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Affordable Online Bachelor’s Degree Program Rankings

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What are the major types of bachelor’s degrees?

online degree program rankings

There are two main types of bachelor’s degree programs. A college or university may offer both options within a major or just one. There is no national standard for either option, leaving colleges to make the distinction on their own.
B.A.
The Bachelor of Arts (BA) is a traditional liberal arts degree. The focus is typically on art, social sciences, history, literature, and philosophy. While math and science courses are still required, there is less emphasis on these areas of study. Examples may include communications, sociology, and foreign languages.
B.S.
The Bachelor of Science (BS) is a more specialized degree with a targeted set of courses. Examples may include nursing, engineering, and computer science.

Can I get a Bachelor’s degree online?

Online bachelor’s degree programs are quite popular. Schools understand the importance of providing flexible alternatives to traditional brick and mortar programs. Some schools require short residencies and others are 100% online. Most top schools offer online or hybrid programs in a variety of majors.

Is an online bachelor’s degree as good as a traditional bachelor’s degree?

An online bachelor’s degree is equal to a traditional degree. In most cases, the diploma and transcript do not distinguish between the two. Online programs have strict requirements and a rigorous curriculum, so they are every bit as valuable and respected as their traditional counterparts.

What type of accreditation should I be looking for in an online bachelor’s degree program?

Students considering distance learning bachelor’s degree programs should check to make sure the program is offered by a school holding regional or national accredited. Regional accreditation is the “gold standard” of accreditation, but national accreditation is acceptable for certain types of degrees. Public universities with online bachelor’s typically hold regional accreditation. Some fields have an additional accreditation body that recognizes programs at the bachelor’s degree. Nursing students will want to make sure their program is accredited by the CCNE. Students majoring in human resources may want a program accredited by the Society for Human Resource Management (SHRM). Business students should look for programs accredited by an organization like the AACSB or the ACBSP. Not all fields have accrediting bodies, and not all accrediting bodies include bachelor’s degrees. It is important to research your industry and know what employers are looking for.

What is the difference between synchronous and an asynchronous online program?

Online programs offer courses taught in an asynchronous or synchronous format. Synchronous courses allow students to learn at the same time regardless of their location. These courses may have a set meeting time so students can meet virtually to hear a lecture, engage in a discussion, or work on a project. Asynchronous learning is more independent. Students do not need to all log in at the same time or be present to learn the material. Lectures may be recorded for students to view at their convenience. It is important to understand the differences and determine which format best matches your learning style.

Are there bachelor’s degree programs that do not require the SAT or ACT, etc.?

While it is still standard to submit either ACT or SAT scores (or both), some schools have started to change their requirements because of testing barriers created by the COVID19 pandemic. The University of California announced in December of 2020 that the SAT and ACT would not be a required part of their application. Some schools have taken a “test optional” approach. Students can submit scores if they choose and schools will consider them. While it is possible to being an online bachelor’s program with no SAT or ACT scores submitted, students should check with their school’s application criteria to make check their requirements.

Why should I get an online bachelor’s degree?

Earning an online bachelor’s degree certainly has rewards. Some of the best reasons to pursue an online bachelor’s include:
Career Advancement
According to the Center on Education and the Workforce at Georgetown University, college graduates see 57% more job opportunities than non-graduates. If you want a promotion or additional responsibility at work, earning a bachelor’s degree online can help you achieve your goals without needing to quit your job to relocate for school.
Flexibility
One of the best benefits of an online bachelor’s degree is flexibility. Online programs allow students to meet work and family obligations while attending school. Students can engage in asynchronous learning after work, on the weekends, or even on a lunch break. Synchronous sessions are usually scheduled at night or over the weekend so students can participate without taking time away from work and family. Online students can study from just about anywhere!
Career Change
Earning an affordable online bachelor’s degree is a great way to facilitate a career change. You will build off a strong foundation, gain relevant knowledge and skills employers are looking for, and expand your professional network.
Affordability
The best online bachelor’s degree programs are also affordable. Traditional schools may offer similar rates to online and on-campus students, but online students do not incur the expense of commuting, meal plans, and dorm fees. Online colleges can offer cheaper tuition rates than traditional brick-and-mortar universities because they have fewer expenses.
Accessibility
Access to quality education has never been easier. Online bachelor’s degree programs bring quality content, experiences, and professional development to the student in their own environment. Courses are designed to meet the needs of students from a variety of backgrounds and abilities.

How long does it take to get an online bachelor’s degree?

A bachelor’s degree is typically a four-year program for full-time students. That timeframe may be influenced by factors like academic progress, transfer credit eligibility, personal preference, and time considerations. Often online students attend part-time to maintain a healthy work/life/school balance. Part-time students may take six years to complete their degree.

Are there accelerated online bachelor’s degree programs?

There are several different types of accelerated bachelor’s programs available to online students.
Accelerated degree programs
Accelerated programs are rigorous. Accelerated online bachelor’s degree programs are made possible by offering courses that are shorter and more intense, sometimes lasting only eight weeks as opposed to a traditional course that takes 16 weeks to complete. The fastest online bachelor’s degrees allow students to focus on one or two subjects at a time and move through the program at a faster pace. Other factors like transfer credits and prior work experience can also shorten the time to degree completion.
4+1 accelerated programs
The 4+1 degree program is a combined bachelor’s/master’s program that takes just five years to complete. Earning the two degrees together can save significant time and money. Students take graduate level coursework during their junior or senior year which counts toward both programs. These are a great option for students who were planning to pursue a master’s degree immediately after competing their bachelor’s.
2-year online bachelor’s degree programs
Two-year online bachelor’s degree programs are commonly known as degree completion programs. These fast online bachelor’s degrees are a great option for students with an associate degree, prior college credits, or significant professional/life experience that can be counted as college credit. To earn your bachelor’s degree online in two years, prerequisite and general education courses should be completed and students should be prepared to begin their junior year of college. These programs usually target adult learners.

What are some of the most popular online bachelor’s programs?

Healthcare Administration-
An online bachelor’s degree in healthcare administration is a launching pad for leadership roles in healthcare. Graduates work in hospitals, clinics, nursing homes, and other healthcare facilities.
Hospitality Management-
Hospitality management graduates have training and experience in areas like finance, marketing, and management related to food, beverage, entertainment, and lodging services.
RN to BSN-
The online RN to BSN program popular choices for nursing professionals who want to enter a specialty or advance their career. The BSN is the preferred level of education for a variety of nursing specializations including psychiatric, orthopedic, and neonatal nursing.
Education-
An online bachelor’s in education can open doors to a career in teaching. Early childhood and elementary teachers hold a bachelor’s in education while secondary school teachers may have an endorsement in their area of specialty.
Criminal Justice
Criminal justice is a popular online bachelor’s degree for students planning a career in law enforcement or forensics. Other popular career paths include probations, first responders and EMS.
Social Work
The bachelor’s in social work (BSW) is the entry point for a career in social work. Graduates can work in entry-level roles in family and human services, child welfare, and public health.

How much does an online bachelor’s degree cost?

According to data from U.S. News and World Report, the average online bachelor’s degree can range from $38,496 to $60,593 for the total program tuition cost.

Is an online bachelor’s cheaper than a traditional on-campus bachelor’s degree?

Budget savvy students can save money choosing an online bachelor’s degree. The cheapest undergrad school online experience lets students complete their degree from home without the need to relocate. Schools may have special cost-saving options for online students that include tuition discounts or reduced rates, discounts on popular software packages, and online textbooks. Many schools charge online students their lower, in-state tuition rate regardless of their state of residency.

Is financial aid available for an online bachelor’s degree

Online bachelor’s degree students have access to financial aid opportunities. Students should make sure the school they are applying to is accredited by the Department of Education. The process of applying for aid is the same for online and on-campus students. Students should complete the FAFSA form and check with their school for additional financial aid opportunities.

How much money can I expect to make after getting my online bachelor’s?

According to the National Association of Colleges and Employers, college graduates have an average salary of about $50,000. Graduates with a degree in an area like computer science, business, or mathematics are the highest earners with a salary of up to $71,000.

What are the pros and cons of doing an online bachelor’s degree?

We have highlighted a few important considerations when making the decision whether to pursue an online bachelor’s degree.

Pros

Flexibility
Affordable online bachelor’s programs provide students with flexibility. Students can complete their coursework in a comfortable environment and at a convenient time.
Shorter time to degree completion
Low-cost online bachelor’s degree programs are offered in a variety of time saving formats that allow students to complete their degree faster than a traditional program.
No relocation
You can earn an inexpensive online bachelor’s degree without moving across the country. Courses can be taken from the comfort of home and most internships or field experience requirements can be completed in your own community.

Cons

Missing out on the college experience
If you are looking for a traditional college campus experience, an online bachelor’s degree might not be for you. While some programs have short residency requirements, most of your courses will be taken online.
Online learning is not for everyone
Online learning is not for the faint of heart. Students should have discipline, motivation, and strong time management skills.
You need to be able to use technology
The best accredited online bachelor’s degree programs are delivered through an integrated online learning platform. Online students need to be able to use video conferencing software, engage with faculty and peers in a virtual environment, and complete and submit assignments electronically. While schools offer online students technical support, students should have a basic understanding of how these systems work.

How do I apply for an online bachelor’s degree program?

Starting the college application process can feel daunting, but most schools offer a simplified process clearly spelled out on their website. Schools usually require applicants to submit transcripts and an application. Some programs require students to submit test scores, a resume, personal essay, or provide letters of recommendation. An application fee may also be required. Be sure and complete the FAFSA to determine your financial aid eligibility.

How do I find the best affordable online bachelor’s program that interests me?

Below we have ranked some of the most popular bachelor’s degree programs available online.

Online Bachelor’s by State

Top Value Affordable Online Bachelor’s Degrees
Online Bachelor’s Degrees

Use the following ranking lists to find the best affordable online bachelor’s degree-granting colleges/ universities by average yearly net price (aka “net price”) for a given study topic.

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