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Best Online Bachelor's Degree Completion Programs The Top Online Colleges to Complete Your Bachelor's Degree

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More than 36 million American adults have some college credits under their belts but no degree in their hands. This statistic speaks to the challenges or sudden obstacles that may arise throughout one’s college experience. Online bachelor’s degree completion programs are pathways back to high learning. The disparities present for individuals in the workforce without a bachelor’s degree are significant. According to a report done by The Georgetown University Center of Education and the Workforce, someone with a bachelor’s degree can make one million dollars more during the span of a lifetime than someone without a bachelor’s degree. So you decide, is going back to school worth it?

Returning to school is a huge time and financial commitment. Juggling life and work can be challenging enough without adding college back into the mix. So to help make it easier, many of the best degree completion programs are online. An online degree completion program is a flexible and affordable way to finish your degree and maximize your earning potential from the comfort of your home. Finding a way forward towards a fulfilling career, a salary increase, a new skill by attending a bachelor’s degree completion can be just the ticket to getting a return on your unfinished college experience. 

It is projected that online learning will grow into a billion-dollar industry by 2026. Learning online can afford employed students the latitude needed to complete their degrees. Returning to school is not just a time commitment but a financial one. Some of the best online degree completion programs do not charge extra to out-of-state students, making their programs affordable and a smart investment.

Methodology

Our 2021 ranking of the Best Online Bachelor’s Degree Completion Programs ranks the top bachelor’s completion programs in the country. Institutions were selected for their focus on and investment in online learning services for adults interested in returning to college. For this ranking, we cast a wide net to make sure some excellent but underrated schools could have a chance to shine. The best online bachelor degree completion programs are ranked for their cost, reputation, and ROI. We have also listed the number of online bachelor-completion degrees offered, according to their catalog.

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Arizona State University

Arizona State University is located in Phoenix, Arizona. Through their online campus, they offer online undergraduate degrees in a myriad of in-demand industries. They are considered one of the most innovative universities in the country. They offer 127 of the best online degree completion programs. Their mission is to help adults realize their potential by finishing their bachelor’s degree. With over 20 different areas of study, the career you are looking for can be found right here. Online learning is not for everyone, so ASU has academic advisors ready to walk potential students through what online learning is like and provide support in assessing their credits and which program would work best to accomplish their career goals. Online bachelor completion students can transfer in 12 or more credits from another college. Enrollment counselors support the process of transferring your credits or associate’s degree from another college. 

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The University of Houston, a public institution located in Houston, Texas, offers four online undergraduate degree programs through their online and special programs hub. These are some of the best online degree completion programs. Each program emphasizes an in-demand profession such as nursing, psychology, retailing, and consumer science. Each program is structured to aid students in completing their undergraduate degrees, yet each program has its own requirements for graduation. The University policy requires all bachelor’s degree completion students to complete a minimum of 30 credits at UH. For example, the nursing program requires a minimum of a 2.5 GPA to graduate, whereas the retailing and consumer science program only requires a 2.0 GPA. Speak with an academic advisor to be sure you know all of the requirements to graduate. The University of Houston prides itself on contributing to fulfilling its mission. This includes providing accessible educational services to those seeking a way towards personal and financial sustainability in today’s workforce. 

Online Bachelor's Programs
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Northeastern University offers its best online degree completion programs in areas such as analytics, digital communications and media, healthcare administration, information technology, and several others. Each one of these programs is considered degree completion opportunities that are offered online, so if you have credits or an associate’s degree from another college it can count towards your required coursework to graduate. The admission process is different for each area of study at Northeastern University. This requires potential students to select their area of interest prior to applying, so that they may familiarize themselves with the admission process for that particular path of study. As a university standard, all documents must be sent from the institution directly to Northeastern University. There is no application fee associated with applying for any of these online programs. Transferring credits into Northeastern University has a huge benefit that they offer. They have several ways to maximize your individual experience towards credit hours such as college-level proficiency exams, military, and life experience, as well credits from four-year or two-year accredited institutions. 

Online Bachelor's Programs
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Washington State University offers several of the best online degree completion programs through their online global campus. The school’s reputation speaks for itself. Their online degree programs will provide students comprehensive instruction and a degree from a reputable university with all the flexibility online learning can afford. Their programs are offered in five areas: business, communication, science, technology, interdisciplinary studies, and social and behavioral sciences. Some requirements must be met, and students transferring in credits must have a 2.50 GPA and must have at least 27 credit hours completed before enrollment. Student tuition for the global campus is the same as an in-state applicant traditional on-campus student. To make attending online more affordable, the student-run ASWSU organization has created a special scholarship for online students. The teaching method for online classes is through an experiential process that offers innovation. Online students will receive the same quality of education as on campus.

Online Bachelor's Programs
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Boston University has one online bachelor completion program. This online course of study is in Interdisciplinary studies and will provide a comprehensive liberal arts education. This program primes students to be graduates in the social sciences, humanities, and natural sciences, as well as mathematics and computer science. They offer highly in-demand skill sets that train students to innovate in their positions. This type of degree can be utilized in business or technological industries. This program will teach interpersonal awareness with classes like the moral self, literature, and film, and foodstuff. For admission, students are required to have 52-64 transferable credits prior to applying to the bachelor’s completion program online. This is a unique program that has a little bit of everything. This area of study incorporates modern and contemporary ideas. Affordability is important to Boston University, so they offer this program competitively and students have the option of applying for financial aid. This bachelor’s can be completed in 18-36 months from enrollment. 

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Ohio State University-Columbus

Ohio State University is located in Columbus, Ohio. They are proud to offer an online bachelor completion program from one of the world’s renowned universities. Their faculty have perfected the use of online instruction to offer the best online bachelor completion program. The benefits of this program are endless. A strong student-led online community, affordable tuition, and innovative approaches to teaching will help shape the students’ learning experience. Their online learning experiences are shaped around the working adult. Students will craft their schedules based on their time and needs. Students are also encouraged to take advantage of the online learning assessment tools that they offer to evaluate whether they are ready to tackle higher education in an online format. Before you commit to a program, Ohio State University distance learning professionals are willing to help you every step of the way. From credit transfers and program selection to financial aid support, they are ready to help you each navigate the entire process. 

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Join the second largest global campus serving over 20,000 students at Penn State University-World Campus. This online institutional juggernaut has 37 online bachelor completion programs. They have for over 20 years provided an innovative and professional educational online service to students all over the world. The online learning structure at PSU global is an asynchronous instructional model that allows students to complete their degree on their own time at their own pace. Students utilize occasional group work, weekly assignments, and peer to peer interaction led by self-study to complete their coursework. They offer several in-demand professions for students to choose from, including accounting, business, digital multimedia, and design. PSU has an in-depth admission process for its degree completion students. They require a minimum completion of 36-60 credits for undergraduate students to receive their degree from the PSU world campus. 

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The University of Arkansas offers nine online self-paced bachelor’s programs for students returning to college to complete their undergraduate studies. What makes this one of the best online bachelor’s completion programs is the uniqueness of their instructional method. The faculty does not set the pace of learning for the students. This is beneficial to those looking for a personalized educational experience. You will not have to fit into this program. Instead, you will get to shape the program to fit your needs. These are referred to as self-paced online courses. It is important to note that these classes are not eligible for federal financial aid, loans, or scholarships. These courses however are significantly less costly at $135 per credit. They offer programs in communication, interdisciplinary studies, business administration, and nursing. Creating a lasting experience with professional technical support for their online students. Academic advisors are trained to help students develop a personalized educational plan that will lead to bachelor’s degree completion. 

Online Bachelor's Programs
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The University of Massachusetts began offering online educational instruction to people locally, nationally, and internationally in 2001. Each year they offer over 4000 online courses. They are leaders in online learning. Their best online degree completion programs are representative of their commitment to excellence and professionalism. The world-renowned and award-winning faculty are a huge draw to the program for students determined to finish their bachelor’s degrees online. The university is best known for its liberal arts, education, business, public health information technology pathways along with several other areas of study. All of which are available to online bachelor’s completion students via the online platform. Online students will have access to some of the same resources as on-campus students, including library access, financial support, advising, and 24/7 technical support. Online bachelor’s completion program students can choose from programs like applied psychology, criminal justice, human services, and so much more. 

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The University of Kansas offers some of the best degree completion programs online via their online platform. Students completing their degree can find several program options with the University of Kansas online degree program. Their online courses are offered in four-week, eight-week, and 16-week sessions following the regular semester calendar. They have a 30 credit minimum for students transferring credit towards a degree completion program. Blackboard facilitates their courses and class communication; students will have the flexibility to complete courses in what is referred to as micro-semester. This will allow motivated self-paced students to accomplish more in less time. The enrollment process differs slightly for each program, so selecting the study area and program before you apply imperative. Bachelor’s completion students can choose from nine online programs, communication studies, liberal arts, psychology, information technology, health sciences, health information management, exercise science nursing, and respiratory care. 

Online Bachelor's Programs
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George Washington University, located in Washington, D.C., expands its reach by offering three of the best online bachelor degree completion programs, including cybersecurity, information technology, and homeland security. Some of the most renowned leaders in the field teach these high in-demand programs, who are determined to provide a solid foundation of learning. Admission standards are strict; courses not completed with a 3.0 GPA or higher will not transfer in. Depending on which program you pursue, students may have to transfer in a minimum of 60 credits because completion can be granted in two years. Official transcripts must be sent directly from the institution. Consult with an academic advisor before enrolling. Program enrollment follows the regular school calendar: fall, winter, spring, and summer. These programs are specifically created to provide professional students an option to go back to school while managing the challenges of work-life and school. 

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University of Oklahoma -Norman

The University of Oklahoma, located in Norman, Oklahoma, has one of the best online bachelor’s degree programs online. Their programs are offered through their extended campus, with as many as four online bachelor’s degree completion programs. They offer a streamlined admissions process that includes transfer credit evaluation. Once you select your program of interest, the enrollment process is smooth and simple. One of the benefits of choosing this school is the online self-paced anytime enrollment courses available to students. While these courses are self-paced students, have 180 days to complete the required coursework, yet they can enroll anytime throughout the semester. This is a huge benefit to students that want to accelerate their completion plan. Online bachelor completion program students can choose from organizational leadership, integrative studies, lifespan care administration, and criminal justice. The extended campus of the University of Oklahoma is a progressive institution dedicated to providing excellence through flexible online learning. 

Online Bachelor's Programs
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Villanova University is home to 200 scholars and faculty members that offer students some of the best online degree completion programs. Based in Villanova, Pennsylvania, they offer their course content in an accelerated format for students to take advantage of to complete their degree sooner rather than later. The college of professional studies offers seven high in-demand programs for online bachelor-completion students to choose from, such as Entrepreneurship, organizational development and management, leadership, public service and administration, and general studies. Villanova University offers upper-level division courses online while incorporating relevant and engaging coursework led by industry leaders. Applicants will need to prepare for a rigorous admission process that will include admission letters and transfer credits. They have enrollment advisors for the professional studies college to support students in submitting the necessary documents and transcripts. Students may also be required to attend an admissions interview. 

Online Bachelor's Programs
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Kansas State University offers some of the best degree completion programs online. They have 10 different areas of study for bachelor completion students to choose from. These programs are crafted for individuals that have already taken two years of college and would like to complete the degrees that they started. Programs include animal science and industry dietetics, early childhood education, elementary education, family studies, and human services, food science and industry, general business, interdisciplinary social science, nutrition and health, and technology management. All of these programs can help graduates transition into fulfilling careers. The application process is specific to each program. They have set up an online transfer equivalency site in which students can see how their current credit will transfer toward the completion of a bachelor’s degree program. Their online program qualifies to receive federal financial aid support. The support services offered are a huge talking point. Online students will have access to the same student support and resources as on-campus students.

Online Bachelor's Programs
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Peirce College doesn’t cut corners with making sure their online completion programs are the best. Student success is their main focus. They have structured their program to usher students through the back-to-school process from the beginning to the end. Located in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, their school mission is to offer educational services to busy adults. The Middle States Commission accredits them on Higher Education. They serve a small population of just over 1,700 students annually. So you will benefit from an intimate school experience. Students can choose from several programs within the online bachelor completion programs, including human service leadership, liberal studies, organization leadership and management, and technology management. Applicants must come in with at least 45 credits to be in the degree completion program. There is an application fee associated with applying, so be sure to check in with academic advising to ensure you meet the criteria. 

Online Bachelor's Programs
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Drexel University offers the best online degree completion programs through the Goodwin College of Professional studies. The benefits of choosing this school come in their flexible transfer credit policy. Drexel University supports working students by accepting work experience and military training as credit towards finishing an undergraduate degree. They offer one-degree completion online program in general studies. It is required that students have at least a 2.5 GPA and 24 credit hours to qualify to be a part of this program. General studies is a little bit of everything. The entire program consists of 180 credit hours of coursework. General studies students are encouraged to take minors and certificates in specific fields as stackable credentials. A university upper course-level requirement asks that students take at least 36 upper-level classes to graduate. The students of the degree completion program will choose from several specializations, including business, healthcare, computing, social sciences, communication, applied arts education, and so much more.  

Online Bachelor's Programs
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Oregon State University’s E-campus has a mission to offer anyone worldwide access to their educational services. As an institution, they have been around for over 150 years. The E-campus has 38 of the best online degree completion programs to serve students near and far. Graduates have a great track record of moving into the workforce, well trained and ready to impact their communities. There are over 1500 courses available via their online platform. Their faculty support is legendary, with 100+ subject areas and 24,000 students worldwide; they guide students to build an educational plan they can accomplish. Get familiar with online learning with Oregon State University’s class demo. Get first-hand experience with the software you will use in your degree program before committing to the program. They also have over 24 chemistry courses available online as well. Going back to school as an adult can be a tough choice to make. OSU is a solid, reliable institution to ensure your choice is a safe investment in your future. 

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At the University of Louisville, students can finish their degree online with UofL online learning. Many of the University of Louisville online programs offer flexibility for the working student to finish their degree independently. UofL is a proud supporter of the military; as a military-friendly school, they understand the armed forces’ demands and strives to provide supportive and flexible educational services to all veterans and active members of the military. All active members can qualify for a waiver for application fees and will receive priority registration. Transfer credit policy is structured to accept the maximum amount of credits students have. A community college student can transfer in as many as 60 credit hours. Students can transfer from a four-year and transfer in as many as 90 credit hours towards an online bachelor’s completion program. To be sure your credits will transfer in, take advantage of the pre-evaluation form for bachelor’s degree completion students. 

Online Bachelor's Programs
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Duquesne University values the adult student. They show this by offering two online undergraduate programs for adults that want to complete their degrees online. Organizational leadership and computer system technology. students will use innovative instructional methods to learn and digest the coursework associated with the online program of their choice. They also offer career and academic support. Returning to school online can be a real challenge, but knowing someone is available to help dig you out of the trenches when the coursework becomes overwhelming is a valuable asset in a program. Duquesne University is accredited by the Middle State Commission on Higher Education. The online learning courses are not self-paced independent study; they are very interactive. Engaging with the professor and classmates is a huge part of the online learning experience. The professor will set the pace and deadlines for assignments. Attending an online orientation is required for all new and transferring students. 

Online Bachelor's Programs
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This branch of the University of North Carolina is in Charlotte, North Carolina. They have four distinct bachelor completion programs. These are some of the best online degree completion programs, as each one of these programs is in high demand. Students of the bachelor completion program can choose from respiratory therapy, Nursing, engineering technology in fire safety, and electrical. These programs are offered 100% online. Nursing and respiratory therapy and fire safety require a minimum of 60 credits in a similar field to qualify to be accepted into the program. These online degrees are offered through the UNC distance education division of academic affairs. They are accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges. Managed online programs offer more flexibility than their on-campus equivalent. These online options are perfect for the working professional looking to advance in their career and, finally, turn that associate’s degree into a bachelor’s. 

Online Bachelor's Programs
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A catholic university established in 1919, Siena Heights University is located in Adrian, Michigan. They have some of the best online degree completion program options for adult learners today. For the last 17 years, SHU has continued its goal to be one of the country’s leading providers of online education. Students from all over North America attend their online programs, adding up to 800 students annually. Students represent 36 different states and Canada. They have built their online learning instruction to be flexible and customized to each student to learn at a pace and schedule that works for them. They are a fully accredited institution, which means students may be eligible for financial aid support. They offer extensive academic advising and enrollment counseling for adult bachelor-completion students. Each program may have different requirements for acceptance. Choosing Siena Heights University is a good investment in your future. 

Online Bachelor's Programs
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Finish what you started at the University of Maine; they have some of the best degree completion programs, offering students a self-led learning method. This allows students to take control of their time and education and learn what they are passionate about. Their bachelor of university studies is an interdisciplinary approach to industry and business. There are several tracks to choose from, and they are all offered online; they include self-designed track, labor studies, marine studies, and leadership studies. These broad specializations allow students to build skills that encompass a collective of information. The self-designed track is amazing for individuals that want a career change. They will have the chance to build their degree around their personal career goals. An academic advisor will work with you each step of the way to ensure your academic interests and degree requirements are in sync. Creating a partnership with your educational advisor is paramount, as you are both invested in you accomplishing your goals. 

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University of Missouri-St. Louis

The University of Missouri’s campus is located in St. Louis, Missouri. They have 40 of the best online degree competition programs. The University of Missouri Online is a subsection of the university dedicated to offering flexible and affordable online learning options for the working adult. The standout in online learning with their student support network is a communication-based online platform that directs students to the resources they need to succeed. Their mission to help transform their community and the world starts with affordable and accessible education. Students of the degree program can choose from over 30 areas of study. There are several online degree programs to select from. To better understand the transfer credit process, spend some time going through the program offerings and speak with one of the advisors on hand. Each program has slightly different enrollment requirements and criteria. If you haven’t quite figured out what you want to do but want to start taking courses towards completion, enroll as a non-degree seeking student. Online learning allows students to be in control of their academic path. 

Online Bachelor's Programs
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The University of Cincinnati is a hub for online learning all over the world. Students flock to their degree offerings as they are some of the best online degree completion programs offered that inspire innovation and creativity. They are dedicated to making going back to school simple; joining the bearcats is made easy. Once you select your areas of interest, you can begin the process. Most applicants must have at least a 2.5 GPA to qualify to enter into any online undergraduate program. If you are in the military or an active service member, that time served can turn into credits towards your degree. UofC is military-friendly and supports veterans going back to school. Online instruction at UofC is set up to provide adults working in their area of study to merge those two experiences into their degree program. However, online learning can be difficult to grasp if you haven’t been to school in a while. In response, there are student support resources available to aid you in selecting the right course to graduate on time.

Online Bachelor's Programs
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Minnesota State University’s campus is in Mankato, Minnesota, and was established in 1868. They started with big plans and very few students. Today they operate many online programs through the university extended education program. This school has some of the best online degree completion programs for adults that want to advance their skills in their profession. They offer bachelor completion programs in nursing, dental hygiene, business administration, and applied leadership. Each of these programs is 100% online and will allow you to use credits or degrees already earned towards advancing in your chosen career. Online students will join the impressive network of students and faculty members of the Minnesota State University. The faculty’s mission is to develop relationships with their students that will create a bond that will grow the vast network of the Alumni community. Graduates will join a network of over 125k alumni worldwide. This department has a lot to offer, and the students will benefit from the myriad of resources available.

Online Bachelor's Programs
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Hamline University is lauded as the first university in Minnesota, located in Saint Paul, Minnesota. They were established in 1880. Their bachelor of art in psychology and bachelor of business administration is the best online degree completion program this university offers. These programs follow in the footsteps of their founders to champion the need for accessible and flexible education for all. That is why they have free applications for potential students and flexible start times. As a fully accredited institution, they can offer their students financial aid in pell grants, scholarships, and federal grants. For bachelor’s completion students, you must have two years or more work experience or at least 40 credits from an accredited four-year college with a minimum of a 2.5 GPA. Students interested in the BA in Psychology must have taken general psychology. They have a tool that will aid students in doing a credit review of their current credits before you transfer. 

Online Bachelor's Programs
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Utah State University is leading the change; as more and more adults find their way back to the classroom, they have continuously maintained a thriving online learning institution. USU online has some of the best online degree completion programs, serving 50 states and 55 countries. For the last 25 years, they have honed their online learning chops, with 500+ online credit courses and 60+ online degrees, certificates, and minors. Potential students can transfer in credits towards one of 14 100% online bachelor’s degrees offered by USU online. They have also integrated every aspect of their on-campus resources into a digital format, from health and wellness services to financial aid, technical support, and so much more. Transfer credit policy is in-depth and slightly different depending on the interesting area of study. Online student tuition is offered at a fixed rate. It is the same as in-state tuition for on-campus students. 

Online Bachelor's Programs
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California Baptist University offers the best online degree completion programs through the division of online and professional studies. They are accredited by the  Western Association of Schools and Colleges Senior College and University Commission. They offer distance learning in 37 states. Advancing in a career can be challenging without a bachelor’s degree; for working adults interested in going back to school, CBU endeavors to guide adults through this transformative process. They promote several in-demand industry areas of study. This includes cybersecurity, criminal justice, business administration, communication, computer information technology, and so many others. Students will be motivated by innovation and up-to-date online instruction. Courses are flexible, as start times are every eight weeks. The three-semester per year structure offers students an accelerated degree and faster completion times. Online students will also have access to financial aid support, such as scholarship opportunities and flexible payment plans. 

Online Bachelor's Programs
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Boise State University has one of the best online degree completion programs for adults. Each online program has been crafted with department faculty and an instructional designer. Together they built online degree completion programs based on the needs of the working adult. The affordability of the program is not an accident either, along with making sure their tuition prices are lower than other schools.  They also offer financial aid scholarships and federal grant opportunities for students. Their online learning options are both flexible and effective. There are full-time and part-time enrollment options for students to decide how much time they can devote to their coursework. Online students can choose from a vast selection of online bachelor’s degrees. They are accredited by the Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities. Program offerings include public health business administration, imaging science, respiratory care, integrated strategic communications, and some others. 

Online Bachelor's Programs
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Walsh University has just the solution for adults returning to school. Their online degree completion programs are flexible options that fit well with a busy schedule and full home life. To have a chance at a career, pay increase, or a new career, achieving a bachelor’s degree is the first step towards accomplishing these goals. Walsh University, located in North Canton, Ohio, is an independent Catholic university dedicated to offering online learning alongside the teaching of Jesus Christ. Students can choose from accelerated online completion degrees like accounting, human resource management, marketing, communication, digital media, and so many other programs. Each online program is offered entirely online and can lead to a promising career. Walsh University has an automatic transfer program for any student transferring from another four-year university.  A full transfer evaluation will be done as soon as transcripts are received directly from the former college. 

Online Bachelor's Programs
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Hilbert College offers two of the best online degree completion programs. Hilbert is considered a catholic Franciscan college for all. They have 800 students enrolled in total. They offer an intimate learning environment, even in their online programming. Their campus is just a short drive from Buffalo, New York. Even online students can utilize their comprehensive resources. They pride themselves on low tuition and the flexibility that enables students to easily balance their studies with the rest of their other life commitments. The programs that they offer include criminal justice and cybersecurity. Students can finish their programs in under two years if that is their intention. Both programs offer expert faculty leadership and guidance as well as an accelerated pace. Besides, they offer students the support to apply for financial aid. Most programs require some coursework in religious studies. Their offerings include seamless credit transfers and a learning platform that is entirely online. 

Online Bachelor's Programs
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Gallaudet University has the best online degree completion program for those with more than 80 hours of college credits, cannot finish a traditional on-campus bachelor’s degree program, or is interested in completing a degree in deaf studies or psychology. As these course offerings are particular, potential students will be advised accordingly on what course they will need to fulfill their chosen study area. Students will be held to a 30 credit minimum standard. To graduate bachelor completion, students must complete at least 30 credits with Gallaudet University. Online courses are held in 8 weeks accelerated structure, which means several start times each year for potential students to begin completing their degree. Gallaudet University offers detailed, specific, and advanced programs. Gallaudet University also offers comprehensive readiness services to help prepare potential students for the rigors of online learning. 

Online Bachelor's Programs
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Malone University is a Christian University dedicated to the instruction of arts, sciences, and professional studies in the liberal arts traditions. Individuals interested in completing a degree online in organizational leadership on an accelerated track should consider Malone University. This program is 100% online and can be finished in as little as 12 months or three semesters. Students will benefit from intimate and engaging online learning, which is no different from on-campus learning than not having to travel to campus. The curriculums are faith-based and put a strong focus on ethical management, laying the groundwork for navigating a career through that lens. Students may also apply as dual major students and follow organizational leadership, marketing management, project management, and environmental management. The accreditation council fully accredits their online organizational leadership program for business schools and programs. Choosing Malone University takes you one step closer to completing your bachelor’s degree with the support and resources of one of the best online faculty and university enrollment staff. 

Online Bachelor's Programs
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Bowling Green State University offers the best online degree completion programs, allied health, nursing, training and development, internet and information studies, and quality systems. They are fully accredited by the Association of Technology, Management, and Applied Engineering. Bowling Green State University offers their Quality Systems degree to bachelor-completion students via their e-campus. The quality systems program will prepare graduates to work with prominent industries in high-paying, high-demand positions. Transfer in your credentials and experience for credits toward completing the bachelor’s degree of your choice. The quality systems bachelor’s degree can be completed in 24-36 months. Another stellar asset of this institution is its library services, compiled throughout its lifetime of over 100 years. Students will have an invaluable resource to aid them in their studies. 

Online Bachelor's Programs
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Norwich University offers the best online degree completion programs. Their 200-year history speaks for itself; by choosing to pursue an online degree at Norwich University, you will also be choosing to benefit from the prestige of this historical institution. This school is accredited by the New England Association of schools and colleges; it is also designated Center of Academic Excellence in Cyber Defense by the National Security Agency and Homeland Security. Bachelor completion students can choose from online degree options, interdisciplinary studies, criminal justice, cybersecurity, management studies, national security studies, and strategic studies and defense analysis. Norwich allows their student to transfer up to 90 credits towards their degree; applicants can finish their degree in under two years. These programs are for career-driven individuals that want to go back to school without interrupting their work and home life.

Online Bachelor's Programs
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Founded in 1868, Holy Names University has operated out of Oakland, California, for more than 150 years. This progressive and diverse institution reshapes the way we engage as students and professionals through education in our communities. They have rooted themselves in the fabric of the communities they serve. It is with this approach that they offer the best online degree completion programs. Applicants can get all the information they need to make the right decision about their education; Holy Names University evaluates the credits you want to transfer over then together, you map out the educational options based on career and academic goals. Applying is simple and begins with sending official transcripts, choosing a program, and submitting one recommendation letter. Students can choose from a BA in business or interdisciplinary studies. There is also a nursing program, psychology, and liberal arts studies. 

Online Bachelor's Programs
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If you are looking for some of the best online degree completion programs out there, Westfield State University might be just the ticket. They are true leaders in online education, as they have utilized years of extensive research to offer the best practices and course delivery methods for self-paced online learning instruction. Their coursework is extremely flexible, ensuring that students can easily fit their studies into their already busy lifestyles, including working full time and parenting. The bachelor’s completion programs they offer include accounting, finance, management, marketing, criminal justice, history, liberal studies, psychology, and sociology. Their online library resources are extensive and available for students to access 24/ 7, not unlike much of their coursework. Westfield’s website has a section titled: Is Online Learning Right for Me? It’s a good idea to assess yourself and determine if it is a good fit, and this is a good rubric to use. 

Online Bachelor's Programs
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Wisconsin Lutheran College offers degree completion programs that are delivered entirely online. They are called Adult Accelerated Degree Programs here, where you can transfer credits. These programs were designed to enable students to maximize their previous college credits and their life experience and apply them to a relevant bachelor’s degree program. The goal is to ensure students will be career-ready with the most up-to-date skills upon program completion. Wisconsin Lutheran has articulation agreements with several technical colleges to make transfers easy. They also evaluate students for alternative education experiences that can apply to their already earned credits. They also allow students to test out of some classes and gain credit by examination. Besides, they allow their students to gain credit by demonstrated competency. In this case, students will create a portfolio demonstrating their abilities with extensive descriptions of their professional experience. 

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Kent State University

Kent State University is known for being a trailblazer when it comes to online learning. Today they continue to offer some of the best online degree completion programs. Some of the program topics that are offered include aeronautics, applied engineering and technology, biological sciences, health and wellness, business, communication, journalism and media, computers, mathematics and information sciences, education and teaching, government, public policy, and justice, human services and social sciences, languages, literature, and cultures, physical sciences and the environment, sports recreation and hospitality, and visual and performing arts. They pride themselves on their faculties recognition globally. The tuition is the same if you are an international student or a local. They are known for being military-friendly as well as offering a myriad of student support services. They even offer a variety of technological services for online learners and comprehensive online library resources. 

Online Bachelor's Programs
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Central State University prides itself on offering some of the best bachelor’s degree completion programs around. They are part of the University System of Ohio. Flexibility is the name of the game at Central State, as they want to make it easy for students to be able to work and go to school at the same time while managing other life responsibilities. Students can choose to study 8 or 16-week classes. In addition, students can access their coursework 24/ 7 with the convenient learning formats that are employed in their online programming. The bachelor’s completion programs that they offer include teacher education, business administration, criminal justice, and interdisciplinary studies humanities. Students can choose to participate in these programs on a full or part-time basis. Now get this, students in this program can qualify for the last-dollar scholarship that offers a free ride if they enroll in a bachelor’s completion program through their union. 

Online Bachelor's Programs
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Utica College offers a wide range of online programs, many of which can be considered some of the best online degree completion programs. Their offerings are expansive in reach. They are designed to support the academic success of busy adult professionals who are returning to school or even those starting from scratch. Their bachelor’s program offerings include fraud and financial crime investigation, accounting, business administration, nursing RN to BSN, data analytics, health sciences, cybersecurity, criminal justice, and health care management. Online learning at Utica promises the same quality as traditional on-campus programs with unmatched flexibility embedded into the coursework. Utica was established in 1946 with a mission to support career-driven academic pathways. There is a myriad of financial aid opportunities, including military benefits. They also have employer tuition reimbursement options. They also have a significant amount of student life opportunities. 

Online Bachelor's Programs
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One of the taglines on Charleston Southern University’s web page is a quality online education. What more can you ask for? Well, a few things, and I imagine they have those too. They made a list of best degree completion programs online for several reasons. They pride themself on flexibility, affordability, and the ability to meet busy adult learners where they’re at. Certainly, you can start fresh at Charleston Southern University, but you can also pick up where you left off while transferring credits from another degree pathway. They offer online degree and degree completion programs in business, healthcare, management, business analytics, hospitality and tourism, ministry, computer science, human resources, nursing, criminal justice, leadership, and professional studies. They pride themselves on being the Lowcountry’s only Christian university. The campus community has many resources to offer, many of which online students will also get to benefit from. 

Online Bachelor's Programs
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Mercy College of Ohio offers a variety of best online degree completion programs that allow students to engage in healthcare fields that are in demand. Their online programs include healthcare administration online completion, medical imaging online completion, and BSN nursing online completion. The RN to BSN program is expressly designed for the working nurse. All of these programs are designed for students to easily balance their studies with work and other life commitments due to the flexible online format. Mercy is a Catholic institution of higher learning with its entire focus on healthcare education. It was established in 1918 by the sisters of mercy. They have a series of values that drive their mission and tie into the service necessary for engaging in the medical arts. All of their programmings emphasize critical thinking and experiential learning. 

Online Bachelor's Programs
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Grace College

Grace College-Indiana offers some of the best online degree completion programs. They vary from 45 to 60 credit hours needed to finish the program. All of them are delivered entirely online in a flexible and convenient format. The programs include a bachelor’s in psychology, a bachelor of ministry leadership, a bachelor of human service, and a bachelor of business administration. The faculty at Grace is interested in engaging heavily with their students, so many contacts are encouraged. To participate in the program, you must have access to high bandwidth internet, speakers, and a flash player. Keep in mind that some programs might have additional requirements. The Higher Learning Commission fully accredits grace. Grace College is an evangelical Christian school that is committed to biblical values. One of their core values is nurturing personal transformation and relating all things to the scriptures. 

Online Bachelor's Programs
4

Roberts Wesleyan College offers some of the best online degree completion programs out there. They believe in supporting students to complete what they started with innovative and accelerated learning options. They want to honor the education students have already completed as much as possible so that you will notice generous credit transfer options. In some cases, they honor the life and work experience in the form of credits as well. Students can complete their degree programs in 12-24 months. Students can choose to study on a part-time or full-time basis. Students can choose to take just one or two classes in a 5-8 week term. Classes can be fully online with some in-person options if the student is interested. The bachelor’s completion programs include business management, social work, health administration, teacher education, and RN to BSN. They pride themselves on not only being military-friendly but also military spouse-friendly. 

Online Bachelor's Programs
5

Daytona State College offers some of the best online completion programs around. Not only do they have a whole host of bachelor’s degrees that are offered entirely online, but they also have a significant amount of blended programs as well. Hybrid learning can be a good fit for students who want that on-campus touchstone but ultimately would rather have the flexibility that online learning offers. Their fully online bachelor’s programs include supervision and management, nursing, supervision and management (hospitality concentration), information technology, and engineering technology. The partially online bachelor’s degree programs include accounting and engineering technology (electrical concentration). Just from a glance on their website for online programming, you can see a myriad of scholarship opportunities expressly for their online students for varying amounts. They have generous credit transfer options for students. Besides, they offer many online certificate programs that could support students in their career path of choice. 

Online Bachelor's Programs
7

Pfeiffer University is an excellent choice when looking at the best degree completion programs online. They give students many opportunities to gain credit from previous academic and professional experience. Their degree completion programs specifically consider adult learners who have busy lives and have extensive life commitments. Some of the degree completion programs they offer include a bachelor of science in business management and leadership, bachelor of science in criminal justice, elementary education, health administration, and registered nurse to bachelor of science in nursing. All of the aforementioned programs are delivered entirely online. Their program offerings exist in multiple divisions, including the business division, the division of arts and sciences, and the division of applied health and sciences. They offer many resources to support student success, including advising. Also, they have an office of career services and internships that can be beneficial for all students. 

Online Bachelor's Programs
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Thomas Edison State University offers a variety of best online degree completion programs. Many aspects of their degree programming stand out, including their commitment to adult education since 1972. That is their primary focus, so they must be doing something right. Yes, all of their programmings are based on degree completion. Some of the benefits of studying at Thomas Edison include their generous credit transfer options, unmatched flexibility, and the ability for students to set their own learning and coursework pace. They have over 100 options as far as areas of study are concerned. Besides, students have the option of creating their own path of study. Students can transfer up to 90 credits from accredited community colleges and up to 120 credits from accredited four-year institutions of higher learning. Also, they have cultivated programs that explicitly offer what employers want. 

Online Bachelor's Programs
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Champlain College is an excellent choice if you are interested in finding one of the best degree completion programs online. They have over 60 programs that emphasize career-oriented learning and coursework that was explicitly designed for adult learners. Their degree completion programs aim to meet adults where they are on their academic and professional journeys. They pride themselves on flexibility, as well as affordability. They are committed to offering an academic pathway that enables students not to make huge life changes to accommodate their studies. The average age of their students is 38, and one hundred percent of their courses are offered entirely online with coursework that can be completed 24/7. Also, they have small class sizes, so no one can easily fall through the cracks. Besides, they have many graduate degree offerings, making it easy for bachelor’s graduates to keep going. 

Online Bachelor's Programs
60

Ball State University offers some of the best online degree completion programs out there. They provide a virtual environment that makes it easy for adult learners to pick their education up to where they left off without disrupting their current lives too much. Their degree completion programs include applied behavior analysis, registered nurse to bachelor of science, business administration, logistics and supply chain management, criminal justice and criminology, general studies, and early childhood education (birth through age five non-licensure). The same award-winning faculty teach their online programming as the traditional on-campus faculty. They also have extensive support services for students working virtually, including peer mentoring opportunities, technology support, and academic advising services. Their tuition is competitive and known for its value. They also have extensive master’s degree programs that would be easy for students to matriculate into upon graduation of their bachelor’s. 

Online Bachelor's Programs
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Why Should I Finish My Bachelor’s Online?

Some projects are harder to complete than others. A degree program is often one of those life to-dos that never get finished. Those of you with almost enough credits to graduate and your college career many years behind you know what I mean. These days, it is easier than ever to finish a degree that you started without starting from the beginning. Some of the reasons include the flexible learning formats that are now available. This enables students to complete a degree around a busy work and life schedule. In other words, you don’t have to put your professional life on hold in order to complete coursework. In addition, you can still be a busy parent and find a program that can work around your other life priorities. 

Online Completion Degree Programs

Flexibility is often the name of the game when it comes to online degree completion programs. They are designed for those who have already started their education but put their studies on hold for a number of potential reasons. Online degree completion programs generally attempt to make it easy for folks to pick up where they left off or start over with some credits already under their belts. In less broad terms, degree completion programs are often available for finishing a bachelor’s degree that was previously started and, for whatever reason, was not finished. We all know what it’s like for life to happen and intervene on our good intentions or life plans that didn’t quite come to fruition. People often say it’s never too late, and you will see here that this is certainly the truth. However, if you are in this boat as someone who has started a degree and you want to put the tools in place to finish it up, it is important to do a lot of planning and research. Those of you who are interested in completing a degree is most likely not interested in wasting any time. You probably want the most accommodating and flexible pathway that will allow you to get in and out with that magical piece of paper in hand. If that is true for you, then please do your due diligence and find something that is exactly relevant to your academic and career trajectory and will get you where you want to go. If you are an adult learner or a non-traditional student, you will most likely be interested in seeking degree completion programs online. for a more in-depth look into bachelor’s degree completion, programs check out our guide. 

Is an Accredited Program Important?

If you are searching for a degree program that is perfect for you, I imagine you are weighing all of your options. You might be asking yourself the age-old question: Is an accredited program important? Good question. We will try to get to the bottom of that here. Let’s start answering this question with another question:

What is Accreditation? 

Accreditation is basically a filter for quality. An accreditation protocol is a rigorous process that third-party academic authorities facilitate. This includes the US Department of Education (USDE). This process vets academic programs and ensures that they are up to par with professional and high academic standards. It is important for employers to see that candidates have achieved a degree that is legitimate and relevant. Knowing that a school has undergone this accreditation process and has passed the test ensures that students have gotten an education that holds weight when it comes to academic standards. Not only is accreditation critical for employers to accept the academic credential, but it is also important if you are interested in transferring any credits to another institution. You would be hard-pressed to find an accredited academic institution that would be willing to accept credits from a non-accredited program. Rest assured, there are so many accredited online degree completion programs to choose from. Once you get it down, it will be easy to week out the fakes and find a high-quality transfer degree program that meets your needs. The good news is if you are studying online, many schools do not require any on-campus visits, making it easy to choose a program that is anywhere in the country or world. 

How Do I Know It’s Accredited? 

There are many accrediting bodies that look at online schools as well as traditional. The most common include such national accreditation agencies as Accrediting Council for Independent Colleges & Schools (ACICS), Distance Education & Training Council (DETC), and Accrediting Commission of Career Schools and Colleges (ACCSC). There are some specialized accrediting agencies that focus on ministry and theology. Including the Association of Advanced Rabbinical and Talmudic Schools (AARTS), the Association of Theological Schools in the US and Canada (ATS), and the Transnational Association of Christian Colleges and Schools (TRACS). Because many people attend online programs as a way to complete a degree pathway that they previously began elsewhere, it is important to ensure the online program and school is accredited. Make sure the school has been officially recognized by the Council on Higher Education Accreditation (CHEA) or, as aforementioned, the US Department of Education. This might be confusing, but the accrediting body actually has to be accredited themselves to be relevant. Degree completion programs generally advertise an in and out accelerated approach to learning, which appeals to adult and professional learners who are busy. It’s easy to get caught up in the jargon related to expedient program completion and miss the language that addresses the accreditation process and accrediting agencies. If you are attempting to transfer credits from multiple institutions, it is imperative that all of the institutions are officially accredited for your credits to be transferred effectively. 

Watch Out for Fake Accreditors

This might sound crazy, but online education has really taken off in the last decade, which means that so has phony online higher education accreditors. Make sure the program you ultimately choose is legitimate. You would be surprised by how many fake schools are out there. They are heavily advertised and considered degree mills. Don’t be fooled, because in many cases their names sound pretty official. Be careful when the school simply says “state-approved,” rather than accredited. The state approval process is different from an official accreditation process. This basically means they have been granted a license to conduct business, which is very different from accreditation that looks at the quality of the education that is being offered. Program descriptions can be deceiving, especially when talking about accreditation, so be sure you are reading the fine print and determine that the accreditation is legitimate. 

Let’s take a look at the original question regarding accreditation. Is an accredited program important? The easy answer is YES. It is critical to find an accredited program if you want it to be recognized by other academic institutions and employers, corporate and independent alike. Accredited online degree completion programs are popping up everywhere these days, so don’t feel like you have to choose the one down the block or the first one you see. The ticket is to do the research to find exactly what you need to take the next step in your professional and academic life. 

Related: 

Ultimate Guide to Online Degree Completion Programs

Should I Go Back to School to Earn My Bachelor’s Degree?

Can I finish my Bachelor’s Degree Online?

Guide to Online Communication Degrees

Ready to start your journey?

Ready to start your journey?