Find your perfect college degree
Facts and Stats
- About 4% of college dropouts in the US say they couldn’t commit to going to a college far* from their home, underscoring the importance of online education and flexible class schedules.
- In 2020, 40% of undergraduate students who were employed were working full-time**. They benefit largely from online colleges offering flexible classes.
- In 2021, about 4.2 million undergraduate students who took distance education*** courses exclusively. About 74% of them (3.2 million) were enrolled as in-state students, while 23% (1 million) were out-of-state students.
Gone are the days when degree-seeker students should go to campus to attend classes and complete academic requirements. In this current era of digitalization and thanks to the advent of technology, online colleges are on the rise, paving the way for an easily accessible college education.
Especially in the year 2020, data from the National Center for Education Statistics states that 75% of all undergraduate students take at least one course online.
And in 2021, three fourth of the U.S. schools planned to offer online learning systems due to the constraints and changes brought by the COVID-19 pandemic.
What makes online learning so popular with students?
If you’re wondering whether you can start earning a college degree anytime, the answer is a short Yes. You can begin taking classes next week, after some days, or even next month. As online education and self-paced learning technologies continue to advance, there are more opportunities to earn a college degree now than ever before.
Accessibility, affordability, and flexibility are all advantages of online colleges. The convenience of online education makes it easier for busy professionals to fit school into their schedules.
10 Online Colleges with Flexible Schedules
Arizona State University
ASU ONline’s Multiple Start Dates
ASU Online is consistently ranked as the most innovative online university in the United States. The university offers over 300 online degree and certificate programs, enrolling over 73,000 students annually.
You can enroll throughout the year in most of their online programs, with multiple start dates throughout the fall, spring, and summer semesters. Your degree can be completed around your schedule with ASU Online courses, allowing you to balance work, family, and other commitments.
Most programs begin in August, October, January, and March. Additionally, summer programs typically offer two start dates, with one in May and another six to seven weeks later. Each semester includes two 7.5-week sessions and one 15-week session.
Each program has the same start date in the fall and spring; however, summer sessions may differ. You can check their page for online degree programs to see updates. Despite missing the August deadline, you can begin your journey to a degree at Arizona State University this fall.
University of Central Florida
Flexible and Faster Degrees at UCF
The University of Central Florida ranks as one of the strongest, most flexible online schools, offering over 100 online programs. Nearly half of UCF’s total student credit hours are delivered online or through blended modalities, demonstrating the university’s dedication to accessible education.
UCF’s online undergraduates are known to graduate in less than four years, thanks to its accelerated course formats. Although students can study fully online, the institution suggests taking a few in-person courses to enhance their learning experience and professional network.
Faculty development is a priority, with instructors receiving 80 hours of training in course development and 35 hours of training for those teaching online, ensuring the utilization of the latest best practices. This comprehensive approach ensures that UCF delivers high-quality online education that prepares students for success in a rapidly evolving world.
Southern New Hampshire University
Earn a Degree at Your Own Pace at SNHU
Southern New Hampshire University, a pioneer in online education, started offering an online program way back in 1995. Their 200+ online courses are designed by e-learning specialists to ensure that online students receive high-quality education that mimics traditional campus learning.
The majority of SNHU’s online courses are self-paced, which means you are not required to be in front of your computer at a specific time. Your coursework is due consistently, so you can complete it day or night according to a schedule that works for you. However, you may be required to submit discussion posts, academic papers, readings, and other assignments on campus.
For undergraduates, the semesters last eight weeks, and for master’s students, they last ten weeks, so you can enroll year-round, doubling up when you can or taking a semester off when you need it.
Liberty University
Flexibility and Affordability Combined at Liberty University
Liberty University is one of the biggest online institutions, enrolling over 135,000 students annually, 115,000 of which are enrolled in online programs. It offers several online courses across undergraduate, graduate, and professional programs. Liberty is also well-known for its association with American conservatism and evangelism.
Aside from their world-renowned commitment to Christian studies and beliefs, they’re also popular for offering flexible learning formats. Each semester at Liberty University Online is divided into three eight-week subterms and one semester-long subterm, providing multiple start dates throughout the year.
You can study at your own pace while maintaining a level of structure that will help you meet your educational objectives. You can complete assignments at any time during the week that is convenient for you.
Graduate students earn credit for prior learning. And they allow you to transfer up to 50% of credits for a master’s degree and 75% for a bachelor’s degree.
Like full-time students of on-campus programs, online learners also gain access to the online library, study guides, support services, I.T. support, writing resources, and federal financial aid.
University of South Dakota
USD’s Flexible Schedules Even For Short Courses
The University of South Dakota is one of the country’s leading accredited online colleges. USD is mainly known for its high-quality online programs emphasizing convenience and affordability. They are consistently highly ranked among the top universities in the country by U.S. News & World Report, Princeton Review, and Military Times, among others.
USD offers more than 50 online programs, with each course taught by the same on-campus faculty. Their online offerings are focused on in-demand career skills, from business to education to nursing. You have access to a variety of professional development opportunities, whether you are a non-degree-seeking student or considering a full-time program.
You can register for courses and plan your schedule each semester regardless of whether you want to take just a few classes or consider a full-time program. If you want to focus on developing your skill set, you may register without applying or submitting transcripts at the University of South Dakota.
Whether you’re an out-of-state student, a resident of the state, or take classes online, their tuition rates remain consistently competitive.
Fort Hays State University
Flexibility Meets Personalized Attention at FHSU
Fort Hays State University should be at the top of your list if you want an individualized and flexible learning experience and generous transfer credit opportunities.
FHSU offers over 200 online degree programs with practical and flexible courses. Their online degrees don’t have any in-person requirements, so you don’t need to worry about balancing on-campus commitments with your busy schedule. You can take courses in eight-week or 16-week formats.
You’ll immerse in a personalized learning environment at FHSU, where small classes led by committed full-time professors guarantee you’re more than just another student. FHSU’s faculty seamlessly blends academic expertise with industry experience, infusing your educational journey with valuable insights and tangible real-world relevance.
University of Oklahoma
O.U. Online Learning At Your Own Pace
The University of Oklahoma offers several intensive yet very flexible online degree programs, each of which can be earned at your own pace. O.U. Online’s faculty is composed of world-class teaching and practice professionals. They provide students with an advanced curriculum and prepare them for future career success by partnering with industry experts.
Networking is also vast at O.U., with more than 250,000 alumni members providing valuable networking opportunities for both current students and graduates. In more than 130 years, O.U. has established a tradition of excellence, of which you’ll be a part.
O.U. graduate degrees can be earned online at your own pace. A graduate program can be completed online at O.U. during the Fall, Spring, or Summer semesters. Decide the schedule that is most convenient for you.
University of Illinois Springfield
At the University of Illinois Springfield, Your Schedule Is Their Schedule
The University of Illinois Springfield’s e-campus offers a wide range of online degree programs, leading to bachelor’s and master’s degrees. Many of their online courses are offered in flex formats, which means you can start a course at any time and complete it within 16 weeks.
The same dedicated on-campus professors teach online courses, ensuring that online students receive the same real-world relevant knowledge as their on-campus peers. Along with gaining new insights and knowledge, you’ll gain practical skills you can use immediately.
You can start preparing for leadership positions and new career opportunities whenever and wherever you want to. With five start dates in a year, the school will work around your schedule. Their 8-week courses aid in better subject matter retention and quicker graduation.
Colorado State University
Completely Self-Paced Courses at CSU
Colorado State University’s online courses can be accessed with ease using Canvas’ intuitive, easy-to-use interface. As an online student, you’ll have access to the same professors and instructors teaching on-campus courses. You’ll meet the same challenges and maintain a reputation that is as stellar as the traditional program.
There are no synchronous components in self-paced online courses, so students are free to complete coursework and assessments whenever they wish. Managing time to complete coursework, projects, and assessments by the end of the course is solely the student’s responsibility.
Although students are required to be independent, they can easily communicate and work with peers. In fact, online students at CSU are known for their collaborative efforts and for forming strong bonds with one another. Sometimes, students meet face-to-face for group projects or study sessions, even though they primarily interact virtually.
Eastern Kentucky University
EKU’s Programs To Fit Your Schedule and Needs
Eastern Kentucky University’s online programs are designed for students who want to develop skills for new career opportunities while maintaining obligations outside school. EKU offers over 100 online degrees designed to fit the schedule and needs of prospective students, whether they want to begin, complete, or advance their education.
As an EKU Online student, you’ll enjoy a wealth of advantages. Undergraduate online students can access free textbooks, free applications, free online tutoring and career services assistance, and personal advisors.
With accelerated 8-week terms, you’ll progress swiftly through your coursework, maintaining momentum toward your goals. With EKU Online, the path to your degree is not only accessible but enriched with support and flexibility.
What to Expect from Online Colleges
Many learners often ask the question: how does an online degree program work? How is this program different from in-person programs, and why do students prefer it? A virtual format is used to complete coursework for online learners. Courses utilize the same materials and curriculum as those taught on campus.
However, the major difference is the delivery of classes used by professors. Distance learners complete their graduation requirements online instead of attending classes in person. Many degree seekers appreciate this flexibility.
Labs, simulations, practicums, and internships can all be offered as part of an online program. All these are similarly offered in conventional class formats. Schools often assist distance learners in finding local places where they can complete in-person requirements. And the main priority is to work around their schedules so they can balance school and other obligations.
It takes the same amount of time to earn an online degree program online degree as it does to earn an in-person degree. An online bachelor’s degree can be completed in four years by a full-time undergraduate student, and a master’s degree can be completed in two years by a full-time graduate student.
However, online programs in flexible formats allow students to accelerate and speed up completion or take their time and pace according to their preferred schedules.
Discussing Synchronous Vs. Asynchronous Class Formats
There are many types of online learning, but the best type depends on your preferences. There are set study schedules and live discussions in synchronous virtual classrooms, just as they are in traditional classrooms.
Meanwhile, as students digest instruction at their own pace, asynchronous classrooms look a little different. It’s best to differentiate between these two formats by learning what to expect from each one.
What to Expect in a Synchronous Online Class
There are many similarities between synchronous online classes and traditional classroom settings, including attendance, discussion, presentation, and oral exams. Webcams or Livestream forums are typically used for student interaction, and small virtual rooms are sometimes used for group work or a teacher’s office hours.
Depending on the educational institution, they usually choose one app or communication software that works for both the teacher and the students. Instructors can demonstrate a problem or process physically and ask questions as they go along.
Some of the widely used apps for synchronous online classes are Zoom, Microsoft Teams, and Blackboard, and they also use other apps that enhance distance learning. In synchronous classrooms, students participate in chat rooms, share screens, answer polls, surveys, and share documents.
The online classroom may not provide as much visibility as in-person classes, but students can participate proactively while adhering to the synchronous classroom protocol.
What to Expect in an Asynchronous Online Class
By taking asynchronous online courses, students can study on their schedule. Teachers can track attendance in a variety of ways, for example, by posting comprehension quizzes or tracking who watched lectures.
This type of learning format is usually offered in programs that allow you to start at any date. Instructors can still engage and interact with asynchronous students by encouraging them to fill out polls and quizzes, too.
Many learners go for asynchronous formats, especially if they want to finish their program at their own pace. Students can digest the material in asynchronous classes differently, such as spending more time on challenging content and going through lighter content more quickly.
Online participation is important in asynchronous classrooms because teachers cannot evaluate students’ readiness in person. Students who prefer self-paced learning should be self-reliant, responsible, and diligent on their own, with less supervision from instructors and peers.
Which Format is Best for You?
It is entirely up to the learner to choose the right class style. Asynchronous classes may be better suited for students who work unconventional hours and are servicing the military or participate in other extra-curricular activities and organizations.
Asynchronous learning may also benefit students with irregular sleep schedules, but learners who lack time management skills may not find it as useful. Those who need more help from their instructor would rather enroll in synchronous learning styles.
The learning style and personality type of prospective online students should be carefully considered when evaluating these class formats. Also, introverted personalities can succeed in asynchronous classes, while extroverted personalities thrive in synchronous ones.
A student should also consider their field of interest when enrolling online. In some cases, a specific program may be offered in limited formats, which may not suit your preferences. The key is to check your preferred online program and see if they offer flexible schedules.
Lastly, asynchronous classes might be the best option if a student wants to accelerate their education, but if you want to take time and decipher more about the topics and courses, synchronous can be your cup of tea.
Advantages of Online Colleges with Flexible Schedules
Students love the liberty of controlling their schedules without feeling pressured and stressed due to studies, work, or other obligations. There are several advantages associated with online learning, including the possibility of studying from home, lower costs, and flexible schedules.
In addition to professional competencies, online students develop virtual networking skills and technology proficiency. Here are the advantages discussed briefly in the context below:
Broader Network
Students from across the country enroll in online classes. It is possible to enroll students from other countries as well. Because of this global opportunity, students will be open and exposed to broader networks.
Students who attend class online have the opportunity to meet individuals they may not have met otherwise. You’ll get to meet learners from all seven continents of the world.
The diversity of students in virtual classrooms leads to interesting class discussions. It can make you more open-minded and welcoming to different cultures and beliefs. Students in online classes can sometimes organize study groups and local outings. The broad connections you can build on your online studies can be beneficial in many instances later.
Flexible Class Schedules
One of the ultimate perks of learning in online colleges is flexible class schedules. Online classes allow students to balance work, family obligations, and college education. Mothers who had babies at a young age can continue pursuing higher education while fulfilling their role as moms.
Workers who need to earn extra dough can plan out their 9 to 5-day jobs and study college at night. Students pursuing a college degree can access online classes 24 hours a day, seven days a week.
Students who study online must possess strong self-discipline to meet their instructor’s deadlines while balancing their personal obligations. While flexibility is an ultimate advantage, it comes with responsibility and requires time management.
Nurture Professional Skills
You need many technical and soft skills to communicate with your instructor and fellow students. Both of which are developed when you study in an online college. You can nurture professional skills that you can use when you enter the corporate world.
Workplaces can benefit from many of these skills. Since online learners constantly have to get familiar with different apps and software for learning, this develops helpful computer skills later on.
Cheaper Tuition Fees
Students who attend online classes benefit financially from saving on various costs, such as student services fees and gas. Ultimately, many students focus on this advantage when deciding to enroll in an online college. Using public transportation or parking on some campuses can also be expensive for students.
Fortunately, you don’t have to accumulate such expenses with distance learning. Electronic textbooks can save students a great deal of money compared to hardcover textbooks, which can be quite expensive. Every savings that online learning offers is greatly helpful for a learner who wants to stay on top of their finances.
Study Remotely From Home Or Anywhere
A traditional classroom cannot offer the same level of comfort and convenience as studying at home. Taking courses from home saves students time and money since assignments and lectures are delivered electronically to their home computers. This also allows family members to stay with their children or parents while achieving a degree online.
Depending on the school you enroll in, most of them provide an online library and other resources that assist your education through and through. Therefore, you can complete your studies without visiting the campus frequently.
Great Outcomes of Flexible Schedules in Learning
As mentioned, students enjoy the perks of being able to enroll on different start dates and completing their program on flexible schedules. Online learning provides students with added flexibility, allowing them to learn at their own pace and even asynchronously, which is impossible in an in-person classroom.
Take a look at the great outcomes from flexible schedule learning offered in many online degree programs:
- More Learners Can Enroll
Students have more flexibility with online or blended learning than with traditional classroom learning. Physical classrooms typically have specific times and locations for classes and tests. On the other hand, having flexible schedules means you can take your lectures and take the exams online at your preferred time.
It is possible to complete a test by a specific deadline, eliminating the need for both a time and location restriction. As this could be advantageous for learners, it also allows institutions to offer more slots to online learners. Teachers can accommodate to assist and teach more students since their schedules are in their own control.
- Maintains Mental Health
Maintaining a healthy mental state can be easier when there are lesser time pressures and stress. Students who have heavier schedule loads for work could feel how burdensome and stressful it is to study for college. When they have too many things on their plate, it can somehow affect their mental state.
As opposed to learning at a scheduled time, an asynchronous online course allows students to learn at their own pace, thereby improving their mental health. Also, this saves introverted students from face-to-face presentations that may cause them to feel uncomfortable and burdened. Speaking in front of a group can instill crippling anxiety in students in an in-person setting.
In contrast, remote learners can benefit greatly from online discussion platforms. They may prefer to inquire and send direct messages to their instructors and advisors without having to show their faces. This relieves their stress. Also, students can easily make up for their absences and lost homework and projects when their schedules are flexible.
- Time-Efficient
Virtual classes can save students time since they have many assignments, work, and other classes to attend. By opening their laptops before class begins, students can work on their assignments or get a few more minutes of sleep instead of commuting or walking to class.
The benefits of online learning include the ability to learn at the pace of the student. With recorded lectures, students can watch parts of a lecture they need instead of sitting through an hour-long lecture. They can take more time to decipher a difficult topic and skip those that are easier for them to comprehend.
Summary Points
- With self-paced online colleges, you can continue your work and family commitments while pursuing your degree. If you aren’t attending classes in person or adhere to a strict schedule, you can study at a time that is convenient for you. Hopefully, you have found the best online college to enroll in as you study in a self-paced format.
- Some of the common online programs that come with various start dates are related to business and health. However, computer and education programs also come in self-paced formats. The number of start dates provided by some schools can reach up to 12 in a year. With flex courses becoming more popular, you may have a few courses you can start at any time for your degree.
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