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25 Most Affordable Online Doctoral Programs in Psychology for 2021

Are you passionate about the field of psychology and looking to earn an advanced degree? If you have a master’s degree in psychology, it’s time to pursue a doctoral degree and grow as a clinical, counseling, or research psychologist. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, psychologists’ jobs will increase by 14 percent through 2026, faster than other professions. To stay ahead of this demand, opting for a doctoral program now is the right career choice. 

How can an online doctorate in psychology help?

An online doctorate in psychology equips students with the knowledge and skills to qualify for a range of professional opportunities. They are prepared to practice in different branches of psychology based on their specialization. It also prepares students for state licensures. Doctorate graduates work in various settings, including Mental health centers, Government agencies, Social service agencies, and Healthcare organizations. What does the online doctorate in psychology curricula entail?
Online psychology Ph.D. classes vary by school. The curricula are a mix of core course requirements, electives, specializations, a clinical internship, or supervised practicum. The blend of these formats teaches students to apply the scientific method towards research and daily work. They learn to investigate the elements behind mental illness and treatment. Students gain an understanding of the research ethics and the American Psychological Association (APA) citation.

What can you do with an online doctorate in psychology?

  • Clinical psychologist
  • Forensic psychologist 
  • Research psychologist
  • Political strategist
  • Educational consultant
  • Academician/Professor
  • Private practice psychologist 

Here we have shortlisted the top 25 schools that offer affordable online doctoral programs in Psychology. These programs are designed for working professionals who are looking to gain penultimate degrees in their field. They offer flexibility and self-paced formats to allow students to balance their work-life commitments as they study. They follow the same rigorous curricula as the traditional campus programs. We have considered the schools’ accreditation, rankings, faculty, tuition, student support systems, and curricula. Schools have been ranked based on the affordability of their programs.

Rating and Ranking Methodology

Tuition 

  • Net Price Below $10,000: 4 points 
  • Net Price Below $15,000: 3 points 
  • Net Price Below $18,000: 2 points 
  • Net Price Below $20,000: 1 point

Program Flexibility (asynchronous course delivery, hybrid options, part-time/full-time schedule, etc. ) – 1 point per item
Online Student Support Network (faculty mentors/advisors, etc.)— 1 point per item
Accreditation (School-Wide and Program-Specific) – 1 point per item
“Wow” Factor – 1 point.

 
 

#25 New York University Steinhardt School of Culture, Education, and Human Development

New York, NY

Doctor of Occupational Therapy Online  

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Points: 5

NYU Steinhardt offers an online The Online Doctor of Occupational Therapy program. Students can customize their degree through an individualized curriculum and a wide variety of elective and clinical specialization courses. It helps them become well-rounded clinicians and grow as a leader in the field. Elective courses include:

  • Leadership in Occupational Therapy 
  • Promoting Family Resilience and Family-Centered Services 
  • Disability in a Global Context 
  • Cognitive Behavioral Therapy: Theory and Application 
  • Marketing Strategy, Analysis, and Development 

Graduates become knowledgeable, compassionate leaders who can address society’s ever-changing healthcare needs. 

Fast facts:

  • 36 credits
  • Offered through: Department of Occupational Therapy
  • Accreditation:  Middle States Commission on Higher Education
  • Tuition per credit: $1,867

#24 The Chicago School of Professional Psychology

Chicago, IL 

Counseling Psychology Ph.D. Online  

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Points: 6

The Chicago School of Professional Psychology offers an online Ph.D. in International Psychology. It prepares graduates to assume leadership positions in multinational organizations. They gain a firm understanding of the interconnectivity of global systems. Students enjoy real-world training opportunities, along with the necessary field experience. Concentration options include:

  • Organizations & Systems
  • Trauma Services

Students gain knowledge of acculturation, global organizations and systems. They examine the principle intervention strategies suitable for an international trauma setting. Graduates work in varied settings like Government agencies, Nonprofit organizations, and Embassies.

Fast facts:

  • 60 credits
  • Accreditation:  Western Association of Schools and Colleges (WASC) 
  • Tuition per credit: $1,492

#23 Saybrook University

Pasadena, CA

Psychology Ph.D. Online  

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Points: 6

Saybrook University offers an online Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) in Psychology. All students take part in two five-day long required Saybrook Residential Conferences (RCs) per year. The program combines online learning with periodic in-person residential conferences. Choice of specializations include: 

  • Consciousness, Spirituality, and Integrative Health 
  • Creativity Studies 
  • Existential, Humanistic, and Transpersonal Psychology 
  • Psychophysiology 

Graduates use their understanding of human behavior to improve their local communities and the world as a whole. They work in varied settings like education, community health centers, prisons, the juvenile justice system, corporate offices, and non-profit organizations.

Fast facts:

  • 83 credits
  • Offered through: College of Social Sciences
  • Accreditation:  Western Association of Schools and Colleges (WASC)
  • Tuition per credit: $ 1,470

#22 California Institute of Integral Studies

San Francisco, CA

Integral and Transpersonal Psychology Ph.D. Online  

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Points: 7

California Institute of Integral Studies offers an online Integral and Transpersonal Psychology Ph.D. It emphasizes a blended approach that includes learning and research with professional goals. Students have the choice of focus areas like:

  • Somatic Studies
  • Integral and Transpersonal Psychology
  • Consciousness Studies and Contemplative Neuroscience

The program includes peer-reviewed journals produced in part by student interns and collaboration with senior scholars in the field. The affiliations with planned research laboratories help in hands-on learning. The online program is supplemented by residential intensives. It is a good fit for students looking to deepen their skills and enhance their credentials. 

Fast facts:

  • 36 credits
  • Accreditation:  Western Association of Schools and Colleges (WASC)
  • Tuition per credit: $1,393

#21 Northcentral University 

San Diego, CA

Psychology Ph.D. Online

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Points: 8

Northcentral University offers an online Doctor of Philosophy in Psychology. The flexible format is designed for busy adults looking for advanced degrees in psychology. The program emphasizes applied experiential learning. It includes case studies, scenarios, vignettes, and sometimes real-life situations. Choice of specializations include: 

  • Addictions; Gerontology
  • Psychology of Gender and Sexual Fluidity
  • Counseling Psychology; General Psychology
  • Health Psychology; Trauma and Disaster Relief
  • Industrial-Organizational Psychology
  • Mental Health Policy and Practice
  • Counseling Psychology, California Licensure Track

The program helps students hone their critical thinking skills. It also helps them transition from doctoral students to independent scholars. 

Fast facts:

  • 60 credits
  • Offered through: School of Social & Behavioral Sciences
  • Accreditation:  WASC Senior College and University Commission (WSCUC)
  • Tuition per credit: $1,131

#20 Ashford University

San Diego, CA

Psychology Ph.D. Online  

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Points: 8

Ashford University offers an online Doctor of Philosophy in Psychology. Students build their knowledge base in the history and systems of psychology. They can customize their degree by selecting a specialization that aligns with their career and research goals. Choice of the 21 credits specializations include: 

  • Criminology and Justice Studies 
  • Educational Leadership 
  • Health and Wellness Psychology 
  • Industrial-Organizational Psychology 
  • Mediation and Conflict Resolution 
  • Sport and Performance Psychology

The program is designed to help students become practitioner-scholars. It blends theoretical knowledge, research, and evidence-based practice in their specializations. The program culminates with the Applied Doctoral Project. 

Fast facts:

  • 62 credits
  • Offered through: College of Arts & Sciences
  • Accreditation:  WASC Senior College and University Commission (WSCUC)
  • Tuition per credit: $1,082

#19 Sofia University 

Palo Alto, CA

Transpersonal Psychology Ph.D. Online  

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Points: 9

Sofia University offers an online Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) in Transpersonal Psychology. The three-year program covers exciting and unique transpersonal psychology theories and practices. It combines transpersonal insights and research for many chosen professional fields. Concentration options include: 

  • Applied Transpersonal Psychology in Business and Organizations
  • Consciousness and Creativity Studies
  • Whole Systems Approach to Health and Wellbeing
  • Cognitive Psychology and Neuroscience

Students work closely with faculty members and get robust student support. They hone their social and emotional learning, cultivate mindfulness, and encourage meaningful research. Graduates apply transpersonal principles to help foster transformation individually, professionally, and socially. 

Fast facts:

  • 75 units
  • Accreditation:  Western Association of Schools and Colleges (WASC)
  • Tuition: $71,250 

#18 Loyola University Chicago  

Chicago, IL 

loyola-university-chicago

EdD in School Psychology Online  

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Points: 9

Loyola University Chicago offers an online Doctor of Education degree in School Psychology. It helps professionals become more informed professionals and leaders within the educational community. The program teaches students to:

  • Analyze and interpret systems-level data 
  • Think systematically within the education system
  • Implement and evaluate evidence-based practices

Practicing school psychologists interested in obtaining a doctoral degree with a focus in District Administration may find this a good fit. Students looking for a Director of Special Education endorsement or an LPC/LCPC certification may also be interested. 

 Fast facts:

  • 72 graduate semester hours
  • Offered through: School of Education
  • Accreditation:  Higher Learning Commission
  • Tuition per credit: $949

#17 Boston University 

Boston, MA

Occupational Therapy, Doctorate Online  

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Points: 10

Boston University offers an online Doctorate in Occupational Therapy. It is designed for practitioners in the field who have a professional degree in occupational therapy. Students enjoy a collaborative learning environment and mentorship from acclaimed faculty. The key features of the program are:

  • Critical evaluation of theory and evidence in a specialized area of practice
  • Identification of gaps in current intervention methods and programs
  • Designing innovative responses to fill those gaps

Students gain advanced knowledge to create innovative responses to the current and future needs of individuals, communities, and populations. 

Fast facts:

  • 33 credits
  • Offered through: Sargent College
  • Accreditation:  New England Commission of Higher Education
  • Tuition per credit: $895

#16 Alaska Pacific University

Anchorage, AK  

Counseling Psychology Ph.D. Online  

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Points: 10

Alaska Pacific University offers an online Doctor of Psychology (Psy.D.) in Counseling Psychology. It is designed for students seeking work as licensed psychologists in Alaska. The program emphasizes the application of psychology knowledge across varied psychological functioning. Graduates show competence in:

  • Evidence-Based Practice in Intervention and Assessment
  • Knowledge and application of Ethical and Legal Standards
  • Professional Values and Attitudes
  • Communication and Interpersonal Skills
  • Interdisciplinary Consultation

The program meets the State of Alaska requirements for Licensed Psychologists. 

Fast facts:

  • 93 credits
  • Offered through: Institute of Health & Wellness
  • Accreditation:  Northwest Commission of Colleges and Universities
  • Tuition per credit: $840

#15 Michigan State University 

East Lansing, Michigan

EPET Ph.D. Online  

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Points: 10

Michigan State University offers an online/hybrid Doctoral Program in Counseling, Educational Psychology & Special Education. It aims to develop the next generation of educational leaders. Students focus their studies in one or both of the following emphasis areas:

  • Educational Psychology- Processes of human learning and development in natural settings 
  • Educational Technology – Research and development to understand the pedagogy, policy, and design of media and technologies 

Students have the opportunity to blend their current work as educators with the richness of the Michigan State University experience.

Fast facts:

  • 44 credits
  • Offered through: College of Education
  • Accreditation:  Higher Learning Commission
  • Tuition per credit: $818.75

#14 Southern California Seminary

El Cajon, CA 

Psychology Ph.D. Online  

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Points: 11

Southern California Seminary offers an online Doctor of Psychology (PsyD) program. It is a non-licensure program that provides students with a biblically-based training. It integrates psychology and theology to impact individuals, families, and communities positively. Students gain counseling skills and psychological tools encompassed in a genuine spiritual environment. Coursework includes:

Featured Programs

  • Advanced Therapeutic Interventions
  • Advanced Physiological Psychology
  • Psychosocial Basis of Behavior
  • Crisis Response and Intervention Techniques
  • Psychology of Multicultural and Ethnic Diversity

Students are equipped for ministry opportunities in the local churches. They may also work in organizational and institutional settings or private practice counseling.

Fast facts:

  • 75 units
  • Accreditation:  Transnational Association of Christian Colleges and Schools (TRACS)
  • Tuition per unit: $779

#13 Regent University

Virginia Beach, VA 

Ed.D. – Educational Psychology Online  

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Points: 11

Regent University offers an online Doctor of Education – Educational Psychology. It equips students to use the best theories and research to improve academic and behavioral success. Key features of the program include: 

  • Understanding the significant theories in developmental psychology using select criteria
  • Encouraging a broad area of academic inquiry and continuous learning
  • Examining and identifying influences and shifts in cultural practices
  • Conducting guided research in school psychology, social work, and general counseling 

Students learn about various cognitive strategies for learning in children and adults. They are trained to create environments conducive to learning, teacher education, and brain research. 

Fast facts:

  • 66 credits
  • Offered through: School of Education 
  • Accreditation:  Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges 
  • Tuition per credit: $775

#12 Fielding Graduate University 

Santa Barbara, CA 

Clinical Psychology Ph.D. Online  

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Points: 11

Fielding Graduate University offers an online Ph.D. in Clinical Psychology. The learning model blends in-person learning opportunities with digital formats. Concentration options include: 

  • Forensic Psychology
  • Neuropsychology
  • Health Psychology
  • Parent-Infant Mental Health
  • Social Justice and Diversity

Students develop doctoral-level competencies. They learn to apply theory and research for case conceptualizations, treatment plans, and interventions. The program is accredited by the American Psychological Association. Graduates become leaders in their chosen professions. They work as executives, educators, consultants, and leaders in health care, and nonprofits.

Fast facts:

  • Total Semester Credits: 179
  • Offered through: School of Psychology 
  • Accreditation: APA; WASC Senior College and University Commission (WSCUC)
  • Tuition per term: $9,700

#11 Touro University Worldwide

Los Alamitos, CA 

Psychology Ph.D. Online  

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Points: 12

Touro University Worldwide offers an online Doctor of Psychology in Human and Organizational Psychology. The program blends courses in theory, research, and putting theory to practice. It teaches them to translate theory into practice. Key features: 

  • Students gain skills and tools to design evidence-based solutions 
  • A doctoral-level academic environment 
  • A support system dedicated to student success 
  • Choice of topics to focus their research activities and personalize their educational journey

Students focus their studies in the fields of organizational psychology, leadership psychology, and industrial psychology. Most students complete their degree in three years. 

Fast facts:

  • 66 credits
  • Offered through: School of Psychology 
  • Accreditation: WASC Senior College and University Commission (WSCUC)
  • Tuition per credit: $700 

#10 Keiser University

Fort Lauderdale, FL

Psychology Ph.D. Online  

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Points: 12

Keiser University offers an online Doctor of Philosophy in Psychology. It focuses on career advancement in consulting, teaching, administration, or institutional research. Students of this research-based program: 

  • Develop an advanced understanding of general psychological principles and theories 
  • Learn to apply principles of effective research methods and evaluate problems
  • Designing and conduct psychological research
  • Interpret data, and formulate grounded conclusions to add to the body of knowledge
  • Build the foundation for the study of personality, motivation, learning, emotion, and behavior
  • Evaluate educational and social services program designs 

The program prepares innovative scholars, researchers, and educators. 

Fast facts:

  • 60 credits
  • Offered through: Graduate School
  • Accreditation:  Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
  • Tuition per year: $21,008

#9 Grand Canyon University 

Phoenix, AZ

Psychology Ph.D. Online  

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Points: 12

Grand Canyon University offers an online Doctor of Philosophy in General Psychology: Cognition and Instruction (Qualitative Research). It is designed for students looking to work with economically and culturally diverse communities. Students learn to:

  • Analyze the impacts of nature and nurture on cognitive development
  • Study of social cognition and assessments
  • Use theoretical and empirical approaches to understand mental processes
  • Create psychometrically sound measures
  • Apply cognitive psychology to learning and instruction

Graduates investigate how cognitive processes can inform the best instructional method. 

Fast facts:

  • 60 credits
  • Offered through: College of Doctoral Studies
  • Accreditation:  Higher Learning Commission (HLC) 
  • Tuition per credit: $695

#8 Meridian University

Petaluma, CA  

Psychology Ph.D. Online  

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Points: 13

Meridian University offers an online Doctor of Psychology (PsyD). It emphasizes research, theory, clinical, and cultural praxis skills. The coursework prepares students for the completion of an original research dissertation. Concentrations available:

  • Transformative Leadership; Transformative Learning
  • Developmental Coaching; Health Coaching
  • Social Artistry; Expressive and Movement Arts
  • Clinical Psychology; Depth Psychology
  • Transpersonal Psychology; Integral Psychology
  • Yoga and Psychology; Somatic Psychology
  • Organizational Development

The program meets the educational requirements for the state of California Psychologist license. Graduates are prepared to work in varied settings. 

Fast facts:

  • 133 credits
  • Offered through: College of Social Sciences
  • Accreditation:  Western Association of Schools and Colleges (WASC)
  • Tuition per credit: $676

#7 Liberty University  

Lynchburg, VA

Psychology Ph.D. Online 

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Points: 13

Liberty University offers an online Doctor of Philosophy in Psychology. It provides rigorous research training to prepare students for a career in academia and research. They learn to use research to contribute to the field of understanding human behavior. The program uses science and biblical values to help students understand the full breadth of the human experience. Choice of specializations include: 

  • General Track 
  • Developmental Psychology 
  • Industrial/Organizational 
  • Social Psychology

Students learn to explore new ways to help people heal, grow, and thrive. Students have the option of face-to-face on-campus intensives. 

Fast facts:

  • 60 credits
  • Offered through: School of Behavioral Sciences
  • Accreditation:  SACSCOC
  • Tuition per credit: $595

#6 Winona State University 

Winona, MN 

EdD Online 

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Points: 13

Winona State University offers an online Doctor of Education degree. It emphasizes the application of theoretical knowledge and applied research in education. Students learn about advanced practice in the field of education for schools and colleges. Emphases in this practitioner-focused and solutions-driven program include:

  • Curriculum and instruction
  • Higher education
  • Technology education
  • Indigenous studies
  • Special education
  • Organizational administration

The program develops practitioner-scholars in education who can strategically enhance teaching. Graduates learn to address the challenges of practice and apply research-based strategies to improve student outcomes.

Fast facts:

  • 30 semester credits
  • Offered through: College of Education
  • Accreditation:  CACREP; NCATE; Higher Learning Commission
  • Tuition per year: $8,698

#5 California Southern University 

Costa Mesa, CA

Psychology Ph.D. Online  

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Points: 14

California Southern University offers an online Doctor of Psychology (PsyD). It is a great fit for students interested in clinical issues in psychology. It helps them explore practical applications of this knowledge. The comprehensive curriculum blends theoretical and practical methodologies within the field. Students have to complete core coursework with electives and internships. Elective options include: 

  • Advanced Physiology and Pharmacology of Addiction 
  • Advanced Personal and Professional Wellness for the Substance Abuse Counselor 
  • Psychology of Learning 
  • Applied Sport Psychology 
  • Advanced Human Sexuality 

The curriculum meets the licensure requirements for a clinical psychologist in the State of California. 

Fast facts:

  • 66 credits
  • Offered through: School of Behavioral Sciences
  • Accreditation:  Western Association of Schools and Colleges (WASC)
  • Tuition per credit: $545

#4 Capella University

Minneapolis, Minnesota

Psychology Ph.D. Online 

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Points:  14

Capella University offers an online Doctor of Philosophy in Psychology. The program helps students gain a deeper understanding of human behavior. Students gain comprehensive knowledge to make a positive impact on patients and help them reach their potential. It is professionally aligned and prepares students to get state license eligibility. Key features:

  • Online and in-person
  • 14 Core course
  • 30 Max transfer credits
  • 2 Elective courses
  • 6 Residency courses
  • 3 Practicum courses
  • 4 Internship courses
  • 1 Dissertation Preparation course
  • Clinical dissertation

The curriculum blends coursework, face-to-face residencies, clinical practicum, internships, and research. A dedicated support team guides and advises students throughout the program. 

Fast facts:

  • 135 total quarter credits
  • Accreditation:  Higher Learning Commission
  • Tuition per credit: $555

#3 University of North Dakota 

Grand Forks, ND 

Clinical Psychology Ph.D. Online  

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Points: 15

The University of North Dakota offers an online Doctorate in Occupational Therapy. Students develop the knowledge, skills, and adaptive capacity needed to address occupational challenges. The program teaches students to: 

  • Conduct performance skills assessments and treatment
  • Customize and install treatment programs to improve an individual’s ability to perform daily activities
  • Provide comprehensive home and job site evaluations with adaptation recommendations
  • Guide family members and caregivers
  • Make adaptive equipment and splints with recommendations and usage training

Students develop critical thinking and reflective skills that are essential to this profession.  

Fast facts:

  • 124 credits
  • Offered through: School of Medicine & Health Sciences
  • Accreditation:  Higher Learning Commission
  • Tuition per credit: $355.85

#2 University of South Dakota

Vermillion, SD

Occupational Therapy, Doctorate Online  

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Points: 15

The University of South Dakota offers an online Doctorate in Occupational Therapy. Students are trained to assist people in achieving their living goals. They help patients maintain or rebuild their independence and participate in everyday activities. The purpose of the program is to empower individuals to reach goals and maximize their independence. Students can choose from one of five available specializations: 

  • Nonspecialization
  • Mental Health specialization
  • Neuroscience & Rehabilitation 
  • Pediatrics specialization
  • Rural/Underserved specialization

The program is science-driven and evidence-based that trains graduates to help people of all ages. 

Fast facts:

  • 117 credits
  • Offered through:  School of Health Sciences
  •  Accreditation:  ACOTE; Higher Learning Commission
  • Tuition per credit: $336.80

#1 California Coast University

Santa Ana, CA

Educational Psychology Ed.D. Online  

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Points: 16

California Coast University offers an online Doctor of Education in Educational Psychology. The coursework challenges students to demonstrate a comprehensive understanding of best practices, theories, and research in the educational psychology field. Specialization options include: 

  • Group Dynamics
  • Motivation and Learning
  • Educational Measurement 
  • Advanced Educational Psychology

Along with the above specializations, students have to complete core coursework, research, and dissertation and a comprehensive examination. 
The 100% online, flexible, and self-paced program is designed for busy working professionals. 

Fast facts:

  • 66 semester units 
  • Accreditation:  Distance Education Accrediting Commission (DEAC)
  • Tuition per unit of credit: $290

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