Find your perfect college degree
In this article, we will be covering...
As technology advances, people can’t help but demand comfort and flexibility. Despite the burning desire to obtain an education, many of us have not had the chance to earn a degree. Many factors come into play, but one of the biggest challenges is distance.
It’s almost regrettable that many who aspire to be students of top colleges in the USA are physically unable to attend class. When it comes to a daily schedule, “busy” is an understatement for many!
Luckily, with the help of great innovators, we have the chance to obtain education in the comfort of our homes through the best online colleges.
The Lowdown
Do you want to earn a college degree? Online colleges provide an excellent way for the high school graduate, busy professional, or homemaker to go to school and earn their degree! It’s a great time to start your educational journey and attending an online learning is the way to go!
A Great Opportunity
Thanks to technological advancements, students now have options for earning a college degree. E-learning in online colleges has grown in popularity in recent years because of its convenience and flexibility.
For this reason, there is a high demand for online education today, prompting many top colleges in the USA to integrate e-learning into their programs on top of the existing curriculum.
100% Online or Hybrid Classes
Additionally, a number of the best online schools have made it their core mission to provide quality education everywhere, which means all courses are taught 100% online, meaning you can attend virtual classes.
What does “hybrid” mean, you ask? Hybrid means that your distance learning degree program will include some strictly online degree classes; however, it will also require some in-person attendance as well. As you can imagine, some degree programs, such as medical-related for example, require hands-on clinical practice; hence, the need for in-person instruction.
An online degree program often provides the means for all undergraduate and graduate students to attend college!
Methodology
In this article, we explore different schools that offer online degrees to hundreds of thousands of students everywhere. These online colleges have glowing reputations and remain on top of their game. We have chosen them based on these factors:
- Online colleges that offer 100% online and/or hybrid coursework,
- Taught by experienced faculty; same as on-campus instruction,
- Accredited online colleges that display proper credentials from the appropriate colleges and schools commission for excellence for distance learners,
- Many online students qualify for federal financial aid resources for online degrees,
- Offers an easy online enrollment process,
- Displays positive reviews by online students and recent graduates,
- Offers online tutoring, career services, and 24/7 student support services for distance learners.
To learn more about online degrees and our selected colleges, see our Methodology page.
Top Colleges That Offer Online Programs
Liberty University
Liberty University is one of the pioneers in online education and is known for its large online presence. In 2022, Liberty University saw a record 115,000 students enrolled in online programs from all over the world. Since then, Liberty University has kept growing its online programs, staying a leader in the field, and focusing on flexible learning options.
Liberty offers over 700 programs for degree and non-degree seekers. In addition to its wide variety of course options, Liberty is also known for having among the most generous transfer credit policies. It allows students to transfer up to 75% of a bachelor’s degree and up to 50% of a master’s, postgraduate, or doctoral degree.
Furthermore, Liberty Online has a tuition freeze. This means that once you enroll, your tuition rate remains unchanged throughout your studies, regardless of any future increases. With its low tuition, flexible options, and generous transfer credit policy, Liberty is popular for working adults.
Liberty University is Southern Association of Colleges & Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC)-accredited.
University of Phoenix
A pioneer for distance learners, the University of Phoenix is the largest private university in North America. With a total number of 76,000, both online and on-campus students, the university has the largest online student population.
It features undergraduate and graduate programs in business, nursing, education, and technology. It also offers its instructors real-world experience in their chosen field and focuses on skills that are relevant to the current economy.
Their education programs are up-to-date to reflect new trends and standards. Students have access to collaborative learning teams and are provided with free orientation workshops. As a result, students get to “experience” the online school setup even before or without having to enroll.
If you are ready for a “Life of a Phoenix,” the University of Phoenix is for you!
Grand Canyon University
Grand Canyon University, a private Christian school, is hailed as one of the best online colleges in the country. Its state-of-the-art learning system for online education is one of the reasons why it is a popular choice for online students.
It puts great emphasis on individualized learning for both on-campus and online instruction, allowing students to obtain a more in-depth level of engagement in and understanding of their coursework.
They also have four-credit courses, which allow students to complete their degree programs in less time. Experience online college with GCU!
Walden University
Accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC) and a member of the North Central Association of Colleges & Schools, Walden University is considered a leader in online education. The university offers at least 100 online degree programs and over 260 concentrations and specializations!
Moreover, the university also offers more than 15 online bachelor’s degree programs, 30 master’s degree programs, and 20 doctoral programs. To date, the faculty population has reached a staggering 2,000 members.
Because of the extensive faculty and diverse program offerings, Walden University boasts quality online education. Students have free tutoring services in an array of study areas like science, math, statistics, and accounting. Faculty members also offer one-on-one consultations on course papers.
Prospective students at Walden University also have the opportunity to complete a bachelor’s degree in just 18 months.
New England Institute of Technology
New England Institute of Technology, also called New England Tech, offers several hybrid and fully online bachelor’s degrees that can be completed in only 18 months. Their online courses, crafted by a team of faculty and technology experts, are designed to be interesting, engaging, and relevant.
Coursework is provided every week, and classes are done in an interactive online portal with fellow students and faculty. The school’s e-campus, available throughout the day, also offers students a wealth of resources, including library services and tutoring. The university also offers associate’s and master’s degree programs.
Post University
A for-profit institution, Post University offers 50 online degree programs. New England Association of Schools and College, Inc. has awarded the university a remarkable accreditation. Online programs have been made available to students since 1996 and 1997, offering them a wide range of quality Certificate, Bachelor’s, and Master’s degree programs.
These programs are run in an interactive online format that is flexible and convenient, making them a popular choice among distance learners. Students also have the option to take classes in 8-week modules six times a year with reputable faculty members as instructors.
Oregon State University
Oregon State University’s (OSU) eCampus offers more than 20 online bachelor’s degree programs. Its online campus has been open since 2000.
Some of the unique online programs available include Agricultural Sciences, Human Development and Family Sciences, Sustainability, and Anthropology. Oregon State University obtained accreditation from the Northwest Commission on Colleges & Universities.
OSU offers bachelor’s and graduate degree programs, including master’s and doctorate degrees. At OSU, there is no distinction made between courses taken in a classroom and those taken online. This means that distance learners earn the exact diploma but learn in a different classroom.
The same instructors teach on-campus and online. OSU eCampus assures students of the quality education that is made available to everyone regardless of their location. Get started at OSU!
Strayer University
Strayer University is an excellent choice. The university offers online courses in areas like business, information systems, public administration, and management, to name a few.
Classes are held on a per-quarter-of-the-year system. This means students get to have the opportunity to enroll in more courses compared to that of a conventional semestral arrangement.
You may choose whether to take classes on a time schedule or choose to attend classes at your most convenient time. The university also has an active military scholarship and provides its students with relevant theoretical and practical knowledge in the classrooms.
Fort Hays State University
This public university in Kansas offers more than 50 online degrees, most of which are bachelor’s degree programs. Fort Hays State University (FHSU) is home to 11,000 students. More than half of these students study online via the school’s “Virtual College,” through which many of their online programs are entirely available.
For distance learners, some of these programs or areas of study include Criminal Justice, Organizational Leadership, Political Science, Psychology, and Elementary Education.
Their programs have all been accredited by HLC. The same faculty members teach traditional on-campus and online classes. At FHSU, you never have to worry about the disparity in education quality.
American Public University System
American Public University System (APUS) serves its online students through the American Military University (AMU) and the American Public University (APU). It offers at least 190 graduate and undergraduate programs and certificate programs.
Additionally, it offers its online programs in sessions of 8 and 16 weeks. This allows students to choose the schedule that is convenient for them.
APUS underscores the importance of educating the nation’s military and public personnel. In fact, they are the number one provider of higher education to the armed forces. US News also recognizes APUS as a Top Online Education provider.
They are known for their minimal college costs. APUS does not charge fees for admission and application either. In addition, students do not pay for their books and are encouraged to apply for federal student aid and military tuition assistance.
APUS’ dedication to educating students without breaking the bank has earned it recognition as one of the most affordable universities in online education.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are online degree programs easy to find?
Yes, at this moment in time, with so many choosing to work while earning their degree, most colleges and universities offer online programs to prospective students. Distance learners can find programs at the undergraduate and graduate levels.
Are online degree programs easier than traditional on-campus programs?
No, many online programs are the same. You will receive the same quality and rigorous instruction that you would obtain at the on-campus program.
Can I attend classes when it is convenient for me?
Yes, most of the time, depending on what type of online classes you desire and the online learning format offered. Here are the two types of online college programs to consider:
- Asynchronous – Attend classes when it is a good time for you; however, you must adhere to specific deadlines.
- Synchronous – Attend classes online; however, at a specific time, often at the same time, on-campus classes are being conducted.
Can I cheat while taking online classes?
No, while attending online college, safeguards are put in place to prevent online learners from cheating.
Will employers consider hiring me with an online college degree?
Yes, your diploma will not specify that you earned your degree through an online distance learning program. Gone is the stigma from the past that looked down on online degrees.
Today, earning a college degree, whether online or on-campus, is well-received and respected.
Do the top online colleges cost less than on-campus programs?
Often, the online degree cost is less; however, it depends on the policy and tuition costs that each school presents. In the long run, when you consider the costs of attending on-campus, such as boarding, transportation, and food costs, on-campus attendance does cost more.
Online learners benefit as they save on miscellaneous expenses by working from home.
Is online learning right for me?
Answer these questions:
- Are you good at staying motivated and managing your own time? Online classes give you flexibility, but you’ll need to set your own schedule and stay on top of things.
- How are your tech skills? You don’t need to be a tech expert, but you should be comfortable with basic tasks like browsing, emailing, and handling attachments. Sometimes, you’ll need to download software, but it’s usually easy.
- Are you okay with reaching out for help? Since face-to-face interactions are rare in an online setting, you’ll need to be proactive about asking for help when you need it.
- How are your reading and writing abilities? Online classes often rely a lot on these, so if you enjoy reading and writing, you’ll likely do well.
- Finally, are you ready to dedicate regular time to studying? Online courses require commitment, and you’ll need to manage your own pace and set aside enough time for assignments and studying.
Summary Points
Calling all online learners… There you have it! Regardless of your circumstances, online students can earn a degree!
- It is never too late for online learners to pursue higher education through an online college. The best online colleges offer quality programs that are properly accredited.
- Online degree programs can be located in an associate degree program, as well as bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral degrees. So, there’s something for everyone!
- Online nursing programs, business administration, elementary education, physical education, tourism management, international business, and criminal justice programs are just a few of the online degree programs you can find at an online college.
- Distance learning is an opportunity worth exploring, and we hope you take the time to see how it can help you obtain your dream degree.
- Prospective students should check out our list of the top colleges in the USA offering outstanding online education to get you started! Find an online program that suits your needs and personality! Good luck!
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