Arizona State University Online Programs: A Honest Look for Future Students

Choosing a college program isn’t easy, and when you add “online” into the mix, it gets even trickier. People want flexibility, but they also worry: Will employers take my degree seriously? Will I still get the same education as campus students?

If you’ve been researching online universities, chances are you’ve already come across Arizona State University (ASU). It shows up on almost every list of “best online colleges,” and for good reason.

But here’s the real question: What are ASU Online programs actually like, and are they worth the cost?

Let’s dive in.

Why ASU Went All In on Online Education

ASU isn’t some small private college trying to cash in on the online education trend. It’s one of the largest public research universities in the U.S., with campuses in Arizona and a reputation for innovation.

About a decade ago, ASU made a big push into online learning. Instead of just offering a handful of classes, they built an entire online division. Now, they offer more than 300 programs—from bachelor’s degrees to master’s programs and even certificates.

That’s not just marketing fluff. It’s a big deal. Many online schools can’t match that level of variety.

Is ASU Online Legit?

Let’s cut straight to the point. Yes, ASU Online degrees are legitimate.

Here’s why:

• The school is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC), which is the same accreditor that covers top public universities.
• Online students take courses taught by the same professors who teach on-campus.
• Diplomas earned online are identical to those from in-person programs.

In other words, your résumé won’t scream “online degree.” It just says Arizona State University.

What You Can Study at ASU Online

With so many programs, it’s tough to list them all—but here’s a snapshot:

Popular Undergraduate Degrees

• Psychology
• Business (with several tracks, like Global Leadership or Analytics)
• Criminal Justice
• Health Sciences
• Engineering and Technology

Graduate Programs

• Master of Business Administration (MBA)
• Master of Computer Science
• Master of Social Work
• Master of Public Health
• Master of Engineering Management

Certificates

Not everyone wants a full degree. ASU also offers shorter professional certificates in areas like cybersecurity, digital marketing, and project management.

What Online Classes Actually Feel Like

When people hear “online,” they often imagine endless video lectures. ASU’s approach is more interactive.

• Classes run on Canvas, a widely used learning platform.
• Most are asynchronous (you don’t need to log in at a set time).
• Weekly modules include recorded lectures, discussion boards, assignments, and projects.
• Professors are accessible by email, office hours, and sometimes live sessions.

And here’s a detail many students appreciate: the school provides advisors and tutoring specifically for online learners. You don’t feel like an afterthought.

Tuition and Costs

Now for the number everyone wants.

• Undergraduate tuition: around \$530 to \$728 per credit hour
• Graduate tuition: \$543 to \$1,343 per credit hour, depending on the program

It’s not cheap. But it’s also not sky-high compared to private universities. And yes, online students qualify for financial aid, scholarships, and sometimes employer tuition reimbursement.

Pros of ASU Online

• Strong reputation. ASU is consistently ranked among the most innovative universities in the country.
• Flexibility. Designed with working adults and parents in mind.
• Wide choice of programs. You’re not stuck with just a few majors.
• No “online” label on the degree. That’s huge for career credibility.

Cons of ASU Online

• Not the cheapest option. Community colleges or in-state schools can be less expensive.
• Requires self-discipline. If you procrastinate easily, online learning may be tough.
• Structured weeks. While flexible, courses still follow schedules—you can’t just binge an entire semester in two weeks.

Who Does ASU Online Work Best For?

ASU Online isn’t for everyone. But it works especially well for:

• Working professionals who want to advance careers without quitting jobs.
• Parents balancing school with childcare.
• Military and international students needing flexibility.
• Students who value a big university name behind their degree.

Student Support Services

Many online students worry about feeling isolated. ASU has tackled this by offering:

• 24/7 tech help (because tech problems never happen at 2 p.m.—they happen at midnight).
• Academic advising for degree planning.
• Tutoring in writing, math, and more.
• Career services, including résumé reviews and networking.

You don’t get the campus coffee shop experience, but you’re not left hanging either.

FAQs About ASU Online

1. Is ASU Online the same as going to ASU on campus? The experience is different, but the degree itself is the same.

2. Will employers respect an ASU Online degree? Yes. ASU’s accreditation and reputation carry weight with employers.

3. How much does it cost? Between \$530 and \$1,343 per credit hour, depending on the program.

4. Can I transfer credits? Yes, as long as they’re from another accredited institution.

5. Will my diploma say “online”? No. It’s identical to an on-campus diploma.

6. Do online students get career services? Yes. ASU provides virtual career coaching, résumé help, and employer connections.

Final Take: Is ASU Online Worth It?

Here’s the bottom line. If you’re looking for a flexible, respected, and legitimate online education, ASU Online checks all the boxes. The programs aren’t bargain-priced, and you’ll need self-motivation, but the credibility of the degree can pay off in career opportunities.

For students who want the best of both worlds—a respected university name and the convenience of online learning—Arizona State University is one of the strongest options out there.