For the first time, the number of U.S. college students studying entirely online has surpassed those attending classes fully in person. Despite the growing preference for digital learning, online programs often match or exceed the cost of traditional in-person education.
The Shift to Online Education
This year marks a significant transition in U.S. higher education, with more students opting for fully online programs. A report by NPR highlights the economic implications of this shift, revealing that the cost of online education can be surprisingly high.
Case Study: Emma Bittner’s Experience
Emma Bittner, 25, sought a master’s degree in public health without relocating from Austin, Texas, where she had stable housing and a full-time job. “I wasn’t in a place to move, especially with my job, and I had found affordable housing in Austin,” she explains. Initially considering local in-person options, Bittner was deterred by their high costs and turned to online programs, expecting them to be more budget-friendly.
Contrary to her expectations, Bittner found that online programs were equally or more expensive, with some reaching $60,000 to $80,000. “I was shocked. I wasn’t expecting $60,000, $70,000, $80,000 for an online program,” she says, echoing a common misconception that digital learning is cheaper.
Cost Analysis of Online Education
A study by Eduventures and other research bodies indicates that 83% of online college programs cost at least as much as their in-person counterparts. Furthermore, the Education Data Initiative reports that a four-year degree from an in-state public university averages about $39,000 in person, compared to $41,000 online.
Why Online Isn’t Always Cheaper
Dylan Barth, vice president of innovation and programs at the Online Learning Consortium, elaborates on the complexities of online education costs. He explains that while online courses might not require physical facilities, they still incur substantial infrastructure and technology expenses. “Even if an institution went fully online, you still need all of those other pieces to have the university run,” Barth notes, highlighting the need for faculty governance, admissions, registration systems, and marketing.
Additionally, online students often face more significant academic challenges, such as lower grades and higher withdrawal rates, necessitating increased spending on advising and support. “You do need a writing center, tutoring center as well. They need a help desk, too,” adds Barth, explaining the rationale behind some universities imposing extra distance learning fees, akin to an online convenience fee.
The Future of Online Education Costs
Competition from online-only institutions like Western Governors University might eventually drive costs down. Nevertheless, students like Bittner continue to enroll. She chose Boston University’s online master’s program for its affordability but admits to experiencing FOMO (fear of missing out). “I have a lot of FOMO. I have friends who are in in-person grad programs, and I’m so extremely jealous of them. They’re like, oh, I have to go to class today. Like, I have to walk from the bus stop. And I’m like, I’m so jealous. I feel like right now I’m just, like, clicking through slide shows and taking online quizzes,” she confesses.
