Online African and African American Studies Degree Programs Costs: Tuition & Fees for 2026

Tuition for online African and African American Studies degrees in the U.S. generally falls between $340 and $525 per credit hour. With most bachelor's programs requiring about 120 credits, students can expect total costs ranging from approximately $40,800 to $63,000, excluding financial aid or transferred credits.

Costs vary depending on whether the program is undergraduate or graduate and the type of institution. Graduate degrees, often needing around 30 credits, typically cost between $10,000 and $15,000 at public universities but can be more expensive at private colleges.

Public universities tend to have lower tuition rates, as seen with LSU Online's Bachelor of General Studies in Africana Studies at $340 per credit hour, compared to the University of Arizona's online BA at $525 per credit hour.

The price range for these degrees aligns with tuition for other online liberal arts programs. Prospective students should also factor in additional expenses like fees, textbooks, and, for graduate studies, potential language requirements.

Considering these elements will help provide a clearer picture of the overall investment needed for an online degree in this field.

Tuition fees for online degrees in African and African American Studies typically encompass essential academic components that support a comprehensive learning environment. These fees cover access to courses, technology, and educational resources designed for both synchronous and asynchronous study formats.

Students benefit from a range of included features that facilitate interactive and flexible learning. Below are common elements generally covered by tuition in these programs.

• Access to Online Courses and Digital Platforms: Students receive entry to virtual classrooms, learning management systems, and multimedia coursework such as lectures and discussion boards.
• Instructional Materials: Digital readings, syllabi, select e-books, and sometimes specialized archives or databases related to African and African American history are provided.
• Academic Support Services: Virtual tutoring, advising, and technical help are offered to assist students in managing varied coursework and research tasks effectively.

Expenses often excluded from tuition include physical textbooks, exam proctoring fees, software needed for research, and costs tied to internships or field experiences.

Additionally, students should prepare to invest in reliable internet service and personal devices, as these necessities are rarely supplied by universities.

The cost of pursuing an online African and African American Studies degree varies widely across institutions in the US. Understanding the factors affecting online African and African American Studies degree costs in the US can help prospective students budget effectively and choose the best program for their needs.

• Type of School: Public universities typically offer lower tuition rates for in-state students than private schools or out-of-state enrollees. For example, the University of Alabama at Birmingham charges $9,098 for in-state students versus $22,562 for out-of-state students, while some private institutions may exceed $40,000.
• Residency Status: In-state versus out-of-state classification significantly impacts tuition costs, with in-state residents receiving substantial discounts at most public universities. This factor is key in what determines tuition for online African American Studies programs nationwide.
• Credit-Hour Requirements: Most bachelor's degree programs require around 120 credit hours, but the cost per credit varies by school, directly influencing the total tuition amount.
• Program Length and Schedule: Accelerated, full-time, or part-time program structures can change tuition calculations and potentially increase additional fees over time. Many students also explore accelerated adult degree programs online to reduce study duration.
• Additional Fees and Support Services: Technology fees for online learning platforms and charges for student services like tutoring, counseling, or career support add to overall costs. Faculty credentials and program reputation may justify higher tuition but also provide stronger career advancement opportunities.

Online African and African American Studies degree programs often present a more affordable alternative compared to traditional on-campus options. Students seeking flexibility and potential savings frequently consider these programs when weighing their education choices.

When examining the traditional vs online African American Studies tuition comparison, online programs typically cost less due to reduced overhead expenses.

For example, the LSU Online Bachelor of General Studies in Africana Studies charges $340 per credit hour, amounting to about $40,800 for 120 credits, with opportunities to lower costs through transfer credits.

Meanwhile, on-campus programs at large public universities may charge between $12,000 and over $40,000 annually for tuition and fees, particularly for out-of-state students.

The primary driver of online African American Studies degree cost savings is the elimination of fees related to housing, campus facilities, parking, and commuting.

Both formats generally have similar instructional fees, but online students may face additional technology or proctoring expenses. The curriculum remains consistent across both delivery modes, and online programs provide more scheduling flexibility.

More broadly, interested learners can explore the top degrees for 60 year olds which include many online options.

Tuition costs for online African and African American Studies degrees often vary based on residency, particularly at public universities. Understanding how these fees are structured is important for prospective students planning their education budgets.

Many public institutions charge different tuition rates for in-state and out-of-state students, which can significantly impact the overall cost of an online degree. For example, universities like Arkansas and Arizona apply per-credit fees that tend to be higher for non-residents.

However, some universities have adopted flat-rate tuition models that eliminate residency distinctions, offering the same price to all online students. Louisiana State University's online Bachelor of General Studies in Africana Studies is an example of this approach.

Exceptions to residency-based pricing include regional agreements and reciprocity programs that allow students from neighboring states to pay reduced rates.

Private colleges, such as Rosemont College, typically charge uniform tuition regardless of where the student lives. Because policies vary widely, it's essential to review each program's specific tuition structure before enrolling.

Several accredited universities now offer affordable online African and African American Studies degree programs that cater to students seeking quality education without high costs.

These programs often emphasize flexible, interdisciplinary study, allowing students to tailor their learning experience. Exploring the lowest tuition African American studies degrees can help prospective students find options that fit their budgets.

Below are a few competitively priced online programs worth considering for students interested in studying African and African American topics.

• North Carolina A&T State University: This university offers one of the most affordable options with an online Bachelor of Arts in Liberal Studies concentrating in African American Studies. Tuition is approximately $9,378 per year. The program provides flexible online coursework and promotes interdisciplinary exploration.
• University of Memphis Global: Their online B.A. in African and African American Studies costs about $13,174 annually. The curriculum covers African and African American history and culture, emphasizing flexible online delivery for diverse learners.
• University of Arizona: Offering an online B.A. in Africana Studies for around $15,594 per year, this program explores African, African American, and Caribbean experiences, incorporating technology into its teaching methods.

For prospective students researching affordable online African American studies programs, it is helpful to know many institutions support cost-effective learning through flat-rate tuition and flexible scheduling.

Some Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs), like North Carolina A&T, are especially noted for affordability and student support. Additional information can be found in the best affordable associate degrees online listings.

While many online African and African American Studies programs are affordable, the most expensive African American Studies programs in the US tend to be offered by prestigious institutions with strong reputations and extensive resources.

These universities charge higher tuition due to their advanced curriculum, specialized faculty, and additional student services.

Understanding the highest tuition African and African American Studies online degrees can help prospective students evaluate their options carefully.

Below are some notable examples of schools with costly online programs in this field. Each offers unique benefits but comes at a premium price point.

• Arizona State University (ASU): ASU offers an online Bachelor of Arts in African and African American Studies. Known for its innovative teaching and interdisciplinary approach, the program focuses on global perspectives and provides access to renowned faculty. Tuition for out-of-state students can reach about $17,000 per year.
• Rosemont College: This Forbes-rated top online college features an Africana & Black Studies concentration within its undergraduate offerings. Though specific tuition for the concentration is not always listed separately, Rosemont's overall undergraduate tuition often exceeds $30,000 annually.
• Additional Prestigious Private Universities: Other private institutions with rigorous African and African American Studies programs charge high tuition rates, reflecting exclusive research opportunities, advanced technology, and comprehensive student support services integral to enhancing the learning experience.

Students interested in exploring a broader range of options may find valuable information on the top colleges online offering diverse programs. This resource highlights a variety of institutions with varying tuition rates and strengths.

Pursuing an online degree in African and African American Studies can be a meaningful investment, but understanding the timeline for seeing financial returns is important. The return on investment (ROI) varies based on salary, career path, and educational expenses.

Typically, graduates recover their educational costs within 5 to 10 years. Entry-level roles such as social worker, diversity officer, teacher, or multicultural assistant usually offer starting salaries between $40,000 and $65,000 per year.

These figures provide a baseline for estimating the payback period. Careers with higher starting salaries, like high school teaching ($64,580) or mediation ($67,710), can shorten the ROI time.

Some professions linked to further education, including law or judiciary roles with salaries over $150,000, offer quicker ROI but require additional degrees. Demand for jobs like diversity officers remains steady, aiding in recouping costs sooner.

Factors such as student loan debt, scholarships, and credits from previous studies also influence how fast a graduate sees financial benefits from their degree.

Online students pursuing African and African American Studies degrees are generally eligible for the same financial aid as on-campus students. They can apply for federal student aid by submitting the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA), which opens access to federal grants, loans, and work-study programs.

Meeting income requirements often qualifies these students for Pell Grants, a form of financial aid that does not require repayment.

Besides federal aid, many institutions and organizations offer tailored financial support. African American Studies scholarships and grants are widely available, targeting merit, financial need, and support for underrepresented groups.

To explore more options for career-oriented education, students might also consider reviewing rankings of top vocational colleges online.

• Federal Pell Grants: Cover up to full tuition and fees for eligible low-income students. These grants do not require repayment and are available to most online African American Studies students meeting the FAFSA criteria.
• Merit and Need-Based Scholarships: Offered by universities and organizations such as the Thurgood Marshall College Fund and Bold.org, these scholarships support students demonstrating academic excellence or financial need, including those enrolled in African American Studies programs.
• Employer Tuition Assistance: Some employers provide partial or full tuition reimbursement for employees pursuing degrees related to diversity, equity, and inclusion, which often includes African and African American Studies degrees.

Online degree programs in African and African American Studies have become increasingly popular, offering greater accessibility for students nationwide. Understanding the associated costs is essential for prospective students planning their educational budgets.

Tuition rates for these online programs often vary widely depending on the institution type. Public universities typically offer more affordable tuition, especially for in-state students, with prices ranging from $300 to $600 per credit hour. Private institutions tend to charge higher rates, often exceeding $700 per credit hour.

Additionally, some schools may charge flat fees per semester or academic year, impacting the overall cost depending on course load. Financial aid opportunities and scholarships specific to African and African American Studies can also influence net expenses.

Projections suggest tuition will continue to rise modestly over the coming years, reflecting broader trends in higher education costs. However, because of growing competition among online providers and increasing demand for flexible learning, more affordable options and payment plans may become available.

Future students should carefully compare institutions and consider total costs, including fees and materials, to make informed decisions about pursuing their online degree in this field.

• Africana Studies (BA) https://online.arizona.edu/programs/undergraduate/online-bachelor-arts-africana-studies-ba
• African and African American Studies, Certificate | University of Michigan-Dearborn https://umdearborn.edu/academics/program/african-and-african-american-studies-certificate
• African & African American Studies https://www.centre.edu/academics/majors-minors-programs/african-african-american-studies
• African and African American Studies http://www.ou.edu/admissions/academics/arts-sciences/african-american-studies.html
• 180 Scholarships for Black Students with November 2025 Deadlines https://bold.org/scholarships/by-demographics/minorities/black-students-scholarships/
• Online Bachelor of General Studies in Africana Studies https://online.lsu.edu/online-degree-programs/undergraduate/bgs-africana-studies/
• Out of Africa, Part 1: Online Learning Across the Continent https://services.intead.com/blog/out-of-africa-part-1-online-learning
• African and African American Studies https://www.memphis.edu/uofmglobal/degrees/undergraduate/african-african-american-studies.php