How to Get a Bachelor's Degree Online
Quick Facts
- Most degrees can be completed entirely online.
- Financial aid, including Pell Grants, is available to those who qualify.
- Coursework can be completed around your existing schedule.
Overview
Have you been thinking of finishing your degree or changing careers? Think you don’t have the time to go back to school? Think again – online bachelor’s degrees are a convenient way for working adults to complete, or continue, their education.
No matter what you choose to major in, you’re likely to find an online program to suit your needs. Degrees are available in business, finance, journalism, and healthcare, among a myriad of other fields. Most programs allow you to complete your studies completely online, without ever stepping foot in a traditional classroom. Some even allow you to get credit for life and work experience.
A day in the life of an online student typically involves working at their regular job and coming home to complete class work. Online programs are usually completed in either synchronous or asynchronous programs. Synchronous classes require students to meet for group chats at designated times of the week. The instructor will lead a discussion of the week’s topic and answer questions the class may have. Asynchronous courses allow students to work on their own schedules and offer more flexibility. Both programs commonly make use of online discussion boards, where students answer questions and respond to classmates. Assignments are submitted either by e-mail or through online courseware, such as Blackboard.
When choosing an online degree program, you should always check the accreditation of the school. A simple way to do this is by using the US Department of Education Database of Accredited Postsecondary Institutions and Programs. The database will also list any specialized accreditation the school may hold. A similar database can be found at the Council for Higher Education Accreditation.
Finally, as with any school, cost should be considered. Before enrolling, find out how much your program will cost, and be sure to check on any extra fees, such as books, labs, software, or application fees. Also, check to see what types of financial aid are offered. Reputable schools will offer government loans and grants as a part of their financial aid resources. You may find that online programs charge slightly more than traditional schools; however, the benefits far outweigh the additional costs. Online degrees offer much greater flexibility, 24/7 availability, and the ability to attend from anywhere you have access to the Internet.