2026 Most Affordable Online Associate Degrees in HR
Browse affordable online associate degrees in human resources, ranked by manually verified tuition rates.
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Choose an affordable online associate degree in human resources from the list of accredited schools below.
Key Takeaways:
- Wake Technical Community College is the winner, with in-state tuition of just $2,280 per year. (That's less than half the cost of the next cheapest online HR associate degree.)
- Wisconsin is well-represented, with four schools on the list, reflecting the state's strong technical college system.
- Schools ranked #4 through #9 all fall within roughly $4,600-$5,200 in-state, so the cost differences there are relatively minor.
The OnlineU research team manually collects all tuition rates and then separately verifies each one, citing all sources.
How We Rank "Most Affordable" Schools
The OnlineU research team manually collects and verifies tuition data for every school on our lists, ensuring you see accurate, up-to-date costs whether you're pursuing an associate, bachelor's, master's, or doctoral program. To qualify, schools must offer fully online degrees, hold institutional accreditation, and have verifiable enrollment data through the National Center for Education Statistics. While some of our rankings include partner schools, every school is evaluated using the exact same criteria.
We prioritize schools that offer a consistent tuition rate across programs at the same degree level, so you're not caught off guard by unexpected price differences between majors, and for graduate programs we go a step further by individually calculating program costs since credit requirements and fees vary widely.
2026 Most Affordable Online Associate Degrees in HR
| Rank | School | Annual In-State Tuition | Annual Out-of-State Tuition | Recommendation | Median Salary |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Wake Technical Community College | $2,280 | $8,040 | 75% | $39,766 | |
| Waubonsee Community College | $4,230 | $4,230 | N/A | N/A | |
| Rowan College of South Jersey | $4,380 | $5,220 | N/A | N/A | |
| Chippewa Valley Technical College | $4,585 | $6,878 | N/A | $51,498 | |
| Lakeshore Technical College | $4,585 | $6,878 | N/A | N/A | |
| Northcentral Technical College | $4,585 | $6,878 | N/A | N/A | |
| Northwood Technical College | $5,043 | $7,335 | N/A | N/A | |
| Northeast Wisconsin Technical College | $5,131 | $7,424 | N/A | $43,576 | |
| South Texas College | $5,220 | $7,620 | 100% | N/A | |
| Dakota College at Bottineau | $5,490 | $6,408 | N/A | N/A | |
| Marion Technical College | $5,590 | $10,120 | 100% | N/A | |
| Rhodes State College | $5,850 | $11,700 | 100% | N/A | |
| Minnesota State Community and Technical College | $6,184 | $6,184 | N/A | $49,071 | |
| Hawkeye Community College | $6,810 | $6,840 | 100% | $43,962 | |
| Western Iowa Tech Community College | $6,810 | $6,810 | N/A | N/A |
Associate of Applied Science in Human Resources Management, $76/credit
Why we like them: At #1 for in-state annual tuition, this HR associate program has a broad business foundation, integrating accounting, business law, economics, and marketing alongside HR-specific coursework, giving students a dual career pathway in both HR and general business management. Additionally, the program emphasizes practical skill development in team-building.
- Undergraduate Online: 11,077 enrolled
- Median Earnings: $39,766
- Avg. Grad. Rate: N/A
- Retention Rate: 70%
Associate in Applied Science in Human Resources Management: $141/credit
Why we like them: WCC’s ONLINE HR AAS embeds technology and analytics through Business Information Systems, a Comprehensive Excel course, and Accounting Information Systems. You can tailor legal and leadership foundations by choosing Legal Environment of Business or Business Law and pairing them with Leadership in Business and Organizational Behavior, creating a pragmatic management trio.
- Undergraduate Online: 1,250 enrolled
- Median Earnings: N/A
- Avg. Grad. Rate: N/A
- Retention Rate: 72%
Associate of Science in Human Resource Management: $146/credit
Why we like them: Rowan College of South Jersey ranks in the top 3 for its remarkably affordable tuition. The HR associate program focuses on technology utilization for business processes and decision-making. It also offers explicit transfer pathway to Wilmington University, ensuring a seamless transition for students pursuing a bachelor’s degree in HR or business-related fields.
- Undergraduate Online: 1,460 enrolled
- Median Earnings: N/A
- Avg. Grad. Rate: N/A
- Retention Rate: 65%
Associate of Science in Human Resources: $153/credit
Why we like them: This program has an application-based learning approach, offering mock interviews, real-world termination scenarios, and interactive HR exercises. CVTC also integrates risk and safety management into its curriculum to help students understand legal compliance and liability protection. We also like that HR graduates have direct hiring opportunities at companies like Menards, Royal Credit Union, and Medical Staffing Solutions, Inc., helping with high job placement rates.
- Undergraduate Online: 1,795 enrolled
- Median Earnings: $51,498
- Avg. Grad. Rate: N/A
- Retention Rate: 70%
Associate of Science in Human Resource Administration: $153/credit
Why we like them: As part of this HR associate degree is a focused internship in human resources allows you to gain hands-on experience, essential for a well-rounded understanding of the field. It also has a Competency-Based Education (CBE) format, allowing students to progress at their own pace. And lastly, the SHRM Club-Lakeshore Student Chapter gives students networking opportunities, industry connections, and professional development through the Society for Human Resource Management (SHRM).
- Undergraduate Online: 641 enrolled
- Median Earnings: N/A
- Avg. Grad. Rate: N/A
- Retention Rate: 70%
Associate of Science in Human Resources: $153/credit
Why we like them: Northcentral's HR associate has dedicated coursework in payroll accounting, an area often overlooked in standard HR programs. This gives students practical financial and compliance skills, preparing them for payroll coordination and compensation management roles — a major advantage in HR careers requiring direct payroll oversight.
- Undergraduate Online: 1,642 enrolled
- Median Earnings: N/A
- Avg. Grad. Rate: N/A
- Retention Rate: 74%
Associate of Science in Human Resource Management: $168/credit
Why we like them: NWT's HR management associate program's real-world project integration allows students to apply coursework directly to their current job duties if they are already employed. This practical, workplace-focused approach helps students gain immediate HR experience while earning their degree.
- Undergraduate Online: 526 enrolled
- Median Earnings: N/A
- Avg. Grad. Rate: N/A
- Retention Rate: 74%
Associate of Science in Human Resources: $171/credit
Why we like them: Accreditation by the ACBSP underscores the quality of education provided. With experiential components such as internships or practicums and the potential for study abroad opportunities, NWTC ensures that HR graduates are prepared for immediate employment. The curriculum requires 63 credits, typically distributed across four semesters, totaling 18 credits in the first semester followed by decreasing credits in subsequent semesters.
- Undergraduate Online: 2,050 enrolled
- Median Earnings: $43,576
- Avg. Grad. Rate: N/A
- Retention Rate: 77%
Associate of Applied Science in Human Resources Specialist: $174/credit
Why we like them: Alongside the associate degree in human resources, STC offers a Human Resources Assistant Certificate, which focuses on accounting and problem-solving coursework. Additionally, the curriculum prepares students for HR certifications like the Associate Professional in Human Resources and Professional in Human Resources.
AI Student Review Summary: Students speak very positively about South Texas College, often highlighting supportive instructors, affordable tuition, and a practical learning environment. Reviewers frequently praise engaging teaching, smaller classes, and faculty who take a genuine interest in student success. Many also value flexible payment plans, tutoring, counseling, financial aid support, and open labs that make the college feel accessible and manageable. Additional strengths include multiple campus locations, varied course formats, and strong transfer or career-building opportunities. Criticism is minimal, though a small number of students suggest the coursework may feel less academically demanding in some areas.
This is an AI-generated overview of real student feedback submitted to OnlineU, highlighting common themes and insights. The summary was reviewed for accuracy.- Undergraduate Online: 6,291 enrolled
- Median Earnings: N/A
- Avg. Grad. Rate: 28%
- Retention Rate: 61%
Associate of Applied Science in Human Resource Management: $2,745/semester
Why we like them: This HR associate program includes a focused study on employment life cycles, compensation, benefits administration, and the application of federal, state, and local employment regulations. Notably, students have the opportunity to earn the Associate Professional in Human Resources (aPHR) credential from the HR Certification Institute, enhancing career prospects. This credential, although not required for degree completion, is a valuable professional asset as it supplements career progression in HR.
- Undergraduate Online: 713 enrolled
- Median Earnings: N/A
- Avg. Grad. Rate: N/A
- Retention Rate: 70%
Associate of Applied Business in Human Resource Management: $2,795/semester
Why we like them: This HR management program is structured around an 8-week course format, allowing you to progress more swiftly than the traditional 16-week semester schedule. This accelerated structure makes it easier for students to balance education with work and personal commitments while still completing their degree efficiently.
- Undergraduate Online: 846 enrolled
- Median Earnings: N/A
- Avg. Grad. Rate: 22%
- Retention Rate: N/A
Associate of Applied Science in Human Resources: $195/credit
Why we like them: This program is accredited by ACBSP, ensuring a high standard of education. Furthermore, there is an opportunity to incorporate embedded certificates within this degree. The program is structured to facilitate easy transition into a bachelor’s program at Franklin University, with up to three years’ worth of credit transferable.
- Undergraduate Online: 819 enrolled
- Median Earnings: N/A
- Avg. Grad. Rate: 33%
- Retention Rate: N/A
Associate of Applied Science in Human Resources: $206/credit
Why we like them: With an accessible tuition rate, this associate program emphasizes both local employment regulations and ethical decision-making, ensuring graduates are prepared for real-world workplace challenges. Additionally, the program offers multiple credential options — an AAS for direct workforce entry, an AS for transfer opportunities, and a certificate for skill-focused advancement — giving students flexibility based on their career goals.
- Undergraduate Online: 1,568 enrolled
- Median Earnings: $49,071
- Avg. Grad. Rate: N/A
- Retention Rate: 65%
Associate of Applied Science in Human Resource Management: $227/credit
Why we like them: The HR management associate program at HCC includes hands-on projects and a 192-hour internship for practical experience. Additionally, enrollment is available year-round with eligibility for the Future Ready Iowa Last-Dollar Scholarship that covers up to 100% of tuition.
- Undergraduate Online: 1,009 enrolled
- Median Earnings: $43,962
- Avg. Grad. Rate: N/A
- Retention Rate: 58%
Associate of Applied Science in Human Resources Management: $227/credit
Why we like them: WIT's online AAS in HR management is has a unique hands-on focus regarding essential HR functions, including interviewing applicants, conducting pre-employment tests, processing promotions and terminations, and handling payroll and accident reports. Additionally, students gain experience in computerized HR systems, preparing them for data-driven HR roles in modern workplaces.
- Undergraduate Online: 2,096 enrolled
- Median Earnings: N/A
- Avg. Grad. Rate: N/A
- Retention Rate: 64%
Why an Affordable Online Associate Degree in Human Resources Might Be the Smartest Move You Make
How useful is an online associate degree in HR as a pathway to a bachelor’s or professional certification later on?
"An associate degree is an amazing starting point if you plan on getting your bachelor’s later on and pursuing PHR or SHRM-CP certification.
The average bachelor’s program will accept upwards of 60 transfer credits from your associate degree. Meaning you can knock out the remaining portion of your bachelor’s in 18-24 months instead of 48."
How do employers typically view an HR associate degree compared to a bachelor’s?
"Employers actually consider an associate degree sufficient for transactional HR work such as data entry, recordkeeping, and payroll processing.
It really doesn’t become worthwhile until an individual is placed in a strategic role such as compensation design or employee relations management, and those opportunities don’t typically come along until 3-5 years into someone’s career.
Roughly 40% of HR assistants and coordinators at companies with less than 200 employees have an associate degree or equivalent.
Roughly 40% of HR assistants and coordinators at companies with less than 200 employees have an associate degree or equivalent. If you’re looking to break into the field ASAP a two-year degree opens up a lot of opportunities at the operational level."
What types of entry-level HR roles are most realistic for graduates with an HR associate degree?
"Payroll coordinator and benefits administration assistant are tied for the most common entry-level HR positions for associate’s degree holders. In fact, you can find payroll coordinator jobs that pay $38,000-$44,000 yearly that do not require a bachelor’s degree.
Onboarding specialist is another major area of need. Any company with more than 50 employees will need support processing new hires. Honestly, those three positions make up more than 60% of entry level HR jobs you’ll find at smaller businesses."
Are there signs that an online HR program aligns well with common HR tools/systems used by employers?
"If the HR program you are looking into spends time teaching ADP Workforce Now, BambooHR, or Paychex Flex then you know they are preparing you to service actual business needs. HR systems alone account for about 70-80% of small and mid-sized businesses. So, if students can find a program that walks them through the HRIS and benefits enrollment processes they’ll be ahead of 90% of programs that don’t address these topics.
Look for courses that offer HRIS data management and benefits enrollment processes as part of the coursework. Anything that glosses over the software side is doing their students a tremendous disservice."
EXPERT TIP
"If students are looking to save money, starting at a community college or affordable online school for $5,000-$8,000 per year and then transferring makes sense. You’ll save $20,000-$30,000 over going directly to a 4-year institution. Trust me when I say your associate degree will pay for itself when you land that $40,000 paycheck as a payroll coordinator right out of school."
FAQs About Affordable Online HR Associate Degrees
How Much Does an Online Associate Degree in HR Cost?
The cost of an online associate degree in HR varies widely depending on the school and your state of residency. Based on the most current data, annual tuition can range from as little as $2,280 per year at the most affordable schools to over $10,000 at pricier institutions not on this affordable list above.
For most programs, you're looking at a two-year commitment, so total degree costs can run anywhere from roughly $4,500 to $20,000+ depending on where you enroll and whether you qualify for in-state rates.
Which Schools Offer the Cheapest Online HR Associate Degrees?
According to the tuition data gathered by the OnlineU research team, the most affordable options are Wake Technical Community College in North Carolina at just $2,280 per year for in-state students, followed by Waubonsee Community College in Illinois at $4,230 — notably one of the few schools that charges all students the same rate regardless of residency. Rowan College of South Jersey rounds out the top three at $4,380 per year.
For students who don't qualify for in-state rates, flat-tuition schools like Waubonsee and Western Iowa Tech Community College represent the best value since there's no residency penalty.
Are Online HR Associate Degrees Cheaper Than On-Campus Ones?
Generally, yes. However, the gap may have narrowed in recent years. Online programs eliminate many of the costs associated with attending in person, including campus fees, commuting, parking, and housing. Many online programs, particularly at community colleges, also charge the same tuition rate regardless of where you live, which can make them significantly cheaper than attending an out-of-state campus in person.
That said, it's always worth checking whether a school charges additional technology or distance-learning fees for online students, as these can offset some of the savings.
Can I Get Financial Aid for an Online Associate Degree in HR?
Yes, you can. As long as the school is accredited and participates in federal student aid programs, you can apply for financial aid through the FAFSA — and this applies to online programs just as it does to on-campus ones. Eligible aid can include federal Pell Grants, which don't need to be repaid and are especially valuable for community college students, as well as subsidized and unsubsidized federal student loans.
Many community colleges on the affordability list also offer their own institutional scholarships. Given how low tuition already is at top-ranked schools like Wake Tech, even a modest Pell Grant could potentially cover a significant portion, or in some cases all, of your annual tuition.
Student Reviews of Online Human Resources Programs
Having the option to do online classes was great. Worked well with my busy daily life. Having not being in school in 20+ years, I was nervous at the beginning. It was great that Teachers were available to connect on weekends when it was convenient for me. Overall, great experience.
Review Date: 4/2/2025
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: Yes
Bryant and Stratton is a great school I was able to furthur my career while still attending to my personal life. The flexibility of the online classes were very Convient and efficient which help me accomplish my goal by getting my AAS in Human Resources. I will be returning to pursue my BBA in Human Resources.
Review Date: 4/25/2025
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: Yes
My experience at Bryant & Stratton College has been very rewarding. When I started my journey, I was unsure if I could finish. However with the support from my instructors, student advisor and the College as a whole, I not only completed my courses I excelled in many of them. I would like to thank everyone at Bryant & Stratton College. Everyone there helped make my dream of having a degree a reality!
Review Date: 7/1/2024
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: Yes
When I was researching colleges I saw Bryant & Stratton and it just clicked. I was able to get my degree completely online while working. The teachers were incredible to work with. They were all very supportive. I absolutely recommend going here. From the start when I was speaking to admissions they walked me through everything from financial aid to my degree. My academic advisor was also incredibly helpful. He was with me every step of the way and answered every question quickly. One thing that... Read More
Review Date: 2/23/2024
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: Yes
Overall, I have had a great experience with Bryant & Stratton. Instructors provided sufficient feedback for assignments, responded fairly quickly to emails, and instructions were transparent and easily understood. I would highly recommend this school to others looking to further their education.
Review Date: 10/11/2023
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: Yes
So far I am learning a lot. And I am very happy with the way the instructor and advisor and everyone there is treating me. I am really enjoying the classes. The administration is really nice and helpful I had been really to navigate threw the classes. And learning how to get threw cingage
Review Date: 3/4/2023
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: No
My education at Ashworth as really prepared me for my current job. Since enrolling I have become a member of the management staff. My degree as leveled me up and my classes have prepared me for my new role. My business communication and knowledge of computer applications, and Human Relations, has greatly increased! I am very happy with Ashworth College!
Review Date: 2/24/2023
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: No
Bryan University has changed my life and my mindset about college. I really enjoy being able to go to school online because of the flexibility it offers my family and me. This is the best educational investment I've made so far and I'm very happy that I did. BU you rock really! Thank you so much to all of the staff members at Bryan University.
Review Date: 11/29/2022
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: No
I have enjoyed my time at the school and I have learned a lot from my instructors. I would definitely recommend the school to other people and possibly come back to further my education for my career. This school has offered me a lot and I love the career services are for a lifetime.
Review Date: 8/13/2023
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: Yes
I love Ashworth College! The lessons are excellent, easy to understand and easy to learn. I enjoyed the reading/lecture materials, all the material were relevant and clear. The professors provided me with excellent feedback on my essays, I learned so much! I strongly recommend Ashworth, I had a positive experience with the staff, billing, course work, professors were always accessible and willing to help. Thank you Ashworth! Jacqueline Lopez
Review Date: 3/7/2021
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: No
I have been in this program for 9 months and it's not easy...BECAUSE ITS COLLEGE. I really like this school because it uses real life scenarios in my program the professors are helpful/ successful people and the academic advisor Marvin Parrish has been wonderful since day 1. The school is sort of cheaper than other online schools even if it's "for profit". Will check back in if anything changes. Good luck!!!!
Review Date: 2/17/2019
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: No
Grades are just handed out, along with degrees. We as students are not held accountable for anything, and they just push us along with a passing grade. Regardless of what is in the syllabus, if you complain, you get your way. I don't know how the instructors do it. I see so many posts of incorrect grammar and spelling, and nothing is ever said- no wonder why people don't hold Bryant and Stratton to a higher standard.
Review Date: 12/20/2021
Would Recommend: No
Helpful for Career: No
I chose to study online I can say this was the right choice for me and my family. I received a life-changing diagnosis during my 4th session. My success coach and professors even though miles away, were there fighting with and for me every step of the way! At my lowest point in life, I learned the meaning of CTU Strong, for me, it became more than our school motto. It was my reason to fight another day. I can proudly say I graduated, earning my BSBA in Human Resources Management with honors. I love... Read More
Review Date: 7/22/2018
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: No
It was a little hard at first to get used to the online program, but after awhile it got easier.
Review Date: 12/11/2014
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: Yes
I'm in my first semester of Penn Fosters Human Resources Associate Degree program and so far I love it. The online study guides are great and compliment the text books well. I received my 1st text book with in 1 week. While I was waiting for it to arrive I was able to read and study the study guide. So far the courses have been very informative and educational. I have learned a lot. Just like any program you choose from any school, you get what you put into it. I work full time, I have children who... Read More
Review Date: 10/8/2015
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: Yes
ASHWORTH IS ONE OF THE BEST. ITS VERY AFFORDABLE BUT I HAD NO ISSUES WITH THE STAFF OR GETTING ANY OF MY BOOKS ON TIME OR WHAT NOT. ITS AN AMAZING SCHOOL, I LOVED IT. ALONG WITH ONLINE SCHOOLING, IT TAKES COMMITMENT AND NOT MAY HAVE THAT. ONLINE SCHOOL IS VERY HARD, AND ASHWORTH HAD MADE MY EXPERIENCE WORTH WHILE. CURRENTLY MY SON IS A SENIOR AT JAMES MADISON HIGH, AND ITS THE BEST!!! I WOULD RECOMMEND ASHWORTH.
Review Date: 5/18/2017
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: Yes
My experience with Ashworth College was wonderful. I was able to achieve my goals and complete my degree on my free time. The curriculum for degree program was excellent. The courses were challenging as well as rewarding. All of Ashworth's information was clear and concise. With an understanding, you cannot mistake this. The cost of your degree is reasonable and will not leave you in debt for years to come. Research will show that Ashworth's curriculum is competitive with that of other great online... Read More
Review Date: 9/15/2016
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: Yes
This college had a lot of negative reviews. However, I went with my gut. I'm glad I did! They took my MyCAA benefits and my A.S degree was almost completely covered. I paid $60 out of pocket total. My work courses and materials have all be just as anticipated. My books arrive on time, I can study at my own pace, if I ever need help my admissions specialist helped me reach a mentor/tutor. My husband saw how happy I was upon completion and now has enrolled too, and he's active duty in the military.... Read More
Review Date: 7/22/2016
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: No
I am a current student at Bryant & Stratton, I had previously tried community colleges and felt like a number, and like they could care less whether I passed or failed, not to mention the drive to the campus and them deciding my hours. I am so glad that I was accepted at Bryant & Stratton. This is college and it is for adults and you are expected to behave that way. Everyone from every department has been more than happy to assist me in anyway. I have received phone calls, emails, and text just checking... Read More
Review Date: 6/7/2015
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: No
It is true that everyone will have their own experience. For me, it was not an option to go to a campus because I would often get out of work late. Where everyone else was receiving promotions, I lacked the minimum college education, but exceeded the work experience. Online classes was stressful and demanding with posting replies to other students. However, so is life. If you want something, you need to work for it. I worked long nights and every weekend. I took my books on vacation and studied by... Read More
Review Date: 1/30/2016
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: Yes