Online Military Science & Studies Degree Programs Costs: Tuition & Fees for 2026

The average yearly tuition for an online Military Science & Studies degree in 2025 generally falls between $8,100 and $15,000 at public, military-friendly institutions. Many of these programs are priced around $11,000 to $13,000 annually, making them accessible options for many students. Tuition tends to increase significantly at private universities, where annual costs often reach $35,000 or more.

Costs vary depending on the degree level and the type of school. Most online programs charge per credit hour, with the standard undergraduate tuition at military-centric schools averaging about $278 per credit hour. Active-duty service members commonly benefit from a discounted rate capped at $250 per credit hour, in line with federal guidelines. This reduced rate often applies to both undergraduate and master's-level courses. For a 120-credit bachelor's degree, active-duty students might expect total tuition around $30,000, while civilian students and those attending private universities could face two to three times higher expenses.

Compared to other academic fields, Military Science & Studies degrees are generally more affordable than many business or health sciences programs. This price advantage is particularly notable for service members and military-affiliated students who can access specific discounts and lower tuition rates at participating institutions.

Tuition for online degrees in Military Science & Studies generally includes essential academic and student support components necessary for successful program completion. These costs ensure access to the resources and services required for learning in a fully digital environment.

The following key elements are typically covered by tuition fees in such programs:

• Instructional delivery: Access to mandatory online courses, virtual lectures, and specialized academic content taught by faculty with expertise in military topics.
• Academic support services: Availability of online tutoring, academic advising, and technical assistance tailored for remote learners needing flexible guidance.
• Technology infrastructure: Use of the institution's learning platforms, digital classrooms, and required software to engage with coursework and submit assignments.
• Online library resources: Full access to digital collections, research databases, and scholarly journals focused on military science and related fields.
• Some instructional materials: Often includes low-cost or complimentary digital textbooks and readings, particularly in programs designed for military-affiliated students.

It is important to note that some expenses are commonly excluded from base tuition. These may include separate technology fees charged per course or term, fees for specialized labs or simulations, and costs for printed textbooks or additional materials not provided digitally. Prospective students should verify with each program to understand all potential charges beyond tuition.

The cost of pursuing an online Military Science & Studies degree varies based on several important factors. Understanding what influences tuition and fees can help students budget effectively and find the best value program. Below are key elements that impact the military studies degree cost for active-duty students and others.

• Type of School: Public universities typically offer lower tuition, especially for in-state students, whereas private nonprofit and for-profit institutions may charge higher rates or flat fees, affecting overall cost significantly.
• Residency and Military Status: Residency affects tuition at many public universities, but some online programs provide in-state rates regardless of location. Active-duty service members often benefit from special tuition caps, such as the Department of Defense's $250 per credit hour limit, lowering their financial burden.
• Program Length and Credit Requirements: Most bachelor's degrees require around 120 credits, but accelerated tracks or acceptance of military training for credit can shorten time to degree completion and reduce expenses.
• Additional Fees: Technology fees, textbooks, and other charges may be included in tuition or billed separately, adding to the total cost of attendance.
• Support Services and Faculty Quality: Schools with comprehensive military support services and highly credentialed faculty might charge more. These investments often enhance the learning environment and improve career outcomes for graduates.

Students exploring degree timelines might also consider a 1 year master program as an option for quicker advancement while managing tuition costs. Evaluating these factors carefully will help in making informed decisions about the factors affecting online military science degree tuition.

Online Military Science & Studies degree programs in 2025 typically cost less than their traditional on-campus counterparts. This affordability is a key consideration for many prospective students weighing their options for military-focused education.

When examining the online military science degree cost comparison, average annual tuition for fully online, military-friendly programs ranges between $8,100 to $13,170 at leading institutions. In contrast, on-campus programs such as The Citadel charge roughly $13,140 per year for in-state students and can go as high as $40,407 for out-of-state attendees. This significant difference highlights the cost benefits of online education for many students.

The online vs traditional military studies tuition gap arises from multiple factors. Online students avoid additional campus fees like facilities, student activities, and parking, while also saving on commuting and housing expenses. Additionally, many online schools cap tuition at $250 per credit hour for active-duty military personnel, making these programs notably more affordable. However, some online learners may face technology or online course fees ranging from $85 to $368 per semester.

For those interested in exploring available options, reviewing top programs for seniors online can provide valuable insight into military science and related online degrees.

When pursuing an online degree in Military Science & Studies, residency status may influence tuition costs but not always. While many public universities charge different rates for in-state versus out-of-state students, this distinction is not universal for online programs.

Many institutions, especially private ones and some public schools, now offer flat-rate tuition for all online students, eliminating residency differences. For example, some universities set a fixed rate-such as $250 per credit hour-for active-duty military students, no matter where they live. Regional agreements like those through the Southern Regional Education Board (SREB) or the Western Interstate Commission for Higher Education (WICHE) sometimes allow out-of-state students to pay in-state tuition if their home state participates.

Additional exceptions include military-specific pricing, tuition waivers, and flat-rate models that simplify costs for military-affiliated students. Some public universities waive out-of-state fees for active-duty military personnel, effectively offering in-state rates. Checking each school's current policies is essential since variations and special agreements can greatly affect overall expenses.

Finding the most affordable online Military Science & Studies degrees in the US is key for many prospective students, especially veterans and active military personnel seeking cost-effective education options. These programs typically offer flexibility and tailored support to ensure accessibility and affordability.

Several accredited institutions stand out for offering some of the cheapest military science degree programs for veterans and other learners. Below are three notable examples providing quality online military studies degrees with competitive tuition rates.

• American Public University System (APUS) in Charles Town, WV offers one of the lowest-cost master's programs in military studies. The fully online program requires 36 credit hours, a capstone, and a comprehensive exam, with tuition totaling approximately $6,695.
• University of Texas at El Paso (UTEP) provides an affordable online master's in military studies at about $6,695. Designed for active military and intelligence professionals, the program features current curricula and experienced faculty, with most students completing it in under 15 months.
• Columbia Southern University (CSU) offers a Bachelor of Science in Military Studies charging $278 per credit hour for regular students and a reduced rate of $250 per credit hour for active-duty military using tuition assistance, maintaining some of the most affordable tuition rates.

These institutions benefit from features like flat-rate tuition for military students, accelerated formats, and dedicated military support services. Such offerings contribute to why many consider these programs among the most affordable online military studies degrees in the US. To explore even more options and details on cheap online master degree programs, check the comprehensive information available at cheap online master degree programs.

The most expensive military studies schools in the United States offering online degrees tend to be private institutions with high prestige and specialized resources. Students seeking the highest tuition online military science degree programs should be prepared for significant financial investments, often justified by exclusive academic support and advanced learning features.

Among the top costly options are three notable universities with distinct online Military Science & Studies programs:

• Drexel University commands one of the highest undergraduate online tuition rates at $56,595 per year. This pricing reflects its elite status, expert faculty, low student-to-faculty ratios, and extensive veteran-focused support services.
• Academy of Art University charges $35,112 annually for its military-friendly degree tracks. While not solely focused on Military Science, its high costs stem from its San Francisco location, specialized program prestige, and investments in robust online infrastructure.
• Other private institutions also feature expensive programs, typically between $25,000 and $40,000 per year, offering additional benefits like networking opportunities and faculty with defense expertise.

For many prospective students, comparing these higher-cost programs with more affordable public university offerings is vital, as many accredited schools provide quality military studies degrees for considerably less. Those interested in cost-effective options might explore options often discussed alongside degrees labeled as easy degrees that pay well, balancing affordability with career benefits.

Online Military Science & Studies degrees generally require around 120 credits for completion and typically cost between $7,000 and $9,000 per year in tuition. This results in an overall expense from approximately $28,000 to $36,000, excluding extra fees or supplies.

Graduates of these programs often recover their educational investments within three to five years after entering the workforce. Entry-level positions such as military officers or emergency management professionals usually start with salaries exceeding $50,000 annually. Specialized careers, like military human resource managers, may offer salaries above $130,000, enhancing the financial returns of the degree.

The speed of return on investment can vary based on factors like the amount of student loan debt, pursuit of additional education, employer type and location, and prior military experience or transfer credits. Individual conditions, including studying part-time or obtaining extra certifications, also affect how soon graduates offset their education costs. Job prospects remain stable, with related military and security fields expected to grow between 4% and 13%, supporting positive long-term outcomes for degree holders.

Online Military Science & Studies students are eligible for multiple financial aid options designed to support their education. These options ensure that military service members and veterans can pursue accredited degrees with reduced financial burden. Understanding the various programs available helps students maximize their benefits.

Among these funding options, federal financial aid for online military science students plays a significant role alongside dedicated military programs. These aid sources often cover tuition, fees, and sometimes other education-related expenses, making higher education more accessible for military learners nationwide.

• Post-9/11 GI Bill: This federal program offers substantial tuition assistance to eligible active duty service members, veterans, and their families. It covers accredited degree programs, including Military Science & Studies, providing critical financial support.
• Department of Defense Tuition Assistance (TA): TA covers up to 100% of tuition and course fees at accredited online schools with a cap of $250 per credit hour. This program is specifically available for active duty personnel and can be combined with GI Bill benefits to cover remaining costs. Many military-friendly schools charge rates aligned with this cap, ensuring military tuition assistance eligibility for online programs.
• Yellow Ribbon Program: Participating colleges offer additional tuition discounts and scholarships under this initiative to reduce out-of-pocket expenses for military students. This program complements other federal financial aid and institutional grants available to eligible enrollees.

In addition to these, online Military Science & Studies students can access Pell grants, federal student loans, state scholarships, and employer tuition assistance programs. Some institutions also cover exam fees for college entrance and certification tests. Housing stipends are available but reduced by half for online enrollment. For those weighing costs, exploring a cheap bachelor degree could be an effective strategy to reduce overall expenses.

Online degrees in Military Science & Studies have become increasingly accessible to students seeking flexible education options. These programs attract individuals interested in military careers, leadership, and strategic studies without the constraints of on-campus attendance.

Tuition costs for online Military Science & Studies programs vary widely depending on the institution, with public universities generally offering more affordable rates than private colleges. Many schools price online courses on a per-credit basis, which typically ranges from $300 to $700 per credit. Some programs also provide flat-rate tuition per semester, which can benefit students taking heavier course loads.

Current trends indicate that tuition prices for these programs are rising moderately, reflecting overall higher education cost trends. However, financial aid, military benefits such as the GI Bill, and scholarships specifically available to service members and veterans can significantly offset expenses. Prospective students should also account for additional fees related to course materials or virtual labs, though these are often less costly than traditional in-person program expenses.

• Cost of Online College vs. In-Person | Touro University Worldwide https://www.tuw.edu/school-news/cost-of-online-college-vs-in-person/
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