Guide to Online Degrees

• Online degrees provide a flexible way for working adults to study and get their degree.
  
• Schools now offer online degrees at the associate, bachelor, masters and PhD levels.
  
• When deciding on an online college or university, some important considerations include the time it will take to finish your degree, cost and if they offer career services.

In today’s competitive job market, education plays a crucial role in career advancement. High-quality, affordable education is the key to unlocking new opportunities and achieving success. However, the rising cost of traditional education can be a barrier for many aspiring professionals. That’s where affordable online colleges come in.

Top Affordable Online Colleges

What are Online Degrees?

Online degrees are a great way to pursue a college education without having to commute to school every day. Online degrees are also a good option for those who have been out of school for some time and would like to get back into the college environment without having to start from scratch.

The best part about an online degree is that you can do it at your own pace, which means you can work on it during your spare time or whenever you have free time. You can also work on an online degree through night classes or evening study sessions, which means you don’t have to worry about missing out on any work responsibilities or social activities because of your studies.

*Pro-tip: If you want to improve your grades, follow our college study tips that can help you achieve optimal performance.

Types of Online College Degrees

Online degrees are available at nearly every level of higher education. Let’s look at the types of degrees commonly offered online and what each can offer:

Associate Degrees

Associate degrees are usually two-year programs that provide foundational knowledge in a specific area, such as liberal arts, healthcare, or business. An associate degree can be earned in 2 years or less. The coursework in this degree program is designed to provide a general education, which includes courses in English, mathematics, science, social sciences, humanities, and arts. An associate’s degree can be an excellent stepping stone to a bachelor’s degree or it can be the end goal if you are already certain about your career path.

Associate in Arts vs Associate in Science Degree

An associate of arts degree is a two-year degree program that is usually offered by liberal arts colleges and programs. Most programs with an AA option include programs in liberal arts, fine arts and humanities.

An associate of science degree is a type of degree that is awarded to students who have also completed two years of study. The coursework for an AS degree typically includes general education courses. The degree options that are available are typically offered in fields such as natural and physical sciences, nursing, engineering, criminal justice, accounting and business management.

• Common Fields and Career Paths: Graduates with an associate degree often enter careers such as medical assistants, paralegals, or IT support specialists. These programs serve as a stepping stone for further education, as many credits can transfer to a bachelor’s degree program.

Bachelor’s Degrees

A bachelor’s degree is an undergraduate degree that typically takes four years to complete. It’s the most common type of degree and it is required for many entry-level jobs. They are typically classified as degrees in the arts, humanities, natural sciences, social sciences, and mathematics. Online bachelor’s degrees usually consist of a minimum of 120 credits. You can earn a bachelor’s degree completely online at a four-year private or public college. Colleges offer online bachelor’s degrees in pretty much every subject area that’s offered at your traditional college.

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Bachelor of Arts vs Bachelor of Science Degrees

A Bachelor of Arts degree is a four-year program that provides students with a broad liberal arts education. Students take courses in the humanities, natural sciences, social sciences, and mathematics. A bachelor’s degree can be used to study almost any subject area in the humanities, social sciences, and fine arts. Compared to a BA degree, the bachelor of science degree is a four-year degree program in subjects more oriented towards STEM subjects such as mathematics and the sciences. Some colleges offer a bachelor of science degree in areas with the social sciences if the degree program is data intensive.

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Online Bachelor Completion Programs

A bachelor’s completion program or online degree completion program is geared toward those who have some college background. Sometimes life gets in the way and you need to hit the pause button on your education. The online degree completion program is intended for those who meet one of the following criteria:

• Completed general education requirements
• Received an associate’s degree
• Completed at least 60 credits
• Have some transferable college credits

When applying to an online degree completion program, you will want to make sure that your credits transfer to the school.

The most important advantage of an online degree completion program is that they are usually less expensive than if you were to enroll in a 4-year degree program. Not all schools offer this type of program though.

• Popular Majors and Career Options: Business, psychology, computer science, and education are among the popular online bachelor’s degrees. Graduates often pursue roles as teachers, marketers, accountants, and more.

Master’s Degrees

Master’s degrees focus on advanced studies in a particular field and usually take 1–2 years. These degrees are ideal for those looking to advance in their career or specialize further in a field.

• Career Advancements: Master’s degrees can lead to leadership roles and higher salaries. Popular fields include business administration (MBA), education, and nursing.

Doctoral and Professional Degrees

• Importance in Specific Fields: Online doctoral programs cater to professions where advanced expertise is essential, such as in psychology, education, and business administration.
• Professional Fields for Online Doctorates: Doctoral degrees in education (Ed.D.), psychology (Psy.D.), or business (DBA) are often available online and prepare students for high-level roles or research positions.

Top Fields of Study for Online Degrees

Several fields are particularly well-suited to online study and have high demand in the job market:

• Business: Includes fields like accounting, finance, and management. Business degrees are versatile and offer broad career options.
• Healthcare and Nursing: Many schools offer online programs for nurses and healthcare administrators due to the ongoing demand for qualified healthcare professionals.
• Information Technology: From computer science to cybersecurity, IT programs are highly practical for online education and lead to careers in tech.
• Education and Teaching: Programs in education, especially for certification and advancement, are commonly offered online and are well-regarded.
• Criminal Justice: Online degrees in criminal justice can lead to roles in law enforcement, corrections, or forensics.
• Psychology and Social Sciences: Degrees in psychology or sociology are popular online options for those interested in human behavior or social services.

How Much Does it Cost to Get an Online Degree?

The cost of an online degree can vary depending on the type of degree you are pursuing. The most expensive online degrees are typically in the fields of nursing, medical, and law. These degrees require a lot more time in school and often include clinical rotations or internships. Additionally, the higher the degree level, the more it will cost your on a per-credit basis. Online master degrees and doctorate degrees will cost more than an online undergraduate degree.

The cost associated with obtaining an online degree is not only tuition fees but also includes living expenses, technology fees, books, and other supplies that are needed to complete the degree requirements.

Factors to Consider When Searching for Affordable Online Colleges

Accreditation

Accreditation is vital. It ensures that a college meets specific quality standards and is recognized by employers, other institutions, and professional organizations. Before enrolling in an online college, verify its accreditation status. Regional accreditation is the most prestigious and widely recognized form of accreditation. National accreditation is also valid but may have different requirements and standards.

Importance: Accreditation signifies that a program meets quality education standards and is recognized by employers and other educational institutions.

How to Check Accreditation: Use resources like the U.S. Department of Education’s accreditation database to verify a program’s status, as accredited programs are more likely to be respected by employers.

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Program Flexibility

Full-Time vs. Part-Time: Many online programs offer full-time and part-time options. Part-time options are beneficial for students balancing work or family commitments.

Synchronous vs. Asynchronous Classes: Synchronous courses require students to log in at specific times, while asynchronous classes allow more flexibility, enabling students to complete coursework at their own pace.

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Financial Aid Options

Don’t overlook financial aid. Many online colleges offer various financial assistance options, including grants, scholarships, and loans. Fill out the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) to determine your eligibility for federal aid. Also, explore institution-specific financial aid programs. Every dollar counts!

Tuition Rates: Online tuition can vary, with some online programs offering lower rates than their in-person counterparts.

Financial Aid: Many online students are eligible for financial aid, including scholarships, grants, and federal loans. Additionally, some schools offer financial aid packages specifically for online students.

Programs and Majors

First things first, you want to be sure the schools you’re looking at have your desired program or major. If you’re not sold on one major yet, check out the offerings of online colleges or colleges that offer online coursework. See if they have everything you’re considering. 

Also, ask about their policies for enrolling undecided or changing majors later in the program.

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Transferability of Credits

Transferability matters. If you’ve previously attended college or plan to switch institutions, confirm that your credits will transfer. Losing credits means losing time and money. Research each college’s transfer credit policies and speak with an academic advisor to ensure a seamless transfer process.

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Quality of Education and Support Services

Affordability is essential, but so is quality. Investigate the curriculum, faculty credentials, and student outcomes at each college. Look for colleges with strong support services, such as academic advising, tutoring, and career counseling. These resources can make all the difference in your educational experience and future success.

Available Resources: Online programs often provide support services, including academic advising, tutoring, and technical support. Access to these resources can be crucial for success in an online learning environment.

Importance of Support Services: Support services are vital for helping online students stay connected to their school community, receive timely help, and navigate the challenges of online learning.

Benefits and Challenges of Online College Degrees

Benefits

• Flexibility and Convenience: Online learning enables students to balance their studies with other responsibilities, such as work or family.
• Accessibility: Students who live far from a college or have limited transportation options can access education from anywhere with an internet connection.
• Work-Life Balance: Online programs often allow students to maintain full- or part-time jobs, providing a stable income while earning a degree.

Challenges

• Self-Discipline and Time Management: Online students must be self-motivated and able to manage their time well, as there is less in-person accountability.
• Limited Face-to-Face Interaction: Lack of in-person communication can make it harder to build relationships with peers and professors.
• Technical Issues: Dependence on technology can present challenges if there are issues with connectivity or platform usability.

Steps to Enroll in an Online Degree Program

Researching and Comparing Programs

• Program Research: Evaluate factors such as curriculum, faculty qualifications, and student reviews. Online rankings and accreditation databases are helpful resources.

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Application Process

• Documents Needed: Standard applications require transcripts, letters of recommendation, and personal statements.
• Tips for Success: Be specific about your goals and why you chose online education in your application. This can help set you apart.

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Preparing for Online Learning

• Technical Requirements: Confirm that you have the necessary hardware, software, and reliable internet to participate in online classes.
• Tips for Success: Establish a study routine, create a dedicated workspace, and make use of any available support services.

FAQs on Online College Degrees

1. Are online degrees respected by employers?
Yes, degrees from accredited institutions are typically respected, particularly in fields where online learning is common.

2. Can I transfer credits from an online program to a traditional college?
Most accredited programs allow credit transfer, but policies vary by school.

3. How do online degree costs compare to traditional degrees?
Online degrees can be more affordable, though costs vary by school and program.

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Takeaways

Online college degrees offer a flexible, accessible path to advancing your education and career. With options across all levels of higher education, an online degree can provide valuable skills and open doors to new opportunities. If you’re ready to take the next step, explore accredited programs that align with your goals and make the most of what online education has to offer.

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Top Affordable Online Colleges and Universities

Frequently Asked Questions