With the increasing number of accredited online degree programs, students in South Carolina have greater access to earning a college degree than ever before.
Distance education is a popular choice for many individuals as it is typically a convenient and cheaper alternative to traditional on-campus classes.
The following describes the top ten most affordable online degrees in South Carolina that deliver cost-effective bachelor's programs and flexible learning experiences that help advance the education and careers of adult students.
Featured Online Degree Programs in South Carolina
This list of featured programs describes flexible and convenient ways to earn affordable online degrees in South Carolina.
1. University of South Carolina, Upstate
The University of South Carolina Upstate in Spartanburg is a cost-effective option for students interested in flexible ways to obtain an online degree.
Examples of bachelor's programs available through distance education include:
- criminal justice
- communications
- health information management
- interdisciplinary studies
- engineering technology management
- business administration
- advanced manufacturing management
The tuition is $467 per semester hour, and active-duty military members pay $250 per hour. Additional charges apply for enrollment and technology fees.
2. Columbia College
There are several options for earning affordable online degrees in South Carolina at Columbia College, whose programs rank highly by US News and World Report.
Bachelor's degrees accessible through distance education include the following:
- computer and information science
- behavioral science
- general studies
- cybersecurity
- marketing
The cost is $395 per credit hour plus applicable charges for resource and technology fees. Tuition includes free e-books, and students are allowed to transfer up to 90 credits.
3. Lander University
Lander University in Greenwood offers many undergraduate programs and some of the most affordable online degrees in South Carolina, where students can expect to gain a comprehensive liberal arts education.
The following bachelor's degrees are available through remote learning:
- RN to BSN
- early childhood education
- criminology
- business administration
- human services
- psychology
- public health
- paralegal studies
The tuition is $390 per credit hour plus additional charges for general fees.
4. North Greenville University
North Greenville University in Tigerville provides students with a faith-based education and multiple opportunities for obtaining affordable online degrees in South Carolina.
Their bachelor's programs include the following:
- Christian ministries
- general studies
- psychology
- criminal justice
- business and leadership
- cybersecurity
- elementary educational studies
They are considered one of the best online Christian colleges in the state, with tuition costing $395 per credit. Additional charges apply for technology fees and to cover the costs of course materials.
5. Limestone University
Getting a degree at a reasonable price is possible at Limestone University in Gaffney, which provides many academic programs through distance learning.
The following online bachelor's degrees are available:
- RN to BSN
- business administration
- professional studies
- healthcare administration
- computer science
- psychology
- liberal studies
This faith-based Christian institution was the first women's college in South Carolina. Their tuition is $479 per credit plus miscellaneous fees, and the military discount is $248 per credit.
6. Columbia International University
Columbia International University in Columbia is a private school that equips working students with skills and knowledge through distance education based on Christian values.
Their list of online undergraduate programs includes the following:
- healthcare administration
- general studies
- human services
- business administration
- RN to BSN
The cost of earning these bachelor's degrees is $445 per credit plus fees, except for the RN to BSN program, which costs just $340 per credit.
7. Coker University
Coker University in Hartsville is a small private institution that offers flexible online programs with convenient options, allowing adult learners to get a bachelor's degree while adhering to their busy schedules.
The following majors are accessible through distance education:
- sociology
- psychology
- criminology
- RN to BSN
- business management
The tuition is at a low cost of $425 per credit hour, plus tech fees and additional expenses for books and supplies.
8. Southern Wesleyan University
Southern Wesleyan University in Central provides a valuable Christian education with faith-based instruction. This private liberal arts school has several degrees available for working professionals through distance learning.
Examples of their online bachelor's degree programs include the following:
- early childhood and family studies
- psychology
- business administration
- human services
- multi-categorical special education
The cost is $430 per credit hour for undergraduate programs, plus applicable charges such as technology and portfolio fees.
9. Bob Jones University
Bob Jones University in Greenville is an excellent choice for individuals seeking the convenience of online education to earn an undergraduate degree taught from a biblical perspective.
Bachelor's degrees accessible through distance learning include:
- Christian worldview and ministry
- professional studies
- business
These flexible programs help working professionals gain in-demand skills and abilities to meet their academic goals and advance their careers. The tuition is $450 per credit, which includes online proctoring fees.
10. Coastal Carolina University
Coastal Carolina University in Conway is a public institution that delivers a comprehensive education in liberal arts. It has affordable ways for adult students to get a quality education through the convenience of distance learning.
It offers the following online bachelor's degree programs:
- health administration
- information technology
- marketing
The tuition for their undergraduate degrees is $487 per credit hour, including required technology charges. Other applicable fees may apply.
What Is the Cheapest Online College in South Carolina?
Determining the cheapest online college in South Carolina depends on various factors. This includes the required credits and the cost per credit and fees, which vary depending on the program.
Our list shows the most affordable online degrees in South Carolina as the following:
- Lander University: $390 per credit
- North Greenville University: $395 per credit
- Columbia College: $395 per credit
Students should check with each school and particular program regarding current costs and fees.
How Much Does an Online Degree Cost in South Carolina?
The cost for an online degree in South Carolina is affordable, with many flexible and convenient distance learning options for adult students to earn a degree around busy work schedules.
Obtaining a valuable education in South Carolina for $487 per credit or less is possible, as described on our list. The cheapest online college is Lander University, which costs $390 per credit. Most programs require 120 total credits.
How To Pay for an Online Degree in South Carolina
Paying for an affordable online degree in South Carolina begins with students completing the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). This establishes the eligibility for receiving federal financial aid, such as loans, grants, and work-study.
South Carolina offers state-funded financial aid for resident students, including several scholarships and grants, which help pay for an online degree.
Students can also look at other avenues, such as military benefits and employer tuition assistance. They should contact their school of choice for information regarding financial aid for their specific program.
Find an Online College in South Carolina Today
Several affordable online degrees in South Carolina are accessible for students seeking a cost-effective education through distance learning. This list of accredited programs helps individuals find the perfect one to achieve their academic goals.