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A bachelor's degree pays off. With a college degree, you can apply to more jobs and boost your salary. What's more, online options make it easier than ever to get your bachelor's.
Why should you consider an online bachelor's degree? You'll benefit from a flexible format. You can attend a top-ranked program or choose an affordable college without relocating. And today, many of the best colleges and universities offer accredited online bachelor's degrees.
Why Get a Bachelor's Degree Online?
- Many entry-level careers require a bachelor's degree.
- Data shows a bachelor's can increase your earning potential.
- A bachelor's degree can qualify you to pursue a master's or doctorate in your field.
- An online bachelor's program allows you to learn without having to commute or relocate.
- By comparing online bachelor's degrees, you can maximize transfer credits and graduate faster.
- An online format makes it easier to find an affordable program.
Did You Know?
In 2021, bachelor's degree holders earned a median weekly salary that was $525 higher than that of people with only a high school diploma. College grads make $1.6 million more than those with just a high school diploma over their lifetime. Bachelor's degree-holders had a 3.5% unemployment rate in 2021, compared with a 6.2% unemployment rate for those with only a high school diploma. College graduates live longer — compared to a high school dropout, you'll live, on average, a decade longer with a degree! In 2021, 79% of college grads said their degree helped them grow personally and intellectually.
Explore Our Featured Online Bachelor's Programs
Accreditation for Online Bachelor's Degrees
When schools are accredited, it means they've met certain academic standards. Earning an unaccredited degree can negatively affect the quality of your education and your career options.
Many employers only hire candidates with an accredited degree. An accredited online bachelor's degree meets licensure and certification requirements, whereas an unaccredited degree usually does not.
Choosing an accredited college also means you'll qualify for federal financial aid programs.
There are different types of accreditation. An online college might hold institutional accreditation, while programs at the school might hold individual programmatic accreditation.
Make sure you choose an accredited school for your online bachelor's degree.
Common Types of Online Bachelor's Degrees
Bachelor of arts (BA) Bachelor of science (BS) Bachelor of fine arts (BFA) Bachelor of business administration (BBA) Bachelor of science in nursing (BSN) Bachelor of science in engineering (BSE)
Top 20 Accredited Online Bachelor's Degree Programs
Read About Our Methodology Here
#1 The 20 Best Accredited Online Bachelor’s Degrees You Can Get
The University of Florida Online
Gainesville, FL - 4 years
- Online
Whether they earn their bachelor's degree on campus in Gainesville or online, students at the University of Florida benefit from a top-quality educational experience. With 21 online bachelor's programs, the institution provides remote educational opportunities for learners with various interests. Online learning often eliminates the need to commute to campus, which can save students money on transportation and parking.
Graduates of bachelor's programs often secure high-level positions and earn higher salaries than colleagues with less education. With flexible scheduling options, online programs are ideal for busy students with personal or professional responsibilities.
Currently, online programs represent 100% of the University of Florida Online's total offerings. Because of the public institution's accreditation status, employers recognize and value degrees earned through its online and on-campus programs. The school's undergraduate tuition rate averages $15,000 and its average financial aid award is $7,670.
#2 The 20 Best Accredited Online Bachelor’s Degrees You Can Get
John Brown University
Siloam Springs, AR - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Students at John Brown University can choose from online and on-campus bachelor's programs, based on their needs and location. The institution delivers five online bachelor's degrees in various fields. In addition to making higher education more accessible, online learning often saves students money on tuition, fees, and expenses.
After securing a bachelor's degree, graduates often qualify for pay increases and leadership roles. Working professionals often choose online programs, which allow participants to schedule academics around other obligations, such as work and family.
Currently, online programs represent 15% of the school's total offerings. Because the private institution maintains accreditation, learners can qualify for federal financial aid. The school's undergraduate tuition rate averages $26,458.
#3 The 20 Best Accredited Online Bachelor’s Degrees You Can Get
Western Carolina University
Cullowhee, NC - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Students at Western Carolina University can choose from online and on-campus bachelor's programs, based on their needs and location. At the bachelor's level, the institution offers eight virtual programs. In addition to making higher education more accessible, online learning often saves students money on tuition, fees, and expenses.
Graduates can use their bachelor's degree to enter a new industry or to pursue advanced leadership roles in their current field. Online programs feature flexible scheduling options, which can benefit working professionals and busy students.
Online programs in various fields comprise 18% of all academic options the school delivers. The public institution holds accreditation, which ensures distance learners receive a recognized credential.
Western Carolina University at a Glance:
Online Student Enrollment: 5,000
Total Bachelor's Programs: 65
Online Bachelor's Programs: 8
Undergraduate Tuition Rate: $5,000
Average Financial Aid Award: $5,274
#4 The 20 Best Accredited Online Bachelor’s Degrees You Can Get
The University of Central Florida
Orlando, FL - 4 years
- Online + Campus
With online and on-campus options, the University of Central Florida educates bachelor's students living near its campus in Orlando, Florida, or anywhere in the world. At the bachelor's level, the institution offers 19 remote programs. In addition to making higher education more accessible, online learning often saves students money on tuition, fees, and expenses.
Bachelor's degree-holders often earn higher salaries than individuals with a high school diploma or associate degree. The flexibility of online programs allows students to maintain full-time employment while earning their degree.
Online students can pursue 24% of the school's programs in a virtual format. The public institution maintains accreditation, which ensures that employers recognize the degrees and credentials it confers.
The University of Central Florida at a Glance:
Online Student Enrollment: 41,097
Total Bachelor's Programs: 88
Online Bachelor's Programs: 19
Undergraduate Tuition Rate: $19,810
Average Financial Aid Award: $9,728
#5 The 20 Best Accredited Online Bachelor’s Degrees You Can Get
LeTourneau University
Longview, TX - 4 years
- Online + Campus
LeTourneau University enrolls students based in Texas and throughout the country in its online bachelor's programs. At the bachelor's level, distance learners select from 13 remote academic options. In addition to making higher education more accessible, distance learning often saves students money on tuition, fees, and expenses.
Graduates can use their bachelor's degree to enter a new industry or to pursue advanced leadership roles in their current field. Students who need to schedule academics around other obligations, such as full-time employment, often choose online programs.
The school delivers 34% of all programs in a virtual format for distance students. Learners enrolled at the private institution can qualify for federal financial aid, including scholarships, grants, and work-study programs.
LeTourneau University at a Glance:
Total Bachelor's Programs: 73
Online Bachelor's Programs: 13
Undergraduate Tuition Rate: $30,520
#6 The 20 Best Accredited Online Bachelor’s Degrees You Can Get
Clemson University
Clemson, SC - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Located in Clemson, South Carolina, Clemson University's academic offerings include online undergraduate programs. Learners interested in various fields can pursue virtual degrees from the institution, which delivers 18 remote bachelor's programs. Earning a degree online can be more accessible and affordable than taking classes in person.
Bachelor's degree-holders can leverage their education to secure raises and promotions at their current place of employment. With flexible scheduling options, online programs are ideal for busy students with personal or professional responsibilities.
Online programs account for 20% of the school's academic offerings. At the accredited public institution, virtual programs meet the same high academic standards as on-campus programs.
Clemson University at a Glance:
Online Student Enrollment: 7,423
Total Bachelor's Programs: 78
Online Bachelor's Programs: 18
Undergraduate Tuition Rate: $37,110
Average Financial Aid Award: $9,672
#7 The 20 Best Accredited Online Bachelor’s Degrees You Can Get
California State University, Sacramento
Sacramento, CA - 4 years
- Online + Campus
California State University, Sacramento features top-ranked online bachelor's programs. Among the institution's academic programs are two virtual bachelor's-level options for remote learners. By eliminating the need to commute or live near campus, online learning is often more affordable, improving the accessibility of higher education.
A bachelor's degree can qualify graduates for career advancement and increased pay. Online programs feature flexible scheduling options, which can benefit working professionals and busy students.
The school offers 4% of its academic programs in an online format. The public institution maintains accreditation, which ensures that employers recognize the degrees and credentials it confers.
California State University, Sacramento at a Glance:
Online Student Enrollment: 12,301
Online Bachelor's Programs: 2
Undergraduate Tuition Rate: $17,622
Average Financial Aid Award: $9,709
#8 The 20 Best Accredited Online Bachelor’s Degrees You Can Get
DePaul University
Chicago, IL - 4 years
- Online + Campus
At DePaul University, students can enroll remotely or pursue on-campus programs at the Chicago campus. The institution's 14 online bachelor's programs prepare learners to succeed in their field. By eliminating the need to commute or live near campus, distance learning is often more affordable, improving the accessibility of higher education.
With a bachelor's degree, graduates can explore more career opportunities in their industry or transition to a new field. Many online programs offer flexible enrollment options, allowing students to begin their program more quickly.
The school delivers 6% of all programs in a virtual format for distance students. To maintain accreditation, the private institution undergoes regular evaluations from a third-party agency.
DePaul University at a Glance:
Online Student Enrollment: 6,568
Total Bachelor's Programs: 98
Online Bachelor's Programs: 14
Undergraduate Tuition Rate: $40,551
#9 The 20 Best Accredited Online Bachelor’s Degrees You Can Get
Wesleyan College
Macon, GA - 4 years
- Online + Campus
From its campus in Macon, Georgia, Wesleyan College features top-ranked virtual programs. At the bachelor's level, the institution offers two remote degree options. By choosing an online program, students often save on fees and expenses, allowing them to put money toward long-term financial goals.
A bachelor's degree can qualify graduates for career advancement and increased pay. The flexibility of an online program appeals to working professionals and busy students.
With 5% of the institution's academic offerings available in a virtual format, online students benefit from a variety of program options. Because the private institution maintains accreditation, learners can qualify for federal financial aid. The school's undergraduate tuition rate averages $22,770.
#10 The 20 Best Accredited Online Bachelor’s Degrees You Can Get
Ohio University-Main Campus
Athens, OH - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Ohio University's academic offerings include online and in-person programs, for students near its Athens, Ohio, campus and throughout the country. With 23 options for learners pursuing their bachelor's degree online, the institution prepares individuals to succeed across industries. Remote students often save money on costs such as transportation and housing.
After completing their bachelor's program, graduates often pursue more advanced positions in their field. Students who need flexibility to schedule academics around personal or professional obligations often choose distance learning.
Online programs account for 14% of the school's academic offerings. Because of the public institution's accreditation status, employers recognize and value degrees earned through its online and on-campus programs.
Ohio University at a Glance:
Online Student Enrollment: 13,063
Total Bachelor's Programs: 119
Online Bachelor's Programs: 23
Undergraduate Tuition Rate: $22,406
Average Financial Aid Award: $5,956
#11 The 20 Best Accredited Online Bachelor’s Degrees You Can Get
New York University
New York, NY - 4 years
- Online + Campus
New York University provides options for students to pursue their degree online or on campus in New York, New York. With 28 online bachelor's programs, the institution provides remote educational opportunities for learners with various interests. By choosing an online program, students often save on fees and expenses, allowing them to put money toward long-term financial goals.
After earning a bachelor's degree, graduates can pursue advanced roles in their field or apply to master's programs. Students with personal or professional obligations can benefit from the flexibility of online learning.
With 9% of its programs available online, the school provides several unique options for online students. The private institution maintains accreditation, ensuring distance learners receive a high-quality education.
New York University at a Glance:
Online Student Enrollment: 5,468
Total Bachelor's Programs: 137
Online Bachelor's Programs: 28
Undergraduate Tuition Rate: $50,684
#12 The 20 Best Accredited Online Bachelor’s Degrees You Can Get
The University of Vermont
Burlington, VT - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Students at the University of Vermont can take classes online, and Vermont residents can attend in-person classes at the Burlington campus. The institution's academic offerings include one online bachelor's program. Remote students often save money on costs such as transportation and housing.
Compared to professionals without a college education, bachelor's degree-holders often qualify for more advanced roles with increased responsibility. Students with personal or professional obligations can benefit from the flexibility of online learning.
Programs delivered in an online format account for 3% of the school's degree options. Like learners at any accredited institution, those at this public school can qualify for federal financial aid and federal student loans.
The University of Vermont at a Glance:
Total Bachelor's Programs: 96
Online Bachelor's Programs: 1
Undergraduate Tuition Rate: $41,280
Average Financial Aid Award: $14,319
#13 The 20 Best Accredited Online Bachelor’s Degrees You Can Get
Temple University
Philadelphia, PA - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Temple University enrolls students based in Pennsylvania and throughout the country in its remote bachelor's programs. The institution delivers 10 online bachelor's degrees in various fields. By eliminating the need to commute or live near campus, distance learning is often more affordable, improving the accessibility of higher education.
A bachelor's degree often leads to increased salary potential and career options. The flexibility of remote learning often benefits students with family obligations or full-time jobs.
Of its programs, the school delivers 7% in an online format. Because the public institution maintains accreditation, learners can qualify for federal financial aid.
Temple University at a Glance:
Online Student Enrollment: 8,041
Total Bachelor's Programs: 137
Online Bachelor's Programs: 10
Undergraduate Tuition Rate: $28,992
Average Financial Aid Award: $8,964
#14 The 20 Best Accredited Online Bachelor’s Degrees You Can Get
Texas Tech University
Lubbock, TX - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Texas Tech University provides options for students to pursue their degree online or on campus in Lubbock, Texas. With 14 options for learners pursuing their bachelor's degree remotely, the institution prepares individuals to succeed across industries. Distance learning often eliminates the need to commute to campus, which can save students money on transportation and parking.
Graduates can use their bachelor's degree to enter a new industry or to pursue advanced leadership roles in their current field. Working professionals often benefit from the scheduling flexibility of online programs.
Currently, virtual programs represent 10% of the school's total offerings. Like learners at any accredited institution, those at this public school can qualify for federal financial aid and federal student loans.
Texas Tech University at a Glance:
Online Student Enrollment: 20,198
Total Bachelor's Programs: 82
Online Bachelor's Programs: 14
Undergraduate Tuition Rate: $16,704
Average Financial Aid Award: $7,527
#15 The 20 Best Accredited Online Bachelor’s Degrees You Can Get
California State University, Fullerton
Fullerton, CA - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Students at California State University, Fullerton can choose from online and on-campus bachelor's programs, based on their needs and location. Providing a variety of options for learners across fields, the institution's distance offerings include five at the bachelor's level. Distance learning can make higher education more accessible.
After securing a bachelor's degree, graduates often qualify for pay increases and leadership roles. Working professionals often benefit from the scheduling flexibility of online programs.
Online students can access 6% of the school's academic offerings. Regular evaluations from an accrediting agency ensure the public institution's programs meet academic standards.
California State University, Fullerton at a Glance:
Online Student Enrollment: 15,479
Online Bachelor's Programs: 5
Undergraduate Tuition Rate: $17,622
Average Financial Aid Award: $8,905
#16 The 20 Best Accredited Online Bachelor’s Degrees You Can Get
Thomas Jefferson University
Philadelphia, PA - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Whether they earn their bachelor's degree on campus in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, or online, students at Thomas Jefferson University benefit from a top-quality educational experience. The institution's nine online bachelor's programs prepare learners to succeed in their field. Many students choose distance learning because of the increased affordability and accessibility virtual programs can offer.
Obtaining a bachelor's degree can help graduates enter new career fields or advance in their current profession. The flexibility of online learning often benefits students with family obligations or full-time jobs.
The school's academic offerings cover a variety of fields, and 15% of its programs are available online. At the accredited private institution, virtual programs meet the same high academic standards as on-campus programs. Undergraduates can expect to pay $40,680 in tuition at this institution.
#17 The 20 Best Accredited Online Bachelor’s Degrees You Can Get
Mount Mercy University
Cedar Rapids, IA - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Mount Mercy University's online bachelor's programs offer a remote option for students who prefer not to relocate or commute to the main campus in Cedar Rapids, Iowa. Of the institution's bachelor's programs, eight are available in an online format. The school's distance learning options help students complete a college degree.
With a bachelor's degree, graduates often qualify for raises and promotions. The flexibility of online learning often benefits students with family obligations or full-time jobs.
Currently, 13% of the college's programs offer an online option. The private institution holds accreditation, which ensures distance learners receive a recognized credential. Prospective applicants can expect to pay $32,862 in undergraduate tuition, on average.
#18 The 20 Best Accredited Online Bachelor’s Degrees You Can Get
Saint Mary-of-the-Woods College
Saint Mary of the Woods, IN - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Located in Saint Mary of the Woods, Indiana, Saint Mary-of-the-Woods College's academic offerings include virtual undergraduate programs. With 25 options for learners pursuing their bachelor's degree remotely, the institution prepares individuals to succeed across industries. Earning a degree online can be more accessible and affordable than taking classes in person.
After earning a bachelor's degree, graduates can pursue advanced roles in their field or apply to master's programs. Online programs feature flexible scheduling options, which can benefit working professionals and busy students.
Currently, 61% of the college's programs offer an online option. Regular evaluations from an accrediting agency ensure the private institution's programs meet academic standards. The institutions undergraduate tuition rate stands at $29,950.
#19 The 20 Best Accredited Online Bachelor’s Degrees You Can Get
Gallaudet University
Washington, DC - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Gallaudet University's online bachelor's programs offer a remote option for students who prefer not to relocate or commute to the main campus in Washington, D.C. With four options for learners pursuing their bachelor's degree online, the institution prepares individuals to succeed across industries. By eliminating the need to commute or live near campus, distance learning is often more affordable, improving the accessibility of higher education.
Compared to professionals without a college education, bachelor's degree-holders often qualify for more advanced roles with increased responsibility. Students with personal or professional obligations can benefit from the flexibility of online learning.
Remote students can access 10% of the school's academic offerings. Like learners at any accredited institution, those at this private school can qualify for federal financial aid and federal student loans. Prospective enrollees can expect an undergraduate tuition rate of $16,512.
#20 The 20 Best Accredited Online Bachelor’s Degrees You Can Get
Colorado State University
Fort Collins, CO - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Whether they earn their bachelor's degree on campus in Fort Collins or online, students at Colorado State University benefit from a top-quality educational experience. Learners interested in various fields can pursue virtual programs from the institution, which delivers 19 remote bachelor's programs. The accessibility of distance learning appeals to students with a variety of backgrounds and living situations.
Graduates can use their bachelor's degree to enter a new industry or to pursue advanced leadership roles in their current field. Working professionals often benefit from the scheduling flexibility of online programs.
The school's academic offerings cover a variety of fields, and 16% of its programs are available remotely. The public institution undergoes evaluations from a third-party accrediting agency, ensuring its academic programs meet set standards of quality.
Colorado State University at a Glance:
Online Student Enrollment: 8,786
Total Bachelor's Programs: 78
Online Bachelor's Programs: 19
Undergraduate Tuition Rate: $28,147
Average Financial Aid Award: $9,750
How Much Does an Online Bachelor's Degree Cost?
Without financial aid, you can expect your online bachelor's degree to cost anywhere between $40,000 and $155,000, depending on the school and location.
This four-year cost consists of tuition, required fees, books, and supplies.
Some accredited online bachelor's degrees require additional fees, like technology fees. You'll also need a laptop and may need to buy certain software depending on your major.
Fortunately, many online colleges offer free laptops and other tech discounts to students.
Popular Online Bachelor's Degrees to Check Out
How to Make an Online Bachelor's Degree More Affordable
Worried about the cost of an online bachelor's degree? There's good news: If you choose an accredited college, you can qualify for many forms of financial aid.
As an online student, you can file the FAFSA and receive federal grants and loans.
You can also apply for state and local grants, institutional aid, and private scholarships.
Here are some other ways you can save money on your online bachelor's degree:
Shop around to find affordable online colleges with low tuition rates. Consider an in-state public university, as these schools typically cost less than private institutions. Enroll in a community college to save on tuition and then transfer your credits toward a bachelor's degree. Take AP exams or enroll in dual-credit classes while in high school. Ask schools about credit-by-exam options to save time and money on your degree.
It's best to start by looking at public colleges that may offer you in-state tuition rates. Click the map below to learn more about attending an online college based in your state.
Q&A With Real Online Bachelor's Degree Students and Grads
Q: Why did you choose an online bachelor's degree?
"I had no idea at 18 what I wanted to do, so I took a few college classes and worked to figure out my career path. I was an unconventional student at 25 and needed an unconventional solution to achieving my degree."
"I chose an online bachelor's program because of the flexibility it offered me. Additionally, the online option offered me program options that wouldn't have been possible due to substantial commute times."
"I decided to go back to school for nursing but due to my location there were no options. … [The] program also allowed me to test out of certain subject areas, such as maternal health, pediatrics, and psychiatric. This saved me money and time."
Q: What's the best part of earning your degree online?
"The flexibility of the schedule! It gave me the availability to study at night while working during the day."
"Completing my coursework online allowed me to do it on my own time and in the best setting. So if I needed to get up and move around I could do so. I could complete assignments in the middle of the night. It allowed me to work full time as well."
"The best part of earning my degree online was that it allowed me to earn a degree while working full time and caring for my family. I was able to attend evening extracurriculars for my children and do coursework after they were in bed."
Q: What advice would you give students considering an online degree?
"It's very easy to put off deadlines and not complete assignments until the last minute. Time management is essential. Learning how to study is also key. Most instructors have 'virtual office hours,' and depending on the degree, it's essential to take advantage of that."
"Focus on time management and strategies to help keep you on track. Mark a calendar with all important dates and deadlines to ensure you don't miss any. Celebrate the wins of a good test or the end of the semester!"
"Make a schedule for your school and stick to it to ensure you aren't cramming in all your assignments in one night to meet the deadlines. Your degree is as valuable as earning it in person and is indistinguishable [from the degree of] someone who attended classes in person. Do not ever allow someone to make you believe your degree is worth less because you attended classes virtually."
Frequently Asked Questions About Online Bachelor's Degrees
Yes, online bachelor's degrees are legit — as long as they're from an accredited school. Accredited colleges pass a rigorous examination of their academic standards and student learning outcomes.
Online colleges complete the same process as on-campus colleges. In fact, many top-ranked colleges offer online and in-person degrees that use the same materials, exams, and instructors.
By choosing an accredited online college, you can rest assured that your degree is credible.
You can earn an online bachelor's degree in business, education, healthcare, the humanities, the social sciences, STEM, and many other popular fields. Depending on your major, you can earn a bachelor of arts, a bachelor of science, a bachelor of fine arts, and so on.
Today, accredited colleges offer bachelor's degrees in dozens of majors. That means you can find the right fit for your interests and career goals.
Earning a bachelor's degree online takes around four years if you're a full-time student and 5-6 years if you're a part-time student.
Many colleges offer accelerated bachelor's programs or other options to graduate faster. For example, you can transfer credits toward your degree or earn credit by exam.
According to research from the Federal Reserve Bank of New York, the highest-paying majors for 2022 include engineering, computer science, economics, business analytics, finance, and physics. Those majors report the highest median salaries for graduates ages 22-27.
Online colleges offer bachelor's degrees in all of these high-paying majors.
Business, communication, criminal justice, and English often make various lists of easy online bachelor's degrees. But the easiest degree for you will ultimately depend on your skills and interests.
If you're a strong writer, a humanities or social studies degree might be easier for you. If you have a lot of transfer credits in one department, it might be easier to finish a degree in that field.
Consider your unique circumstances and strengths when choosing a major.