Arizona State Online vs University of the People
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
University of the People
Ranked #5 of 15 in this directory
Tuition-free accredited online university
Our pick: Arizona State Online. Our editors rank Arizona State Online higher overall in Online Degree Programs — but University of the People can be the better fit depending on your budget and use case below. How we review
Compare the details
| Arizona State Online | University of the People | |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing model | Paid | Freemium |
| Starting price | See website | See website |
| Category | Masters | Bachelors |
| Editorial rank | #3 of 15 | #5 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
University of the People
- ✓Tuition-free with only small per-course assessment fees
- ✓Fully accredited by the DEAC with WSCUC candidacy
- ✓Open admissions policy removes traditional barriers
- ✓Globally accessible for international students
- ✓Partnership with top institutions for transfer pathways
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
University of the People
- !Limited program selection compared to larger universities
- !Peer-based learning model may not suit all students
- !Less brand recognition with some employers
- !Assessment fees still add up over a full degree
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
University of the People
- →International students seeking an affordable American degree
- →Low-income learners who cannot afford traditional tuition
- →Self-motivated students comfortable with peer-based learning
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.
University of the People
University of the People is the first nonprofit, tuition-free, accredited American online university. Students pay only modest assessment fees per course. The institution focuses on opening access to higher education globally, offering programs in business administration, computer science, health science, and education.
Still deciding? Browse all 15 options with honest pros, cons, and pricing.
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