Online Gender & Sexuality Studies Degree Programs Costs: Tuition & Fees for 2026

The cost of earning an online degree in Gender & Sexuality Studies in 2025 typically falls between $6,500 and $14,400 for a bachelor's program at public universities. Some institutions charge by credit hour, which can significantly affect the total expense.

For instance, tuition may be as low as around $6,565 at Florida International University or as high as $14,400 at the University of Missouri-St. Louis.

Expenses vary considerably depending on the degree level and whether the school is public or private. Doctoral programs are generally priced per credit hour, ranging from $300 to $1,587, with total costs spanning $18,000 to $90,000.

A school like New Mexico State University charges approximately $395 per credit, making a 120-credit bachelor's degree potentially exceed $47,000 if paid at full price.

Public institutions tend to be more affordable than private ones, and fees usually include tuition plus mandatory charges, though students should budget extra for books and technology.

When compared to similar liberal arts or humanities online degrees, tuition fees for Gender & Sexuality Studies programs align closely. Public universities commonly provide lower tuition than private schools, reflecting a consistent pricing pattern across related fields of study in the online education landscape.

Tuition for online Gender & Sexuality Studies degree programs generally covers the essential academic expenses such as faculty instruction, curriculum design, and access to course materials.

For bachelor's degrees, the cost per credit often falls between $300 and $1,500, with most institutions charging around $395 to $500 per credit hour.

A typical 120-credit bachelor's degree can range from $18,000 to $90,000 in tuition costs alone, varying by school and program structure. Below are some key components usually included in the tuition fees:

• Specialized Coursework: Access to classes focused on gender theory, queer studies, intersectionality, and sexual theory.
• Virtual Learning Platforms: Use of online classroom technology and learning management systems to facilitate instruction.
• Expert Faculty Instruction: Both live and recorded sessions delivered by professors experienced in gender and sexuality studies.
• Academic Support: Digital resources and mentorship opportunities to assist students throughout their studies.

It's important to note that additional costs like semester fees, technology needs, textbooks, and course materials are typically not included in tuition. Many programs offer discounted rates, sometimes as low as $250 per credit, for military personnel.

Prospective students should reach out to financial aid offices to explore scholarships, federal loans, and grants available to help manage overall expenses.

The cost of pursuing an online Gender & Sexuality Studies degree can vary widely based on multiple interrelated factors. Understanding these elements will help students better anticipate the financial commitment involved in their education.

Several key influences affect online gender and sexuality studies program fees.

• Type of School: Public universities typically offer lower tuition rates, especially for in-state students, while private institutions tend to charge higher fees regardless of residency.
• Residency Status: Tuition often differs based on whether a student is in-state or out-of-state, with public universities charging more for non-resident students.
• Credit Hours and Program Length: Programs usually require between 36 and 60 credit hours, with longer programs naturally increasing total tuition costs.
• Additional Fees: Technology fees for online platform access and student support services like academic advising may be billed separately or included in tuition, which adds to overall expenses.
• Program Format and Faculty Quality: Asynchronous online courses often cost less than hybrid or synchronous options that include residencies; meanwhile, programs with highly qualified, research-active faculty and strong accreditation may command higher rates.

For prospective students seeking budget-friendly options, exploring a cheap accelerated bachelor's degree online can be a strategic choice. These programs may offer valuable savings without compromising educational quality.

Factors affecting online gender studies degree tuition also include specialized seminars, guest lectures, or fieldwork unique to Gender & Sexuality Studies, which can increase the overall investment required.

Breakdown of All Fully Online Title IV Institutions

Source: U.S. Department of Education, 2023

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Online Gender & Sexuality Studies degree programs generally offer a more affordable alternative to traditional on-campus options. This affordability primarily stems from reduced tuition and fewer additional fees.

Many online bachelor's programs in this field charge about $330 to $445 per credit, translating to roughly $39,600 to $53,400 for a 120-credit degree.

The online Gender & Sexuality Studies tuition comparison reveals that traditional on-campus programs typically come with higher tuition rates, especially for out-of-state students. Beyond tuition, in-person students often face added expenses such as room, board, transportation, and campus facility fees.

Public universities can demand more than $10,000-$15,000 per year in tuition and fees for in-state students, with even steeper costs for non-residents. The cost difference between traditional and online Gender & Sexuality Studies degrees largely reflects savings on housing, meal plans, and commuting for online learners.

However, some online programs may include technology or proctoring fees, and hybrid formats sometimes require occasional campus visits that add to costs.

Despite this, most students find total attendance costs lower online due to fewer living and relocation expenses. For those exploring options, checking out programs with online open college enrollment can provide further cost-effective opportunities.

Tuition costs for online Gender & Sexuality Studies programs can vary depending on whether a student qualifies as in-state or out-of-state. Many public universities adjust their tuition rates based on residency, making a notable difference in the price per credit hour for these online degrees.

For instance, at the University of Maryland Global Campus, in-state students pay $330 per credit for its Women, Gender, & Sexuality Studies certificate, while out-of-state students pay $499. Texas Woman's University shows an even wider gap, charging $323 per credit for in-state learners versus $728 for those from out-of-state.

However, some institutions, like the University of Kansas, apply a flat tuition rate of $445 per credit regardless of residency. Oregon State University's Ecampus similarly charges $384 per credit for online undergraduate certificates without distinguishing between in-state and out-of-state students.

Exceptions to residency-based pricing include regional tuition agreements that offer discounted rates to students from neighboring states.

Additionally, many private universities do not differentiate tuition based on residency, setting uniform rates for all online students. Prospective students should review each school's policies, as tuition structures can vary widely by institution and program type.

Many universities now offer affordable online gender and sexuality studies degree programs tailored to U.S. students seeking flexible and cost-effective options. These programs combine interdisciplinary coursework with online accessibility, making them great choices for working professionals or recent graduates.

When exploring the most affordable online gender studies degree programs, it's important to consider tuition, fees, and program flexibility.

Below are some of the cheapest online gender and sexuality studies schools offering accredited degrees with competitive pricing and strong program features.

• Florida International University (FIU): Offers an online Bachelor of Arts in Ethnic Studies with a Genders and Sexualities concentration. Tuition and fees amount to approximately $7,000 per year, ranking FIU among the most economical choices with flexible learning schedules and reduced campus fees.
• California State University, Stanislaus: Provides an online bachelor's degree featuring Gender Studies options at around $8,000 annually. The university applies flat-rate pricing for many courses, helping students better manage education expenses.
• University of Louisville: Features an online BA/BS in Women's, Gender and Sexuality Studies at about $13,000 per year. Though moderately higher, its strong reputation for LGBTQ inclusivity and flexible program delivery adds significant value for students.

Other affordable options include UMass Dartmouth and New Mexico State University Global Campus, both known for flexible scheduling and competitive tuition. Students should also explore related options such as cheap doctoral programs to further their education in this field.

The landscape of online Gender & Sexuality Studies degrees shows significant variation in cost, particularly between undergraduate and doctoral programs.

The highest tuition online gender studies programs are usually found at the doctoral level, where specialized curricula and faculty expertise justify higher prices. Below are some of the most expensive gender studies degrees in the US offered online.

These programs often reflect the advanced nature of study, distinguished faculty, and unique resources available to students. Some of the top costly options include:

• California Institute of Integral Studies (CIIS): Offers an online PhD in Human Sexuality with tuition around $1,587 per credit. The 60-credit program includes virtual seminars, required in-person residencies, and a cohort-based curriculum.
• National University: Provides an online PhD in Psychology specializing in gender and sexual fluidity, priced at approximately $1,114 per credit. This asynchronous program emphasizes mentorship and covers LGBTQ identity and social advocacy.
• University of Missouri-St. Louis: While primarily a bachelor's degree provider in Gender & Sexuality Studies online, its tuition and fees sit on the higher side for undergraduate studies, generally around $7,000 to $14,000 per year.

For prospective students comparing costs and program features across institutions, consulting a best non profit accredited online universities ranking can provide valuable insights into program quality and tuition.

The differentiation in cost across degree levels underscores the substantial investment associated with more advanced and specialized programs in this field.

Investing in an online Gender & Sexuality Studies degree involves understanding when one might expect to see financial returns. The timeline for recovering educational costs varies, influenced by factors like salary progression and career choices.

Typically, graduates recoup their investment within 12 to 14 years. For instance, the University of Louisville suggests a 14-year recovery period, whereas Florida International University estimates closer to 12 years, considering average starting salaries and yearly loan repayments.

Starting salaries generally range from $29,000 to $32,000, increasing to approximately $40,000 to $44,000 within about four years.

Career paths pursued by degree holders-such as community outreach coordinators, social workers, policy analysts, or educators-affect earnings and ROI. Some specialized careers, like postsecondary teaching roles, may offer salaries exceeding $86,000.

Job growth in these fields is moderate, with about a 4% increase expected. Individual factors such as loan debt size, enrollment in advanced degrees, or working part-time during study can extend the payoff period, while those minimizing debt or entering higher-paying sectors may achieve faster returns.

Students pursuing an online Gender & Sexuality Studies degree are generally eligible for various forms of financial aid. Many accredited programs qualify for federal financial aid, making it essential for students to complete the FAFSA to verify eligibility.

This process assesses income, enrollment status, and academic progress, helping determine available support.

Exploring online Gender Studies scholarships and grants eligibility can reveal additional funding opportunities beyond federal aid. Many institutions and organizations promote scholarships specifically for Gender & Sexuality Studies or related social justice fields.

These awards often consider academic merit, activism, or a demonstrated commitment to gender equity.

• Federal Financial Aid: Covers significant tuition costs through programs like Pell Grants and federal student loans, available to most students in accredited online Gender and Sexuality Studies degree programs who complete FAFSA and meet eligibility criteria.
• Institutional Scholarships: Offered by many universities for Gender & Sexuality Studies students, these scholarships may require essays or proof of dedication to gender equity and can partially or fully cover tuition expenses.
• Employer Tuition Assistance: Available to professionals in education, advocacy, or social services; some employers reimburse tuition partially or entirely for degree programs relevant to employees' roles.

Financial aid packages can cover up to the full cost of tuition and fees and sometimes include allowances for books, technology, and living expenses. Students should always consult their individual program's financial aid office for discipline-specific advice and additional resources.

For those considering various options, including career-focused paths, reviewing the list of best trade colleges online may offer insights into other educational opportunities related to their interests.

Pursuing an online degree in Gender & Sexuality Studies offers flexible learning opportunities at varying costs depending on the institution. Understanding tuition trends can help prospective students plan their educational investment wisely.

Currently, tuition fees for online programs in this field range widely, influenced by factors such as school type, geographic location, and program length. Public universities often provide more affordable rates, especially for in-state students, while private institutions typically charge higher tuition.

Additionally, some universities offer per-credit pricing models, which can benefit part-time students or those seeking individualized course loads.

Looking ahead, tuition rates for Gender & Sexuality Studies online programs are expected to increase gradually, mirroring general trends in higher education costs.

However, technological advancements and the growing availability of online resources may mitigate some expenses, potentially making these programs more accessible. Financial aid, scholarships, and institutional grants continue to play a crucial role in offsetting costs for many students pursuing these degrees remotely.

• Tuition & Fees – Women, Gender, & Sexuality Studies – Undergraduate Certificates | Oregon State Ecampus https://ecampus.oregonstate.edu/online-degrees/tuition/
• Women's, Gender and Sexuality Studies (WGSS) https://catalog.utsa.edu/undergraduate/coursedescriptions/wgss/
• Analyzing the return on investment for online education https://www.insidehighered.com/news/tech-innovation/teaching-learning/2022/11/27/analyzing-return-investment-online-education
• Compare Programs https://europe.umgc.edu/online-degrees/program-comparison-tool/results.europe-program-womens-studies-undergraduate-cert.europe-program-humanities-bachelors.europe-program-social-sci-bachelor
• Gender Studies https://www.fhsu.edu/programs/gender-studies
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• Top 8 Low-Cost Online Bachelor's in Women's Studies for 2020 https://www.greatvaluecolleges.net/rankings/online-bachelors-womens-studies/
• State to study return on investment of Women/Gender Studies programs • Florida Phoenix https://floridaphoenix.com/2024/12/30/state-to-study-return-on-investment-of-women-gender-studies-programs/