Why Choose an Affordable Online STEM College with Diversity Support?
This post will explore the top ten affordable online colleges for minority students in STEM fields. It will also include information about scholarships and financial aid and how to pick the right STEM program.
A college degree is one of the most expensive things today. According to the Education Data Initiative, a bachelor’s degree costs an average of $38,270 per student per year. With the cost of living also increasing, you should consider earning a high return on investment (ROI) degree.
One of the best degrees for minority students is in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics. However, these STEM degrees can be very expensive and challenging.
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Minority students are underrepresented in STEM education. Although they make up about 30% of the U.S. population and 34% of those planning to study STEM in college, they earn only 23% of all STEM degrees. Hispanic students, in particular, have the lowest graduation rates in STEM fields among all minority groups.
One of the top factors cited by multiple reasons why STEM students are underrepresented is the cost. STEM degrees are often more expensive than other types of degrees, such as humanities or social sciences.
STEM degree costs typically range between $40,000 and $80,000 per year. Engineering degrees are significantly more expensive due to the specialized courses, lab fees, and equipment required.
While student loans are easy to get, they aren’t the best choice for minority students. Taking on too much debt can make it harder to achieve financial stability after graduation. This would defeat the purpose of earning a degree in the first place.
Fortunately, thanks to online colleges, the number of accessible STEM programs for minority students is increasing. These colleges and programs offer a more flexible and affordable way to earn a degree.
Related Articles:
- STEM Scholarships for Minority Students in Affordable Online Programs
- Affordable Online Colleges for Minority Students: Top Choices and Resources
- Affordable Online Colleges Ranked by Diversity and Inclusion Programs
- Best Online Colleges with Support for Minority Students
Top Affordable Online Colleges with STEM Programs for Minority Students
University of Florida
School Type: Public
Average Tuition: $6,381 (in-state); $28,658 (out-of-state)
UF leads the state in producing graduates in key STEM fields. Its (Wertheim) Engineering School, in particular, has ranked #48 Best Engineering Schools by the U.S. News and World Report. Top majors at UF include:
- Aerospace Engineering
- Computer Science
- Entomology and Nematology
- Marine Sciences
Home to the nation’s largest citrus research center, UF also leads research in healthcare, astronomy, and other fields.
University of Maryland Global Campus
School Type: Public
Average Tuition: $12,336 (in-state); $14,938 (out-of-state)
UMGC is another one of the best online colleges with diversity programs. Its affordable tuition and flexible class schedules make it easier for minority students to work while studying, helping them cover costs without taking on too much debt.
Its graduate-level STEM degrees are highly competitive, and the university leads research in fields like science, medicine, biotech, and environmental studies. Combined with a rich, diverse culture, it’s an ideal environment for students to thrive professionally and personally.
Among the degrees offered are in:
- Biological and Environmental Sciences
- Chemical and Physical Sciences and Geography
- Computer and Information Sciences
- Mathematics and Statistics
- Engineering
Southern New Hampshire University
School Type: Private
Average Tuition: $15,380
SNHU is a leading school for the best online STEM degrees for minority students. SNHU is committed to building degree programs that align with today’s workforce needs. Its online STEM programs offer flexible courses and hands-on labs so you can complete your coursework on your own schedule.
Students will focus on applied learning, led by seasoned faculty who bring real-world expertise to the virtual classroom. Both online and on-campus students benefit from partnerships with local and national organizations, offering networking opportunities, internships, and more.
STEM students can get involved in a variety of extracurricular activities, such as:
- National Cyber League competition (Spring & Fall)
- PAX East video game expo (April)
- NCWIT Conference for Women in IT (May)
- Hour of Code / National Computer Science Week (December)
University of Phoenix
School Type: Private
Average Tuition: $9,552
Phoenix is vastly renowned for its one flat-rate tuition policy. What you see is what you pay. Phoenix believes in no-surprise pricing, offering affordable and transparent Tuition from the start.
The University of Phoenix is more inclined with its technology degrees. Among its popular STEM-based fields of study are:
- Information technology
- Cybersecurity
- Data Science
- Computer Science
University of North Dakota
School Type: Public
Average Tuition: $11,809 (in-state); $19,204 (out-of-state)
The University of North Dakota (UND) offers a variety of online STEM programs that cater to both in-state and out-of-state students. Known for its affordable Tuition and a strong focus on research and innovation, UND is a top choice for students interested in fields like
- Aerospace
- Engineering
- Environmental Sciences
With a focus on practical learning and accessible online platforms, UND provides students with opportunities to work on real-world problems and gain valuable field experience.
Arizona State University Online
School Type: Public
Average Tuition: $10,822
ASU is one of the largest and most well-known public universities for minority students. It provides a wide array of STEM-focused programs designed to accommodate all types of students. Whether you’re interested in engineering, computing, or sustainability, ASU has programs that emphasize hands-on learning, critical thinking, and innovation.
Top STEM programs at ASU include:
- Engineering
- Computer Science
- Environmental Science and Sustainability
- Applied Science
- Mathematics
Texas Tech University
School Type: Public
Average Tuition: $11,118 (in-state); $23,320 (out-of-state)
Texas Tech University is more known for its research, innovation, and experiential learning opportunities. Texas Tech provides its online students with high-quality academic programs that are on par with its in-person offerings. Top STEM programs at Texas Tech include:
- Computer Science
- Electrical Engineering
- Mechanical Engineering
- Data Science
- Environmental Science
In addition to its low tuition and fee costs, Texas Tech also offers several scholarships for minority students in STEM, such as the Diversity in STEM Scholarship.
National University
School Type: Private
Average Tuition: $13,320
National University focuses more on interdisciplinary education, offering various STEM degrees tailored to meet the needs of modern industries. NU is also known for its supportive environment, particularly for adult learners, veterans, and first-generation college students.
Top STEM programs at the National University include:
- Cybersecurity
- Data Analytics
- Software Engineering
- Information Systems
- Computer Science
The University of Arizona Global
School Type: Public
Average Tuition: $10,742
UAG is dedicated to creating an inclusive and diverse academic community and has resources to support underrepresented groups in STEM. The university’s online programs are structured for flexibility, allowing students to balance academic commitments with personal or professional responsibilities. UAG also offers a range of financial aid opportunities and scholarships for online students.
Among the degrees offered by UAG include:
- Cybersecurity
- Health Informatics
- Data Science
- Engineering
- Environmental Science
University of Alabama
School Type: Public
Average Tuition: $11,620 (in-state); $30,250 (out-of-state)
The University of Alabama is home to a broad range of online STEM degrees through its renowned College of Engineering and College of Sciences. UA also provides robust online learning platforms that include live classes, interactive simulations, and hands-on labs.
Top STEM programs at the University of Alabama include:
- Aerospace Engineering
- Chemical Engineering
- Computer Science
- Mechanical Engineering
- Environmental Engineering
What Makes These Colleges Stand Out for Minority Students in STEM?
The ten colleges were selected for a few important reasons. These schools are affordable and committed to supporting diversity and inclusion and creating a fair environment for underrepresented students in STEM fields. Here’s what made these schools stand out:
Diversity Programs
These colleges are dedicated to creating an inclusive academic environment. These schools have diversity offices, mentorship programs, and cultural events to help students feel welcome and valued.
Scholarships and Financial Aid Opportunities
They offer manageable tuition rates, especially for students from minority backgrounds who might face financial challenges. Some schools provide both in-state and out-of-state tuition options, giving students easy access to quality education without piling up debt. We’ve also ensured that these schools offer scholarships and other types of financial aid for minority students in STEM.
Mentorship Programs
Diversity support in online colleges is very important. These schools offer strong support services, like academic advising, peer mentoring, career coaching, and mental health resources, all designed to help students succeed.
Industry and Diversity Partnerships
In addition to industry mentorship programs for minority students, these colleges also provide great opportunities for students to connect with the real world. They focus on keeping partnerships with diversity organizations in STEM to offer internships and career services.
Scholarships and Financial Aid for Minority Students in STEM
Affordable online STEM degrees are also made possible by scholarships from private organizations. Here’s a list of scholarships for minorities in STEM:
NACME Scholarships
Amount: Varies
Provider: National Action Council for Minorities in Engineering
Eligibility: Black/African American, Latinx/Hispanic-American, Native/American Indian students pursuing engineering/computer science. Must be a U.S. citizen/permanent resident.
Blitman Diversity in Engineering Scholarship
Amount: $5,000
Provider: National Society of Professional Engineers
Eligibility: High school seniors from underrepresented ethnic groups accepted into an ABET-accredited engineering program.
ACS Scholars Program
Amount: Up to $5,000
Provider: American Chemical Society
Eligibility: African-American/Black, Hispanic/Latino, or Indigenous students majoring in chemistry-related fields.
Shell Incentive Fund Scholarship
Amount: $5,000
Provider: Shell Oil Company
Eligibility: Black, Hispanic, and Native American students majoring in engineering or physical sciences with a 3.2 GPA or higher.
NextEra Energy Foundation Scholarship
Amount: $5,000
Provider: NextEra Energy Foundation
Eligibility: American Indian/Alaska Native students majoring in environment, energy, or STEM-related disciplines.
For A Bright Future – STEM Scholarship
Amount: Up to $10,000
Provider: For A Bright Future
Eligibility: Underrepresented students (ages 17-30) majoring in STEM fields with a 3.0 GPA.
HITEC Scholarship
Amount: Up to $5,000
Provider: HITEC Foundation
Eligibility: Hispanic students majoring in technology or related fields with a 3.0 GPA or higher.
Ralph W. Shrader Graduate Diversity Scholarship
Amount: $3,000
Provider: AFCEA International
Eligibility: Minority graduate students pursuing STEM fields with a 3.5 GPA or higher.
Choosing the Right Online STEM Program for Your Career Goals
Here are a few practical tips on how to choose the best STEM program for your needs and interests:
- Check if the program has strong partnerships with companies and if they offer job placement support.
- Ensure the program offers a curriculum that aligns with your career interests and goals. Some STEM programs emphasize hands-on experience and project-based learning, while others focus more on theoretical knowledge.
- Make sure that the program you choose is accredited by a reputable organization. This ensures that the program meets high academic and professional standards.
- Consider program duration and pace. Some STEM programs offer accelerated tracks while others may offer part-time or extended timelines.
- Review the instructors’ qualifications and backgrounds. Are they experts in their fields? Do they have strong ties to the industry and professional networks that can benefit you?
- Learn about others’ experiences. This can give you a clearer picture of the program’s strengths and weaknesses.
- Understand the program’s total cost, including tuition, fees, and any additional expenses such as textbooks, software, or equipment.
Conclusion: Finding the Best Affordable STEM Education as a Minority Student
Picking the right STEM program as a minority student means considering a few key things, like cost, support for diversity, and the opportunities available. The online colleges we’ve discussed here have reputable academic programs, affordable tuition, and a strong focus on diversity, making them excellent choices if you want a quality education without breaking the bank.
Choosing a program that matches your personal and career goals ensures long-term success. Many of these schools also offer valuable resources like mentorship, scholarships, and career services to help you overcome challenges and grow professionally.