Are Online Degrees Cheaper? On-campus vs Remote Learning

Traditionally, those studying for a degree would usually do so in person at a university campus. However, the Covid-19 pandemic opened the door to new ways of learning, and while remote degrees have been in existence for some time, lockdown has undoubtedly helped to put them in the spotlight.

The difference between online and on-campus degrees

When you apply to study on an in-person degree programme, you’ll usually either live within commuting distance of your chosen university and travel in for your lectures or move into student accommodation on or around the campus.
You’ll be given a timetable of lectures to attend and there will be set deadlines for modules.

Online university qualifications are usually completed entirely remotely, although you may be asked to attend campus if your course has an exam element. You will be assigned a tutor who will guide you through the course. Generally, you can pick as and when you study, which could be ideal for those who need to work alongside their learning or who have other commitments to consider, such as dependents.

Are online degrees cheaper?

Online degrees could work out cheaper than on-campus learning. This is because certain costs associated with university are eliminated – we’ll talk more about this in the next section.
The exact cost of an online degree will vary depending on the course you opt for, the level and length of your degree, and the university you choose to study with.

As of July 2024, a two-year Certificate of Higher Education course at the Open University will cost you a total of £7,272, compared to the maximum 2024/25 campus university fees of £9,250. In this instance, remote learning could save you up to £1,978.

How could an online degree save me money?

There are several ways that online degrees could help you save money.

• Course fees. You might find that certain degrees are cheaper to study online.
• Accommodation/ commuting. When you study in-person, you will usually either live at university, or travel to and from campus if you live at home. Remote learning removes both expenses.
• Parking. Where there’s commuting, there’s often a need for parking, which can come at a significant cost, especially if you attend university multiple days a week.
• Food. While studying remotely, you won’t be tempted by the campus canteen goodies or a McDonald’s breakfast to aid your train journey.
• Socialising. Many students would agree that socialising is par for the course while at university. Whether it’s grabbing a coffee with friends after your lecture, or a big night out on the town, the cost of socialising can soon add up. Distance learning does not offer the same level of face-to-face interaction as an in-person degree.

How can I fund my online degree?

When it comes to funding an online degree, various options could be available to you depending on which part of the UK you live in.

• Tuition Fee Loan. Your tuition fee will be set by your university and, if you’re eligible for a tuition fee loan, it will be paid directly to them. Tuition Fee Loans will accrue interest and will need to be repaid once your degree is complete and you’ve started earning above the minimum repayment threshold.
• If health reasons restrict you from attending university in person and you’re undertaking a part-time online degree, you may be able to apply for a Maintenance Loan. The amount of money you receive will depend on where you live, your household income, and how long you’ll be studying for. You may also be eligible for Disabled Student Allowance.
• Your chosen university may offer an instalment plan, which enables you to spread the cost of your course rather than making one large payment upfront.
• Speak to your employer. If your degree relates to your current role, your employer may offer to put some money towards it. Of course, this will be at your employer’s discretion, and it’s important to bear in mind that you may be expected to repay the money if you leave your job.

The benefits of online degrees, and things to think about before applying

Studying online rather than attending university in person could be ideal for some learners, particularly if you’re hoping to keep costs down and complete your studies around work or caring for your children.

• Distance learning could work out cheaper than sitting your degree entirely on campus.
• If you have other commitments, the opportunity to study flexibly in your own time, rather than in-line with a schedule, could suit your circumstances.
• Providing that they offer online degrees, you can choose to study with any university without needing to relocate.
• You may still be entitled to additional help in funding your online degree.
  Providing that they’ve been awarded by an accredited body, online degrees are no different to in-person degrees. You can check to see whether your chosen university is accredited here.
• If you’ve previously struggled to concentrate and avoid distractions in a classroom setting, remote learning could be a suitable alternative.

• You’ll miss out on the full ‘university experience,’ including the social aspects.
• You might not have access to the same course materials as on-campus learners. For example, if your chosen university isn’t located close by, you’re unlikely to be able to make use of the campus library.
• You’re reliant on your own technology. If there’s an issue with your laptop, or your printer packs up, you will need to find an alternative way to complete your work. If you were on campus, you may have the opportunity to use library computers and printers.
• Being accountable for your own workload without a structured timetable has its pros and cons. Some online learners may find that they lack motivation when not in an ordered, formal setting.
• Not all universities offer online degrees. This could restrict your options, depending on the course you’re hoping to study. Don’t forget though, there are also online-only universities, such as Arden and The Open University.
• If money is a contributing factor in your decision to study online, you might be tempted to search for cheap online courses. As mentioned above, you should ensure that any university you apply to study with is officially recognised and certified to award degrees.

Can I study any degree online?

The availability of degrees will vary between universities.
When searching for the best online courses, you should take a number of things into consideration, such as the length of the programme and the list of modules.
thimbl. has put together a guide to choosing the right university and degree for you.

In conclusion: online degrees v in-person degrees

The decision to take your learning completely online is one that should come with consideration. There are advantages and potential disadvantages to both online and on-campus learning, and you should take the time to weigh these up, based on your personal situation.

If cost and flexibility are important factors in your decision, you may find yourself swaying towards online degrees, which could work out cheaper.
On the other hand, if you’re hoping to sample every aspect of the traditional university experience, and the prospect of a buzzing social life excites you, an on-campus degree may be a more appealing option.

The information contained in this article does not constitute advice and should not be viewed as such.
October 2024.