Find the cheapest online philosophy degree on our list below, and click on a school to learn more.
Key Takeaways:
- The University of North Carolina at Greensboro hosts an online Bachelor of Arts in Philosophy that the #1 most affordable program of its kind in the country at $4,422/year.
- Schools like UNO, Oregon State, Liberty, Adelphi, and ASU Online charge the same tuition regardless of residency, appealing to out-of-state and fully online students.
For detailed criteria of our selection process, please visit our methodology page.
2026 Most Affordable Online Philosophy Degrees
| Rank | School | Program Length | Annual In-State Tuition | Annual Out-of-State Tuition |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| University of North Carolina at Greensboro | 4 years | $4,422 | $21,396 | |
| University of New Orleans | 4 years | $6,090 | $6,090 | |
| Portland State University | 4 years | $6,840 | $20,340 | |
| University of Memphis | 4 years | $9,336 | $17,550 | |
| University of Maryland Global Campus | 4 years | $9,900 | $14,970 | |
| University of Southern Mississippi | 4 years | $10,284 | $12,284 | |
| Oregon State University | 4 years | $11,520 | $11,520 | |
| Liberty University | 4 years | $11,700 | $11,700 | |
| University of Colorado Colorado Springs | 4 years | $13,560 | $19,590 | |
| The University of Tennessee - Martin | 4 years | $13,710 | $14,910 | |
| Adelphi University | 4 years | $15,150 | $15,150 | |
| Arizona State University, Online | 4 years | $17,400 | $17,400 | |
| Franciscan University of Steubenville | 4 years | $18,600 | $18,600 |
A Philosophy Degree Online Isn鈥檛 Just 鈥淭hinking About Big Questions鈥� 鈥� It鈥檚 Training Your Brain for High-Stakes Decisions
A good online philosophy program doesn鈥檛 just walk you through Plato and Kant. In this list, you鈥檒l see degrees that aim at where this kind of higher-level thinking is used in real life careers. Here are some examples:
UNCG offers an online pre-law concentration inside the philosophy B.A.
UofM pushes philosophy through an Applied Ethics lens tied to medicine, law, and business.
OSU leans into AI, social media, and biomedical ethics.
USM literally fuses the field into a three-part major in philosophy, religion, and law.
If you鈥檙e choosing among the most affordable online college options nationwide, the point isn鈥檛 necessarily to just find the cheapest philosophy degree online but to find the lowest-cost program that still gives you the academic quality and outcomes that make the degree worth finishing. To learn more about these details, keep reading.
Comparing Online Philosophy Programs With The Lowest Tuition
The study of philosophy is often a 鈥渉igh-value skills鈥� major involving critical reading, argument analysis, and writing, but it often doesn't have a single locked-in job title at the end. That makes debt especially important. Above is a list of 13 affordable online options in philosophy at the bachelor's level ranging from $4,422 to $18,600 in annual tuition.
If you鈥檙e strictly looking at tuition, UNCG is the clear outlier at $4,422/year. The catch with ultra-low tuition options is always the same question, which is, "Will you actually finish the philosophy degree?" UNCG gives you more reassurance than most, actually, because its success signals are solid. The school boasts a 76% retention rate and a graduation rate in the 74th percentile nationwide. You would also be entering an established online environment with 2,786 online learners.
Below is a graph that shows the yearly, in-state tuition next to an estimated total 4-year cost for the top 10 cheapest philosophy degrees online.
So, if we're looking at total tuition costs for online philosophy degrees, it's between $17,688 and $54,840. This demonstrates just how much tuition varies even among the nation's most affordable options.
As you compare programs, it helps to look beyond the tuition alone and understand how other fees and college costs add up, as well as how financial aid can lower your college costs, especially if you qualify for grants, scholarships, or federal aid.
Salary Outcomes for These Affordable Philosophy Programs
Most philosophy pages talk about "career versatility.鈥� This list above, however, gives you a few programs where you can see the earnings data tied to the philosophy programs themselves. Importantly, the salary data provided below is early-career salary only, around four years after graduation.
ASU Online is the big outlier in terms of earnings with tuition at $17,400 but philosophy alum making around $58,158 just four years after graduating. This tells you something important, which is that sometimes paying more can correlate with stronger payoff, depending on the program and the kind of student experience it creates.
This is where you want to think like an investor. If you鈥檙e choosing between two schools, tuition alone isn鈥檛 the full affordability story. Your real question should be whether the program supports outcomes that make your post-graduation options easier.
Another way we rank philosophy programs is to look at student success. If you want to keep exploring, check out our list of the best online philosophy bachelor's degree. We also include tuition and salary information.
Students Rate These Schools Exceptionally High 鈥� Many at 90% or Higher
One of the strongest signals across this list 鈥� and one you should take seriously 鈥� is how consistently students say they would recommend these schools overall. Many of the institutions featured here post recommendation rates in the mid-80s to low-90s, which is unusually strong for schools serving large online bachelor鈥檚 populations. And since the academic discipline of philosophy demands heavy reading, writing, and sustained engagement, you really want to join a supportive school with engaged peers.
You see this clearly at schools like UNCG, UT Martin, Adelphi, ASU Online, and Franciscan, where roughly 9 out of 10 students say they would choose the school again. That level of agreement is a really good sign that points to institutions that tend to meet expectations once you鈥檙e enrolled.
All student reviews are collected and verified by the OnlineU research team. There are a variety of institutions on this list, and it's notable that whether you鈥檙e considering a low-cost public option like UNCG or UNO, a large-scale online provider like ASU or Liberty, or a mission-driven institution like Franciscan, students consistently rate high satisfaction with their overall experience. In the field of philosophy, where staying engaged is critical to finishing, peer endorsement at the institutional level is a meaningful indicator that these schools will help you get to the finish line.
You can explore philosophy program student reviews for the schools from our list below to see how those broader satisfaction trends show up within the major.
FAQs About Affordable Online Philosophy Bachelor's Degrees
How Does OnlineU Rank The Most Affordable Online Philosophy Bachelor's Programs?
To be considered, a school must offer at least one fully online philosophy degree at the bachelor鈥檚 degree level. The school also has to be institutionally accredited and report online enrollment data to NCES/IPEDS (both are managed by the U.S. Department of Education). Programs that are mostly online qualify, even if they require limited in-person components (up to two weeks per year).
Now, in terms of affordability for a bachelor's in philosophy online, the OnlineU research team only includes schools that charge a global tuition rate, meaning philosophy costs the same as other majors at that degree level. This avoids artificially low pricing that's tied to a single program. We also ensure that all philosophy programs are under $30,000/year (excluding fees).
Schools are then ranked strictly by in-state, yearly tuition, using manually verified figures from official school websites. Citations appear directly in ranking tables and descriptions. Partner schools are evaluated using the exact same methodology, and if they don't make the list, they don't make the list. Ads are clearly labeled and never influence rankings.
So, in a nutshell, for philosophy bachelor's degrees online, OnlineU filters for true online availability and accreditation, then applies tuition parameters, and then ranks schools based purely on verified affordability.
Is a Philosophy Degree Right for You?
The best online bachelor鈥檚 degree in philosophy prepares students to debate life's greatest mysteries, from questions in the realm of metaphysics to ethics. Students delve into the fundamental nature of reality, covering topics like reason, value, and language. If you are curious about the theories behind a certain experience or type of knowledge, this heady, academic discipline may be the best fit for you.
If you're more interested in the inner workings of the mind, perhaps you should check out the most affordable psychology degrees online instead. Or maybe you're most interested in the underlying functions of human society? In that case, you should look at our list of online sociology degrees. Of course, you can still study these interests under the umbrella of philosophy.
Do In-State and Out-of-State Students Pay the Same Tuition for Online Philosophy Degrees?
On this list of the cheapest online philosophy degrees above, a handful of schools make pricing residency-proof, meaning you pay the same tuition whether you live in-state or not. That鈥檚 a major advantage if you鈥檙e shopping nationwide for the best deal.
These are the schools that have the same tuition for in-state and out-of-state students in our table:
- UNO ($6,090)
- OSU ($11,520)
- LU ($11,700)
- AU ($15,150)
- ASU Online ($17,400)
- FUS ($18,600)
Some of the other schools with philosophy programs show a pretty dramatic gap between in-state and out-of-state costs. UNCG is the most striking example: It鈥檚 $4,422 in-state, but the out-of-state figure listed is $21,396. This difference so large that it essentially creates two different affordability realities, depending on where you live.
Some other residency gaps:
- PSU ($6,840 vs. $20,340)
- UofM ($9,336 vs. $17,550)
- UMGC ($9,900 vs. $14,970)
- UCCS ($13,560 vs. $19,590)
- UT Martin ($13,710 vs. $14,910)
The bigger point is that 鈥渕ost affordable鈥� is not just about the lowest number in the table above but whether that number actually applies to you. If you鈥檙e out of state and trying to minimize debt, the schools with flat tuition rates can be the safest bet because they make your cost easier to plan around.
Do Online Philosophy Programs Qualify for Financial Aid?
If affordability is one of your top priorities, financial aid is the piece that can change your costs the most.
The programs on this list come from institutionally accredited schools, which is the baseline requirement for federal financial aid eligibility. Federal aid 鈥� like Pell Grants (if you qualify), federal student loans, and work-study 鈥� generally depends on attending an accredited institution and completing the FAFSA. Tuition is a helpful starting point to look at but it's really financial aid that determines what you actually pay out of pocket each term.
Even when a school qualifies for aid, though, your final cost can still vary a lot depending on how the program is structured and how you enroll. If a program uses shorter terms (like 7.5-week or 8-week formats) or encourages part-time pacing, you鈥檒l want to check how that interacts with aid disbursement and enrollment requirements. Likewise, if you鈥檙e transferring a large number of credits (like at UMGC or AU, which are designed to be transfer-friendly), that can reduce the number of terms you need.
For philosophy majors in particular, financial aid plays an outsized role in protecting your long-term flexibility. Philosophy builds transferable skills, as we discussed, but it doesn鈥檛 lock you into a single career path right after graduation. That makes it especially important to avoid unnecessary debt, since you may pursue law school, graduate study, public service, or a career pivot that values thinking skills over immediate salary. Using grants, scholarships, and smart enrollment strategies to keep borrowing low gives you room to choose your next step based on interest and opportunity, not financial pressure.
Student Reviews of Online Philosophy Programs
Excellent experience, timely support, learned a great amount from knowledgeable professors. I am thrilled to be graduating from this school and I cannot say enough how thankful I am that Purdue University Global could help me achieve my bachelor鈥檚 degree.
Review Date: 8/25/2021
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: No
This schools biggest strengths are its diversity and the commitment of faculty to the success of all students, no matter their background or lives beyond school. I learned as much from other students as I did from professors. Most of us were not following a traditional academic path. This served to enrich the learning experience with knowledge gained beyond the classroom. Additionally, those students who were on a longer education plan developed deeper relationships with the faculty, which also enriched... Read More
Review Date: 3/31/2017
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: Yes
My experience of San Francisco State University was of a diverse program faculty, beautiful campus, well-organized classes and decent housing with opportunities for living provided by the school. I felt that the degree I pursued, philosophy, was of great personal value in the way that it supported my ability to think clearly and independently. I left school knowing myself with a certainty that has led me to graduate school for a career path I am excited to pursue for life.
Review Date: 8/25/2018
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: Yes
Extremely diverse campus. Teaches you so much about your heritage and how important and impact diversity is on a campus. Having people from all over the world interact in a learning environment lead for a more enriching experience. It allows you to see the bigger picture due to having so many different people share they experience and unique culture. This school really humbles you and the alumni support is amazing, it is a very historic school and you will definitely feel the pride the school carries.... Read More
Review Date: 6/22/2017
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: No
The University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA) is a one-of-a-kind school. On top of top-notch academics, UCLA offers the perfect social and cultural environment to provide for a formative experience for all who choose to attend. UCLA has something for everyone. There's a robust STEM culture, excellent film program, great sports atmosphere, and so much more. While I have only good things to say about the professors, I think the real benefit comes from the students. Anyone who is able to gain admission... Read More
Review Date: 3/11/2026
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: No
The University of Wisconsin - Madison was an incredible college to attend, not only for the academics, but for the whole college experience. The campus is beautiful and easily walkable, making getting to class easy and entertaining. The student body is kind and diverse, and the entire campus knows how to party.
Review Date: 12/5/2025
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: Yes
The University of Wisconsin - Madison was an incredible college to attend, not only for the academics, but for the whole college experience. The campus is beautiful and easily walkable, making getting to class easy and entertaining. The student body is kind and diverse, and the entire campus knows how to party.
Review Date: 12/5/2025
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: Yes
Oklahoma State University provided me with a quality education and introduction to the field of philosophy. The philosophy department is diverse and staffed with excellent professors that take every measure to promote and share their love of philosophy. It is here that I was first formally introduced to the field, which proved to be a formative experience, as I am now a graduate student studying philosophy. The university provided me not only scholarship opportunities and financial assistance, but... Read More
Review Date: 12/19/2018
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: No
Attending The University of Akron was one of the greatest choices I have ever made. I am from New York, and I always get asked why I came to Ohio, but honestly, it is because I love it here. I fell in love with the atmosphere as soon as I took my tour and stayed because I fell in love with the community the school lets off. Classes are a perfect size. The professors are incredible - always making sure they impacting your lives, while still keeping things interesting. Our President, Matt Wilson, has... Read More
Review Date: 11/20/2017
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: No
Florida Atlantic Univeristy has been a wonderful platform for my academic goals, specifically the philosophy department, which has the most incredible professors!!! However, as an institution I would say the school is not quite as organized as I had hoped, and also that the different departments don't seem to communicate with each other, which makes multiple degrees or minors in different departments difficult.
Review Date: 3/30/2017
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: No
Missouri S&T is a great university for advancing your knowledge in the STEM areas. It's campus, along with the University of Missouri system is working on it's mission of Diversity and Inclusion. If you choose to attend or have attended this university your education is very important to you. The coursework in all majors is rigorous and requires a great deal of focus and ambition. The university is affordable and of good quality. Non-engineering/Non-STEM majors are still welcome to the university... Read More
Review Date: 2/9/2017
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: No
BC has a great mix of academics, activities, and social dynamics. It has a pristine college campus feel with relatively easy access into Boston.
Academics are challenging at times but not overwhelming for most students. Sports games are fun to attend even though Bc has not been too competitive outside of hockey in recent years.
The only downside is that while most people are friendly, there is a stereotype of rich preppy kids that go here, and is true to some extent. However there are plenty of students... Read More
Review Date: 2/10/2026
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: Yes
I loved every aspect of NMSU. Great student community, very supportive professors, and the fact that it is located in Las Cruces, a small college town was definitely a plus. If you are from a bigger city it will be a nice change of pace, and if you ever feel like you miss the big city, El Paso, Texas is only a half hour drive away. NMSU is great if you are getting basically any degree, and it has a lot to offer.
Review Date: 10/13/2015
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: Yes
Great experience--learned, laughed, and loved a lot. A great time to try new things, step out of your comfort zone, and explore yourself and the world. Attending a small school was definitely good for this, as it was a more intimate community of both students and professors.
Review Date: 8/19/2015
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: Yes
My college allows you to make your own path. You have several staff resources to draw on for whatever career you are interested in, meaning you can truly prepare as much as you like.
Review Date: 11/9/2015
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: Yes
A college education's role in preparing you for the job market is secondary, in my opinion, to its role in giving you the freedom and skills to think critically about the world around you, to entertain and evaluate ideas that seem, at first, foreign or even repulsive to you, and to empathize with those unlike yourself. Vanderbilt University is cognizant of this fact and gives students the freedom to explore and develop these human faculties while simultaneously assisting your economic prospects.
Review Date: 5/31/2016
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: Yes
Overall fantastic experience. City opportunity you must take advantage of, music scene and museums in particular. Great campus and balance between neighborhood and large city. So long as you do not become discouraged by the amount of people and try your best to be true to yourself and make friendships count, then you will meet some of your best friends for life. Great balance between studies, resources available on and off campus, and activities to spend time on a Friday evening.
Review Date: 9/4/2015
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: Yes
As an undergraduate student at Binghamton University, you are prepared to enter an acute, dynamic and nebulous workforce. As a PPL student, I was urged to ask and pursue the bigger questions. Over the course of my academic career, I fine tuned my analytical skills and gained invaluable experience in critically evaluating, reasoning and charitably understand opposing world views. I graduated with a craving for nuance, complexity, and challenge.
Review Date: 3/16/2017
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: Yes
UCSC is a breathtakingly beautiful campus with ocean views and redwood forests. The teachers are very personable. It is very LGBT friendly.
Review Date: 7/13/2015
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: Yes
It is the best college anywhere, in every way. Academics, student involvement, networking, etc.
Review Date: 9/23/2015
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: Yes