Can You Really Find A Cheap Accredited Online College
When college students are looking for outstanding educational possibilities, the cost of attending a university or college is generally a factor. Many students considering a two-year degree or hoping to gain transfer credits consider community colleges as an affordable option.
Finding or searching for affordable online courses usually necessitates extensive investigation. Tuition for four-year online programs isnt cheap, but its a lot less than what youd pay at a brick-and-mortar institution. For starters, online degree programs require less financial investment on the side of the student because they do not have to pay for school buildings, staff, or employees. There are also no commuting expenditures! Tuition at online institutions typically ranges from $100 to $400 per credit hour.
Accredited online colleges also allow students from all over the world to get their diplomas without ever leaving their homes. You dont need to complete any trip needs or pay for expensive travel all you need is a working computer and access to the Internet!
Did you know that qualified students can get grants, scholarships, loans, and other types of financial aid from online schools? You can probably find an online college or university that is affordable while yet providing high-quality education.
We used the following standards to select the twelve institutions:
Please see our Methodology page to learn more about our online college and degree program selection process.
Find The Best College
collegecliffs.com is an advertising-supported site. Featured or trusted partner programs and all school search, finder, or match results are for schools that compensate us. This compensation does not influence our school rankings, resource guides, or other editorially-independent information published on this site.
In recent years, online schools have gained popularity in the United States. They are the next best thing to traditional education for people who want to get a degree while working full-time or without disrupting their personal lives. The popularity of distance education has increased significantly. Within the years 2015 and 2016, enrollment increased to 5%!
In the fall of 2018, more than 6.3 million students took at least one online course. Students prefer online courses in public and private academic institutions, but public universities have seen the most significant increase.
According to a new study, the number of students enrolling in online degree programs has skyrocketed. Online schools will attract more students since they provide more digital technologies and platforms. Students will also be demanding online learning degrees that offer courses that are most suited to job-specific abilities.
Because of the numerous benefits that online schools provide, more college students are opting for them over traditional colleges and universities. Flexibility, accessibility, convenience, and cost-effectiveness are just a few of them.
Can I Get Hired With An Online Master’s In Social Work
Yes. A 2018 survey conducted by a joint group of professional societies found that more nurses who earned their MSW online found satisfactory jobs when compared to on-campus students . The most important consideration in any school search is accreditation, which certifies that an institution’s degree programs meet independent quality standards. The stigma around online degrees has also eroded. Respected universities have long since entered the online space, and many on-campus students take at least some online courses. In fact, 30% of all MSW degree programs deliver at least 90% of coursework online, although MSW programs generally require students to complete an in-person field practicum.
A 2018 survey conducted by a joint group of professional societies found that more nurses who earned their MSW online found satisfactory jobs when compared to on-campus students .
Read Also: Is Ashworth University Accredited
What Online Colleges Offer Inexpensive Options For Degree Programs That Typically Cost More
Professionals with college degrees typically earn higher salaries and qualify for more job opportunities than individuals with only secondary education. Pursuing a degree program from an affordable online college helps students earn their degrees without going into debt. Earning your bachelors degree can unlock several career opportunities in various industries, as almost all entry-level jobs require a bachelors degree. Degree programs related to health care, engineering, architecture, aviation, among others, can be quite costly.
Hence, individuals seeking to pursue degree options should look for alternative routes of earning their degrees. One alternative is enrolling in an online college that offers inexpensive options for a degree program that typically costs more. The schools also have a flexible tuition payment plan. This article explores some of these online colleges, including the degree programs they offer to enable you to make an informed and cost-effective decision.
Why Is Accreditation Important For Online College
Proper online college accreditation can affect credit transfer, financial aid eligibility, and even employment prospects. Without adequate accreditation, there’s no way to ensure the quality of a school’s academics or student support services. Only schools that hold accreditation from an organization recognized by the U.S. Department of Education or Council for Higher Education Accreditation can offer federal financial aid.
There used to be two distinct types of institutional accreditation, regional and national. Traditionally, regional accreditation was the most robust form of accreditation and considered the standard in higher education. However, in the wake of ED repealing both national and regional accreditation, institutional and programmatic accreditation have become the two main forms.
Consequently, fake agencies are accrediting some online colleges. However, students can use ED’s database to check any college’s accreditation status. If you can’t find the accreditor on the website, the organization likely isn’t legitimate.
Don’t Miss: Wcws Ticket Prices
Top 5 Most Affordable Online Mba Programs
| Rank | |
|---|---|
| University of Central Arkansas | Conway, Arkansas |
Thinking about applying to an online MBA program? Students dont need a 4.0 to be accepted but plan on having a competitive GPA such as a 3.5 or higher for a mid to high tier program. Students will also need to take the GMAT and have their scores accessible at the time of applying for a program.
With online degrees becoming more widely available and accredited students dont need to invest $100K into their MBA. Some of the cheapest online MBA programs provide the same outcomes as their more expensive counterparts, an accredited MBA degree, knowledge and skills, internship opportunities, and future employment opportunities.
Career And Salary Outlook For College Graduates
According to data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics , professionals with a bachelors degree earn almost 30% higher salaries than professionals with a two-year associate degree. Professionals with a bachelors degree in 2020 also saw a lower unemployment rate than professionals with an associate degree , some college but no degree , and a high school diploma .
In addition to education, the state where you work can impact your salary, according to the BLS. Bachelors graduates in Washington, D.C. earn approximately 17% more than their counterparts in Virginia. Experience level also impacts salaries. For example, architects at the beginning of their careers earn significantly lower salaries than those with 20 years of experience , according to PayScale.
Recommended Reading: Brandon Charnas
Funding An Online Msw
Many states, universities, and organizations want to encourage students to go into public service, which is why there are scholarships, grants, and loan forgiveness programs available expressly for MSW students enrolled in both online and on-campus programs. The best place to begin a search for funding is through the financial aid office of the college or university you plan to attend. Most students start the application process by submitting a Free Application for Federal Student Aid form. Once the FAFSA form is reviewed by the federal government, the school will then provide an offer detailing the types of financial aid that are available, including any school-sponsored scholarships, grants, or fellowships for social work students.
There are also many professional social worker organizations, community service organizations, and related non-profit organizations that offer scholarships and grants specifically for MSW majors, including the Council on Social Work Education, the National Association of Social Workers, and the National Association of Black Social Workers.
Some of the many additional social work scholarship and grant programs to consider include:
Online Degree Level Overviews
With thousands of possibilities at five different degree levels to choose from â associate, bachelor’s, master’s, and doctorate, plus certificates â selecting an online degree can seem overwhelming at first. There are various factors students consider when choosing an online program. These factors relate to career goals, finances, coursework, and transfer credits. This page is designed to help prospective students explore their many options and make the right choice in their online program.
Certificates are available online for students at both the graduate and undergraduate levels. Online certificates can serve as a supplement to a degree, or as a standalone qualification. There are over 7,000 online certificate programs to choose from, many leading to job opportunities as physical therapy assistants, occupational therapy assistants, dental assistants, and veterinary technicians.
Read Also: Cost Of Berkeley College
Connecticut Central Connecticut State University
- Out of state tuition cost: $22,914
- Total tuition cost: $37,904
As a regional public university, Central Connecticut State University is a leading university dedicated to learning in the liberal arts and sciences and education for the professions. This school offers both undergraduate and graduate degree programs. Known for being a community of learners dedicated to helping students achieve their potential, CCSU focuses on grooming students into becoming globally aware students that will contribute to their communities. CCSU is a school thats extremely popular with citizens of Connecticut More than 85% of CCSU graduates choose to remain in the state and integrate into the community at large.
West Texas A& m University
TUITION: $8,456
West Texas A& M University is a public, co-educational research institution with an enrollment of over 9,400 students in the Amarillo, Texas Metro area, satellite campuses, and online. WTAMU has received many prestigious rankings including U.S. News and World Report Best Online Programs Rankings at #21 Best Online Bachelors Programs, #67 Best Online MBA Programs, #13 Best Online Bachelors Programs for Veterans, #17 Best Online Masters in Education Programs for Veterans, #15 Best Online Masters in Computer Information Technology Programs, to name a few. Niche.com ranks this school as the #38 Best Hispanic-Serving Institutions in America, #20 Best College in Texas, and #7 Top Public University in Texas.
WTAMUs distance education division offers 14 undergraduate, 19 graduate, and 1 Doctoral program and hybrid program through the SREB Electronic Campus. A few of the most affordable online degree programs include Economics, Criminal Justice, a Healthcare MBA, and Finance from associate to bachelor degrees. WTAMU is part of the Texas A& M University System.
Read Also: How To Get Grammarly For Free As A Student
Degrees In The Field Of English
The complex field of English can include studies in rhetoric, literature, communication, and creative writing. To major in English, undergraduates usually need a minimum 2.5-3.0 GPA, success in relevant coursework, and strong recommendation letters.
Online English degree curricula often vary according to enrollees career goals and chosen concentrations. Learners interested in writing careers often study composition and rhetoric, journalism, or creative writing. Aspiring English teachers usually use their bachelors degrees to qualify for graduate school.
Earning an English degree online can support careers in communication, editing, marketing, or education. English programs cultivate advanced reading, analysis, and writing skills useful in many contexts. The Bureau of Labor Statistics indicates a median annual salary of $63,400 for editors and $67,120 for writers. The BLS projects jobs for writers to grow 9% from 2020-2030, but job growth for editors to grow slower than average in the same time. The BLS also projects jobs for technical writers to grow 12%. These professionals earn median annual salaries of $74,650.
Hidden Fees For Online Students
While online students save on some on-campus fees, most schools charge distance learning fees. These fees can add up. Some schools charge on a per-credit or per-course basis. These fees may include the following:
- Technology Fee: Technology fees cover the costs associated with the technology required for online learning, such as learning platforms and technical support.
- Access Fee: This fee covers the costs related to maintaining an interactive learning environment. It may also include access to library databases and tutoring.
- Assessment Fee: This fee covers tests used to determine an online student’s aptitude and course placement.
Some colleges offer optional fee packages for local online students who want to use campus services, including student athletics, recreation facilities, and the health center.
Alternatively, some schools may make it mandatory for all students to pay all standard fees. These may include student activities fees for services that an online student may never use. In this case, you can try and contact the school to find out if they offer alternatives or exemptions.
Don’t Miss: Is Strayer University A Diploma Mill
Charter Oak State College
Located in New Britain, Connecticut, Charter Oak State College is a public academic institution that allows students to earn theirbachelors degrees through online coursework, standardized exams, professional or military training, and experiential learning. Some of its onlinebachelors degree programs include Bachelor of Science in Cyber Security, Bachelor of Science in Health Information Management, Bachelor of Science in Health Care Administration, and Bachelor of Science in Psychology. The academic institution has multiple in-state and out-of-state tuition for online students. The tuition rate for Connecticut residents is $319 per credit hour while non-residents pay $419 per credit hour. They have many financial aid programs such as federal pell grant, FSEOG, college grants, scholarships, and subsidized and unsubsidized loans. Charter Oak State College is accredited by the New England Association of Schools and Colleges.
DID YOU KNOW?
According to the Best Colleges in Connecticut ranking, Charter Oak State College is ranked #11.
University Of Northwestern Ohio
Tuition and Fees: $9,725
Six bachelor degrees are offered online by the University of Northwestern Ohio. There are also several diploma, certificate, and associate degrees available online. The available bachelors degrees are healthcare administration, marketing, business administration , and accounting.
Don’t Miss: Colleges That Take 2.5 Gpa
What Is The Easiest Degree To Get Online
What is easy for one student may be challenging for another and vice versa, which is why no one particular degree can be considered easier than others. However, for many students, earning a degree online can be easier than taking the traditional route due to flexible schedules, self-paced learning, and the availability of online student resources, such as tutoring and academic advising. Virtual learners may also find it easier to identify the best program to fit their needs because there are so many online programs to choose from without having to leave home.
How Much Does A Phd Cost
Doctoral degrees can range in price, but on average they cost $114,300 according to EducationData. Another study, conducted by the National Center of Education Statistics, states that a student can expect to pay $18,947 per year on average. A student’s cost can vary depending on in-state vs. out-of-state tuition and any scholarship or graduate assistantship funding. Costs can also vary by the type of degree, a Ph.D. can cost less than an M.D. or Ed.D., for example.
Stipends do not usually cover all living expenses. Even fully funded Ph.D. students sometimes borrow money. Student debt among Ph.D. graduates averages around $159,630. Online Ph.D. programs may cost less than on-campus programs. Some schools offer online learners in-state tuition rates. Many online students also save on transportation costs and campus fees.
However, online learners incur extra expenses. Read below to learn about these fees.
Don’t Miss: Joining The Airforce While In College
Georgia Southwestern State University Usa
- Annual fee: $5,970
Georgia Southwestern State University offers 40 bachelors degree programs in business administration, education and nursing, computing and mathematics, arts and sciences. One of their more unusual degrees is a BSc in Criminal Justice in order to prepare students for a career in law enforcement, probation and juvenile justice.
Graduate Early With An Accelerated Program
Accelerated programs can allow students to graduate faster with a four-year degree. However, accelerated programs require commitment and full-time study to keep up with coursework.
These intensive, fast-paced programs cover the same material in 4-10 weeks that traditional college courses cover in 15-16 weeks. Additionally, industry-specific online accelerated degree programs in fields like nursing and teaching often require students to possess experience and licensing to qualify for admission.
Recommended Reading: College That Accept 2.0 Gpa
How Can You Decide If An Affordable Online College Is Right For You And Your Learning Style
Given the different learning formats used in colleges and universities, choosing the type of degree program to pursue is a crucial decision to make. Before choosing an online college such as nonprofit online colleges, you need to determine if the program is right for you and your learning style. Consider several factors, including:
- What you are passionate about: You need to identify the field of study you are passionate about and link it to your attributes. For instance, if you are passionate about impacting other peoples lives, you should consider an online college offering healthcare degree programs.
- Consider your learning style: If you are an individual who prefers to learn from home rather than physically attending classes, you probably need to enroll in an online school. Online colleges allow students to earn their degrees from flexible learning environments.
- Are you a tech-savvy person? Online learning processes mainly take place over the internet and through computer gadgets such as laptops and desktops. If you are a tech-savvy individual, you will probably enjoy learning online.
- Career Potentials: Online college programs have different career potentials. If you seek to land a job immediately after graduating, you should probably enroll in a college that offers career advising and has a high employability rate.