Arizona State Online vs Purdue Global
An honest side-by-side comparison of two of our top online degree programs picks — pricing, strengths, weaknesses, and who each one is really for.
Arizona State Online
Ranked #3 of 15 in this directory
Top-ranked research university with 300+ online programs
Purdue Global
Ranked #4 of 15 in this directory
Career-focused online degrees backed by Purdue University
Our pick: Arizona State Online. Our editors rank Arizona State Online higher overall in Online Degree Programs — but Purdue Global can be the better fit depending on your budget and use case below. How we review
Compare the details
| Arizona State Online | Purdue Global | |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing model | Paid | Paid |
| Starting price | See website | See website |
| Category | Masters | Bachelors |
| Editorial rank | #3 of 15 | #4 of 15 |
Strengths
Arizona State Online
- ✓Same degree as on-campus students from a top-ranked research university
- ✓Over 300 online programs including niche specializations
- ✓Strong career services and alumni network
- ✓Multiple start dates throughout the year for flexibility
- ✓Robust digital learning platform with interactive coursework
Purdue Global
- ✓Backed by the well-known Purdue University brand
- ✓ExcelTrack programs allow accelerated degree completion
- ✓Personalized learning paths based on prior experience
- ✓Generous credit transfer and prior learning assessment options
Watch out for
Arizona State Online
- !Tuition is higher than many online-focused institutions
- !Some programs have prerequisite requirements that add time
- !Large enrollment can mean less individualized attention
- !Out-of-state tuition rates apply for some programs
Purdue Global
- !Distinct from Purdue West Lafayette which carries more prestige
- !Some programs have limited specialization options
- !Student-to-faculty ratios can be high in popular programs
Best use cases
Arizona State Online
- →Students wanting a respected research university degree fully online
- →Professionals pursuing graduate degrees in engineering, business, or education
- →Learners seeking a wide selection of niche master's programs
Purdue Global
- →Working adults wanting a recognized university brand for their resume
- →Students looking to accelerate through material they already know
- →Career changers in business, IT, or healthcare fields
About each tool
Arizona State Online
Arizona State University offers one of the most expansive online catalogs among major research universities. Ranked as the most innovative university by US News for multiple consecutive years, ASU Online delivers the same faculty and curriculum as its on-campus counterparts with robust student support services.
Purdue Global
Purdue Global serves working adults with career-oriented programs in business, IT, healthcare, and criminal justice. As part of the Purdue University system, students benefit from the Purdue brand while enjoying flexible online scheduling. ExcelTrack accelerated programs let qualified students finish faster.
Still deciding? Browse all 15 options with honest pros, cons, and pricing.
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