The Most Affordable Online Human Services Degrees

Exploring Affordable Online Human Services Degrees

When you look at the affordability of a human services degree program, you should first pay attention to the tuition that a school charges. For example, going to a state school, even as an online student, can significantly reduce the amount you pay if an in-state versus an out-of-state tuition rate is charged. While online studies can open you up to an education that knows no borders, enrolling in a degree program in another state can significantly increase the amount you pay.

The flexibility of online degree programs also plays a role in affordability. Due to the asynchronous format of most online programs, students don’t need to sacrifice their income to attend school. Instead, they can continue to work and fit their studies around their lives, not the other way around. Maintaining a steady income is beneficial when you’re financing a degree program.

Another factor to keep in mind is whether or not a school provides payment plans for students. Tuition payment plans allow you to pay monthly installments toward your tuition and fees instead of paying the total amount up front. Although these plans sometimes carry a nominal enrollment fee, this arrangement can help save a lot of money by eliminating the need for student loans.

Comparing the Cost of Online and On-Campus Human Services Programs

In many cases, online programs have a lower tuition rate than traditional programs. This is especially relevant if you are charged by credit hour for an online program rather than paying a flat rate for the semester or the year. The difference can really add up – especially if you’re interested in a graduate-level degree like a master’s degree in human services.

Going to school online can cut down costs because you don’t have to travel to campus every day. Saving money on gas and reducing wear and tear on your car can go a long way toward increasing affordability. However, you will be charged certain expenses when you’re an online student. For example, technology fees are unique to virtual learning.

Cost-Cutting Strategies for Prospective Online Human Services Students

Many options are available for obtaining an affordable online human services degree. But, it’s always possible to cut costs even further – and who doesn’t want that? Below, we list some useful strategies you can employ to manage expenses and get the most out of every dollar.

Apply for Scholarships, Fee Waivers, and More

Grants and scholarships for human services degree programs do not have to be repaid. So, they are the best forms of financial aid for students who want to avoid debt. Legitimate funding opportunities do not have an application fee. Since no risk is involved in pursuing these funding sources, you should apply to as many as you qualify for. If you’re able to get more money in the form of grants and scholarships, you’ll need to borrow less money. And if you must take out a loan, you can at least save money on interest (if you minimize the amount of money you borrow).

In addition, receiving fee waivers can save you a decent amount of money. For example, application fees for human services degree programs can add up quickly. In some cases, schools might waive these expenses if you meet certain criteria. Try to save money by getting fees waived whenever you can.

Maintain Part-Time Employment

One of the biggest advantages of earning an online degree is the flexibility you’re able to leverage. As a result, you can further keep costs down by maintaining a part-time job as you earn a human services degree. This perk is even better if you’re able to work part-time at a human services organization. Be sure to speak to your academic department to find out if the school can connect you with any opportunities. This will allow you to earn money, gain relevant work experience, and make invaluable career connections that can help you get a full-time job after graduation.

Take Advantage of Employer Tuition Reimbursement

Employers want to see their workers succeed and position them to contribute to their organizations. So, you might be able to take advantage of tuition reimbursement. This is a win-win scenario for you and your employer. When tuition reimbursement is available at your job, you can earn a degree at a lower cost. Your employer gets the opportunity to develop employees with higher-level skills and knowledge that benefit the workplace. Companies that offer tuition reimbursement can also boost their brand, which makes it easier to recruit good talent.

Utilize Free Certification Exam Prep Resources

Earning a certification is a great way to demonstrate your dedication to the human services profession plus increase your earnings and access to job opportunities. However, the cost of earning and maintaining certifications can add up quickly – particularly if you want to take a preparation course or use materials designed to help you study. You can lower these costs by using free exam prep resources. You might be able to get them from your school, or you can take a course to help prepare for certification exams. Test prep organizations might offer practice tests for different certifications at no cost.

Ranking the Most Affordable Online Human Services Degrees

We provided information on at a few of the most affordable human services bachelor’s degree programs that are available online. However, there are many more options – including human services associate degrees. It’s important to understand what’s available so you can make an informed choice.

Below, we rank schools to help you conduct research and find the school that’s best for you. As you review the list, keep in mind what you want to get out of an online human services degree program. Look at the methodology we used to curate our list if you want to know which qualities are most important to pay attention to. That info will give you a sense of what is most important to prospective students.