Arizona State Online vs Southern New Hampshire University
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
Southern New Hampshire University
Ranked #1 of 15 in this directory
Affordable accredited degrees with 24/7 online access
Our pick: Southern New Hampshire University. Our editors rank Southern New Hampshire University higher overall in Online Degree Programs — but Arizona State Online can be the better fit depending on your budget and use case below. How we review
Compare the details
| Arizona State Online | Southern New Hampshire University | |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing model | Paid | Paid |
| Starting price | See website | See website |
| Category | Masters | Bachelors |
| Editorial rank | #3 of 15 | #1 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
Southern New Hampshire University
- ✓Among the lowest tuition rates for private nonprofit universities
- ✓Accepts up to 90 transfer credits to accelerate completion
- ✓Over 200 degree programs spanning many disciplines
- ✓24/7 online access with flexible course scheduling
- ✓Dedicated academic advisors assigned to each student
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
Southern New Hampshire University
- !Large class sizes can make it harder to build faculty relationships
- !Limited campus experience for those wanting a traditional feel
- !Some employers may still prefer traditional university names
- !Graduate programs can be more expensive than undergraduate
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
Southern New Hampshire University
- →Working adults seeking an affordable bachelor's degree on a flexible schedule
- →Military service members and veterans using tuition benefits
- →Transfer students wanting maximum credit for prior coursework
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.
Southern New Hampshire University
SNHU is one of the largest nonprofit online universities in the US, offering over 200 career-focused programs. With some of the lowest tuition rates among private nonprofits, SNHU provides flexible scheduling, dedicated academic advisors, and generous transfer credit policies for working adults.
Still deciding? Browse all 15 options with honest pros, cons, and pricing.
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