If you’re looking to earn a college degree without pausing your life or draining your wallet, Eastern Washington University’s online degrees might just be your perfect fit. Designed for working professionals, busy parents, or anyone who prefers the flexibility of remote learning, EWU’s online programs offer a chance to earn a respected, accredited degree from the comfort of your home—on your own schedule.
Whether you’re interested in education, public health, business, or social work, EWU provides a range of fully online bachelor’s and master’s programs that combine academic rigor with real-world application. The university has built a reputation for affordability, personalized support, and strong career outcomes—making it a solid choice for students across the U.S. who want quality without the campus commute.
What Online Degrees Does Eastern Washington University Offer?
Eastern Washington University provides a robust selection of online degrees tailored to meet diverse career aspirations. The university offers over 12 online graduate programs and several undergraduate options, focusing on fields like healthcare, education, and business. Notable programs include:
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Master of Public Health (MPH): A CEPH-accredited program designed for those passionate about addressing health disparities and advancing community wellness.
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Master of Business Administration (MBA): AACSB-accredited, offering specializations in accounting, finance, and data analytics, ideal for aspiring business leaders.
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Master of Education (MEd): Options like Career & Technical Education and Curriculum & Instruction, perfect for educators seeking to enhance their teaching expertise.
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Bachelor of Arts in Interdisciplinary Studies: A flexible degree for students aiming to combine multiple disciplines for a customized career path.
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Graduate Certificates: Short-term programs in areas like addiction studies and public health, providing quick skill enhancement.
EWU’s online programs are delivered in accelerated 6-week courses, allowing students to balance education with work and personal commitments. The university’s commitment to affordability, with an average out-of-state tuition of $28,327 for online bachelor’s programs, makes it a compelling choice for cost-conscious learners.
How Much Does an Online Degree at Eastern Washington University Cost?
Affordability is a cornerstone of EWU’s online offerings. The university boasts the lowest in-state tuition among Washington’s public universities, and its online programs are competitively priced. For instance, the online MPH program is noted for being significantly cheaper than many other CEPH-accredited programs, making it attractive for students prioritizing cost.
Out-of-state students pay an average of $28,327 for online bachelor’s degrees, though costs vary by program. Graduate programs, such as the MBA, offer a generous GMAT waiver and multiple start dates, reducing financial and logistical barriers. Financial aid is widely available, with 75% of applicants receiving some form of assistance, ensuring accessibility for diverse learners.
Comparison with Other Online Schools:
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University of Phoenix: Known for flexibility but often has higher tuition rates than EWU.
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Southern New Hampshire University (SNHU): Offers competitive pricing, similar to EWU, with a focus on career-oriented programs.
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Western Governors University (WGU): Competency-based model with flat-rate tuition, slightly lower than EWU for some programs.
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Arizona State University (ASU) Online: Higher tuition but offers a broader range of programs.
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Purdue University Global: Comparable pricing to EWU, with a strong emphasis on adult learners.
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Liberty University Online: Faith-based institution with tuition rates often higher than EWU’s.
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Colorado State University Global: Similar cost structure to EWU, focusing on professional degrees.
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University of Maryland Global Campus (UMGC): Competitive tuition, slightly higher than EWU for out-of-state students.
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Capella University: Flexible but pricier than EWU, with a focus on competency-based learning.
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Grand Canyon University (GCU): Higher tuition but offers a wide range of online degrees.
EWU’s combination of low tuition and accreditation (e.g., AACSB for business, CEPH for public health) makes it a standout option for value-driven students.
Is Eastern Washington University’s Online Program Accredited?
Accreditation ensures the quality and recognition of a degree, and EWU excels in this area. The university is accredited by the Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities (NWCCU), a regional accrediting body recognized by the U.S. Department of Education, since 1919. Specific programs, like the MBA, hold prestigious AACSB accreditation, a mark of excellence in business education.
The Master of Public Health is accredited by the Council on Education for Public Health (CEPH), ensuring graduates are well-prepared for professional roles. This dual layer of institutional and programmatic accreditation enhances the credibility of EWU’s online degrees, making them comparable to those from other reputable online schools like SNHU or ASU Online.
What Are the Admission Requirements for Eastern Washington University’s Online Programs?
EWU’s online programs are designed to be accessible, with straightforward admission requirements. For undergraduate programs, applicants typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, a minimum GPA (often around 2.5–3.0), and standardized test scores (SAT/ACT, though some programs offer waivers). Graduate programs, such as the MBA or MPH, require a bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution, a minimum GPA (usually 3.0), and, for some, professional experience. The MBA program offers a GMAT waiver for qualified applicants, easing the admission process. International students must submit TOEFL or IELTS scores to demonstrate English proficiency. EWU’s rolling admissions and multiple start dates provide flexibility, aligning with the needs of busy professionals.
Comparison with Other Online Schools:
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University of Phoenix: Minimal requirements, often no standardized tests.
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SNHU: Similar GPA requirements but emphasizes transfer credits.
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WGU: Competency-based, no standardized tests, focuses on work experience.
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ASU Online: Higher GPA requirements for some programs.
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Purdue Global: Flexible but may require additional documentation.
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Liberty University: Faith-based criteria may apply.
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CSU Global: Similar to EWU, with a focus on professional experience.
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UMGC: Streamlined requirements for military and adult learners.
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Capella University: Flexible but requires detailed application essays.
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GCU: Moderate GPA requirements, similar to EWU.
EWU’s admissions process is notably user-friendly, with dedicated advisors to guide applicants, a feature praised in student reviews for its organization and support.
How Flexible Are Eastern Washington University’s Online Programs?
Flexibility is a hallmark of EWU’s online degrees, designed for working professionals and non-traditional students. Courses are delivered 100% online in accelerated 6-week formats, allowing students to complete degrees faster than traditional programs. Multiple start dates throughout the year accommodate varied schedules. However, some programs, like the MPH, require significant self-discipline, with students reporting 30–40 hours of weekly coursework. The university supports students through resources like the Writer’s Center and online tutoring, though some feedback notes limited instructor interaction in certain programs, such as the MPH, due to large class sizes.
Comparison with Other Online Schools:
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University of Phoenix: Highly flexible, similar to EWU’s accelerated model.
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SNHU: Offers asynchronous courses, slightly more flexible than EWU.
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WGU: Self-paced, potentially more flexible for disciplined learners.
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ASU Online: Asynchronous but may have stricter deadlines.
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Purdue Global: Flexible with modular courses, similar to EWU.
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Liberty University: Asynchronous but with some synchronous elements.
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CSU Global: Accelerated courses, closely aligned with EWU.
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UMGC: Highly flexible, designed for working adults.
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Capella University: Offers FlexPath for maximum flexibility.
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GCU: Asynchronous with structured deadlines, comparable to EWU.
EWU’s balance of structure and flexibility makes it ideal for students who thrive in organized yet adaptable learning environments.
What Support Services Are Available for Eastern Washington University Online Students?
EWU prioritizes student success through comprehensive support services. The JFK Library offers extensive online resources, including journal articles and databases. The Writer’s Center provides virtual assistance for research and thesis writing, while the Learning Commons offers tutoring and study groups. Career services connect students with internships and job opportunities, and the Adult & Lifelong Learner Resource Center supports non-traditional students. However, some students note challenges with instructor feedback in online programs, particularly in the MPH, due to large class sizes. Despite this, EWU’s support infrastructure is robust, fostering a sense of community for online learners.
Can You Earn a Degree Completely Online at Eastern Washington University?
Yes, EWU offers fully online degrees, allowing students to complete their education without ever visiting campus. Programs like the MBA, MPH, and select bachelor’s degrees are 100% online, with recorded lectures and asynchronous coursework. Unlike some competitors, EWU’s online programs maintain the same academic rigor as their on-campus counterparts, with no residency requirements. This makes EWU a strong contender among online schools like SNHU, WGU, and UMGC, which also offer fully online degrees. The university’s polytechnic focus ensures practical, career-ready skills, enhancing the value of its online credentials.
What Are the Benefits of Earning an Online Degree from Eastern Washington University?
EWU’s online degrees offer numerous advantages:
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Affordability: Competitive tuition and financial aid options.
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Accreditation: Regionally accredited by NWCCU, with program-specific accreditations.
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Flexibility: Accelerated courses and multiple start dates.
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Career Focus: Polytechnic model emphasizing hands-on, real-world skills.
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Support: Access to libraries, tutoring, and career services.
Graduates report strong career outcomes, with an average early-career salary of $52,667, 24% above the national average. Compared to other online schools, EWU’s blend of affordability, accreditation, and practical training makes it a top choice for students seeking value and impact.
Conclusion
Eastern Washington University online degrees offer a powerful combination of affordability, flexibility, and career-focused education. Whether you’re pursuing a Master of Public Health, an MBA, or a bachelor’s in interdisciplinary studies, EWU equips you with the skills to succeed in a competitive workforce. With robust support services, accredited programs, and a polytechnic approach, EWU stands alongside leading online schools like SNHU, WGU, and ASU Online. Take the first step toward transforming your future—explore EWU’s online programs today and unlock a world of opportunity.