Worried about paying for college? If you live in Colorado, there are several options for affordable online schools and abundant financial aid options which will help you cut costs even further.
List of Free and Low-Cost Colleges with Online Degree Programs
1. Colorado State University-Global Campus
The Colorado State University System offers a fully online school known as the Colorado State University Global Campus. A wide range of undergraduate degrees and certificates are available through this program.
Some of the majors you can choose from include finance, human services, business management, information technology, marketing, organizational leadership, criminal justice, and cybersecurity.
The CSU-Global Campus offers some of the most affordable and transparent tuition rates in the state. Tuition costs $350 per credit hour for both in-state and out-of-state students, and there are no hidden fees to factor in.
2. Colorado Technical University
Colorado Technical University was founded in 1965. Its main campus is located in Colorado Springs, but the vast majority of students obtain their degrees fully online.
CTU offers both graduate and undergraduate degrees in many fields, including computer engineering, healthcare management, psychology, nursing, business administration, and health administration services.
Base undergraduate tuition costs $340 per credit hour for online students. Additional fees are not included in this price.
3. Adams State University
Adams State University is located in Alamosa. This small public school offers several bachelor's and master's degrees online.
You can choose from a variety of programs, including teacher education, media industry and communication, sociology, business, kinesiology, humanities, and business administration.
Tuition costs for online, in-state students are $357 per credit hour.
4. Metropolitan State University of Denver
MSU-Denver offers a wide array of majors, minors, and certificates completely online.
Some of the fields you can choose from include aviation and aerospace management, banking, marketing, social work, psychology, political science, English, human development and family studies, accounting, and anthropology.
The cost of attending MSU-Denver online is $385.50 per credit hour for in-state students, not including fees.
5. Nazarene Bible College
This small, private university is located in Colorado Springs. It offers some of the most affordable tuition rates among private schools in the state and is a great choice for anyone looking to pursue a career in the ministry.
Nazarene Bible College offers online bachelor's and associate degrees in ministry and a certificate program in ministry preparation.
These programs cost $398 per credit hour, not including fees, for both in-state and out-of-state students.
How Can I Get an Online College Degree for Free in Colorado?
There are no free online colleges in Colorado, but the state offers several forms of financial assistance. In many cases, you may receive grants, scholarships, and other aid that will completely cover your college costs.
Federal Student Aid
Federal student aid is money that comes from the government. Unlike loans, this money does not need to be paid back. You can apply for federal aid in a couple of ways.
FAFSA
The FAFSA is the Free Application for Federal Student Aid. Students all over the U.S. can complete this form to apply for Pell Grants and other types of need-based financial assistance.
Colorado Application for State Financial Aid (CAFSA)
This form is similar to the FAFSA but is specific to the state of Colorado. Filling out the CAFSA may make you eligible for state-based grants and federal aid.
College Opportunity Fund
The College Opportunity Fund is available to in-state undergraduate students who enroll at participating schools. It is a stipend that covers part of tuition costs on a yearly basis. Those who remain eligible throughout their time at college may receive the stipend for each year of their schooling.
Scholarships in Colorado
Additionally, various scholarships are offered both by individual schools and outside entities. One of the most well-known scholarships is the Colorado Promise Scholarship, a last-dollar program which may cover the remainder of your expenses after you have received all other forms of aid.
How Can I Cover Additional Online Degree Costs in Colorado?
Work-study programs allow students to "work their way" through school by covering some of the costs. See if your college offers a work-study program that would work for you.
If you already have a job, you may be able to receive tuition assistance through your company. Check with your employer to see if this benefit is available to you.
FAQs Regarding Free Online College Degrees in Colorado
Does Colorado Have Free Tuition?
Colorado does not offer free tuition. However, programs like the College Opportunity Fund and the Colorado Promise Scholarship, as well as federal student aid, may partially or fully cover your tuition costs and other expenses.
What if I Can't Find a Free Online University in Colorado?
Fill out the FAFSA and CAFSA as soon as possible before enrolling in your chosen school. These forms will establish your eligibility for state programs like the College Opportunity Fund and may also entitle you to receive federal aid.
Is an Online Degree Cheaper than an In-Person Degree in Colorado?
It depends on the individual school. Generally, you save money on room and board but may have additional fees when studying online. Normally, obtaining a degree online is slightly cheaper than in-person, especially for out-of-state students.
Find a Free or Low-Cost Degree Online in Colorado Today
If you're a student in Colorado, you have many options for obtaining a degree online without breaking the bank. Feel free to reach out to Best Accredited Colleges if you have any questions!
