Should I Finish My Degree? (Online)

Ready to start your journey?

If your time in college was cut short and you’re considering going back, you might be interested in online degree completion programs.

Online Degree Completion Programs

If you’re asking yourself “Should I finish my degree online or in person?” “Is it even worth it?” or “How will I make it work?” an online program may be a good idea. Also, it’s important to know that you’re not alone. In the U.S., a large number of college freshmen leave college before their sophomore year, and very few return later to complete their degrees.

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Going back to school is intimidating, but there are ways to make it fit into your schedule and budget.

Online Degree Completion Programs

complete degree online

An online degree completion program is one of the pathways an individual can take to finish an incomplete degree. It offers students an opportunity to finish a bachelor’s degree without having to start from the beginning.

Degree completion programs are targeted toward students that have completed some college coursework but had to pause their education for various reasons. You may be eligible to enroll for online degree completion if you meet the following criteria:

  • Completed credit hours for a bachelor’s degree but didn’t graduate
  • Hold an associate’s degree
  • Have career experience and wish to pursue a degree in your field

Credit transfer policies can vary between schools. If you’re interested in completing a bachelor’s program and have already completed undergraduate coursework, have an associate’s degree, or have career experience, you might consider looking into bachelor’s completion programs.

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Some schools may ask that students have a certain amount of credit hours already completed to apply for a degree completion program. Some schools offer accelerated online completion programs that students may finish in less than two years. Some things you might ask yourself if you’re considering applying for bachelor degree completion programs include:

  • How many credit hours do I need to enroll in a degree completion program?
  • What kind of online or semester schedule supports my preferences?
  • Can my career experience be substituted for credit hours?

Choosing a degree completion program helps students pick up where they left off in their studies. It can be beneficial to professionals who had their studies interrupted for various reasons and wish to return to their course of study without starting over.

Common Bachelor’s Degree Completion Programs Online

accounting student taking his classes online

There are many different types of bachelor degree completion programs that can help you further your education and potentially open up more opportunities.

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These programs can offer you the opportunity to expand upon your current skills and prior education to possibly advance in your industry.

Some examples of degree completion programs include:

  • Accounting: Students learn about financial operations and procedures of a business or organization, including how to gather, analyze, and prepare financial records. Students can gain useful skills for various careers, such as budget analyst, accountant, financial advisor, or finance manager.
  • Business Administration: This degree program is designed to teach students about common and complex business and accounting practices and operations. It can prepare professionals to work in a variety of industries, such as healthcare, finance, or human resources.
  • Computer Science: A bachelor in computer science introduces students to computer systems, networks, hardware, software, and databases and the development of computers. Common coursework in this program can include system analysis and design, software security, and programming languages.
  • Criminal Justice: This degree can prepare professionals for a career in public service by studying the criminal justice system and social science theories and methods. Core courses that might be included in this program include criminology, courts and prosecution process, and ethics in criminal justice.
  • Cyber Security: This program combines information technology and computer science to help students understand information security theories, strategies, and issues. Common cyber security careers include cyber security analyst, security auditor, and information security analyst.
  • Education: An education bachelor program concentrates on applied learning, classroom management, and teaching methodologies to prepare students to become educators. Students may specialize in special education, elementary education, secondary education, or instructional design.
  • Finance: Students can analyze various financial and investment principles and strategies. Topics explored in this program can include banking, economics, business management, and statistics.
  • Healthcare Administration: This degree is designed to teach professionals about the roles and responsibilities of healthcare managers and administrators. It can prepare students to assume a leadership role in the healthcare field.
  • Human Resource Management: Professionals can explore essential human resources topics, such as workforce management, recruitment and hiring, labor relations and laws, and leadership theories. This degree can help students develop skills and knowledge to pursue positions, such as human resources manager, compensation and benefits manager, and training and development manager.
  • Human Services: A bachelor in human services can help students gain an understanding of policies and procedures implemented to help individuals and communities. Topics explored may include counseling, sociology, psychology, case management, and program development.
  • Information Technology: Students are introduced to a broad range of information technology skills and methods, such as programming, computer networks, systems and software, and security. Common coursework offered in this program might include basics of web design, web application development, database management, and cyber security.
  • Interdisciplinary Studies: This is a flexible degree program that allows students to merge two or more courses of study to create a more personalized major. Students may choose this program to explore more career pathways in a variety of industries.
  • Liberal Arts: This is a multidisciplinary program that includes the study of the arts and humanities. Students often learn effective verbal and written communication, problem-solving, and critical thinking skills that can be applied to several career paths.
  • Management: Professionals can study leadership and management skills and practices by exploring management operations, functions, and processes to address business and management issues. Core coursework in this program can include principles of management, project management, and statistics for decision-making.
  • Management Information Systems: This program concentrates on computer information technology management and business operations to help students understand how to improve business performance through technology.
  • Marketing: Students are introduced to various marketing strategies and concepts, such as analyzing consumer behaviors and trends, brand promotion, and pricing strategies. Some career options for marketing degrees may include market research analyst, sales manager, or public relations specialist.
  • Nursing: A bachelor in nursing can help students prepare for a career in healthcare by studying human anatomy, physiology, sociology, and how to care for patients. Professionals may use the knowledge and skills they’ve learned in this program to seek various healthcare provider positions, such as a registered nurse, home health aide, or licensed practical nurse.
  • Project Management: A project management bachelor degree teaches students how to handle complex projects, lead a team, communicate effectively, and help a business or organization succeed. Core coursework in this program might include project risk management, project leadership, and business communications.
  • Psychology: Students are introduced to the study of the human mind and behaviors, including sensory function, memory, emotion, abnormal psychology, and research methods. Some courses students may take in this program include introduction to psychology, abnormal psychology, and lifespan development.
  • Sociology: This is a social science degree that focuses on the study of society and human behavior. Some topics explored in this program might include sociological theories and concepts, research methods, and human interaction.

There are many types of bachelor programs suited for various interests and career goals. These courses of study may be offered as degree completion programs to help you finish your education.

Benefits of Finishing a Bachelor’s Degree

Man completing his college degree online

If you’re constantly spinning your wheels and asking yourself “Should I finish my degree?” the answer is probably yes.

Here are some of the reasons to finish college:

  • Promotion / Pay Raise: Studies have shown that workers with college degrees earn significantly more money over their lifetime than those with no degree. According to College Board, the median earnings of full-time workers with bachelor’s degrees were higher than the earnings of those with just a high school education.
  • Job opportunities: If you were to lose your job, you may have a hard time finding a new one without a degree. Employers are becoming increasingly selective. In many industries, even entry-level positions require a bachelor’s degree.
  • Career change: Going back to school opens the door for you to reevaluate and consider other options. If you’re not passionate about the field you’re in, it’s the perfect time to select a different major and earn your degree in something that will launch you into an exciting new career path.
  • Update skills: If you are already working in the field, you probably have a good idea of what knowledge and skills are most relevant. Going back to school will allow you to focus on those areas and make sure your training is current.
  • Networking opportunities: In college, online or in-person, you have opportunities to connect with professors, assistants, guest speakers, classmates, and others who are or will be working in the same industry.
  • Sense of accomplishment: Professional perks aside, the sense of accomplishment that comes from seeing something through to the end and achieving your goal is profound.

Finishing your degree is truly a game-changer. The benefits will impact your personal and professional life, and open doors for you immediately and for years to come.

How to Choose an Online Bachelors Degree Completion Program

Friends checking together for Online Degree Completion Program

If you’re thinking about finishing your education through a degree completion program, you may have some questions about how to choose the right program for you. There are several factors you might want to consider when researching online completion degree programs, such as:

  • Types of degree completion programs offered by prospective schools
  • How many credit hours do different degree completion programs require
  • Type of semester schedule offered
  • Can students test out of courses with career experience

One of the main considerations to help choose the right degree completion program for you is whether your prospective schools offer the course of study you’re interested in. Some schools may have a wider range of options for degree completion programs than others.

Credit transferability is important to consider because it can help prevent you from repeating coursework you’ve already completed. It also might help you cut down costs and the time it would take you to complete the program. Many schools require students to have a minimum amount of undergraduate credits to apply for a degree completion program.

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Degree completion programs are often appealing to students because they’re usually flexible. Many programs may be taken fully online. Some may allow you to operate on your own schedule as long as you meet deadlines, while others offer a more stable schedule.

How to Transfer Credits to an Online Bachelor Degree Completion Program

Woman researching on transferring credits for degree completion program

One of the first steps to transferring credits to an online bachelor’s degree completion program is researching the credit transfer policies and procedures outlined by schools you’re interested in. You can also review these policies to figure out if career experience can be substituted for credit hours in the program.

Credit transfer policies and procedures can widely differ between schools. Many schools request that students have a minimum amount of credits completed to apply for a degree completion program. After reviewing credit transfer policies, you can submit official transcripts of your prior education. This helps schools determine what coursework they’ve already completed and what credits can be transferred over.

Degree Completion Online Programs Admissions Requirements

Woman submitting her requirements for degree completion

Admissions requirements can widely vary between schools for degree completion programs. Some common materials and criteria that students must meet or submit to be considered for a degree completion program might include:

  • Official transcripts from prior education
  • A minimum amount of undergraduate credit hours
  • Resume or curriculum vitae

Many bachelor’s degree completion programs request that students hold a certain amount of credits to apply. Schools typically ask that students have a minimum of 60 credits or more. Official transcripts and a resume or curriculum vitae help determine what type of coursework you’ve already completed and what professional experience you may have.

Online Degree Completion Programs Accreditation

University offering Online Degree Completion

The accreditation status of a school can be important for a number of reasons. Accredited institutions and programs meet quality education standards defined by a regional accrediting organization. Accreditation can affect your eligibility to receive financial aid, future employment opportunities, and credit transferability. Employers may consider accreditation when reviewing job candidates.

Many schools only accept credits that were received through an accredited school or education program. Attending an accredited institution establishes credibility in your education. It can also be important for future education opportunities. It can affect professional opportunities for individuals who intend on receiving licensure or certification in their field.

Financial Aid and Scholarships 

Online Bachelor's Degree Completion Financial Aid

Financial aid and scholarships can be very useful to students who want to reduce the cost of their education. Financial aid may be available at the state or federal level.

Financial aid is income-based assistance that can depend on several factors, such as what year of college you’re in and your Expected Family Contribution (EFC). You can submit a Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) to find out if you’re eligible for federal financial assistance.

Scholarships are another way to help you cut down the costs of college. You can submit numerous scholarship applications to different organizations that offer scholarship programs. Some scholarships can be awarded to students who simply submitted an application, while others are based on specific criteria, such as academics or athletic capabilities.

Who Should Consider a Bachelor Completion Program Online?

finish my bachelor degree online

Bachelor degree completion programs are ideal for individuals who haven’t had the chance to finish a bachelor’s degree program, but have completed some undergraduate coursework or professional experience.

If you have an associate’s degree and want to further your education, you might consider a degree completion program rather than a traditional bachelor program. Students who were enrolled in a bachelor’s program but unable to finish might consider a degree completion program.

If you have career experience, you might consider a degree completion program that aligns with your field of expertise and accepts work experience as a replacement for certain coursework.

How Long is a Bachelor’s Degree Completion Program Online? 

Man taking Online Degree Completion

The time it takes to complete a bachelor completion program can vary depending on several factors, such as how many credits you can transfer.

A traditional, 16-week semester bachelor’s degree program typically takes four years to complete with full-time study. An 8-week semester program with year-round study can be completed in less time. Students enrolled in a degree completion program may finish in two years or less, depending on how many credits were transferred.

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A traditional bachelor’s degree typically requires a minimum of 120 credit hours. Some programs may include more credit hours, which could take more time.

Is It Too Late to Finish My Degree?

Mature man completing his college degree online
Am I too old to go back to college? When you picture college students, you probably think of 18 to 19-year-olds. While it’s true that most college students are fresh out of high school, that’s not always the case.

More and more adults are going back to college. Whether you’ve been out of school for 10 or 30 years, you can always go back. No matter why you are back in college, and no matter how old you are, you and other college students are there for the same reason: to ensure a successful future. It’s never too late for that.

Why Should I Finish my Degree If I Already Have a Career I Like?

If you’re already in a career that is rewarding both personally and financially, it may seem unnecessary to go back and finish your degree.

Your degree will prove to your employer that you have the knowledge and training needed to do the job. The fact that you went back to school to complete it will show that you are motivated, disciplined, and hard-working. In addition to undergraduate degrees, there are also on-campus or online master’s and even on-campus or online PhD programs that you may be interested in looking into.

Is a Degree Really Necessary to Advance in My Career?

Teacher assistant pursuing a college degree

The job market is changing quickly. More people are vying for jobs, and employers are looking for the most educated and qualified candidates.

Most companies prefer candidates with college experience, especially those who had completed a degree program. It might seem that your experience and seniority are enough to help you advance, but in today’s world, employers expect candidates to have a degree. Without it, you may not be able to reach the salary range or position you’re hoping for.

Is It Harder to Go Back to College/School Later in Life?

Working mom, taking online college

Going back to school later in life can be a different experience than continuing school straight out of high school. You may now have other responsibilities and more to fit into your schedule. That doesn’t mean you can’t do it.

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You can start practicing time management and take advantage of the flexible schedule that online school offers. With online degree programs, you can earn your degree and still continue to keep up with your current responsibilities. You may even find going back later in life is easier because you now have real-world experience to apply to your studies.

How Will I Balance My Career, My Family, and Going Back to School?

If you work full-time and/or have a family to care for, adding school on top of that may seem impossible. But it’s not! To help support students, colleges now offer a variety of options that make it possible to fit your education around your existing schedule. For example:

  • Night and weekend courses if you want to learn on campus, just not during the day
  • Online programs if you need the flexibility to “go to class” whenever and wherever you are
  • Hybrid programs if you need a combination of online and on-campus classes
  • Accelerated programs are some of the fastest online degree completion programs

Discuss your goals with your family, friends, coworkers, and your employer, and let them know what specific things they can do to help lighten your load.

Will I Be Able to Transfer the Credit I Already Earned?

Woman checking with admission counselor about transferring credits

If you attended college previously or earned college credit in some other way, it is important to understand if they are transferrable to your new bachelor degree completion program online. Credits earned at regionally accredited universities are most likely to transfer. Each school has its own policies and limitations, so check the school’s website and reach out to the admissions department with questions.

To get the most out of the credits you have earned, and to save time and money, look for schools that offer degree completion programs. Also, review your professional experience with an admissions counselor, and let him or her know about any relevant credentials or licenses you have earned or training you have completed. This experience may translate into credit hours or allow you to skip or test out of certain courses.

Should I Finish My Bachelor’s Degree through an Online, Hybrid, or On-campus Program?

Students in hybrid setup, pursuing their bachelor's degree completion

There are advantages and disadvantages to all of these learning formats, and what works best for one student may not for another.

  • Fully online programs offer the most flexibility in terms of when and where you can study, which is especially appealing to adult learners who may also be working full-time and raising a family. However, in order to be successful in this type of format, you must be incredibly disciplined and well-organized.
  • Traditional, on-campus degree programs provide the structure and interaction that most students are accustomed to. The class schedules are not flexible, so it can be difficult to make it work around existing commitments.
  • Hybrid programs combine both online and in-person learning. This is often a good option for students in fields like science and healthcare that require lab work and other hands-on training.

In order to determine which of the learning environments is best for you, you will need to think about your schedule, your goals, and your learning style. Get a deeper look at the pros and cons of online and in-person learning.

Will I Have the Opportunity to Interact With My Online Professors and Classmates?

Interacting with online professors and classmates

As an asynchronous online student, you may not have the opportunity to interact live with your professors and classmates, but that doesn’t mean you won’t engage with them.

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Most online courses will require you to log in and participate in discussion forums on a regular basis. By asking and answering questions, commenting, and having natural conversations, you will engage with your classmates virtually. Most online professors also offer office hours where you can meet over video chat or in person.

Will Finishing My Degree Online Be Less Disruptive to My Family, Job, and Lifestyle?

Going back to school to finish your degree is a big commitment, and it can be a disruption to other areas of your life. Online, asynchronous programs are generally the least disruptive because you can fit your classes and study around your existing commitments.

You will not likely have to make substantial changes in your life in order to complete your degree online. Keep in mind that even the most flexible programs leading to online degrees will likely have some impact on other areas of your life. You will need the people around you to be patient and supportive. Remember that this disruption is temporary, and finishing your degree will likely be worth the small sacrifices.

How Do I Go About Finishing My Degree?

University offering online college programs

To start, you can begin looking at colleges that offer your degree program. To choose the online degree completion program that’s best for you, here is what you can look for:

  • Accreditation: Be sure the school is accredited. This means the program meets strict academic standards, you will be eligible for federal financial aid, and the degree you earn will be recognized and respected.
  • Transfer Policy: Check out the school’s policy for transferring credit to ensure that any college credit you earned previously will count toward your degree.
  • Program / Major: While many schools offer degree completion programs, they each typically have a limited selection. You may need to look around to find a program in your chosen field that will closely align with your career goals.
  • Format: Online programs may be synchronous (live) or asynchronous (on your own schedule). They may be self-paced, follow traditional semesters, or be accelerated. Look for the format that will best suit your schedule and learning style.
  • Supports: Make sure that the online program you choose provides access to advisors, mentors, tech support, and so on.

If finishing your degree online is your goal, you should have no trouble finding a program that can help you do so in a way that works for you.

Where Can I Finish My Degree Online?

finishing my degree online

If you started college as a traditional, on-campus student, you might check to see if the school now offers an online degree completion program in your field. If they don’t, or you are looking for something different, you have options.

You can find excellent online degree completion programs at many accredited colleges that also operate brick-and-mortar campuses. You can also find excellent online degree completion programs at accredited online-only colleges.

What Is the Schedule Like for Finishing My Degree Online?

Woman checking her schedule online

Online learning offers a tremendous amount of flexibility. While there are some online degree programs that have set class times when you must be online, most are taught asynchronously, meaning you can do your coursework whenever you’d like.

Whether it’s the early morning, on your lunch break, or late at night, it’s up to you. But keep in mind that online courses do still have expectations and due dates. For example, you may be expected to contribute to an online discussion forum a few times per week, and have weekly quizzes to submit by midnight each Friday.

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The overall pace or course load of the program can also vary. There are accelerated programs for those who want to speed through the remaining courses and complete their degree quickly, and there are slower-paced options for those who can only fit one or two classes into their schedule at a time.

How Many Classes Can You Take at One Time? What Is a Typical Course Load?

Woman focusing on her degree completion workload

There are several variables to consider before you determine how many classes you will take at a time.

  • Existing Schedule: Consider how many hours per day or week you have to devote to classes and studying. The general rule of thumb is that for every hour of class time, you should expect to spend 2-3 hours studying. That will vary, but it’s a helpful tip to keep in mind.
  • Types of Classes: Research, math, and writing courses tend to require more time. Subjects that are particularly challenging for you may also require more time. Finally, the program’s format will be an important consideration.
  • Accelerated Formats: Rather than the traditional 16-week term structure, students take 2-3 courses at a time in sessions that last 10, 8, or even just 6 weeks.

Depending on your schedule, types of classes required, and timeframe, you may be able to take 2 courses per semester or 4 courses per semester. It truly depends on your situation.

Is a Bachelor’s Completion Program Online Worth it?

Man taking Bachelor's Degree Completion Online

Yes, a bachelor’s completion program online is worth it for many students. It can be a flexible pathway to finishing your degree online without repeating coursework you’ve already completed.

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According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, a bachelor’s degree is highly desired or required for 169 occupations, most of which are showing job growth as well. For example, accountants are expected to see a 6% growth rate over the next 10 years. Online bachelor completion programs are usually flexible and do not always take as long to complete as a traditional bachelor’s program.

Universities With Online Bachelors Completion Programs

Methodology: The following school list is in alphabetical order. To be included, a college or university must be regionally accredited and offer degree programs online or in a hybrid format.

Boston University

Boston University

Students can complete their bachelor’s degrees and earn a BLS in Interdisciplinary Studies through Boston University. The program is fully online and is designed for students who already have 52 transferable credits. Students can potentially finish the program in just 18 months. Potential courses include Exploring Philosophy through Film.

Boston University is accredited by the New England Commission of Higher Education.

Drexel University

Drexel University

Drexel University offers a degree completion program through Goodwin College. Students can earn a BS in General Studies fully online. To qualify, applicants must have at least 24 transferrable credits but may transfer in up to 135 qualifying credits. The program requires 180 credits for graduation. Classes are offered in 10 week terms. Students may choose courses to customize their degrees.

Drexel University is accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education.

East Carolina University

East Carolina University

Students typically finish their first two years of college before entering a degree completion program at East Carolina University. ECU offers several online bachelor’s degrees for these students. Students are typically from a North Carolina community college, but other students are welcome to apply. Fields of study offered include human resource management and industrial technology.

East Carolina University is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.

Elmhurst University

Elmhurst University

Elmhurst University’s degree completion programs are designed for working adults who already have college credits. The programs aren’t fully online, but on-campus courses meet in the evenings. Some courses can be taken fully online. Programs of study offered include psychology, information technology, business administration, and RN-to-BSN. Some programs can potentially be finished in just 3 semesters.

Elmhurst University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

Fitchburg State University

Fitchburg State University

Fitchburg State University offers bachelor’s degree completion programs for adult learners who need flexible school schedules to earn their degrees.

The programs are entirely online, and classes are conducted in a 7 week, accelerated format. Students have two degree options with several concentration options. Students can earn a Bachelor’s in Business or Interdisciplinary Studies with concentrations like Entrepreneurship and Humanities.

Fitchburg State University is accredited by the New England Commission of Higher Education.

Hamline University

Hamline University

Students wishing to complete their bachelor’s degree through Hamline University can choose between programs in education, business, and psychology. All programs are entirely online. The school has a generous transfer policy, but students must complete at least 56 credits at Hamline. Certain core courses must be taken at Hamline.

Hamline University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

Loyola University – Chicago

Loyola University Chicago

Loyola University—Chicago offers several degree completion programs for students who have some college credits and want to return to college. Many programs are available fully online, while some allow students to mix online and on-campus courses. Courses are 8 weeks long and have several start dates throughout the year. Programs offered include an RN-to-BSN and a program in web technologies.

Loyola University – Chicago is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

Merrimack College

Merrimack College

U.S. News & World Report named Merrimack College the 9th Most Innovative School in the country. The school’s online degree completion program is designed for working adults who want to earn their bachelor’s degrees. Courses are asynchronous, and some coursework can be done with a mobile device. Areas of study offered include communication and leadership.

Merrimack College is accredited by the New England Commission of Higher Education.

Minnesota State University – Mankato

Minnesota State University Mankato

Minnesota State University—Mankato offers an online degree completion program with built-in flexibility for students to earn degrees to advance in their careers. Programs are fully online, and most courses are asynchronous. Some courses are offered in a 5 week format. MSU helps students maximize transfer credits. Areas of study offered include dental hygiene, applied leadership, and nursing.

Minnesota State University – Mankato is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

New York University

New York University

New York University offers online degree completion programs through its School of Professional Studies. All programs are fully online. Classes are synchronous with weekly meetings. Meetings are in the evening to accommodate work schedules. Students must have at least 24 credits to transfer. Areas of study offered include leadership and management studies, social sciences, and information systems management.

New York University is accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education.

Northeastern University

Northeastern University

Adult learners who wish to complete their bachelor’s degrees have several options through Northeastern University. Most of its programs are entirely online. Students may be able to get credit for prior work experience. Northeastern allows students to choose accelerated programs and make customizations to fit their lifestyles. Areas of study offered include advanced manufacturing systems and psychology.

Northeastern University is accredited by the New England Commission of Higher Education.

Old Dominion University

Old Dominion University

Old Dominion University offers an online degree completion program for adult learners through its ODUGlobal program. Programs are offered entirely online. Students must have around 60 transferrable credits, about 2 years of coursework, to enter the program. ODU offers free credit evaluation. Students can choose from many areas of study, including elementary education, nuclear systems, and public health.

Old Dominion University is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.

San Diego State University

San Diego State University

Students can earn a BS in Business Administration through San Diego State’s degree completion program. This fully online program can potentially be finished in just 2 years. Courses are attended in 8 week blocks with two blocks per semester. Students may take two courses per block or can set their own pace to fit their schedules.

San Diego State University is accredited by the Western Association of Schools and Colleges.

Slippery Rock University

Slippery Rock University

Students with prior college coursework or associate degrees may be eligible for Slippery Rock University’s degree completion program. SRU designed the program with busy adults in mind. Programs are fully online, and most courses are synchronous. Classes are offered in fall, winter, spring, and summer. Areas of study offered include leadership studies and philanthropy and nonprofit management.

Slippery Rock University is accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education.

Southern Illinois University – Edwardsville

Southern Illinois University Edwardsville

Students can complete their bachelor’s degree through Southern Illinois University—Edwardsville’s degree completion program. All programs are offered fully online, but some have hybrid options for students who want to come to campus. Programs are offered in an accelerated format so students can focus on their careers. Fields of study offered include public relations and criminal justice.

Southern Illinois University Edwardsville is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

University of Massachusetts

University of Massachusetts Lowell

The University of Massachusetts offers a wide variety of online degree completion programs for students who have already completed undergraduate coursework. Many programs are offered fully online. Courses begin in the fall, winter, spring, and summer and follow a traditional semester schedule. Fields of study offered include sustainability services, children’s learning and development, and information technology.

The University of Massachusetts is accredited by the New England Commission of Higher Education.

University of Michigan – Flint

University of Michigan Flint

The University of Michigan—Flint’s online degree program allows students to finish their degrees in an accelerated format. Programs are fully online and attended in an asynchronous format. Courses are 7 weeks, and there are several start dates offered throughout the year. Students may be able to get credit for professional experience. Fields of study offered include digital communication.

The University of Michigan – Flint is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

Waynesburg University

Waynesburg University

Waynesburg University offers an online degree completion program for working students. Courses are entirely online and are delivered in an accelerated, 5 week format. Students may be able to finish in just 1 year when attending full-time. There are nine start dates offered each year. Fields of study offered include business administration, criminal justice administration, and professional studies.

Waynesburg University is accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education.

Westfield State University

Westfield State University

West Field State University’s online degree completion program is designed for Massachusetts community college graduates or those with a Mass transfer compact. Other students may also apply but will need advisement. Fall and spring courses are 15 weeks long. There are 2 week courses in winter and 6 week courses in the summer. Fields of study offered include finance, history, and marketing.

Westfield State University is accredited by the New England Commission of Higher Education.

Completing Your Bachelors Degree Online

Man completing his college degree via online program

After months or even years of asking yourself “Should I finish my degree,” hopefully you have your answer. Although you may feel too old, too busy, or too settled in your career, it is never too late to go back to school to finish what you started.

A completed degree program can show your current or prospective employers that you have the drive and willingness to succeed in your career.

Once you’ve made the decision to finish your degree online, you can begin researching accredited online programs to get started with your degree goals.

Ready to start your journey?
Amy Hayes
WRITTEN BY Amy Hayes

Amy holds a Bachelor of Arts in History from Old Dominion University, with a minor in English. She previously worked as an educator before starting her career as a writer. Amy spends much of her time researching and writing, with the goal of sharing valuable information with readers.