List of Cheap Schools and Universities for Masters Degree in USA and Their School Fees
Pursuing a Master’s degree in the USA is an excellent way to advance your career and improve your earning potential. However, with the high cost of education in the USA, pursuing a Master’s degree can be financially challenging for many students. Fortunately, there are affordable universities in the USA where you can pursue a Master’s degree without breaking the bank. In this article, we will provide you with a list of the top affordable universities for a Master’s degree in the USA.
Factors to consider when choosing an affordable university for a Master’s degree in the USA
Before we delve into the list of affordable universities for a Master’s degree in the USA, let’s first look at some of the factors you should consider when choosing an affordable university:
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Tuition Fees:
Tuition fees are one of the most significant expenses you will incur when pursuing a Master’s degree. Therefore, it’s crucial to choose a university with affordable tuition fees.
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Cost of living:
The cost of living in different cities in the USA varies. Therefore, it’s essential to choose a university located in a city with a low cost of living to avoid incurring high living expenses.
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Financial aid and scholarships:
Many universities offer financial aid and scholarships to help students pay for their education. Therefore, it’s crucial to research universities that offer financial aid and scholarships that you may be eligible for.
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Quality of education:
The quality of education is an essential factor to consider when choosing a university. Ensure that the university you choose has a reputation for providing high-quality education.
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Location:
The location of the university is an essential factor to consider when choosing a university. Ensure that the university you choose is located in a safe and convenient area.
List of affordable Universities for a Master’s degree in the USA
Now that we have looked at the factors to consider when choosing an affordable university, let’s dive into the list of the top affordable universities for a Master’s degree in the USA.
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California State University, Long Beach
California State University, Long Beach is a public university located in Long Beach, California. The university offers over 60 Master’s degree programs in various fields, including business, engineering, education, and the arts. The tuition fee for a Master’s degree at California State University, Long Beach is approximately $7,100 per year for in-state students and $17,000 per year for out-of-state students. The cost of living in Long Beach, California, is relatively affordable compared to other cities in California.
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Texas A&M University
Texas A&M University is a public research university located in College Station, Texas. The university offers over 150 Master’s degree programs in various fields, including business, engineering, and education. The tuition fee for a Master’s degree at Texas A&M University is approximately $5,700 per year for in-state students and $17,500 per year for out-of-state students. The cost of living in College Station, Texas, is relatively affordable compared to other cities in Texas.
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The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill
The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill is a public research university located in Chapel Hill, North Carolina. The university offers over 90 Master’s degree programs in various fields, including business, law, medicine, and education. The tuition fee for a Master’s degree at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill is approximately $10,000 per year for in-state students and $31,000 per year for out-of-state students. The cost of living in Chapel Hill, North Carolina, is relatively affordable compared to other cities in North Carolina.
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The University of Alabama
The University of Alabama is a public research university located in Tuscaloosa, Alabama. The university offers over 100 Master’s degree programs in various fields, including business, engineering, law, and education. The tuition fee for a Master’s degree at the University of Alabama is approximately $8,600 per year for in-state students and $30,000 per year for out-of-state students. The cost of living in Tuscaloosa, Alabama, is relatively affordable compared to other cities in Alabama.
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University of Nevada, Las Vegas
University of Nevada, Las Vegas is a public research university located in Las Vegas, Nevada. The university offers over 70 Master’s degree programs in various fields, including business, education, law, and health sciences. The tuition fee for a Master’s degree at the University of Nevada, Las Vegas is approximately $6,000 per year for in-state students and $20,000 per year for out-of-state students. The cost of living in Las Vegas, Nevada, is relatively affordable compared to other cities in Nevada.
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University of Utah
University of Utah is a public research university located in Salt Lake City, Utah. The university offers over 100 Master’s degree programs in various fields, including business, engineering, law, and health sciences. The tuition fee for a Master’s degree at the University of Utah is approximately $8,000 per year for in-state students and $27,000 per year for out-of-state students. The cost of living in Salt Lake City, Utah, is relatively affordable compared to other cities in Utah.
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Georgia State University
Georgia State University is a public research university located in Atlanta, Georgia. The university offers over 100 Master’s degree programs in various fields, including business, education, law, and health sciences. The tuition fee for a Master’s degree at Georgia State University is approximately $8,500 per year for in-state students and $23,000 per year for out-of-state students. The cost of living in Atlanta, Georgia, is relatively affordable compared to other cities in Georgia.
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University of Arkansas
University of Arkansas is a public research university located in Fayetteville, Arkansas. The university offers over 80 Master’s degree programs in various fields, including business, education, engineering, and law. The tuition fee for a Master’s degree at the University of Arkansas is approximately $7,500 per year for in-state students and $23,000 per year for out-of-state students. The cost of living in Fayetteville, Arkansas, is relatively affordable compared to other cities in Arkansas.
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Missouri State University
Missouri State University is a public university located in Springfield, Missouri. The university offers over 40 Master’s degree programs in various fields, including business, education, health sciences, and the arts. The tuition fee for a Master’s degree at Missouri State University is approximately $6,000 per year for in-state students and $14,000 per year for out-of-state students. The cost of living in Springfield, Missouri, is relatively affordable compared to other cities in Missouri.
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Western Kentucky University
Western Kentucky University is a public university located in Bowling Green, Kentucky. The university offers over 70 Master’s degree programs in various fields, including business, education, health sciences, and the arts. The tuition fee for a Master’s degree at Western Kentucky University is approximately $7,000 per year for in-state students and $14,000 per year for out-of-state students. The cost of living in Bowling Green, Kentucky, is relatively affordable compared to other cities in Kentucky.
List of Cheap Private Universities in USA for a Master’s Degree Programs and Their School Fees
Private universities are not funded by the government and often have higher tuition rates than state universities. However, many private universities offer financial aid and scholarships to help students afford their education. Here are some of the top private universities in the USA that offer affordable Master’s degree programs:
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Harvard University
Harvard University offers over 80 Master’s degree programs in fields such as business, education, law, and more. While the tuition rate is high at $52,650 per year, the university offers a range of financial aid and scholarship options to help students afford their education.
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Columbia University
Columbia University offers over 150 Master’s degree programs in fields such as business, journalism, education, and more. The tuition rate is high at $49,968 per year, but the university offers a range of scholarships and financial aid options to help students afford their education.
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Duke University
Duke University offers over 70 Master’s degree programs in fields such as business, engineering, public policy, and more. The tuition rate is high at $53,760 per year, but the university offers a range of scholarships and financial aid options to help students afford their education.
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Boston University
Boston University offers over 80 Master’s degree programs in fields such as business, education, public health, and more. The tuition rate is high at $54,720 per year, but the university offers a range of scholarships and financial aid options to help students afford their education.
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Emory University
Emory University offers over 50 Master’s degree programs in fields such as business, nursing, public health, and more. The tuition rate is high at $48,600 per year.
List of Cheap State and Public Universities in USA for a Master’s Degree Programs and Their School Fees
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Georgia State University
Georgia State University is a public research university located in Atlanta, Georgia. The university offers over 200 Master’s degree programs in various fields, including business, law, healthcare, and education. The tuition fee for a Master’s degree at Georgia State University is approximately $7,000 per year for in-state students and $23,000 per year for out-of-state students. The cost of living in Atlanta, Georgia, is relatively affordable compared to other cities in Georgia.
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Wayne State University
Wayne State University is a public research university located in Detroit, Michigan. The university offers over 150 Master’s degree programs in various fields, including business, engineering, and education. The tuition fee for a Master’s degree at Wayne State University is approximately $12,000 per year for in-state students and $28,000 per year for out-of-state students. The cost of living in Detroit, Michigan, is relatively affordable compared to other cities in Michigan.
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The University of New Mexico
The University of New Mexico is a public research university located in Albuquerque, New Mexico. The university offers over 100 Master’s degree programs in various fields, including business, healthcare, education, and the arts. The tuition fee for a Master’s degree at The University of New Mexico is approximately $5,500 per year for in-state students and $20,000 per year for out-of-state students. The cost of living in Albuquerque, New Mexico, is relatively affordable compared to other cities in New Mexico.
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The University of Tennessee
The University of Tennessee is a public research university located in Knoxville, Tennessee. The university offers over 200 Master’s degree programs in various fields, including business, engineering, healthcare, and education. The tuition fee for a Master’s degree at The University of Tennessee is approximately $11,000 per year for in-state students and $31,000 per year.
Scholarships available to Master’s degree Students in USA
In addition to choosing an affordable school or program, students can also reduce the cost of their Master’s degree by applying for scholarships. Here are some of the top scholarships available to Master’s degree students:
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Fulbright Scholar Program
The Fulbright Scholar Program provides funding for graduate students who want to study abroad. The program covers tuition, fees, and living expenses for up to one year.
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Rotary Foundation Global Grant
The Rotary Foundation Global Grant provides funding for graduate students who want to study abroad in one of six areas of focus, including peace and conflict prevention, disease prevention and treatment, and water and sanitation. The grant covers tuition, fees, and living expenses for up to two years.
How to apply for Admission and financial aid/scholarships in affordable universities for a Master’s degree in the USA
Now that we have provided you with a list of affordable universities for a Master’s degree in the USA, let’s look at how you can apply for admission and financial aid/scholarships in these universities.
Admission requirements may vary depending on the university and program you are applying for. Generally, you will need to provide your academic transcripts, GRE/GMAT scores, letters of recommendation, and a personal statement or essay. Some programs may also require an interview or additional materials, such as a portfolio for arts programs.
To apply for financial aid or scholarships, you will need to fill out the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) form. This form is used to determine your eligibility for federal financial aid programs, such as grants, work-study programs, and loans. You may also be able to apply for scholarships through the university or external organizations.
It’s important to research and apply for financial aid and scholarships early, as some programs have early application deadlines. You should also check with the university or program to see if they have any specific scholarship or financial aid opportunities available.
Frequently asked questions about Cheap Universities for a Master’s degree in the USA
What are some of the cheapest universities for a Master’s degree in the USA?
Some of the cheapest universities for a Master’s degree in the USA include California State University, Fullerton; Texas A&M University; University of Louisiana at Lafayette; University of Alabama; University of Nevada, Las Vegas; University of Utah; Georgia State University; University of Arkansas; Missouri State University; and Western Kentucky University.
Are these cheap universities also of good quality?
Yes, these universities offer high-quality Master’s degree programs in various fields. They are accredited and have qualified faculty members who are experts in their respective fields.
Are there any scholarships available for international students?
Yes, some of these universities offer scholarships specifically for international students. You can also explore external scholarship opportunities to help fund your education.
How can I apply for financial aid?
You can apply for financial aid by filling out the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) form. This form is used to determine your eligibility for federal financial aid programs, such as grants, work-study programs, and loans.
Can I work while studying to help cover the costs?
Yes, international students can work on campus for up to 20 hours per week while studying. However, it’s important to check with the university for any specific restrictions or requirements.
Can I study part-time to save money?
Yes, some universities offer part-time Master’s degree programs. However, keep in mind that part-time students may not be eligible for certain types of financial aid or scholarships.
What are the admission requirements for Master’s degree programs?
Admission requirements may vary depending on the university and program you are applying for. Generally, you will need to provide your academic transcripts, GRE/GMAT scores, letters of recommendation, and a personal statement or essay.
How long does it take to complete a Master’s degree program?
Master’s degree programs typically take two years to complete, although some programs may take longer or shorter depending on the field of study and program requirements.
Can I transfer credits from a previous Master’s degree program to a new one?
It depends on the university and program. Some universities may allow you to transfer a limited number of credits from a previous Master’s degree program, while others may not allow any transfer credits.
Are there any online Master’s degree programs available?
Yes, many universities offer online Master’s degree programs in various fields. These programs may offer flexibility and affordability, although they may have limited networking opportunities compared to on-campus programs.
Conclusion
Earning a Master’s degree is an excellent way to advance your career and increase your earning potential. However, the cost of graduate school can be a significant barrier for many students. Fortunately, there are several affordable universities in the USA that offer high-quality Master’s degree programs in various fields.
By considering factors such as tuition, cost of living, and financial aid opportunities, you can find an affordable university that meets your academic and financial needs. So, start researching and applying to these universities to achieve your academic and career goals.
