Self-paced online colleges have become a popular option over the past decade. It is now easier than ever before for students to complete an online degree program with the flexibility of their own schedules.
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Popular Self-Paced Online Colleges | Self Paced Online Degree Programs
This means that many students are able to complete their degrees on time, thus getting a jump-start on their careers in less time than it would take to complete a degree in most fields
If you’re someone that understands the meaning of responsibility and time management, then self-paced online courses are probably the route you want to go when it comes to a college education. Students who pursue self-paced degrees typically find that traditional curricula move too slowly for them.
Online Programs That Might Interest You
Learn about start dates, transferring credits, availability of financial aid, and more by contacting the universities below.
Within these programs, agendas and due dates are generally very loose, as they are specifically designed to accommodate busy schedules. Students pursue their degrees without the added stress of exam dates, overdue assignments, long commutes, or group projects. Though it takes drive and self-discipline to take part in these kinds of specialized courses, which are offered by multiple online colleges throughout the country, the rewards are high and long-lasting.
Self-paced online college students enjoy the flexibility and freedom of learning at their own pace and on their own terms.
“Self-pacing can improve memory performance.”
Online College at your Own Pace?
Self-paced online colleges are becoming increasingly popular because students are able to learn at their own pace. Many colleges now offer self-paced online courses as a supplement to the traditional semester system. There is no fixed time or place for studying, and students can work around other commitments such as family, day jobs, etc. The flexibility of the system means that people of all ages are able to take part.
Many believe that self-paced online college courses are simply not as thorough or effective as traditional college courses, especially because students will have so much more control over their study schedules. Others argue that this new system actually makes learning far more effective since students can move at a speed that best suits them. Traditional courses can be a struggle for those who learn more slowly, but self-paced online college courses need not be a problem.
Students will have to weigh up the advantages and disadvantages of both systems before deciding which one works best for them. There are certainly some clear advantages to self-paced online courses; however, the traditional semester system still has much to offer.
Procrastinators Need Not Apply
In general, self-paced online courses are a great option for working adults looking to finish their degrees. These classes are NOT recommended for procrastinators. Though the schedules are lenient, there are definite time limits and those who intentionally put off coursework will not be catered to. Students who fail to finish their coursework within the allotted semester may have to pay extension fees. These courses are recommended for self-motivated individuals that can stay on task unsupervised.
Online students should consider carefully whether regular or self-paced online learning is the best fit for them.
Online Programs That Might Interest You
Learn about start dates, transferring credits, availability of financial aid, and more by contacting the universities below.
Popular Accredited Self-Paced Online Colleges List
Thomas Edison State University
TESU offers flexible online courses that allow students to finish their degrees at their own pace, when and where they want. The university offers more than 25 self-directed classes in a variety of fields, such as business, English, economics, and more. Courses are offered at both the undergraduate and graduate levels.
An associate’s degree requires 60 credits to complete while a bachelor’s degree program requires 120.
University of Illinois Online at Urbana-Champaign
The University of Illinois, Urbana-Champaign is a world-class institution with a strong commitment to undergraduate education and research/scholarly activities. The university has been ranked in the top ten universities by the Brookings Institution for its contributions to the public good. It has also been ranked in the top 5th nationally by U.S News & World Report for its contribution to minority students in terms of quality and quantitative measures.
The University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign offers self-paced virtual courses for both degree-seeking and non-degree-seeking students. These are designed to accommodate even the busiest of schedules and are open for enrollment year-round.
UI at Urbana-Champaign offers continuous, self-paced NetMath and Math Teacher Link courses, which provide short, online courses for math teachers of 9-14th-grade levels.
University of North Dakota – Online & Distance Education
The University of North Dakota offers “Self-Paced Enroll Anytime” courses. These are independent study mechanisms that take approximately 3-9 months to complete. Although self-paced students enjoy the flexibility and convenience of online (or even mail-in) curricula, no financial aid is available for these programs.
UND online offers 93 online self-paced courses covering topics such as chemistry, geology, economics, math, physics, psychology, and more.
The University of North Dakota, through its online college courses and programs, prepares more than 6,700 students annually for successful careers and lives. It offers more than 120+ course options, which include traditional and accelerated health care programs, designing and problem-solving programs, and competitive academic programs.
Capella University
Capella offers Flexpath, a self-paced online degree program formatted to fit your lifestyle. With no preset class times or deadlines, students have the freedom to earn their degree at a much faster pace and at a minimal cost. For one flat tuition rate, students can take up to 2 courses at a time, allowing them to complete as many as possible in the space of 12 months. Flexpath offers both self-paced online bachelor’s and master’s programs in education, psychology, health care, and more.
Flexpath’s 1-year bachelor’s degree – $10,000; RN-to-BSN – $12, 800
Flexpath’s 1-year master’s degree – $9,600-$11,200
Penn Foster College
Penn Foster College offers self-paced, online associate’s degrees and career diplomas. Students have up to 2 years to complete diploma tracks and up to 6 years to complete college degree programs, and extensions are requested before being approved. College-appointed proctors oversee the final exams. Penn Foster holds accreditation from the Distance Learning and Training Council (DETC).
Western Governors University
Western Governors University is a self-paced online college accredited by the DETC, as well as four other regional accrediting agencies. Online students have no predetermined program lengths, meaning students can truly work at their own pace toward undergraduate or graduate-level degrees. These range in specialty from business, nursing, education, and information technology.
Average Bachelor’s Tuition: $6,670
Average Master’s Tuition: $7,405
See Available Self-paced Courses From This School Today
Waubonsee Community College
Waubonsee offers Self-Paced Open Entry courses via face-to-face video chats, sync online, virtual study guides, and other network delivery methods. Instructors are available to assist students based on necessity. As long as homework and exams are completed by the end of the semester, and apart from certain proctored tests, the majority of coursework is completed independently. Students can take up to two courses at a time, paying an $8 per college credit hour student fee for open-entry classes.
Visit Waubonsee Community College Today
Online Programs That Might Interest You
Learn about start dates, transferring credits, availability of financial aid, and more by contacting the universities below.
Self Paced Online Degree Programs
Self-Paced Online Bachelor’s Degrees
B.S. in Business Administration
A popular self-paced program for obtaining a bachelor’s degree in Business Administration usually includes courses in economics, statistics, accounting, finance, human resource management, marketing, operations, organizational behavior, leadership, and sales. Some programs may also include courses on topics like project management and strategic management.
B.S. in Nursing (RN-BSN completion program)
Nurses who have completed an associate’s degree or have completed 24 to 30 units can further their studies towards a bachelor’s degree in nursing through competency-based education. This type of education allows nurses to gain the skills they need to excel in their field by focusing on specific areas of knowledge and practice. Courses include Pathophysiology, Research, Management, Leadership, Adult Care, Geriatric Care, and Community Health.
Nurses who have completed an associate’s degree or have completed 24 to 30 units can further their studies towards a bachelor’s degree in nursing through competency-based education. This type of education allows nurses to gain the skills they need to excel in their field by focusing on specific areas of knowledge and practice. Courses include Pathophysiology, Research, Management, Leadership, Adult Care, Geriatric Care, and Community Health.
Example: Winston-Salem State University – BSN Completion Degree
B.S. in in Dental Hygiene (A Completion Program)
The demand for dental hygienists continues to rise, and while an associate’s degree may be sufficient for some, a bachelor’s degree provides more career options for dental hygiene professionals beyond private clinical practice.
Other industries with potential for RDHs include the corporate setting, community public health, research, dental education, public administration, and entrepreneurship.
Some people who are successful in entrepreneurship venture into practice management consultancy, dental technology, marketing, and authorship. RDHs who want to stay in their current clinical work but expand their career options may choose self-paced bachelor completion programs in Dental Hygiene.
Example: Minnesota State University–asynchronous CBE BSDH program
B.S. in Information Technology/Computer Science
Completing a bachelor’s degree in information technology or computer science can offer a lucrative career. These programs can be completed online and asynchronously, which makes them ideal for those who want to work remotely.
Additionally, the course completion requirements can be submitted virtually, making this an excellent choice for those who want to get ahead in their field without having to fret over deadlines.
Example: Western Governors University
B.S. in Criminal Justice
The criminal justice system is a complex and ever-changing field. It is important to understand the different career paths that are available in this field. There are many different careers in criminal justice, but they can be broken down into three main categories: law enforcement, corrections, and legal professions.
Law enforcement careers include police officers, detectives, and other law enforcement professionals. Corrections careers include correctional officers and other corrections professionals. Legal professions include lawyers, judges, paralegals, and others who work in the legal system.
Example: Penn Foster College
B.S. in Social Science
A bachelor’s degree in social science is a broad degree that covers many different topics, such as sociology, psychology, anthropology, and economics.
A bachelor’s degree in social science can be a great choice for students who are interested in pursuing careers in the fields of law enforcement, education, business or corporate, government or policy-making, consultancy, academe, and many other similar fields.
This degree can be a great choice for students who are interested in pursuing careers in the fields of law enforcement, education, or business.
Example: Upper Iowa University
Self-Paced Online Master’s Degrees…coming soon.
Self-Paced Online Courses, Not For Everyone
While self-paced online college programs offer convenience and flexibility for continuing higher education, learners can easily slip into bad habits of procrastination. If full or part-time students fail to complete coursework on time, they run the risk of paying extension fees or being dropped from their programs entirely.
Those who can self-motivate and work unsupervised are the best candidates for online self-paced college courses. Those who can benefit from some supervision should choose campus-based college courses.
Self-paced online programs are also known as at your own pace online college or simply online colleges at your own pace.
Online Programs That Might Interest You
Learn about start dates, transferring credits, availability of financial aid, and more by contacting the universities below.
FAQs
What is the easiest online school to get into? ›
Antioch University in Culver City, California, offers an online degree program for Liberal Arts. It is arguably considered as the easiest online college – or an 'easy' pick because it takes a well-rounded, generalist approach. The university's online B.A in Liberal Studies accepts up to 75 transfer credits.
What are the most useful online courses? ›- Data Science. ...
- Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning. ...
- Big Data. ...
- Business Intelligence. ...
- Cloud Computing. ...
- Project Management. ...
- Software Development. ...
- Full-stack development.
- Engineering.
- Business.
- Nursing.
- Hospitality.
- Education.
- Computer Science.
- Architecture.
- Pharmaceutical Sciences.
- Penn State: 87 percent.
- University of Florida: 84 percent.
- George Washington University: 81 percent.
- Marist University: 80 percent.
- Full Sail University: 80 percent.
- University of Denver: 78 percent.
An accelerated, online bachelor's program is usually the quickest way to earn a bachelor's degree. Students in these programs can take more credits at once, leading to early graduation — sometimes in 1-2 years. However, most bachelor's programs take about four years, and part-time online programs can take much longer.
What is the easiest fastest online degree? ›In our study of the different programs available to students, we've found that some of the easiest online bachelor's degree programs to complete: Computer science, business administration, nursing, education, accounting, criminal justice, and early childhood education.
Which course is best to get job immediately? ›- Certificate Course in Finance Accounting and Taxation.
- Advanced Certificate Program in Data Science.
- Advanced Certificate in Machine Learning and NLP.
- Advanced Certificate in Blockchain Technology.
- Advanced Certificate in Digital Marketing and Communication.
- PHP Certification.
- Medical billing and coding specialist.
- Web designer.
- HVAC technician.
- Truck driver.
- Licensed real estate agent.
- IT support.
- Brick mason.
- Personal trainer.
- AWS Certified SysOps Administrator.
- AWS Certified Solutions Architect – Associate.
- AWS Certified Developer – Associate.
- Google Certified Professional Cloud Architect.
- Google Certified Professional Data Engineer.
- CompTIA Cloud+ Certification.
- Certified Cloud Security Professional (CCSP)
- Business Administration. Average GPA: 3.2.
- Psychology. Average GPA: 3.3. ...
- Education. Average GPA: 3.6. ...
- Social Work. Average GPA: 3.4. ...
- Public Relations & Advertising. Average GPA: 3.0. ...
- Criminal Justice. Average GPA: 3.1. ...
- Journalism. Average GPA: 3.2. ...
- Economics. Average GPA: 3.0. ...
What degree has most job opportunities? ›
- Pharmacology. For a lucrative career helping people, pharmacology is at the top of the list for in-demand degrees. ...
- Computer Science. ...
- Health Science. ...
- Information Technology. ...
- Engineering. ...
- Business Administration. ...
- Finance. ...
- Human Resources.
- Psychology.
- Criminal Justice.
- English.
- Education.
- Religious Studies.
- Social Work.
- Sociology.
- Communications.
School | Graduation Rate |
---|---|
University of Akron Wayne College Orrville, OH | 5.6% |
Oklahoma State University Oklahoma City Oklahoma City, OK | 5.7% |
Blinn College Brenham, TX | 5.8% |
Dallas College Dallas, TX | 5% |
GRADUATION HONORS
cum laude, "With Honors", cumulative GPA of 3.5 and above; magna cum laude, "With High Honors", cumulative GPA of 3.65 and above; summa cum laude, "With Highest Honors," cumulative GPA of 3.85 and above.
Highest Educational qualification is generally the educational degree that you have been awarded or granted. This means a course that you have successfully completed. For example, if you are in your Final year B. Tech, you are yet to complete your Graduation and you still do not have your Course completion certificate.
What certificates can I get in 6 months? ›- Emergency Medical Technician.
- Funeral director.
- Brick Mason.
- Personal trainer.
- Medical coder.
- Firefighter.
- Air traffic controller.
- Automobile service station manager.
Answer to the above question is: Yes. Graduation in One Year program, pursued under lateral entry or credit transfer scheme, is absolutely valid. It is approved by UGC, AICTE, AIU & DEB.
What degree can you get in 6 months? ›- Real Estate Agent. Selling real estate has limitless potential, and you can get started quickly. ...
- Commercial Truck Driver. ...
- Phlebotomy Tech. ...
- HVAC Tech. ...
- Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) ...
- Personal Trainer. ...
- Emergency Medical Technician (EMT)
- Thomas Edison State University.
- University of Alabama.
- The University of Texas of the Permian Basin.
- West Texas A&M University.
- Columbia College.
- Eastern New Mexico University.
- American Public University.
- Grantham University.
- Business Administration. Career Fields. Average Salaries: Bachelor's Degree. ...
- Aviation. Career Field. Average Salary with a bachelor's degree. ...
- Computer Science. Computer Science Careers. Average Salary with a Bachelor's Degree. ...
- Engineering Management. Career Fields.
Are online colleges easier? ›
For some people, online programs are easier because they offer a flexible schedule. In addition, people with great time management skills and a sense of responsibility can excel in online classes. However, online education may be more challenging for those who enjoy learning in a classroom environment.
Which is the easiest course with high salary? ›- Data Science.
- Artificial Intelligence.
- Digital Marketing.
- Programming Languages.
- DevOps.
- Blockchain Technology.
- Website Development.
- Cloud Computing.
- Cyber Security. ...
- Artificial Intelligence. ...
- Web Developer. ...
- Architecture. ...
- Law. ...
- Digital Marketing. ...
- Data Science. ...
- Financial Management.
- Full-Stack Developer. ...
- Data Science. ...
- Cloud Computing. ...
- Project Management. ...
- Business Analytics. ...
- Chartered Financial Analyst. ...
- Digital Marketing. ...
- Machine Learning.
...
High-Paying Jobs With Little Schooling Required
- Police Officer. ...
- Aircraft Mechanic. ...
- Mechanical Engineering Technician. ...
- Radiologic (X-Ray) Technologist. ...
- Welder. ...
- Diesel Mechanic.
- First aid certifications. ...
- Project management certifications. ...
- Software certifications. ...
- Government certifications. ...
- Notary public certification. ...
- Forklift operator license. ...
- Computer programming certifications. ...
- Marketing certifications.
- Emergency Medical Technician.
- Railroad Jobs.
- Medical Coder.
- Information Technology Technician.
- Criminal Investigator.
- Brick Mason.
- Postal Service Worker.
- Pharmacy Technician.
- Web Development Certification.
- Cloud Solutions Architect Certification.
- Salesforce Certification.
- Big Data Certification.
- Digital Marketing Certification.
- Cybersecurity Certification.
- RPA Certification.
- AI Certification.
...
Best Certification Courses Which Offer High-Paying Jobs.
Sl No | Best Online Courses With Certificates |
---|---|
2 | Software Development Certification Courses |
3 | Accounting Management Certification Courses |
4 | Information Technology Certification Courses |
5 | Civil Engineering Certification Courses |
- Electrical Engineering. ...
- Computer Engineering. ...
- Electrical and Computer Engineering. ...
- Computer Science and Engineering. ...
- Biomedical Engineering. ...
- Chemical Engineering. ...
- Civil Engineering. ...
- Industrial Engineering.
What course will make you rich? ›
- Engineering. Coming in at the top is engineering - which might surprise you, but the scope of engineering is huge and widening all of the time. ...
- Economics / Finance. ...
- Politics. ...
- Mathematics. ...
- Computer Science. ...
- Law. ...
- MBA.
- Bachelors in Entrepreneurship. ...
- Bachelors in Computer Sciences. ...
- Bachelors in General Engineering. ...
- Bachelors in Natural Sciences. ...
- Bachelors in Language Studies. ...
- Bachelors in Environmental Sciences. ...
- Bachelors in Nursing. ...
- Bachelors in Law.
It is believed that a Bachelor of Science in Nursing or BSN is the toughest course in the world as per the Guinness Book of World Records along with courses like MBBS, BCom, IAS, IPS and Engineering, etc.
What courses are in demand? ›- PG PROGRAMME IN PRODUCT MANAGEMENT. ...
- CYBERSECURITY CERTIFICATION COURSE. ...
- CERTIFICATION IN BLOCKCHAIN. ...
- PROFESSIONAL GRADUATE PROGRAMME IN BIOTECHNOLOGY. ...
- PGP IN BUSINESS ANALYTICS AND BIG DATA.
- Police Officer. Although many police officers do have college degrees, the minimum educational requirement is a high school diploma. ...
- Commercial Pilot. ...
- Gaming Manager. ...
- Electrical Powerline Installer and Repairer. ...
- Elevator Installer and Repairer. ...
- Transportation Inspector.
- Information Technology and Computing Majors.
- Healthcare, Medicine, and Medical Engineering Majors.
- Marketing, Advertising, and Public Relations Majors.
- Engineering and Construction Majors.
- Finance and Accounting Majors.
- Law, Criminal Justice, and Government Majors.
- Hard Sciences Majors.
- Liberty University: 99%
- Marshall University: 98%
- University of New Mexico: 97%
- Kansas State University: 96%
- University of Maine: 96%
- North Dakota State University: 95%
- University of Memphis: 95%
- University of Utah: 95%
- Albany State University. ...
- American InterContinental University. ...
- Arkansas State University. ...
- Arkansas Tech University. ...
- Capella University. ...
- Colorado Technical University. ...
- East Coast Polytechnic Institute University.
Overall, 89.3% of Americans over the age of 25 had graduated from high school in 2021, with the highest level found in the state of Vermont at 94.5% and the lowest in the state of California at 84.4%. In Puerto Rico, the proportion was even lower, though, at 79.6%.
What are the top 3 graduates called? ›Generally, the highest honor in college is the valedictorian, followed by the salutatorian. As a group, the highest honor is summa cum laude. The next highest is the magna cum laude, and the third is the cum laude.
What GPA is Magna Cumme laude? ›
magna cum laude: at least a 3.4 total GPA (grade point average) and a class rank in the 85th percentile or above in the student's school or college. summa cum laude: at least a 3.7 total GPA (grade point average) and a class rank in the 95th percentile or above in the student's school or college.
What GPA is laude? ›Recipients of honors on academic catalogs for 2021-2022 or earlier receive their degrees with one of the following levels of distinction: cum laude (GPA of 3.5–3.64); magna cum laude (GPA of 3.65–3.79); or. summa cum laude (GPA of 3.8–4.0).
What is an 8 year degree called? ›A doctorate degree typically takes anywhere from four to six years to complete. On average, a Ph. D. is earned within eight years. The length of time it takes to earn your doctorate is based on numerous factors.
What are the 4 types of degrees? ›There are generally four categories of college degrees: associate degree, bachelor's degree, graduate degree, and doctorate or professional degree. Each category comes with its own particular subcategories, and there are some subtle differences between a doctorate and a professional degree.
What's higher than PhD? ›The Doctor of Divinity (DDiv) and the Doctor of Civil Law (DCL) are considered by Oxford to outrank all other degrees, including a Doctor of Medicine (MD) degree. The DDiv is usually awarded for academic accomplishments beyond the PhD level.
What is the easiest degree to get? ›- Psychology.
- Criminal Justice.
- English.
- Education.
- Religious Studies.
- Social Work.
- Sociology.
- Communications.
Contrary to what some prospective students believe, online bachelor's programs aren't always easier to get into than those offered on a physical campus. That's one of several findings based on an analysis of data that schools submitted to U.S. News in an annual survey about admission to online colleges.
Are online schools easier? ›For some people, online programs are easier because they offer a flexible schedule. In addition, people with great time management skills and a sense of responsibility can excel in online classes.
What online college has the cheapest tuition? ›- Thomas Edison State University.
- University of Alabama.
- The University of Texas of the Permian Basin.
- West Texas A&M University.
- Columbia College.
- Eastern New Mexico University.
- American Public University.
- Grantham University.
- Biomedical engineering. ...
- Computer science. ...
- Marine engineering. ...
- Pharmaceutical sciences. ...
- Computer engineering. ...
- Electrical engineering. ...
- Finance. ...
- Software engineering.
What's an easy degree that pays well? ›
So, what are the best choices for easy associate degrees? Top picks include business, accounting, and criminal justice. These are all stable, growing fields that pay well, and studies show that most students who choose these majors are successful.
What is the most regretted major? ›People regret their study choice
According to data from the Federal Reserve Survey 1 Humanities, Arts, and Social Sciences graduates report the highest level of regret. Almost half, or 50%, of all graduates in the Humanities or Arts, regret their choice.
Located in North Dakota's capital city, Bismarck State College tops the list of colleges with the highest acceptance rates. The third-largest institution in the state's public university system, BSC serves approximately 4,000 students each year. The school accepts 100% of applicants.
Can you get denied for an online college? ›While some schools do have a policy of accepting 100% of all students who apply, other programs are much more selective. Some traditional schools offer students the chance to complete their degrees online, but those students will still need to submit the proper paperwork and face rejection from the school.
What are the 10 disadvantages of online classes? ›- Online courses require more time than on-campus classes. ...
- Online courses make it easier to procrastinate. ...
- Online courses require good time-management skills. ...
- Online courses may create a sense of isolation. ...
- Online courses allow you to be more independent.
The opportunity cost of your degree is less because you can continue to earn income while pursuing your degree (plus tuition and fees can be lower than on-campus programs). You experience the incremental worth of a degree, as you can apply the skills you learn to your day-to-day job from day one.
How many online classes should I take? ›For most online students, 1-2 classes with an intense workload is the most they can manage. Most online students have other responsibilities, usually family and/or employment. The more classes a student takes, the more important time management is.
Why is online college so hard? ›The physical distance between students and teachers due to the online learning environment has made it difficult for students to be able to connect with their teachers. When working online it is much harder to show your teachers exactly what you are struggling to learn.
What is the cheapest degree to obtain? ›- Most Affordable Colleges.
- Nursing & Healthcare.
- Computers & Technology.
- Psychology & Counseling.
- Business & Management.
- Education & Teaching.
Are Online Classes Harder in College? Because online classes cover the same or similar material, typically in the same amount of time as traditional classes, they are not harder. The only thing that can make an online class seem harder is the amount of reading and communication they require.
What is the cheapest college to go to? ›
- University of the People. ...
- The City University of New York. ...
- 3. California State University, Long Beach. ...
- Alcorn State University in Mississippi. ...
- Minot State University in North Dakota. ...
- South Texas College. ...
- Cooper Union for the Advancement of Science and Art in New York.