Best Online Bachelor’s Degrees

If you’re looking for flexibility and options in higher education, it may be helpful to consider online bachelors degrees.

Throughout the country, top-ranking accredited schools now offer a wide range of bachelor programs online. These programs allow students tremendous flexibility and often appeal to individuals who are trying to fit education around their work and family obligations.

Earning an online degree is a big commitment, though, so we’ve gathered useful information about the costs, durations, admissions processes, and practices of the most popular online bachelor’s degree programs.

Online Bachelors Degrees

A bachelor’s degree can provide students with useful skills and knowledge in their field of study. You can select the program that most interests you to jump to that section of the guide:

• Bachelors in Accounting
• Bachelors in Architecture
• Bachelors in Biology
• Bachelors in Business
• Bachelors in Business Law
• Bachelors in Business Management
• Bachelors in Communication
• Bachelors in Computer Science
• Bachelors in Counseling
• Bachelors in Criminal Justice
• Bachelors in Culinary Arts
• Bachelors in Education
• Bachelors in Engineering
• Bachelors in English
• Bachelors in Finance
• Bachelors in Healthcare Administration & Management
• Bachelors in Human Resources
• Bachelors in Information Systems Security
• Bachelors in Information Technology
• Bachelors in Internet Marketing
• Bachelors in Journalism
• Bachelors in Kinesiology
• Bachelors in Marketing
• Bachelors in Mathematics
• Bachelors in Nursing
• Bachelors in Nutrition
• Bachelors in Psychology
• Bachelors in Social Work
• Bachelors in Supply Chain Management
• Bachelors in Web Design and Development

There are many areas of study you may consider for a bachelor program online, such as biology, counseling, culinary arts, finance, journalism, or nursing.

Online Bachelor’s Degree in Accounting

This major typically provides a good dose of economics, finance, and management courses to help prepare you for careers in public, industrial, or government accounting.

Once you graduate, you may take a certification exam to get started in the field or continue on to graduate school or even law school.

Online Bachelor’s Degree in Architecture

Architecture students develop drawing and design techniques, study architectural theory and history, and learn about building materials and structural considerations.

To become a licensed architect, you must complete a professional degree program, such as a Bachelor of Architecture program, which is usually a 5-year program and pass an exam.

Online Bachelor’s Degree in Biology

Biology is an umbrella term because it includes various branches. A Bachelor of Science in Biology includes coursework in genetics, microbiology, cell, and molecular biology, and evolutionary and environmental studies.

Students may branch off into the specific type of biology that interests them most and supports their career goals. A biology major can be useful for a career as a park ranger, teacher, zoologist, or wildlife biologist.

Online Bachelor’s Degree in Business

An online bachelor’s in business typically consists of courses on marketing, accounting, logistics, sales, and a variety of other business topics.

This broad but versatile major is applicable in nearly any industry, and you may even have the opportunity to declare a minor or concentration to develop your skills in a more specialized area of expertise.

Online Bachelor’s Degree in Business Law

Business law majors examine law as it pertains to business, covering topics such as contracts, mergers, and acquisitions.

This degree is typically the foundation for careers in law, finance, and other industries subject to government regulation.

Online Bachelor’s Degree in Business Management

If you’ve got an entrepreneurial spirit and are ready to start or develop a business, a business management degree may be a great choice for you.

This major typically teaches how to manage, lead, negotiate, and access risks so you can make smart business decisions.

Online Bachelor’s Degree in Communication

A major in communications can help you hone your skills in writing, speaking, critical thinking, technology, and teamwork.

A communications degree is often used to pursue an exciting career in journalism, public relations, marketing, or advertising, but your expertise in communications can be a valuable asset in any industry!

Online Bachelor’s Degree in Computer Science

As a computer science major, you will likely receive a rigorous education in mathematics and computer science theory. Most graduates become software developers or web programmers. Both of these jobs are typically well-paid and in high demand.

While it is closely related to information technology, a computer science degree is usually more focused on programming computers using mathematical algorithms.

Online Bachelor’s Degree in Counseling

Counseling bachelor’s programs online can prepare students for a number of careers in the healthcare field. Students may pursue entry-level careers, such as health education specialists, human resources specialists, or social service assistants.

The program can prepare students for an advanced degree to become a counselor. Common courses in this program include Introduction to Psychology, Psychological Disorders, and Introduction to Sociology.

Online Bachelor’s Degree in Criminal Justice

Majors in criminal justice explore crime, laws, and the justice system.

With a degree in criminal justice, you could pursue a career as a police officer, crime scene investigator, secret service agent, homeland security agent, air marshal, or a number of other related positions.

Online Bachelor’s Degree in Culinary Arts

A culinary arts bachelor’s degree allows students to learn about culinary principles and techniques. You may be interested in this program if you wish to become a chef, restaurant manager, baker or pastry chef, nutrition coach, or recipe developer.

Courses explored in this program can include Culinary Skills and Techniques, Dining Service Basics, Baking and Pastry Fundamentals, and International Cuisine.

Online Bachelor’s Degree in Education

Whether you’re interested in teaching early childhood, primary, secondary, postsecondary, or special education, this degree can help you develop the skills necessary to be effective, engaging, and inspirational in today’s classrooms.

Online Bachelor’s Degree in Engineering

Engineering is one of the most in-demand and highly-paid career fields, and a degree in engineering can potentially lead to employment in nearly any industry!

Under the broad umbrella of engineering, you may consider specializations such as chemical, mechanical, aerospace, industrial, civil, structural, electrical, computer, or biomedical engineering.

Online Bachelor’s Degree in English

English majors examine communication and expression, which are skills that are valuable in virtually every career field—government, business, publishing, teaching, and more.

Many English majors choose to go on to graduate school, law school, or even medical school.

Online Bachelor’s Degree in Finance

If you’re interested in learning about the world of business and finance, you might consider a bachelor’s degree in finance. This program can prepare students for a wide range of careers in business.

Some positions available at the bachelor’s level include accountant, auditor, budget analyst, cost estimator, and financial analyst. Students can learn about corporate finance, fundamentals of investment, microeconomics, and macroeconomics.

Online Bachelor’s Degree in Healthcare Administration & Management

All aspects of healthcare, including the day-to-day practices of hospitals, doctor’s offices, clinics, and nursing homes, are overseen by healthcare managers.

Earning this bachelor’s degree can help prepare you to make important decisions about how healthcare is implemented.

Online Bachelor’s Degree in Human Resources

Pursuing a bachelor’s in human resources can help you develop the decision-making, interpersonal, leadership, communication, and organizational skills necessary to help businesses in any industry secure and retain qualified staff.

Online Bachelor’s Degree in Information Systems Security

Earning an information systems security degree can give you the opportunity to learn how to safeguard a company’s digital information, protecting them from hackers and thieves that can cost billions of dollars in revenue each year.

With the evolution of computer technology and the internet, this is a career that’s rapidly changing and always in demand.

Online Bachelor’s Degree in Information Technology

Information technology involves installing, organizing, and maintaining computer systems and designing and operating networks and databases.

With this degree, you can pursue work in information security, network architecture, database administration, systems administration, and computer support. While information technology is similar to computer science, it is typically much more focused on computer operations than mathematical programming.

Online Bachelor’s Degree in Internet Marketing

Internet marketers use advertising, search engine optimization, social media, and websites to establish brand identity, attract and retain consumers, and increase sales.

This degree can be good for those who have a creative side but also like to study analytics and market research.

Online Bachelor’s Degree in Journalism

Journalism is a communications degree that introduces students to writing and storytelling techniques. You can learn how to craft captivating stories by taking courses in digital storytelling, principles of journalism, reporting, and communications.

Career options for this degree can include investigative journalist, sports journalist, reporter, editor, or public relations specialist. Journalism professionals may work with a variety of media, such as newspapers, digital media, magazines, or radio and television broadcasts.

Online Bachelor’s Degree in Kinesiology

Exercise science and kinesiology majors study nutrition, body movement, sports ethics, injury prevention and rehabilitation, anatomy and physiology, and fitness and wellness concepts.

With this degree, you may pursue employment in healthcare settings, such as clinics or hospitals, or as a fitness instructor, researcher, or educator.

Online Bachelor’s Degree in Marketing

If you’ve got creativity and business acumen, marketing may be a good fit for you!

This degree is often a great foundation for careers in sales, advertising, bank marketing, research, product management, retail, and client relations, but it is extremely versatile and valuable in a variety of fields.

Online Bachelor’s Degree in Mathematics

Mathematics is a broad field that covers calculus, finite, actuarial sciences, algebra, and aspects of business, engineering, and computer science.

This degree can help you pursue a top-paying career in nearly any industry or may serve as a stepping stone to a more advanced degree in applied mathematics, engineering, economics, or computer science.

Online Bachelor’s Degree in Nursing (BSN)

A nursing bachelor’s degree can lead to various healthcare provider positions, such as nursing assistant, pharmacy technician, or registered nurse.

Students learn about nursing fundamentals and practices, such as patient care, lifespan development, human anatomy and physiology, and population health. Skills acquired can be useful in a variety of work environments, such as hospitals, outpatient care centers, or physicians’ offices. It can also prepare students for advanced degree nursing programs.

Online Bachelor’s Degree in Nutrition

This major involves the study of how different nutrients affect a body’s health, growth, and development.

Your education in this field could potentially be the foundation for a career in healthcare, education, retail, social services, public health, government, or a number of other industries.

Online Bachelor’s Degree in Psychology

Psychology majors study how humans learn, communicate, remember, and adapt.

Your education can help you pursue research and teaching careers in psychology, or you may instead choose to pursue a career working directly with clients, providing therapy or counseling services.

Online Bachelor’s Degree in Social Work

You may want to opt for a degree in social work if you’re passionate about empowering individuals, groups, families, and communities to live their best lives.

A bachelor’s in social work can help open the door to entry-level positions such as mental health assistant, group home worker, residential counselor, or program coordinator.

Online Bachelor’s Degree in Supply Chain Management

Planning and problem-solving are at the heart of this degree. Supply chain and logistics majors study the process of turning raw materials into desirable products.

Being able to run a supply chain better, faster, and more cost-effectively is a huge asset to nearly any business!

Online Bachelor’s Degree in Web Design and Development

This major involves studies in designing websites that reflect brand identities, establishing appropriate looks and feels, creating hierarchy, and making engaging materials and easily navigated sites.

Web design is more focused on the aesthetics and usability of a website rather than handling the programming language that makes it operational. Web developers and programmers bring together the structure, content, visuals, and security of a website, using complex programming languages to create higher-level interactions.

Web development degree programs typically focus more on the functionality of websites (using HTML, CSS, JavaScript, PHP, and other languages) rather than on aesthetics.

Common Types of Online Bachelor Degrees

Are there different types of online bachelor’s degrees? Like traditional, on-campus programs, there are three common types of online bachelor programs. While there are overlaps in the classes required, the primary difference between the types of degrees lies in the focus of the coursework.

• Bachelor of Arts Degree (BA): This degree program is typically better suited for students who want to explore a broad range of subjects along with the specific topic of their major. These programs cover a variety of liberal arts subjects, including humanities, English, and social sciences. There is generally greater flexibility in a BA degree program to choose electives that interest you.
• Bachelor of Science Degree (BS): Online Bachelor of Science degrees will likely be highly focused on the subject matter of your major. Throughout the course of your education, you will likely take a number of specialized credits that apply directly to your major, and you may have little room for elective courses.
• Bachelor of Fine Arts Degree (BFA): This degree program teaches students how to develop their craft and enter the professional world of art. This degree path can be helpful for students looking to establish a career in dance, theater, visual arts, and more.

Depending on the online bachelor degree programs you’d like to pursue depend on your career goals and skill set. If you are looking to become a nurse, you may want to look into a Bachelor of Science degree online while if you’re looking to work with theater and arts, a Bachelor of Fine Arts may be better suited for you.

How to Choose an Online Bachelor’s Degree Program

There are several things to consider when you’re trying to figure out what bachelor online programs you want to apply to. One of the first steps is identifying what areas of study you’re most interested in. You can then begin to think about other factors, such as:

• Tuition and other education costs
• Industries you can enter with your chosen major
• Admissions requirements
• Types of resources and services offered by prospective schools
• Opportunities for job growth in desired career choice

Weighing out these options can help you narrow down your choices of potential schools and degree programs. Tuition and school fee costs can widely vary between schools and programs. Some programs and schools may have more rigorous admissions requirements than others.

If you want to have some flexibility in career options, you might consider a degree that can be applied to multiple industries. Resources and services offered by schools can be invaluable to your education experience. This could include counseling or tutoring services and resources for job searching.

Taking your interests into consideration is important. Enrolling in a degree program that has coursework that interests you may help you succeed more than if you took coursework that you didn’t enjoy.

Admissions Requirements

What is the application process like for an online bachelor’s degree program? As with online associate’s degrees, the application process for most online bachelor’s degree programs is fairly straightforward, but the requirements can vary depending on the type of institution.

Some common materials and criteria that students must meet or submit to be considered for a degree program might include:

• SAT or ACT scores (only some schools require these)
• Official transcripts from prior education
• Letters of recommendation

An academic advisor can help guide you through the enrollment and course selection process to ensure you’re taking the appropriate steps to meet your long-term goals.

Accreditation

Accreditation status is important to consider when deciding what college or university to attend. Accreditation is earned by colleges and universities that meet criteria set forth by a recognized regional accrediting organization.

Attending an accredited school can have several benefits. It provides credibility in your education by assuring that the faculty, facilities, and resources of a school are up to quality standards. Many advanced degree programs consider accreditation as a part of their admissions process. Employers may take accreditation into consideration when reviewing your educational background.

Financial Aid and Scholarships

Students can take advantage of financial aid and scholarship opportunities to help pay for college. Students may seek financial aid at the state and federal levels.

Financial aid distribution can vary by state. You can find out if you’re eligible for federal financial aid by submitting a Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) offered by the US Department of Education. Financial aid is income-based assistance.

Scholarships can be based on income, but they can also be offered for other reasons. Some scholarships are merit-based, while others are available to all kinds of students.

What Is an Online Bachelor’s Degree?

An online bachelor’s degree is the same as a traditional bachelor’s degree. It just means that the student has completed some or all of the coursework online.

In some fields, additional education may be necessary. If that’s the case, you can enroll in a graduate or certification program anytime after completing your bachelor’s program. Benefits of online programs include:

• Flexible class schedules that can better fit your busy schedule
• Not being limited to schools in your area
• Ability to connect with diverse groups of students and instructors worldwide

If you are self-disciplined enough to stay on task, the benefits of online learning can help you achieve your goals on your schedule.

Are Online Degrees Credible?

Online degrees can be just as credible, legit, and respected as degrees earned on campus. The key, for online and traditional programs alike, is accreditation. It is very important that you choose a regionally accredited online bachelor’s degree program.

To become regionally accredited, schools must meet very strict standards established by a board or agency. To find accredited online bachelor’s degree programs, you can search the U.S. Department of Education’s database.

How Much Does a Bachelor’s Degree Cost Online?

The cost of your online bachelor’s degree will depend on many factors, including the school, the type of school (public or private), degree level, and major. Although tuition varies, you can expect to pay between $300 and $600 per credit when uprising your degree online.

Most schools charge the same tuition rates to online and on-campus students, but occasionally, online programs can be cheaper as you do not have additional expenses like travel and living expenses. Earning an online degree typically costs the same or less than it costs to earn the same degree on a college campus.

What Can You Do With an Online Bachelors Degree?

An online bachelor’s degree can offer you the opportunity to learn in a flexible environment while enhancing your knowledge and skills in one or more industries.

According to the BLS, there are 169 occupations that usually require a bachelor’s degree for entry. It can provide students with the educational experience desired for entry to mid-level positions. Bachelor degrees online can also help professionals explore their interests further by preparing them for an advanced degree, professional certification, or licensure depending on the field.

How Long Does It Take to Get a Bachelor’s Degree Online?

How long does it take to earn an online bachelor’s degree? If you’re able to attend full-time and stay continuously enrolled, it usually takes 4 years to earn an online bachelor’s degree.

Some schools offer accelerated programs that may allow you to shave a year or more off of that. Courses at these schools are typically offered more often and are usually compressed into sessions that are 10, 9, or 5 to 6 weeks long. With accelerated courses, some online bachelor’s degrees can be earned in just 12 to 18 months.

Can You Transfer Credits to an Online College?

You may be wondering, “Can I transfer credits I already have to use toward an online bachelor’s degree?” If you started a degree program at an accredited institution, many, if not all, of your credits will likely transfer to other accredited colleges or universities.

Ultimately, it is up to the discretion of the receiving school which credits are accepted and how they apply toward your degree. If you do have credits you wish to transfer, it’s important to check your school’s transfer policy and speak to an academic advisor to make sure you will get credit for the work you’ve completed.

How Much Money Can You Make With an Online Bachelor’s Degree?

How much money can I make with online bachelor’s degrees? is a great question as you weigh your options. According to data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), workers with at least a bachelor’s degree earn on average $525 more per week than those with just a high school diploma.

These are some of the highest-paying careers that you could pursue with a bachelor’s degree, according to the BLS:

As you can see, these are growing fields with excellent average salaries. While some of the top-paying degrees may not be able to be pursued exclusively through online education, many schools offer hybrid programs and other flexible alternatives designed for working adults.

What’s the Difference Between Online Education vs. Traditional Education?

What is the difference between an online bachelor’s degree and a traditional degree? The primary difference between online learning and traditional, in-the-classroom learning is the format, or how the material is delivered to the student.

Your personal preferences and learning style will help determine which learning format is the best for you.

Online Bachelor’s Degree Programs:

• Allow you the flexibility to study anywhere with an internet connection
• Usually allow you to work at your own pace
• Make it possible to enroll without having to move
• May cost less than traditional programs
• Can connect you with students around the world

But remember, as with online masters programs, earning an online bachelor’s degree requires self-motivation and discipline.

Traditional Bachelor’s Degree Programs:

• Provide a structured schedule
• Allow you to interact face-to-face with professors and classmates
• Have more safeguards to keep you on track, such as reminders for assignments and exams

These factors are important for some students but traditional, on-campus learning lacks flexibility. As you can see, there are pros and cons to online and traditional learning. You will have to figure out which format works best for you, fits within your lifestyle, and will help you achieve your goals.

Is a Bachelors Degree Worth It?

Yes, a bachelors degree is worth it for many professionals. It may increase your job and salary opportunities. It can also be the first step toward an advanced degree, which may lead to mid to senior-level positions.

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, occupations that typically require a bachelor’s degree are projected to have a 10% average job growth increase over the next decade. Bachelors programs can help you develop a unique skill set that employers may consider when reviewing candidates.

Best Universities Offering Online Bachelors Programs

Methodology: The following school list is in alphabetical order. To be included, a college or university must be regionally accredited and offer bachelors degree programs online or in a hybrid format.

U.S. News & World Report ranks Arizona State University among the top 10 schools in the country for online bachelor’s degrees. ASU offers many online bachelor’s degrees in a variety of fields, and most of these programs are fully online. Online courses at ASU are 6 to 7.5 weeks long. Fields of study offered include African and African American studies, digital media literacy, and biochemistry.

ASU is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

California Baptist University offers over 40 online bachelor’s degree programs. Most of these programs are fully online. They are designed to provide the same education and degrees as their on-campus counterparts. Many of the degrees can potentially be completed in just 2 years. Online courses are offered in a 16 week semester format. Fields of study offered include cybersecurity and Christian ministries.

California Baptist University is accredited by the Accrediting Commission for Senior Colleges and Universities of the Western Association of Schools and Colleges.

U.S. News & World Report ranks Colorado Technical University among the top colleges in the country for online bachelor’s degrees. The school offers over 30 fully online bachelor’s programs. CTU offers several start dates each year. Students may take Fast Track exams to earn credit. Fields of study offered include psychology and computer engineering.

Colorado Technical University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

U.S. News & World Report ranked Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University as the number two college for online bachelor’s degrees. There are 10 start dates offered each year, and courses are conducted in a 9 week, accelerated format. Fields of study offered include aviation business management, emergency services, and unmanned systems applications.

Embry Riddle Aeronautical University is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.

Florida International University has offered online programs for over 20 years. Students can choose from over 70 online bachelor’s degrees.

Most courses are conducted in an asynchronous format. Programs start in the fall, spring, and summer and follow a semester schedule. Fields of study offered include biological sciences, hospitality management, public policy and service, and religious studies.

Florida International University is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.

U.S. News & World Report ranked Fort Hays State University among the top colleges for online bachelor’s degrees in the country. Fort Hays offers over 80 fully online bachelor’s degree programs. Courses are either 8 or 16 weeks long, and there are several start dates offered throughout the year. Fields of study offered include nursing and applied geology.

FHSU is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

Indiana University offers over 30 online bachelor’s programs designed for working professionals and parents. Most of these programs are fully online, but a few have low residency requirements. Courses are conducted in an asynchronous format and offered in the fall, spring, and summer. Fields of study offered include data science, German, and sustainability studies.

Indiana University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

Northeastern University offers online bachelor’s degree completion programs. The programs are designed to be flexible to meet varying needs. Students may accelerate their degrees or take part-time classes.

Most programs are fully online, but a few have on-campus components. Students may be able to get credits for work experience. Degree fields offered include advanced manufacturing systems, information technology, and project management.

Northeastern University is accredited by the New England Commission of Higher Education.

U.S. News & World Report named Pennsylvania State University among the best online colleges for a bachelor’s degree in the country.

Penn State offers 40 fully online bachelor’s degree programs. The programs are conducted in an asynchronous format with set due dates. Courses follow a traditional semester schedule. Degree fields offered include digital multimedia design and turfgrass science.

Pennsylvania State University is accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education.

Bible Colleges Online named Regent University the Best Online Christian College in America. Regent offers over 60 fully online bachelor’s degree programs. Many are also available in a hybrid format. Most courses are asynchronous, but some offer live lectures. Regent offers start dates every 8 weeks. Fields of study offered include Christian ministry, law and national security, and nursing.

Regent University is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.

Robert Morris University offers flexible online degree programs for students with busy schedules. All programs are fully online, and some are also available in a hybrid format. Courses are conducted in an 8 week accelerated format, and there are several start dates offered each year. Degree fields offered include organizational leadership, health services administration, and cybersecurity.

Robert Morris University is accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education.

Saint Leo University has offered online options for over 20 years, and its courses are designed with adult learners in mind. Students can choose from over 28 bachelor’s degree programs. Most of these programs are fully online. Courses are offered in an 8 week, accelerated format with multiple start dates each year. Fields of study offered include respiratory therapy and elementary education.

Saint Leo University is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.

U.S. News & World Report named the University of Central Florida one of the best online programs for bachelor’s degrees. Students can choose from over 20 fully online bachelor’s degree programs. Some students can complete their bachelor’s in just 2 years. Fields of study offered include anthropology writing and rhetoric.

The University of Central Florida is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.

The University of Florida offers online degree programs that are designed to provide the same education and degrees as their on-campus counterparts. Most programs are fully online and feature an asynchronous learning format. The school offers over 20 different fields of study, including geology, sports and media journalism, and nursing.

The University of Florida is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.

The University of Nebraska—Omaha offers online bachelor’s programs designed for working students. Most programs are fully online.

Courses follow a traditional semester in the fall and spring, and there are two sessions offered during the summer semester. Most courses feature an asynchronous learning modality. Degree fields offered include emergency management, gerontology, and gender studies.

UNO is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

Getting Your Bachelor Degree Online

Bachelor’s programs online can offer you a more flexible schedule by completing coursework synchronously or asynchronously. Earning a bachelor’s degree helps students develop skills in their area of interest that could lead to their desired career.

You can choose from many types of majors at the bachelor’s level. You can find the right online bachelor’s program for you by thinking about your current skill set, interests, and desired career field.

You can take the first step toward earning a degree by researching accredited bachelor’s programs online that support your career goals and aspirations.