Tuition &
financial aid
Higher Standards. Higher Returns.
We know going back to school is a serious investment of your time, money and energy, and we treat it that way. That is why we deliver a high-quality, career-relevant education designed to stand up in the real world and stand out with employers. Recognized among the nation’s best online learning schools, ECU® Online reflects the same standards, rigor and reputation you expect from East Carolina University®.
Do It with Boldness
We’re a lively and varied community at ECU®. With ECU Online, you’re joining a university community known for its leadership in online education, its commitment to service and its dedication to student success. Rooted in the Pirate spirit, ECU combines a respected academic reputation with a welcoming culture that values both innovation and tradition. Whatever kind of boldness you bring, we welcome it here.
KNOWN Online Excellence
We’ve been earning our reputation of academic excellence for over 100 years. The rankings just make it official.
Careers, Not Just Credits
ECU graduates enter the workforce with the skills employers are looking for and the salaries that reflect it.
Learn on Your Terms
100% online, with no set class times and no compromise on quality. It’s your education, so you call the shots.
Built for the Bold
Hard work beats head starts at ECU. We consistently rank nationally for turning ambition into opportunity.
ECU Online Tuition & Fees
Depending on the credits you bring with you, you could complete your ECU degree in as few as 30 additional credits. For many students, that’s less than a year of focused work. The finish line is closer than it looks.
| Flight Path Online Program | In-State Tuition (per credit hour) | Out-of-State Tuition (per credit hour) | Additional Fees (per credit hour) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Criminal Justice & Criminology, BS | $429 | $510 | $0 |
| Hospitality Management, BS | $429 | $510 | $0 |
| Information & Cybersecurity Technology, BS | $456 | $543 | $0 |
| Liberal Studies, BSM | $429 | $510 | $0 |
| Psychology, BA | $429 | $510 | $0 |
| Security Studies, BS | $429 | $510 | $0 |
Please note tuition is subject to change, and these figures do not include any outside expenses you may incur.
Tuition for North Carolina Residents
To qualify for in-state tuition rates, North Carolina residents must first confirm their in-state status by completing an application through the Residency Determination Service (RDS). To learn more about how to apply for NC residency, please refer to the North Carolina Residency page.
ESTIMATE YOUR TUITION COST
Use our calculator to estimate your tuition cost prior to any financial aid, scholarships, or grants.
Your total tuition costs will depend on your program, transfer credits and course load. Any fees associated with the program are not included in this estimate.
Use the slider or enter your previous college credits in the field.
Your Tuition Breakdown Estimate
Credits Needed
120
Cost Per Credit
$429
Estimated Terms to Degree
8
Estimated Total Cost
$34,656
Paying for Your Degree
Financing your education can feel complicated, but we’re here to help every step of the way. Our dedicated advisors and staff are available to answer your questions and help you get the aid you deserve.
Your first step toward funding your ECU degree is the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). It takes about 15 minutes to complete and determines your eligibility for federal, state, and university aid — including grants, scholarships and loans. Filing early gives you the best shot at the widest range of options, so don’t wait.
Do I really need to fill it out?
If you want to be considered for federal, state or ECU financial aid — including grants, scholarships, work-study funds and loans — you should fill it out. Even if you’re not sure you’ll qualify, submitting the FAFSA opens the door to aid you might not know you’re eligible for.
Your ECU admissions representative can walk you through the process and help you understand your options.
What do I need?
Grants and scholarships are forms of financial aid that don’t need to be repaid, making them one of the most valuable ways to pay for college. They’re typically awarded based on financial need, and can be applied toward tuition, fees and other education-related expenses.
ECU Scholarships via ECUAWard
ECU offers scholarships for transfer students and currently enrolled undergraduates through ECUAWard, the university’s online scholarship portal. Awards range from $500 to $5,000 and recognize achievement in academics, leadership, service and financial need. ECU does not automatically award scholarships; you have to apply.
Once you’re admitted and have your Pirate ID, you can log in to ECUAWard, complete the General Scholarship Application, and the system will match you to opportunities you’re eligible for. Most scholarships open in August and carry a January 15 deadline, so applying early matters.
ECU Grant (ECUG)
ECUG is awarded to full-time undergraduate students with no previous bachelor’s degree who have an expected family contribution from $0-$11,000. The amount you are awarded will vary depending on your financial need, when you apply, the amount of other aid you are receiving, and funding availability at ECU.
ECU offers a variety of scholarship opportunities to incoming freshmen, transfer students and currently enrolled undergraduate and graduate students that recognize special achievements in academics, talent and leadership.
Find your path. Fund your future.
Questions about paying for your degree? Our enrollment team is here to help you find the right combination of aid, plans and programs to make it work.
If grants and scholarships don’t cover the full cost of your degree, federal student loans can help bridge the gap. Federal loans are available to eligible ECU students based on FAFSA results and enrollment status. You borrow only what you need — and repayment options are designed to work with your budget after graduation. You will need to complete a Master Promissory Note and Entrance Loan Counseling before finalizing the loan process.
Federal Direct Subsidized Loans
Subsidized loans are available to eligible ECU undergraduates who demonstrate financial need. The federal government covers the interest while you’re enrolled at least half-time, which means your balance doesn’t grow while you’re in school. Eligibility and annual loan amounts are determined by your FAFSA, year in school and dependency status. Repayment begins six months after you graduate, leave school or drop below half-time enrollment.
Federal Direct Unsubsidized Loans
Unsubsidized loans are available to eligible ECU undergraduates regardless of financial need. Unlike subsidized loans, interest begins accruing at disbursement, but you are not required to make payments until six months after leaving school. Independent students and some dependent students may qualify for higher annual borrowing limits. Your FAFSA determines your eligibility, and your ECU enrollment team can help you understand what loan amounts apply to your situation.
Military education benefits can help make your ECU degree more affordable. ECU proudly supports active-duty service members, veterans and eligible family members through multiple military education programs. ECU accepts both Tuition Assistance and GI Bill® programs for Flight Path programs, and our team is here to help you understand your options and navigate the process.
Tuition Assistance (TA)
ECU accepts Tuition Assistance for Flight Path programs. Each military branch manages its own TA program, with individual eligibility requirements, application processes and obligated service criteria. Funding is typically paid directly to ECU by the service branch. Students are responsible for completing all required paperwork through their service branch.
GI Bill® Programs
ECU accepts GI Bill® benefits for Flight Path programs, including Post-9/11 GI Bill® and Montgomery GI Bill® benefits. Benefit levels and book stipends vary based on your benefit chapter, service history and enrollment status. Contact the ECU Veterans Services Office to get your Certificate of Eligibility and begin the certification process.
Financial aid is just one piece of the picture. ECU offers additional options to help you manage the cost of your degree on your terms.
Other Options Include:
Time to Set Sail
Timing is everything when going back to school to finish your degree. That’s why we offer multiple term starts throughout the year, so you can make studying work for your schedule. When adventure calls, we’ll be ready.
Fall Term 1
August
Fall Term 2
October
Spring Term 1
January
Spring Term 2
March
Summer Term
June
Frequently Asked Questions
An ECU Online degree is designed to provide career-focused education, flexible learning options and the same respected ECU credential earned by on-campus students. Many programs emphasize practical skills that can be applied directly in the workplace.
We make it a point to show up where we’re needed, how we’re needed.
Right now, you want answers – not a sales pitch.
This short form takes less than three minutes to fill out, and once you submit it, an admissions representative will reach out to answer any questions you have.
“Don’t assume you’re starting over just because you’re coming back.”
Victoria L.
Admissions Representative
“You may have more options available than you realize. I’m here to help you find them.”
Regan D.
Admissions Representative
“I do this all day, every day. If I don’t have the answer, I’ll find it for you.”
Ashley B.
Admissions Representative