2024 Most Affordable Military-Friendly Online Colleges

Georgia Southern University (GSU) is a military-friendly public institution spread out over three campuses in southern Georgia and includes a robust selection of online associate, bachelor's, and master's programs. It's #1 because of its low annual tuition: $6,169. GSU stands out with its high earnings percentile, indicating that graduates from the school's online bachelor’s programs tend to earn more than graduates from similar programs at other schools, with a median salary of $52,548. In fact, GSU is among the top 15% of schools when it comes to the median alumni earnings. Furthermore, GSU’s online enrollment is among the highest — with over 2,000 distance learners at the undergraduate level alone — putting it in the top 1% of all schools. Its GI Bill online enrollment places it in the top 1% nationwide as well. These figures clearly show GSU is a popular choice for online education, likely because of its quality programs and robust support services.

Takeaways for prospective military students: Military students can use their experiences toward college credit, reducing their required credits for degrees, such as Bachelor of Arts in Political Science, Bachelor of Science in Psychology, and a Tactical Athlete Certificate. Active-duty students benefit from flexible remote learning no matter where they're stationed. Numerous resources are available to assist military students and their families, including veterans affairs specialists and an online hub with tools, information sheets, and military-friendly policies. GSU students can use the Post-9/11 GI Bill, Montgomery GI Bill, Forever GI Bill, and other federal tuition assistance programs to help keep tuition costs low. Affordability analysis tools on GSU's website allow you to calculate your expected costs.

Texas Tech University (TTU) is a public research university in Lubbock, Texas, with online degrees at every level — from associate to doctorate. Undergraduate degree options include Bachelor of Science in Biology, Bachelor of Arts in Communication Studies, and Bachelor of Business Administration. Not only is tuition is affordable at $7,020, but TTU's online programs boast a high median earnings among graduates of $58,842, placing it in the upper echelons among other institutions. When you enroll in one of its programs online, you are joining one of the largest online communities out there, with its online enrollment statistics placing it in the top 1% when compared to other U.S. colleges and universities. We also want to note that it has a 91% recommendation rate, demonstrating that students who have walked this path are satisfied with their higher education journey.

Takeaways for prospective military students: TTU offers affordable education solutions for military students. Through its military payment plan, active-duty students, veterans, and their families can delay tuition payments, giving them more flexibility with their installments. TTU offers several online resources for third-party sponsored billing, military scholarships, and employment programs, all benefiting military students. Over 2,000 Marine Corps, Army, Navy, Coast Guard, and Air Force students and their families are enrolled at TTU. Mentors and advisors are available to assist military students in their academic transitions. Their role is to provide discharge checklists, discuss common missteps, and provide encouragement as military students begin their online undergraduate degrees.

Sam Houston State University (SHSU) is a public institution that encourages military students to easily transition into programs related to their service. Some relevant online degrees include the Bachelor of Science in Homeland Security Studies, Bachelor of Arts in Political Science, and Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice. All programs are accredited, with annual tuitions at $7,320 (or $244 per credit). When considering affordability, earning potential is helpful to know because it helps you think about your long-term investment strategy. SHSU's graduates boast a median earnings ($49,957) placement in the top 15%. That's a green flag signaling that your investment in education at SHSU can really pay off down the line. The 97% retention rate is another positive indicator that you will find success at SHSU.

Takeaways for prospective military students: SHSU outlines several ways military students can save money on college education using Texas and federal tuition assistance. The school details the steps required to take advantage of these programs, such as receiving free meals through Meals for Vets or tuition exemption through the Hazelwood Act, including which forms to fill out and what policies to consider. Advisors are ready to walk military and veteran students as they navigate these processes. SHSU will work with active-duty students through deployment, whether that means getting a refund, dropping courses, or requesting incompletes. SHSU's Department of Veterans Affairs employs a full-time counselor who can answer military students' questions about their benefits.

The University of Arkansas (U of A) is a public research institute with over 100 online programs and an affordable tuition that averages at $7,665. U of A's online programs are the same as those developed on campus, and online students receive the same support systems as traditional students. You can pursue online bachelor's degrees such as a Bachelor of Arts in Spanish, a Bachelor of Science in Human Development and Family Sciences, and a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration. In terms of how many students study online, U of A is in the top 2% among all schools, with 1,716 enrolled in online courses as undergraduates. This shows us that the online courses are engaging and valued by a large number of students.

Takeaways for prospective military students: U of A is in the top 4% of all U.S. higher education institutions for military enrollment, proving that it's a welcoming environment for veterans or those currently serving. Another big plus is the recommended rate of 92%, which is incredibly high. The school's Veteran and Military-Affiliated Student Center provides detailed resources on tuition assistance for each branch of the military, including how-to guides and points of contact. U of A offers its own tuition assistance through the WE Manning Memorial Scholarship Fund, which awards approximately $1,000 to students, including those in the military. It's a member of the Yellow Ribbon Program and an approved school by Veterans Affairs.

Western Governors University (WGU) is a private university in Salt Lake City, Utah. It's affordable tuition rate of $8,010 makes degrees like these accessible. Although it's #5 on our list for tuition prices, it's especially beneficial to choose WGU if you are looking at long-term investment. With median earnings sitting at $74,752, WGU grads place this university in the top 11% of all U.S. schools for graduate earnings. It offers business, science, healthcare, and education degrees online to military students. The Bachelor of Science in Nursing is a pre-licensure program that can prepare you to become a registered nurse, for example. If you worked in information technology in the military, you can benefit from six related degrees, such as a Bachelor of Science in Cybersecurity and Information Assurance or a Bachelor of Science in Network Engineering and Security.

Takeaways for prospective military students: With 9,597 students using the GI Bill for their studies, WGU is among the top schools for supporting our military members and veterans. WGU offers flat-rate pricing, convenient transfer processes, and financial assistance programs. Four military scholarships range from $2,500 for active-duty students to $10,000 for Gold Star Family members pursuing degrees at WGU. These scholarships, along with GI Bill benefits and Tuition Assistance, allow military students to study at a reduced tuition rate and, in some cases, may cover the entire cost of tuition.

Columbia Southern University (CSU) is a private, military-friendly institution with benefits and online degrees that cater toward military students. In addition to these benefits, CSU hosts a Bachelor of Science in Military Studies that allows students to advance their careers in their area of expertise. Concentration options include Intelligence, Homeland Security, Cybersecurity, International Management, and more. Online students can also earn an associate degree and undergraduate certificate in military studies. With median earnings around $65,339, in the top 26% of all schools, we see proof that CSU graduates are well-prepared to secure lucrative positions in their fields. In addition to this, the overall review rating of 4.06 stars out of 5 is a testament to the positive experiences students have, complemented by a high recommendation rate of 78%.

Takeaways for prospective military students: With a jaw-dropping 99% military enrollment percentile, it means that when it comes to supporting those who've served our country, CSU stands among the top. Active-duty students, veterans, and their families can apply for free and receive a 10% tuition discount. The school is approved for Veterans Affairs benefits and Armed Forces Tuition Assistance (TA), which offers free tuition up to $250 per credit for members of every military branch. CSU ensures that its tuition costs do not exceed this threshold. In-house scholarships include the Hero Behind the Hero Scholarship for military families and first responders and the Forever a Hero Scholarship for military veterans.

One of the biggest reasons we favor the private school Columbia College (CC) is its excellent value in tuition. The tuition is in the top 11%, meaning it's lower than 89% of schools, making it highly affordable at $8,304. For what you'd be paying, this is impressive, especially when you consider the comprehensive learning experience and resources available to you. CC makes it easy for military students to apply their skills to an online degree. CC has many online majors ranging from public administration to sociology. Examples include a Bachelor of Science in Business Analytics, Bachelor of Science in Project Management, and a Bachelor of Science in Accounting. Associate degrees, master's degrees, and professional certificates are also available online.

Takeaways for prospective military students: CC is among the top 12% of schools with the highest GI Bill enrollment. Overall, 2,171 military students choose it for their online education. This shows the college's strong support for military members and veterans. Additionally, military service experience can be transferred to college credits, saving money on tuition and the time it takes to graduate. Current military members and their spouses and children under 25 pay $250 per undergraduate credit. Even employees at military installations receive these rates. Students can also apply for GI Bill benefits, Military Tuition Assistance, and Military Spouse Career Advancement Account (MyCAA) benefits. Lastly, CC offers a generous average financial aid package of $13,725, landing it in the top 29% across all schools nationwide. This kind of support can make a big difference in making your education more affordable, especially combined with the already low tuition cost.

Thomas Edison State University (TESU) is a public university where it not only has affordable tuition costs but also an exceptional median earnings of $73,358. In fact, TESU falls in the top 11% of schools, suggesting that students stepping out from here are well-prepared to thrive in their chosen careers. Online students can take advantage of nearly 100 online degrees. Personalized degree completion plans are offered to military personnel that are even more flexible than traditional online degrees. This opportunity is open to associate, bachelor's, and master's students. Several online options apply to military students, including the Bachelor of Science in Nuclear Energy Engineering Technology, Bachelor of Science in Electronic System Engineering Technology, and Bachelor of Science in Technical Studies.

Takeaways for prospective military students: For those who have served in the military, TESU is incredibly welcoming. Dedicated enrollment counselors help military students apply for a major that fits their career goals and matches their past experiences. TESU uses the Joint Services Transcripts (JST) from Army, Navy, Marine Corps, and Coast Guard students to transfer their experiences to college credits. The school will also look at other credentials earned during service, such as licenses or certifications, that may apply to curriculum requirements. Students who are active-duty, reserve, and guards pay only $250 in tuition costs for each undergraduate credit.

The University of Southern Mississippi (USM) is a public research university in Hattiesburg, Mississippi. Not only is the tuition well below average — $9,618 — WGU has an impressive earnings percentile, meaning if you graduate from here, your earning potential is higher than 89% of graduates from other schools. Another standout aspect is WGU's remarkable online enrollment, placing this school in the top 1% for the number of students studying online. Degrees like the Bachelor of Science in Human Resources Management and the Bachelor of Science in Industrial Engineering Technology (Logistics) are well-suited for military students but many other majors are available, too. Unlike traditional universities, WGU utilizes a competency-based education model, allowing you to progress through your coursework based on your ability to demonstrate mastery of the material, rather than just spending time in class.

Takeaways for prospective military students: Its online department offers affordable tuition for military students, which includes free textbooks, application fee waivers, priority enrollment, and free tutoring. Additional affordability benefits come from USM's Tuition Assistance Gap Funding Program, which pays the remaining tuition costs after receiving federal tuition assistance. Faculty can assist in applying for GI Bill benefits and a range of military scholarships. Moreover, WGU is in the top 1% for the number of military students enrolled through the GI Bill, demonstrating strong support for veterans and military personnel. Additionally, with a recommendation rate of 84% and an overall review rating of 3.56 out of 5, it's clear that a majority of students here have had positive experiences.

Southern New Hampshire University (SNHU) is a private institution offering dozens of online degrees in popular majors, with tuitions that are remarkably affordable. Up to 45 credits from an associate degree can be applied to degrees like the Bachelor of Arts in Graphic Design, Bachelor of Science in Information Technologies, and Bachelor of Science in Health Sciences. SNHU stands out with an online enrollment number that places it at the very top among universities. Imagine being in a community with 135,584 online undergrads! At SNHU, you are part of a massive network of distance learners, which can foster a sense of belonging as you reach your higher education goals. This also brings with it endless opportunities for networking, support, and resources.

Takeaways for prospective military students: We notice that SNHU has a strong presence of military students, indicating it’s a great fit for those who've served. With 14,093 military students in total, SNHU is in the top 1% of universities for military enrollment. We know how this speaks volumes about the support systems they offer. For example, active-duty, National Guard, and Selected Reserve students and their spouses receive a 30% discount on tuition. Compounding with military tuition assistance and VA benefits, this makes for an affordable online education. Step-by-step application instructions are available on SNHU's website, and they detail different tuition assistance programs, such as Yellow Ribbon, the Post-9/11 GI Bill, and the Montgomery GI Bill. Furthermore, unique transfer pathways are available for Air Force members, allowing graduates from the Community College of the Air Force (CCAF) to easily advance to a bachelor's degree at SNHU.

The University of South Carolina - Columbia (SC) is a large public university. Online bachelor's programs include a Bachelor of Science in Integrated Information Technology and a Bachelor of Arts in Interdisciplinary Studies in Services Management. At the graduate level, military students can help their fellow service members by pursuing the online Graduate Certificate for Social and Behavioral Health with Military Members, Veterans, and Military Families.

Takeaways for prospective military students: Thirty military experience credits can be added to a degree to save even more money on tuition. SC also has several services and resources for military members. There's a wealth of helpful information for different military members, whether reserves, active duty, dependents, or veterans. SC helps military students pursue scholarships, tuition assistance, and GI benefits. Third-party and SC-sponsored scholarships are available to various military members and their families. Another remarkable aspect is the support for military students, with a 100% military enrollment percentile, showcasing an exceptional commitment to those who have served. This level of support is crucial as it provides veterans and active-duty military personnel with the resources and flexibility they need to succeed academically.

At the University of West Florida (UWF), a medium-sized public university, there are 19 online bachelor's degree programs, most of which are in business and healthcare. Students can pursue a Bachelor of Science in Finance, Bachelor of Arts in Human Resource Management, and Bachelor of Science in Public Health. Navy service members will appreciate the online Bachelor of Arts in Maritime Studies that blends subjects in marine biology, political science, and environmental studies. WGU students are among the top earners, with median earnings sitting nicely in the 89th percentile. This means that if you graduate from WGU, you're likely to earn more money than graduates from most other schools.

Takeaways for prospective military students: UWF is an excellent option for military students because it offers flexible online degrees in various majors. It's committed to providing affordable options through the Tuition Assistance program, leading to a per-credit cost of $144. UWF's Military and Veterans Resource Center (MVRC) helps students secure financial benefits and access resources. This, coupled with a good average financial aid package, makes it easier for you to focus on your education without financial worries. What's more, counseling and psychological services are available to those experiencing PTSD. We also want to mention that with thousands of students choosing to study online, WGU ranks in the top 1% for online enrollment. For military enrollment, specifically, it also sits comfortably in the top 1% of all schools nationwide.

American Public University System (APUS) is a private online university system that oversees the American Military University (AMU). Bachelor's degrees at APUS span dozens of industries, from healthcare to logistics and mathematics. Examples include a Bachelor of Arts in Entrepreneurship, Bachelor of Arts in Computer Science, and Bachelor of Science in Public Health. There are several military-related degrees, including a Bachelor of Arts in Military History. Other majors for military members include Intelligence Studies, Criminal Justice, and Security Management. Many of you might be drawn to the fact that the median earnings for graduates are pretty high ($59,842), putting them in the top 11% compared to other universities. This means that if you were to graduate from APUS, there’s a good chance you’d be earning more than most people who went to other schools.

Takeaways for prospective military students: We feel that APUS shows it has a strong commitment to helping those who've served transition to civilian careers. Under its military-focused branch, APUS offers extensive benefits to service members, including free e-books, 10% tuition discounts for veterans, and a reduced credit cost of $250 per hour. Undergraduate and graduate students can apply for free; advisors will assist with credit transfer at no additional cost. Also, the number of students using the GI Bill is among the top 1% of all universities, making APUS highly appealing if you're a veteran looking to transition into a new career through education.

Boise State University (BSU) is a public university with high research activity. Eligible online degrees for TA include several science, business, and technology majors. Examples include a Bachelor of Business Administration in Management, Bachelor of Science in Cyber Operations and Resilience, and Bachelor of Arts in Integrated Strategic Communications. BSU also has a high level of online enrollment, with thousands in undergraduate online classes and thousands more at the graduate level. This demonstrates the school's commitment to providing accessible and flexible education for everyone. Moreover, the overall review rating of these programs from students hovers around a strong 3.5 out of 5, further indicating that the wide majority of BSU's online students had a positive experience.

Takeaways for prospective military students: Once enrolled, a robust support system is available to help military members create a career plan, search library resources, and navigate financial emergencies. Through Tuition Assistance and Tuition Assistance Promise, military students at BSU can cover 100% of their degree costs, whether active-duty National Guard or Reserve members. They can also obtain resources to apply for GI benefits and General Education Mobile (GEM) transfer. Plus, the Air University Associate to Baccalaureate Cooperative (AU-ABC) makes transferring to BSU easier for military students.

Northern Arizona University (NAU) is a public university with online undergraduate and graduate degrees for military students. Military students may be interested in the online Bachelor of Science in Applied Science with relevant concentrations in Criminal Justice Administration, Public Administration, Intelligence Studies, and Logistics and Supply Chain Management. Additional degrees are available in technology, communication, education, and healthcare. A big plus for NAU is how well they support their online students. They're among the very best at keeping students enrolled from one year to the next, also known as retention rate. NAU's retention rate is 76%, which indicates to us that students there are satisfied with their education and motivated to continue their studies.

Takeaways for prospective military students: Tuition costs meet the Department of Defense cost limit of $250 per credit, allowing service members to seek federal tuition assistance. Tuition waivers may be granted to eligible students thanks to NAU's partnership with the Military Order of the Purple Heart. As a member of the GEM program, students can quickly finish their general education requirements before moving on to a full bachelor's degree. Military students can take advantage of many benefits, including the Reserve Education Assistance Program, Survivors and Dependents Educational Assistance Program, and Post 9/11 GI Bill. From tech support to career advisement, NAU makes sure you have the resources you need to succeed.

As a large public institution, the University of Alabama (UA) is able to offer a wide range of online bachelor's, master's, and doctoral degrees. All online classes are delivered through Blackboard's learning management system. These include early childhood education, nutrition, business, and hospitality courses. Several degrees allow students to build upon their experiences in the military, whether they were mechanics, medics, or communications managers. Degrees include a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (RN to BSN), Bachelor of Arts in Public Relations, and Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering. Those who graduate from UA tend to do pretty well for themselves. The median earnings of UA grads are $57,228, placing UA among the best colleges when it comes to how much money students make after graduating.

Takeaways for prospective military students: A military tuition grant is available to eligible online UA students to help cover the costs left over from federal tuition assistance. Up to 18 credits per year are covered under this program. The Alabama Dependent Scholarship and the Alabama National Guard Education Assistance Program are statewide assistance programs that can cover additional out-of-pocket costs for military students at UA. Additionally, we want to mention that the retention rate, which measures how many students come back after their first year, is quite high at 87%. This shows us that UA is invested in your success.

Liberty University (LU) is a private Christian institution in Lynchburg, Virginia that infuses religious beliefs into its curriculums. It offers a wide selection of online associate, bachelor's, master's, and doctoral degrees. These flexible and remote programs make them ideal for active-duty military students. Degree options include a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration, Bachelor of Science in Paralegal Studies, and Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice. The business administration program features Economics, International Business, and Public Administration concentrations.

Takeaways for prospective military students: Besides flexibility, LU offers special academic and financial benefits for military students. Eligible undergraduates pay a discounted rate of $250 per credit, while graduate students pay $275. With a significant average financial aid package ($12,471) that places in the top 31% of universities, many students find the financial burden of higher education eased. LU will also review students' military training to determine if any credits may be transferred to their online degree. Faculty are communicative, offering informative newsletters to keep military members up-to-date on benefits. Adding to the appeal is the support for military personnel, with a GI Bill enrollment that places LU among the top 1% of universities. This demonstrates LU's commitment to serving those who have served the country.

Kansas State University (KSU) is a public university in Manhattan, Kansas, with over 100 online programs. Some are military-friendly degrees that build on the experience gained during service. Most bachelor's degrees feature majors in education, business, and health. Examples include a Bachelor of Science in Elementary Education, Bachelor of Science in Business Administration, and Bachelor of Science in Dietetics. With median earnings in the top 15% at $55,461, we feel confident in saying that KSU prepares their students for successful careers. Something else that makes us like KSU a lot is their graduation rate, which is better than 60% of other U.S. colleges and universities.

Takeaways for prospective military students: KSU's military benefits are available to active-duty students, members of the National Guard, reservists, veterans, and their families. Eligible students can apply without paying an application fee, and the registration process may be expedited. Tuition assistance is available through federal programs and scholarships to help cover the cost of a degree. There are even special scholarships for military spouses. All students receive a military student services coordinator to assist them in their academic journey. And when it comes to financial support, you’ll find KSU generous, with its average financial aid packages ($8,537) and the percentage of students receiving aid (94%) both ranking in the top 60%. Lastly, KSU’s online and military enrollment are incredibly high, in the top 40% and 20% respectively, showing they’re leaders in both areas.

Ohio State University (OSU) is a public university with a large campus in Columbus, Ohio. Despite a ranking at #19, tuition is still remarkable low at $11,826. Its online school includes all degree levels, with its bachelor's programs geared exclusively toward the health sciences. Military students can pursue a general Bachelor of Science in Health Sciences or an RN to Bachelor of Science in Nursing. There's also an Associate of Science to Bachelor of Science in Radiologic Sciences that allows students to begin their radiology career from scratch. With programs crafted for the modern learner, including those in the military, OSU ensures that higher education is within reach for everyone. The fact that 95% recommend OSU, should tell you something.

Takeaways for prospective military students: OSU currently supports nearly 4,000 military-affiliated students and faculty. Military enrollment, specifically, is in the top 4% of all schools in the federal database. Financial assistance is available through the Post-9/11 and Montgomery GI bills. The school also offers resources to help students benefit from other federal assistance programs. OSU's unique 3rd & Goal Peer 2 Peer Sponsor Program assigns incoming military students a mentor who helps with their academic transition and provides insights into the different benefit programs. OSU's willingness to invest in their students is shown through the average financial aid package of $10,993, which is in the 74th percentile, making education more affordable.

Regent University (RU) is a private institution located in Virginia Beach. It's ranked in the top 20 of most affordable military schools partly due to its low tuition of $11,850. Another reason is RU's enrollment of military students, which is impressive in the top 9% of all U.S. schools. This not only reflects RU's commitment to supporting our veterans but also highlights the school's ability to deliver education in a flexible format that suits the unique needs of those who serve. As a Christian school, it offers many religious online degrees, including a Bachelor of Arts in Biblical and Theological Studies and a Bachelor of Arts in Christian Ministry. Military students may be interested in the Bachelor of Arts in Government, which includes concentrations in International Relations and Foreign Policy, Pre-Law, and American Government and Politics.

Takeaways for prospective military students: RU's flexible eight-week course schedules make it an excellent option for service members with military responsibilities. Military students pay $250 per credit and may be eligible for additional discounts through awards like the Military Service Award, which waives specific fees and gives a $100 bookstore every semester. Various awards are available for active duty, reservists, and veteran students. Furthermore, the provision of financial aid is worth noting — with 94% of students receiving some form of aid, RU is ensuring education is accessible to a wider audience. This is particularly important in today's economic climate, where education costs can be a significant barrier.

The University of Phoenix-Arizona (UofPX) is a private online university based in its namesake city of Phoenix, Arizona. It offers remote learning for career advancement in a wide variety of sectors at a reasonable price ($11,940). Military students can transition to the IT, business, and healthcare industries. They can also stick to public service through a Bachelor of Science in Social Work, Bachelor of Science in Public Administration, or Bachelor of Science in Education. Online enrollment at UofPX sits at the top, with 69,819 enrolled at the undergraduate level. This showcases the university's immense popularity and capability to manage a vast online learning community effectively. It's like being part of a giant, well-oiled, educational machine where resources are plenty, and you're never alone.

Takeaways for prospective military students: UofPX is willing to work with active-duty students through deployment or other responsibilities related to their military service. Courses are delivered entirely online, one course at a time, with 24/7 access to assignments. Military training and experience can be transferred into college credits, whether earned overseas or in the US. UofPX has a robust alum network featuring over 130,000 military graduates. Another aspect we can't ignore is their military enrollment, which ranks in the top 2% in the country. This indicates a strong support system for military personnel, making this online school a fantastic option if you or a family member serve or have served.

Louisiana State University and Agricultural & Mechanical College (LSU) is a public university in Baton Rouge, Louisiana. Its tuition is competitively priced at $11,970, placing it in the 63rd percentile for affordability among similar institutions. We think this makes LSU an excellent choice for you if you're looking for quality education that won’t break the bank. LSU Online offers 55 bachelor's degrees in health, business, leadership, and politics. Examples include the Bachelor of Arts in General Business Administration, Bachelor of Science in Construction Management, and Bachelor of Science in Public Health. Students can also opt for a general studies major to customize their degree. With an overall review rating of 3.99 and a recommendation rate of 91%, it’s clear that students have had positive experiences at LSU.

Takeaways for prospective military students: LSU accepts military education benefits for all military-affiliated students, including spouses and dependents. Military credits are accepted from the Air Force and Marine Corps colleges and the Medical Education & Training Campus (METC). Federal military tuition assistance is accepted from the Post-9/11 GI Bill. Counselors are available to assist military students in navigating this process. The generous financial aid package, averaging $12,374 and covering 98% of students, further makes an education at LSU both accessible and affordable. Additionally, LSU boasts a strong retention rate of 84%, which is particularly valuable to military students who may have challenging schedules and diverse needs. This means that LSU lands in the top 15% of schools, which signals that you'll likely feel supported and engaged throughout your studies.

Troy University is a public institution in Troy, Alabama, with tuition that is reasonably priced at $12,240. This makes higher education accessible for more people. Another aspect that really stands out to us is how well former students perform in the job market after graduating. They tend to earn salaries that place them in the top 50% of earners compared to graduates from other schools. This is something we think you’ll appreciate, knowing that your hard work and investment have a good chance of paying off. Troy has over 100 online programs, including 41 bachelor's degrees in business, computer science, and healthcare. Military students can pick a Bachelor of Science in History, Bachelor of Science in Political Science, and Bachelor of Science in Global Business, each with several concentration options. All online courses are delivered in flexible nine-week terms.

Takeaways for prospective military students: Being a top-ranked institution for military enrollment shows that it's not just about providing education but supporting those who have served their country. Troy's Office of Military & Veteran Affairs has been helping service members reach their education goals since 1950. Its Military and Family Scholarship ensures that military students don't pay more than $250 per credit. Spouses and dependents can receive up to 50% off tuition. Students with particular skill sets can customize their degrees through an interdisciplinary studies major and use their experiences to reduce the required credits needed to graduate.

Washington State University (WSU) is a public university in Pullman, Washington. Its online programs offer studies in a broad set of disciplines. There's a Bachelor of Science in Data Analytics, Bachelor of Science in Biology, and Bachelor of Arts in Human Development, among other 100% online majors. Students can also earn an online teaching endorsement at the undergraduate and graduate levels. What really catches our attention is how WSU stands out academically and in terms of supporting its online students. The graduation rate places WSU among the top 40% of schools, which suggests that once you begin your journey here, you’re more likely to reach the finish line successfully. Also, the earnings data is quite impressive, with WSU ranking in the top 11% for alumni salaries.

Takeaways for prospective military students: Although only 3% of WSU's online students are military members, its veterans affairs office is specifically appointed to help them get the most out of their financial benefits. This includes seeking scholarships, experience credits, and federal tuition assistance. Other veteran support services, such as financial and career guidance, are also available. The university utilizes cutting-edge technology to deliver coursework, ensuring you receive a high-quality education whether you’re studying from home or abroad. With these resources at your disposal, balancing studies with personal commitments becomes more manageable.

Old Dominion University (ODU) is a public university in Norfolk, Virginia with an affordable tuition of $12,780. Even though it's at the end of our list, this cost remains well below the U.S. average. ODU delivers online programs from the bachelor's to the doctorate levels. Most bachelor's degrees are offered as degree completion programs for students who have already completed their associate degrees. Examples include a Bachelor of Science in Dental Hygiene, Bachelor of Science in Computer Engineering, and Bachelor of Science in Business Administration. If you're looking for a school with a thriving online community, ODU is definitely a place to consider. ODU's high online enrollment indicates a large, active student body engaged in distance learning, meaning you'll be a part of a vibrant community of learners from all walks of life.

Takeaways for prospective military students: If you compare ODU's efforts to support military students with other universities, it's clear that ODU stands out, making it among the top choices for those who have served our country. Military students can capitalize on a range of online programs using their service training, including information systems, cybersecurity leadership, systems engineering, and homeland security. ODU's Duty to Degree Scholarship gives $2,000 to qualifying military spouses, dependents, and partners. The Disabled Military Scholarship offers $1,000 annually to disabled service members and their spouses.