’s degree programs?

Across 20 online bachelor’s programs, the lowest observed total is Quincy College at $33,033, the highest is Merrimack College at $204,352, and the average is $77,703. Compare net price (after grants/scholarships) rather than sticker price to find the true cost.

How much do online master’s degrees cost in Massachusetts?

Among 17 online master’s programs, the lowest is Worcester State University at $11,370, the highest is Boston College at $69,180, and the average is $28,772. Public universities and UMass Online often provide strong value, especially for in-state residents.

Is community college really free in Massachusetts?

Yes. Massachusetts now covers full tuition and fees at public community colleges (all ages, all incomes) for eligible residents. Adults 25+ without a prior degree may also qualify under MassReconnect, which similarly makes community college cost-free.

What is MASSGrant vs. MASSGrant Plus—and how do they lower my online degree cost?

MASSGrant is the state’s core need-based grant. MASSGrant Plus (and its expansion) operates as last-dollar aid, potentially covering remaining tuition and fees at public two- and four-year colleges after Pell and other grants—making some online degrees effectively tuition- and fee-free for qualifying students.

How does MassTransfer/Commonwealth Commitment make a bachelor’s degree cheaper?

Start with a low-cost associate at a community college, then transfer to a state university or UMass campus. When you follow the program map, you can get tuition/fee freezes, automatic credit transfer, and possible rebates, cutting thousands off the total bachelor’s cost.

Are online students eligible for the same financial aid as on-campus students in Massachusetts?

Generally yes—if your online program is Title IV-eligible and you meet residency/enrollment criteria, you can access FAFSA-based federal aid (e.g., Pell) plus state programs like MASSGrant, MASSGrant Plus, and MassReconnect. Always confirm eligibility with your institution’s financial aid office.

Besides tuition, what should Massachusetts online students budget for?

Plan for books & supplies (consider OER/inclusive-access), technology (reliable laptop/internet; proctoring fees), occasional travel (labs, intensives, licensure), and opportunity costs (reduced work hours). Employers in MA often offer tuition assistance—ask HR about benefits that can stack with state aid.