Achieving a higher education in biology doesn't have to mean spending a fortune or even setting foot on campus.
Enrolling in an affordable biology degree online offers students the opportunity to learn from anywhere while managing other life commitments.
These programs provide the same rigorous curriculum as their on-campus counterparts, preparing students for a variety of careers
The Top Affordable Biology Degrees Online
Prospective students now have the opportunity to pursue a quality education that aligns with their financial and scheduling needs. This list shows the 10 top options to get an affordable biology degree online known for their academic excellence.
1. University of Arizona
The University of Arizona provides an online Bachelor of Science in biology program that consists of 120 credit hours where students get knowledge in ecosystem dynamics, biological system evolution, and organism functions.
The degree offers concentrations in biomedical science or organismal biology, allowing students to personalize their degrees based on their aspirations.
At $525 per credit hour, the program is both accessible and rigorous. The university encourages students to complete the FAFSA to explore different financial aid options.
2. Louisiana State University
Louisiana State University provides an online Bachelor of Science in biology that consists of 120 credit hours with a tuition cost of $325 per credit hour.
This affordable program opens the way for careers such as laboratory managers, medical research associates, or medical technologists.
It offers substantial savings through the acceptance of up to 75 percent of previous credits transferred from accredited institutions, reducing the program duration and lowering overall costs.
3. Washington State University
Washington State University's online Bachelor of Science in biology program, consisting of 120 credit hours, provides expertise in areas such as genetics, taxonomy, and human anatomy.
As a degree completion program, it is ideal for individuals who have begun their education in related fields and wish to transfer credits to complete their degree.
Tuition rates are set at $567.45 per credit hour for state residents, with out-of-state students paying $632.60 per credit hour.
4. Arizona State University
Arizona State University offers an online Bachelor of Science in biological sciences for those enthusiastic about life science.
The program consists of 120 credit hours, broken down into 39 courses, each spanning seven and a half weeks. Students can tailor their degrees with concentrations such as biology and society, biomedical sciences, and conservation biology.
The tuition for a full-time student taking 12 credit hours per semester is $6,455 for residents and $7,557 for non-residents.
5. Florida International University
Florida International University provides an online Bachelor of Arts in Biological Sciences, accredited by the AACSB.
It requires the completion of 120 credit hours where students will get knowledge in areas like general biology, basic chemistry, and organismal diversity.
In-state students pay $235.57 per credit hour before taxes and fees, while out-of-state students pay $648.87. Applicants face a one-time $30 application fee and must submit SAT/ACT scores.
6. University of Florida
The University of Florida provides an online Bachelor of Arts in biology program that consists of 120 credit hours and equips students with knowledge in genetics, general ecology, and the analysis of biological research.
It is designed for students aspiring to obtain future jobs like epidemiologists, researchers, or conservation biologists.
The tuition costs are $111.92 per credit hour for Florida residents and $500 for non-residents, not including taxes and fees.
7. University of Alaska Fairbanks
The University of Alaska Fairbanks offers an online bachelor's degree in biology. Students can choose from a Bachelor of Arts or a Bachelor of Science.
Each program requires 120 credit hours, with the BA emphasizing social sciences, while the BS focuses more on natural sciences.
The BS degree covers neurobiology, ecology, and genetics, catering to students eyeing careers in biotechnology, healthcare, and wildlife conservation. Tuition is set at $289 per credit hour, not including additional fees and taxes.
8. Logan University
Logan University offers an online Bachelor of Science in human biology program, targeting those interested in science and health professions.
The program consists of 122 credit hours and typically takes three to four years to complete. Students will receive complete knowledge in topics like genetics, anatomy, and microbiology in seven-week course blocks.
The tuition cost is $375 per credit hour before fees. SAC/ACT scores must be submitted as part of the admission process.
9. Wilmington University
Wilmington University provides an online Bachelor of Science in biology program accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education (MSCHE).
The program is made of 120 credit hours divided into 30 courses. Each course, typically three credit hours, costs $1,227. This program prepares students for careers in forensics, healthcare, and microbiology.
The program offers concentrations in biotechnology or forensic science, letting students customize their education based on their needs and educational aspirations.
10. National University
National University, accredited by the Western Association of Schools and Colleges (WASC), offers an online Bachelor of Science in Biology degree.
The program includes 180 quarter units delivered in four-week courses through three to four years. Students explore chemistry, zoology, and oceanography, among other subjects, for a complete biology education.
The university provides different financial aid options, such as scholarships, grants, and loans, to help students reduce their financial load.
Average Cost of an Online Bachelor's Degree in Biology
On average, affordable biology degrees online vary in cost due to factors like institutional reputation, location, and whether one is attending as an in-state or out-of-state student.
Generally, the tuition for an online bachelor's degree in biology can range from approximately $200 to over $700 per credit hour.
Most programs require the completion of around 120 credit hours, which suggests a total tuition cost ranging from $24,000 to $84,000, not accounting for additional fees, books, and potential financial aid.
How To Finance an Online Biology Degree
Securing funds for an online biology degree can start by applying for scholarships and grants, which don't have to be repaid, and are offered by universities, government bodies, and private organizations.
Don't forget to fill out the FAFSA to unlock federal student aid like loans with low-interest rates and work-study opportunities that can help cover tuition costs.
Benefits of a Biology Degree
Earning an affordable biology degree online offers numerous advantages and opens up a world of opportunities.
A strong background in biology opens doors to a variety of employment options, including biotechnology, research, teaching, environmental conservation, and health and medicine.
It develops analytical and critical thinking abilities, which are highly valued in many professional areas and are invaluable when handling complex situations.
Additionally, it equips students with the skills necessary to meet the increasing demand in a variety of science-related fields.
Start Your Biology Degree Online Today
Define your aspirations and begin your research to join an affordable biology degree online now and step into a future rich with potential for growth, innovation, and diverse career opportunities.
