Southern New Hampshire University has built one of the largest and most recognized online programs in the country, offering over 200 degree options and extensive institutional support.

However, its $41,040 total cost for a bachelor’s degree and traditional semester-based structure may not be the ideal fit for everyone. Depending on your budget, goals, and preferred learning style, you might find that another program aligns better with what you need.

If you’re exploring alternatives to SNHU, you’re on the right track. Today’s online education landscape is full of diverse, flexible, and more affordable options—many of which offer strong career support without the higher price tag or rigid academic calendar.

In this guide, we break down the top 5 Southern New Hampshire University alternatives for 2026. You’ll get a clear look at which programs offer the strongest mix of affordability, flexibility, accreditation, and real-world outcomes for working professionals.

You deserve an online education that truly fits your life. Let’s explore the options and find the one that’s right for you.

What Makes a Great SNHU Alternative?

Before diving into specific universities, let's establish what actually matters when comparing online education options:

True Affordability: SNHU charges $342 per credit ($41,040 total for 120 credits). Can you find quality alternatives at a fraction of this cost? Understanding the complete financial picture—including all fees and typical completion timelines—helps you budget accurately.

Real Flexibility: SNHU operates on traditional 8-week terms with structured schedules. Can you find alternatives with monthly starts? True self-pacing without term constraints? The ability to accelerate or slow down based on your life circumstances?

Transparent Pricing: You deserve to know exactly what you'll pay upfront—no surprises, no fine print. Per-credit models work for some students, but pay-per-course or flat-rate options might better suit your pace and budget.

Quality Accreditation: Regional or national accreditation from legitimate bodies ensures your degree holds value with employers and other universities. SNHU offers NECHE accreditation—what do alternatives provide?

Career Support: A degree should advance your career. Look for universities offering integrated coaching, networking, and professional development—not just academic advising you access on your own.

Modern Learning Experience: Education technology continues to evolve. Your learning platform should feel current and user-friendly, not like digitized versions of traditional courses.

Global Accessibility: If you're outside the United States, does the university offer pricing adjusted to your local economy, or are you forced to pay U.S. rates?

With these criteria in mind, here are the top alternatives worth your consideration.

#1: Nexford University - Our Top Recommendation for Cost-Conscious Professionals

Why Nexford Takes the Top Spot:

Nexford University was built specifically for working professionals who need genuine flexibility without breaking the bank. Rather than charging per-credit like SNHU's traditional model, Nexford designed its entire approach around affordability and true self-paced learning—start any month, complete on your timeline, no semester constraints.

Key Features:

Monthly Start Dates: Begin on the 1st of any month. No waiting for semester or term start dates. You control your timeline completely—accelerate to finish your MBA in 9 months or take longer if life demands it. [5]

Career Success Coach from Day One: Unlike many universities that offer career services only near graduation, Nexford provides career coaching from enrollment. This proactive approach means you're building your career while earning your degree. [6]

Project-Based Learning: Real case studies from companies like Tesla, Amazon, and Apple. You'll create tangible work samples to show employers, not just grades on a transcript. [7]

Pay-Per-Course Model for Undergraduates: BBA programs charge $120-$250 per course depending on your country, giving you complete cost predictability. Total program cost: $4,800-$10,000 depending on your location. [1]

Monthly Subscription for Graduates: MBA programs use a monthly subscription model. The faster you complete, the less you pay. Total program cost: $3,300-$8,100 depending on completion speed and country. [1]

Modern Technology Platform: Mobile-optimized, built for today's learners. Intuitive interface designed specifically for online education. [8]

Global Accessibility: Serves learners from 100+ countries with pricing adjusted to local economic factors—making quality education genuinely accessible worldwide. [1]

Why We Recommend Nexford Over SNHU:

Dramatically Lower Costs:

• BBA: Nexford's $4,800-$10,000 total cost (depending on country) [1] versus SNHU's $41,040 (120 credits × $342/credit). [40][24] That's up to 86% savings.
• MBA: Nexford's $3,300-$8,100 (depending on completion speed and country) [1] versus SNHU's typical MBA cost of $19,770 (30 credits × $659/credit). [41] Save $11,670–$16,470.
• Global pricing: If you're outside the U.S., Nexford's country-adjusted pricing provides even greater savings than SNHU's one-size-fits-all model. [1]

More Flexible Structure:

• Monthly starts vs. semester schedule: Don't wait for SNHU's term start dates. Begin at Nexford on the 1st of any month. [5]
• True self-pacing: No 8-week term structure pressuring you to complete on a fixed schedule. Study when you want, complete when you're ready. [5]
• Accelerated options: Highly motivated MBA students can finish in 9 months at Nexford. [5] SNHU's structured format doesn't offer this flexibility.

Enhanced Career Support:

• Career Success Coach throughout your entire journey [6] versus SNHU's career services you access separately
• Proactive career development from day one, not reactive support near graduation [6]
• Professional faculty whose primary role is teaching and mentoring [13]

Business and Technology Focus:

• Modern curriculum aligned with current job market demands in business and tech [7]
• AI integration across all programs [14.a] [14.b]
• Next-generation specializations (AI & Automation, E-Commerce, Sustainability) [4]

Transparent Pricing: Clear per-course or monthly pricing. You know your total cost from the start. View detailed tuition information. [1] No surprises, no calculating cost per credit and wondering about your final total.

When SNHU Might Be Better:

Program Breadth: SNHU offers 200+ programs [27] across diverse fields including liberal arts, education, and specialized STEM programs. If you're pursuing a field outside business and technology, SNHU might have more options.

Institutional Scale: SNHU's massive infrastructure provides extensive library resources, established reputation, and large alumni network. [27][29] If institutional scale matters significantly to you, SNHU delivers this.

Transfer Credit Policy: SNHU accepts up to 90 transfer credits toward bachelor's degrees. [24] If you have substantial prior college work, this could reduce your overall costs and time to completion.

Regional Accreditation Preferences: SNHU offers NECHE regional accreditation [26] where Nexford offers DEAC national accreditation. [3] If your specific career path requires NECHE accreditation, SNHU provides this.

Who Should Choose Nexford:

Working professionals who want maximum value and can't justify $41,000+ for a bachelor's degree. Self-motivated learners who prefer true self-pacing without semester constraints. Anyone pursuing business or technology degrees who values practical skills and integrated career support. International students seeking globally adjusted pricing. Students who want to avoid the high costs of traditional per-credit pricing models.

If you're serious about advancing your career without overpaying for traditional structures, Nexford deserves strong consideration.

#2: Western Governors University (WGU) - Competency-Based Value

Why WGU Ranks Second:

Western Governors University pioneered competency-based online education with a flat-rate model that rewards fast learners. While not as affordable as Nexford, WGU offers significant savings compared to SNHU.

Key Features:

Total Cost:

• Undergraduate: $8,300 per year [9] × 2.5 years average = $20,750 total
• Graduate: $8,856 per year [9] (most students complete in 1.5-2 years)
• Flat-rate tuition per 6-month term [9]

Accreditation:

• Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities (NWCCU) - Regional accreditation [15]

Programs Offered:

• 96+ online degree programs [16]
• Strong in IT, business, education, healthcare [16]
• Competency-based progression [9]

The WGU Model:

Flat-Rate Terms: Pay one price per 6-month term, complete as many courses as possible. The faster you finish, the less you pay overall. [9]

Competency-Based Learning: Demonstrate mastery to progress, not sit through predetermined timelines. [9]

6-Month Terms: Structured in half-year increments with Program Mentors guiding your progress. [12]

How WGU Compares to SNHU:

Advantages Over SNHU:

• Significantly lower cost: $20,750 vs. $41,040 for bachelor's degrees [9][24] — Save nearly $20,290
• Flat-rate model rewards acceleration [9]
• Competency-based progression [9]
• Regional accreditation (NWCCU vs. NECHE) [15][26]

Where WGU Differs from Nexford:

• Higher total cost ($20,750 vs. $4,800-$10,000 for BBA) [1][10]
• 6-month term structure vs. monthly starts [5][9]
• No country-adjusted global pricing [1]
• Academic mentor vs. Career Success Coach from enrollment [6][12]

Who Should Choose WGU:

Students who want savings over SNHU but prefer term-based structure. Those pursuing IT, education, or healthcare programs. Highly motivated students who can complete multiple courses per term. Anyone who values NWCCU regional accreditation specifically. Students comfortable with competency-based assessments.

#3: University of the People (UoPeople) - Absolute Lowest Cost

Why UoPeople Ranks Third:

University of the People pioneered tuition-free online education, making higher education accessible to students worldwide. If budget is your primary concern, UoPeople offers the lowest total cost available.

Key Features:

Total Cost:

• Undergraduate: $6,460 total (assessment fees only) [17.a]
• Graduate (MBA): $5,460 total [17.b]
• $60 application fee [18]
• $160 assessment fee per undergraduate course [18]
• $450 assessment fee per graduate course [18]
• No tuition charges [18]

Accreditation:

• WASC Senior College and University Commission (WSCUC) - Regional accreditation [19]

Programs Offered:

• Associate and Bachelor's degrees in Business Administration, Computer Science, Health Science [20]
• MBA and Master of Education programs [20]
• Certificate programs [20]

The UoPeople Model:

Tuition-Free Structure: No tuition charged. Students pay only assessment fees per course, making it the most affordable option available. [18]

Volunteer Faculty: Professors donate their time, keeping costs minimal while providing instruction. [21]

9-Week Terms: Structured terms with weekly deadlines provide clear pacing for students who benefit from external accountability. [22]

How UoPeople Compares to SNHU:

Advantages Over SNHU:

• Dramatically lower cost: $6,460 vs. $41,040 for bachelor's degrees [17.a][24] — Save $34,580
• Regional accreditation (WSCUC) [19]
• Global accessibility with minimal cost barriers [18]

Where UoPeople Differs from Nexford:

• Less flexibility (9-week terms with weekly deadlines vs. true self-pacing) [22]
• Volunteer faculty vs. professional instructors [21]
• Limited career coaching compared to Nexford's Career Success Coach model [6]
• Fewer program options in business and technology specializations [4][20]

Who Should Choose UoPeople:

Students with extremely tight budgets who qualify for scholarships. Those comfortable with structured 9-week terms and weekly deadlines. Students pursuing programs where UoPeople has strengths (health science, education, basic business). Anyone who prioritizes absolute lowest cost above all other factors.

#4: University of Florida Online (UF Online) - Flagship Prestige for Florida Residents

Why UF Online Ranks Fourth:

UF Online delivers the University of Florida brand—a top-tier flagship institution—through online delivery. For Florida residents, this offers exceptional value. For out-of-state students, costs exceed SNHU significantly.

Key Features:

Total Cost:

• In-state (Florida residents): $129.18 per credit hour [30] = $3,875 per year (~$15,501 for 120-credit degree)
• Out-of-state: $552.62 per credit hour [30] = $16,579 per year (~$66,314 for 120-credit degree)
• Significantly different pricing based on residency [30]

Accreditation:

• Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC) - Regional accreditation [31]

Programs Offered:

• 40+ fully online bachelor's degrees [32]
• Limited graduate programs online [32]
• Focus on traditional academic disciplines [32]

The UF Online Model:

Flagship Quality: Same degree as on-campus students, same faculty, same institution—delivered online. [33]

Florida Resident Advantage: In-state tuition provides excellent value for Florida residents. Out-of-state students face premium pricing. [30]

Traditional Rigor: Academic structure and expectations mirror traditional university standards. [34]

How UF Online Compares to SNHU:

Advantages Over SNHU (Florida Residents Only):

• Significantly lower cost for in-state: $15,501 vs. $41,040 [24][30] — Save $25,539
• Higher institutional prestige
• Same regional accreditation (SACSCOC vs. NECHE) [26][31]

Disadvantages vs. SNHU:

• Much higher for out-of-state: $66,314 vs. $41,040 [24][30] — Pay $25,274 more
• Limited program selection (40+ vs. 200+) [27][32]
• Geographic pricing disparity

Where UF Online Differs from Nexford:

• Much higher out-of-state costs ($66,314 vs. $4,800-$10,000) [1][30]
• Traditional semester structure (less flexible than Nexford's self-paced model) [5]
• Geographic pricing disparity (Florida residents vs. everyone else) [30]
• Limited career coaching compared to Nexford's integrated model [6]

Who Should Choose UF Online:

Florida residents accessing in-state tuition who want flagship prestige. Students for whom University of Florida credentials provide demonstrable career advantages. Those willing to pay premium prices (if out-of-state) for the UF brand. Anyone who prefers traditional academic rigor and structure.

#5: Fort Hays State University (FHSU) - Regional Accreditation on a Budget

Why FHSU Ranks Fifth:

Fort Hays State University offers quality regional accreditation at lower costs than SNHU with a solid online infrastructure. It's less well-known nationally but provides good value for specific programs.

Key Features:

Total Cost:

• FHSU Online Undergraduate: $265.05 per credit hour [35] (~$31,806 for 120-credit degree)
• Note: Online students pay the same rate regardless of residency [35]

Accreditation:

• Higher Learning Commission (HLC) - Regional accreditation [36]

Programs Offered:

• 60+ online programs [37]
• Strong in business, education, criminal justice [37]
• Mix of bachelor's, master's, and certificate programs [37]

The FHSU Model:

Regional Accreditation Value: HLC accreditation at more accessible price points than SNHU or many competitors. [36]

Traditional Semester Structure: Standard academic calendar with semester-based progression. [38]

Established Online Programs: Years of experience with online delivery. [39]

How FHSU Compares to SNHU:

Advantages Over SNHU:

• Lower cost: $31,806 vs. $41,040 [24][35] — Save $9,234
• Regional accreditation (HLC vs. NECHE) [26][36]
• Simpler pricing structure

Disadvantages vs. SNHU:

• Fewer program options (60+ vs. 200+) [27][37]
• Less name recognition
• Smaller institutional scale

Where FHSU Differs from Nexford:

• Higher online total cost ($31,806 vs. $4,800-$10,000 for undergraduate) [1][35]
• Traditional semester structure (less flexible than Nexford's self-paced model) [5]
• Limited global accessibility compared to Nexford's country-adjusted pricing [1]
• Standard academic advising vs. Nexford's Career Success Coach from enrollment [6]

Who Should Choose FHSU:

Students who specifically need HLC regional accreditation at lower-than-SNHU prices. Those pursuing programs where FHSU has particular strengths. Students comfortable with traditional semester structures. Anyone seeking regional accreditation on a tighter budget than SNHU requires.

Quick Decision Guide

Choose Nexford If:

✅ You want the best value without sacrificing quality
✅ You can't justify spending $41,000+ on a bachelor's degree
✅ You need monthly start dates (not waiting for semester schedules)
✅ You value integrated career coaching from enrollment
✅ You're pursuing business or technology degrees
✅ You prefer pay-per-course (undergrad) or monthly (grad) pricing
✅ You want transparent, predictable costs
✅ You're an international student seeking globally adjusted pricing
✅ You want the option to accelerate and finish your MBA in 9 months
✅ You're comfortable with national (DEAC) vs. regional accreditation
✅ You don't want semester-deadline pressure

Perfect For: Working professionals, entrepreneurs, career changers, international students, budget-conscious learners who refuse to overpay for traditional structures

Explore Nexford's Programs →

Choose WGU If:

• You want significant savings over SNHU with term-based structure
• You thrive with 6-month terms and flat-rate pricing
• You're pursuing IT, education, or healthcare programs
• You're highly motivated to complete multiple courses per term
• You specifically need NWCCU regional accreditation
• You prefer competency-based assessments

Choose UoPeople If:

• You need the absolute lowest possible cost
• You qualify for their scholarships
• You're comfortable with volunteer faculty and 9-week term structure
• You're pursuing health science or education programs
• Regional WASC accreditation is specifically required
• Budget is your primary concern above all else

Choose SNHU If:

• You have substantial scholarships or employer tuition reimbursement covering most costs
• You're pursuing specialized programs not available elsewhere
• Institutional scale and resources matter significantly to you
• You specifically need NECHE regional accreditation
• You have 90 transfer credits that drastically reduce your total cost
• You value the SNHU brand recognition in your specific career field

Choose UF Online If:

• You're a Florida resident accessing in-state tuition ($15,501 total)
• Flagship university credentials provide demonstrable career advantages
• You're willing to pay premium prices for the University of Florida brand
• Traditional academic rigor and structure appeal to you
• You need SACSCOC regional accreditation

Choose FHSU If:

• You want regional accreditation at lower-than-SNHU costs
• You're pursuing programs where FHSU has particular strengths
• You're comfortable with traditional semester structures
• You need HLC regional accreditation specifically
• Other options don't meet your specific requirements

The Verdict: Which Alternative Do We Recommend?

For working professionals seeking business or technology degrees—especially those who want exceptional value without compromising quality—Nexford University stands out among Southern New Hampshire University alternatives.

Here's why we recommend Nexford:

Exceptional Value: At $4,800-$10,000 for a BBA (depending on your country) [1] and $3,300-$8,100 for an MBA (depending on completion speed and country), [1] Nexford delivers tremendous value.

Compare this to SNHU's costs: $41,040 for a bachelor's degree [23][24] and $19,770 for an MBA. [23] Nexford saves you $31,040-$36,240 on undergraduate degrees and $11,670–$16,470 on graduate degrees. That's not a minor difference—it's life-changing savings.

Superior Flexibility: SNHU operates on 8-week terms with structured schedules. Nexford offers monthly starts and true self-paced learning—no semester deadlines, no waiting for the academic calendar, no pressure to complete on someone else's timeline. [5] Start in January, March, or any month. Accelerate when possible, slow down when necessary. You control your timeline completely.

Enhanced Career Support: Career Success Coach from enrollment, [6] not just career services you access separately. This proactive approach means you're building your career from day one—not scrambling for career support only near graduation. Project-based learning creates portfolio pieces to show employers. [7]

Global Accessibility: If you're outside the United States, Nexford's country-adjusted pricing provides genuine accessibility that SNHU's U.S.-focused pricing doesn't match. [1] Pricing adjusted for 100+ countries means quality education becomes genuinely affordable worldwide.

Modern Curriculum: Business and technology programs built for today's job market. [7] AI integration across all programs. [14.a] [14.b] Next-generation specializations that align with emerging career opportunities. [4] You're not paying premium prices for courses designed years ago.

Transparent and Honest: Clear pricing structure. You know your total cost upfront. [1] Pay-per-course for undergraduates, monthly for graduates. No calculating cost per credit and wondering about your final total. No hidden fees.

The other alternatives have merit for specific situations:

• WGU if you want significant savings over SNHU with competency-based learning [9]
• UoPeople if you need the absolute lowest cost possible  [17.a]  [17.b]
• UF Online if you're a Florida resident with in-state tuition [30]
• SNHU if you have 90+ transfer credits or substantial employer tuition reimbursement [24]
• FHSU for regional accreditation at lower costs than SNHU [35]

But for most working professionals pursuing business and technology degrees, these alternatives either cost significantly more than necessary (SNHU, UF Online for out-of-state) or require compromises in flexibility and career support. Nexford delivers exceptional value without compromise.

You shouldn't have to choose between affordability and quality, or between flexibility and career support. With Nexford, you don't.

Ready to Get Started?

If Nexford sounds like the right fit for your goals and budget, here's how to take the next step:

Start Your Application →

• No application fee - Get started for free
• Monthly start dates - Begin when you're ready (no waiting for semesters)
• Speak with an advisor - Get personalized guidance about programs and pricing

Have questions? Explore Nexford's programs or see tuition details to learn more about how Nexford can help you achieve your career goals on your schedule and budget.

Your future doesn't have to cost $41,000. Take the first step today.

References

nexford.edu — [1] [4] [5] [6] [7] [8] [13] [14.a] [14.b]

catalog.nexford.edu — [2] [3]

wgu.edu — [9] [10] [11] [12] [15] [16]

uopeople.edu — [17.a]  [17.b] [18] [19] [20] [21] [22]

snhu.edu — [23] [24] [25] [26] [27] [28] [29] [40] [41]

ufonline.ufl.edu — [30] [32] [33]

ufl.edu — [31] [34]

fhsu.edu — [35] [36] [37] [38] [39]

Disclaimer

Last updated: November 2025

This article was written and fact-checked as of November 2025. We've made every effort to ensure accuracy by verifying all pricing, program details, and accreditation information directly from official university sources. However, tuition rates, program offerings, and policies can change.

We strongly recommend that you:

• Confirm current pricing and program details directly with each university before making enrollment decisions
• Verify that specific programs meet your individual career and educational goals
• Check accreditation requirements for your intended career path or further education plans
• Review financial aid options and total cost calculations based on your personal circumstances

While we strive for accuracy and regularly update our content, Nexford University makes no warranties or representations regarding the completeness, accuracy, or timeliness of the information presented. This content is for informational purposes only and should not be considered as official advice for selecting an educational institution.

For the most current and accurate information, always consult official university websites and admission advisors directly.