Biomedical science is one of today’s leading industries—and it’s not going anywhere anytime soon. It drives modern medicine, powering breakthroughs in gene therapy, vaccine development, and advanced diagnostics. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, careers in this field are projected to grow faster than the national average, with many roles offering six-figure salaries.
Biomedical science degrees are often considered expensive, particularly at private colleges and universities. But getting a graduate degree in this field doesn’t have to cost a fortune. Many nonprofit universities now offer affordable, fully online master’s programs that prepare students for research, lab management, and healthcare innovation.
This guide will help you find affordable online master’s in biomedical science that are accredited and reputable. With the growing demand for skilled biomedical professionals, the timing couldn’t be better.
Related:
- Accelerated Biological and Biomedical Science Degrees Online
- Top Accredited Online Degrees in Biological and Biomedical Sciences
- Biological and Biomedical Science Careers You Can Start with an Online Degree
Why Choose a Nonprofit College for Biomedical Science?
When comparing schools, one of the most important distinctions is between nonprofit and for-profit colleges.
For-profit schools operate like businesses, often prioritizing enrollment and revenue growth. On the other hand, nonprofit universities are mission-driven—their goal is to educate and serve students, not generate profit. Tuition revenue goes back into academic programs, research, and student support.
Here’s why choosing a nonprofit college makes sense:
- Transparent tuition and fewer surprise fees. Nonprofits usually keep costs clear and consistent.
- Reputable accreditation. Most hold regional accreditation (like SACSCOC, NECHE, or HLC), which employers trust.
- Better graduate outcomes. Nonprofit degrees often carry stronger credibility with hiring managers, especially in research and healthcare.
Plus, more nonprofits are now expanding fully online affordable online master’s in biomedical science programs to reach working adults and distance learners.
According to the National Center for Education Statistics (NCES), enrollment in STEM programs at nonprofit institutions has risen steadily over the last decade, especially in online and hybrid formats.
Program Snapshot — What You’ll Learn in an Online Master’s in Biomedical Science
Online master’s degrees in biomedical science are designed for working professionals who want to advance their careers without stepping away from work. They are usually for those who are in the following fields:
- Healthcare
- Biotech
- Lab science
These programs build both technical and professional skills for roles in healthcare, research, and biotechnology. Most common courses include:
- Molecular & Cellular Biology: Explores how cells and molecules function, interact, and contribute to health and disease.
Biomedical Ethics: Examines moral and ethical issues in medicine, research, and patient care. - Immunology & Biostatistics: Covers the immune system’s role in disease and introduces statistical tools for analyzing biomedical data.
- Research Methods & Lab Design: Teaches how to plan, conduct, and analyze scientific research using proper laboratory techniques and protocols.
Some of the best nonprofit colleges for biomedical science also let students specialize in areas such as:
- Pre-Med / Pre-Health: Ideal for students planning to attend medical, dental, or pharmacy school.
- Veterinary Health: Focuses on animal health, zoonotic diseases, and research.
- Biomedical Diagnostics: Centers on lab operations, patient care, and diagnostic technology.
- Biomedicine and Entrepreneurship: Combines science with business for careers in biotech startups or product development.
- Drug Discovery and Development: Prepares students for work in pharmaceutical research, marketing, and regulatory affairs.
Most programs use asynchronous lectures, allowing students to learn on their own time. Others include virtual lab simulations, remote research projects, or hybrid residencies for hands-on experience.
The Most Affordable Online Master’s Degrees in Biomedical Science (Top Nonprofit Colleges)
Here are 10 of the cheapest online biomedical science master’s programs that offer top value.
| Rank | School | Tuition (Per Credit) | Program Length | Accreditation | Highlights |
| 1 | Arizona State University | $917 | 31 credits | SACSCOC | Online MS in biomedical science, no GRE; top-ranked public university; flexible pacing; accelerated 7.5-week terms |
| 2 | University of Saint Joseph (CT) | $922 | 33 credits | NECHE | Catholic nonprofit; hybrid lab options; offers thesis and non-thesis options |
| 3 | Colorado State University Global | $964 | 36 credits | HLC | Hybrid options; transfer-friendly; accelerated 8-week terms; research-based |
| 4 | Liberty University (VA) | $665 | 39 credits | SACSCOC | Hybrid courses; Faith-based nonprofit; strong research focus; can be completed in a year |
| 5 | University of Georgia | $19,350 (per year) | 30 credits | SACSCOC | 100% online; most budget-friendly; can be completed in one year |
| 6 | Eastern Virginia Medical School (EVMS) | $29,952 (per year) | 31 credits | SACSCOC | Medical school integration; online & hybrid lab tracks; one-year and two-year tracks |
| 7 | University of Massachusetts Lowell | $600 | 30-32 credits | NECHE | Online M.S. in Applied Biomedical Sciences; flexible for lab techs; Laboratory Management option |
| 8 | A.T. Still University | $690 | 45 credits | HLC | Low in-state tuition; no GRE required; flexible curriculum |
| 9 | The Chicago School | $1,458 | 30 credits | WASC | Top-tier nonprofit; part-time online for professionals; generous financial aid packages |
| 10 | University of Northern Colorado | $698 | 30 credits | HLC | Fully online format; strong applied science curriculum |
These accredited biomedical science master’s online programs are not ranked by affordability alone—they also consider academic quality, flexibility, and institutional reputation. Each school is a regionally accredited, nonprofit university known for providing accessible pathways into biomedical and health-related careers. Many programs feature:
- accelerated schedules
- no GRE requirements
- research or lab-based learning options that balance cost with strong academic value
Cost Comparison — Tuition, Fees & Funding Options
Here is a quick comparison of online biomedical science degree costs, depending on the type of school you choose.
| Type of Cost | Public Nonprofit (Avg.) | Private Nonprofit (Avg.) | Notes |
| Tuition per Credit | $450–$700 | $700–$1,500 | Public schools usually have lower |
| Technology / Online Fees | $50–$150 per term | $75–$200 per term | Varies by delivery model |
| Scholarships | Federal + institutional | Institutional & alumni-based | FAFSA + school portals |
| Employer Tuition Reimbursement | Common in healthcare systems | Common in research settings | Often covers 25% to 50% of tuition |
Actionable Tips:
- Check if your employer offers tuition discounts through partnerships with certain universities.
- File the FAFSA even if you’re attending part-time — graduate students still qualify for federal aid.
- Look into federal or NIH research scholarships if your work aligns with biomedical innovation or public health.
- Explore teaching assistant or research assistant positions at universities that allow remote roles.
Licensure, Accreditation & Career Readiness
Accreditation is critical for recognition by employers and doctoral programs. Choose schools with regional accreditation (like SACSCOC, NECHE, HLC, or MSCHE).
Some programs may also align with professional organizations such as:
- ASCP (American Society for Clinical Pathology)
- CLS (Clinical Laboratory Scientist)
- R&D Certification Boards
Most flexible online biomedical science programs do not directly lead to professional licensure. However, they prepare graduates for advanced study or research-based careers.
Graduates often move into:
- Ph.D. or MD programs
- Medical, dental, or physician assistant school
- Clinical or research laboratory management
- Biopharmaceutical or biotechnology research
These credentials can boost employability and verify your technical expertise.
Job Outlook & Salary Potential
A master’s in biomedical sciences opens doors to diverse, well-paying careers. Here’s a quick breakdown from the Bureau of Labor Statistics:
- Job Growth: Employment for medical scientists is projected to grow 9% (2024–2034)—faster than average.
- Median Salary: Around $100,590 per year (2024).
- Career Paths: Common roles include biotechnology, clinical research, and regulatory affairs.
- Salary Range: Typically $60,000–$100,000+, depending on experience and location.
Choosing low-tuition biomedical science graduate programs means professionals can maximize their return on investment. Graduates from budget-friendly, accredited programs can earn just as much—or even more—than peers who paid double for their degree.
How to Choose the Right Online Biomedical Science Master’s Program
When comparing nonprofit universities offering biomedical science degrees, consider these key decision factors:
- Accreditation: Always confirm regional or programmatic accreditation.
- Total Tuition: Look at the per-credit cost and additional fees.
- Focus Area: Research-based or applied science?
- Faculty Credentials: Do instructors have current research or industry experience?
- Career Support: Does the school offer career counseling or internship placement?
Quick Checklist Before Enrolling:
- Is the program 100% online or hybrid with in-person labs?
- What’s the transfer credit policy for prior graduate coursework?
- Can you choose between a thesis and a capstone track?
- Are there accelerated or self-paced options available?
Conclusion
So, there you have it, the 10 biomedical science online master’s ranking. These programs are respected by employers, designed for working professionals, and backed by credible regional accreditation.
In a world where biomedical discoveries shape our future, pursuing this degree helps you join the next wave of medical and scientific innovation.
Compare tuition, accreditation, and program format. Take the next step toward your biomedical science career today.
Frequently Asked Questions
What can I do with a master’s in biomedical science?
Graduates can work as biomedical researchers, lab managers, regulatory affairs specialists, or continue toward doctoral and medical degrees.
Are online biomedical science degrees respected?
Yes. As long as the school is regionally accredited and nonprofit, online biomedical science programs are viewed the same as on-campus degrees.
What are the top affordable online master’s in biomedical science?
Some of the most affordable options include UMass Lowell ($600/credit), A.T. Still University ($690/credit), and University of Northern Colorado ($698/credit).
