Earning an accelerated bachelor’s degree online can be an attractive option for students looking to save money and complete their degree quickly. These programs often provide flexible scheduling and self-paced coursework, allowing students to balance their studies with work and other commitments. But with so many options available, it can take time to figure out where to start.
In this article, we’ll look at some of the cheapest online accelerated bachelor’s degree programs and how they are structured to ensure student success. We’ll also discuss the pros and cons of learning in this environment and the types of students best suited for online accelerated learning. Whether you’re a working professional looking to advance your career or a busy parent needing to balance your studies with family commitments, an online accelerated bachelor’s degree program may be the right choice.
How Do Accelerated Bachelor’s Programs Work?
Accelerated bachelor’s degree programs are designed to allow students to earn their degrees faster than a traditional four-year program. These programs are structured to compress the same amount of coursework into a shorter period of time, typically between two to three years, allowing students to complete their degree requirements more quickly. With both synchronous and asynchronous options available, these programs allow students the flexibility to learn in whichever way fits them best.
Admissions requirements
Admissions requirements for accelerated bachelor’s degree programs vary by institution but generally include the exact prerequisites as traditional four-year programs. These typically include the following:
- High school diploma or GED
- Transcripts from any previous college coursework
- Standardized test scores, such as the SAT or ACT, unless the school is test-optional
- Letters of recommendation from current or former teachers, mentors, advisors, or coaches
Some accelerated programs may also require an interview, essay, or a minimum GPA as part of the application process.
Program structure
Once admitted, students in accelerated programs typically take more credits per semester than students in traditional programs. For context, traditional undergraduate students take between 12-15 credits per semester to be considered full time, and many courses will be 3-4 credits each. This may involve taking more classes each semester or during summer or winter breaks. In addition, the curriculum is often more rigorous than conventional programs, with a greater focus on core courses in the major.
To ensure that students can keep up with the program’s pace, many institutions offer additional support resources such as tutoring, academic advising, and study groups. In addition, some programs may allow students to transfer credits from previous coursework or earn credits for work or life experience, further shortening the time to complete the degree.
Should You Earn Your Bachelor’s Degree Online?
| Pros | Cons |
| Flexibility | Limited interaction |
| Cost-effective | Self-discipline |
| Accessibility |
Accelerated online bachelor’s degree programs have become increasingly popular due to their flexibility, cost-effectiveness, and accessibility — but that doesn’t mean they are a good fit for everyone. For example, while self-motivated and disciplined students who strive for academic success may thrive online, students who prefer collaborative, face-to-face learning may do better in a traditional degree program. As with any program, accelerated online bachelor’s degree programs have their fair share of advantages and disadvantages.
One of the most considerable advantages of these programs is their flexibility, allowing students to complete coursework at their own pace and schedule. This is especially beneficial for students with work or family commitments, as it enables them to balance their responsibilities while pursuing their degree. Additionally, online programs may be more cost-effective than traditional on-campus programs due to lower tuition rates, reduced commuting costs, and lower living expenses.
Another advantage of accelerated online bachelor’s degree programs is their accessibility. These programs can be accessed from anywhere with an internet connection, which is ideal for students who live in remote areas or cannot attend on-campus classes due to disability or health reasons. Furthermore, online degree programs often offer a diverse range of courses that can be tailored to the student’s interests and career goals.
However, accelerated programs also have some disadvantages. One of the most significant drawbacks is the limited interaction with professors and peers that students may experience in an online learning environment. This can lead to a lack of engagement and a feeling of isolation. Additionally, online programs require self-discipline and motivation to stay on track with coursework and deadlines, which can be challenging for some students.
It is important to note that certain academic programs, such as nursing and other programs that require hands-on lab components, are nearly impossible to complete 100% online. In this case, students can typically take the bulk of their classes online and complete the few lab courses in-person. You should check the requirements of your program ahead of time to ensure it will be 100% remote without any in-person requirements.
The 50 Cheapest Accelerated Online Bachelor’s Degree Programs
How We Rank Schools
This list features some of the country’s cheapest accelerated online bachelor’s degree programs. Each school featured is a nonprofit, accredited institution, either public or private, with a high standard of academic quality for post-secondary institutions.
We evaluated each school’s program on tuition costs, admission, retention and graduation rates, faculty, and reputation. Then, we calculated the Intelligent Score on a scale of 0 to 100. Read more about our ranking methodology.
Next, we compared this comprehensive list of the cheapest accelerated online bachelor’s degree programs to a list of aggregated college rankings from reputable publications, such as U.S. News & World Report, to simplify a student’s college search. We pored through these rankings so students don’t have to.
What Can You Do with a Bachelor’s Degree?
If you’re looking to start or switch to a career that offers high-paying opportunities and only requires a bachelor’s degree, you’re in luck. Here is a list of some of the most in-demand jobs that pay well and require a four-year degree with minimal on-the-job training.
Public relations managers
Median Annual Salary (May 2021): $125,780
Job Growth Projection (2021-2031): 8%A PR (Public Relations) manager is responsible for managing the public image of an individual or organization. They work to build and maintain a positive reputation and relationships with the public, media, and other stakeholders. PR managers work in an office environment, often in an organization’s communications or marketing department. They may also work for a public relations agency, representing multiple clients across various industries. The work environment can be fast-paced and high-pressure, particularly during a crisis or a significant event. PR managers must be skilled communicators, creative thinkers, and strategic planners to succeed.
Financial analysts
Median Annual Salary (May 2021): $91,580
Job Growth Projection (2021-2031): 9%Money-savvy individuals with strong analytical and quantitative skills may thrive as financial analysts. Financial analysts are responsible for analyzing financial data to help businesses and individuals make informed investment decisions. Their day-to-day job duties include collecting and analyzing financial data to identify trends and assess risk and preparing financial reports and presentations to communicate findings and recommendations to stakeholders.
Financial analysts typically work in an office environment, often in a team with other financial professionals. Their work environment is usually fast-paced, and the job can be stressful, especially during market fluctuations.
Construction managers
Median Annual Salary (May 2021): $98,890
Job Growth Projection (2021-2031): 8%Individuals with a knack for organization and attention to detail may enjoy a career as a construction manager. People in this role oversee the planning, design, and construction of building projects. They work with architects, engineers, contractors, and other professionals to ensure that construction projects are completed on time, within budget, and to the required quality standards.
Construction managers may work in various settings but usually divide their time between construction sites and an office environment. They frequently find employment at construction firms, government agencies, or real estate developers. The job can be stressful and demanding, requiring the ability to handle pressure and stay calm under tight deadlines.
Data scientists
Median Annual Salary (May 2021): $100,910
Job Growth Projection (2021-2031): 36%With one of the country’s highest projected job growth rates, a career in data science may be an excellent fit for natural problem-solvers with an analytical mindset. Data scientists analyze and interpret complex data to help organizations make better decisions. They use statistical and computational techniques to extract insights from data and communicate findings to stakeholders.
Data scientists typically work in large corporations, startups, or government agencies. They work in an office environment and may work on teams with other data scientists, engineers, and business analysts. The work environment can be fast paced, with tight deadlines and a high analysis volume.
Software developers
Median Annual Salary (May 2021): $120,730
Job Growth Projection (2021-2031): 25%A software developer designs and creates software applications, programs, and systems. They use programming languages and development tools to write code and build software products that meet specific user needs. Software developers frequently work with project managers and other stakeholders to design and develop software applications that meet user requirements. They write code, test software products, and troubleshoot issues as they arise.
Software developers usually work for software development firms, IT departments, and consulting firms. They often work in an office environment and may work on multiple projects simultaneously for various industries, healthcare, finance, and retail. Software developers navigate tight deadlines with problem-solving skills and are expected to work collaboratively with their fellow team members.