The Top 20 Fastest Online Degree Completion Programs in the Nation

A degree completion program is a great option for those who have started a college education but haven’t had the chance to finish. Finishing your bachelor’s degree has many benefits. It can be a source of satisfaction, accomplishment, and pride. It can also open doors to new careers and job opportunities. In this article, we’ve listed the top 20 schools with online degree completion programs. These are fast degree completion programs that take less time than a four-year degree. Read on for all the details.

Featured Programs

Degree completion programs are a viable pathway to a college degree, no matter what your circumstances might be. Some of the students who choose bachelor’s completion programs include

Anyone who has started a bachelor’s degree but has not yet finished it.
Students who have earned an associate degree and want to take the next logical step in their college education.
Adult learners who never went to college but are ready to make the leap and earn an online degree. This may include those who already have career experience but want to move into higher-paying roles in their fields.

There can be many things that may have prevented you from finishing college. But regardless of the reasons, you’re not alone. Thousands of students from varying backgrounds and circumstances would like to earn a bachelor’s degree and finish college. And with today’s online bachelor’s completion programs, it’s more possible than ever before. Online college programs provide a fast and flexible solution for earning a bachelor’s degree without disputing your lifestyle.

What Is an Online Degree Completion Program?

A degree completion program online is a college program designed exclusively for those who have begun a bachelor’s degree but have not yet earned a diploma. Most are designed to accept credits you earned the first time you attended college. Those credits can then be applied toward your new program. So, instead of starting at the beginning, you can skip what you’ve already covered. This way, you only take the courses you need to graduate. This allows you to earn your degree faster than the standard four years.

An additional perk is that bachelor’s degree completion programs are typically less expensive since you don’t need to start from scratch.

Many schools offer bachelor’s completion programs. However, not all colleges offer them online. Online degree programs can open doors that would otherwise be closed to some students. They offer increased flexibility and are highly adaptable. And they are an ideal way of earning a bachelor’s degree for those already working or caring for a family.

Choosing the Best Online Degree Completion Program Format

Degree completion online programs vary quite a bit among colleges. So it’s essential to research the online degree programs that interest you. You’ll want to choose something that aligns with your academic and career goals. You will also want to be sure the online learning format will work for you. For example, schools with blended or hybrid programs will have some on-campus requirements. However, a hybrid online degree program likely won’t work for you if you live in another area of the country.

You should also find out if the college offers synchronous or asynchronous programs. With synchronous online degree programs, all students meet for classes online at a scheduled time. Synchronous programs are great for students who need some added structure.

With an asynchronous format, however, students complete their studies on their own schedule. There are no set times for class, and everything is pre-recorded. This allows you to work on your courses when it is most convenient.

Pay special attention to the required and elective courses each school and program offers. The curriculum can vary widely across online colleges. You’ll be more successful at school if you choose a program with exciting and engaging courses. And of course, you will enjoy yourself much more.

Methodology for the Top Online Degree Completion Programs

To create this ranking, we compiled a list of every online degree completion program in the nation. We then noted online degree programs that would allow students to finish at an accelerated pace and do so online. In addition to that, the schools had to be nonprofit colleges based in the United States. And they had to be properly accredited. No schools were given preferential treatment, and we followed the same methodology for all institutions.

You will notice that many of the schools have identical scores. In the case of a tie, schools with the lowest tuition costs are given the highest ranking.

To determine the ranking, we examined four factors:

Graduation Rates
Student-to-Faculty Ratios
Undergraduate Tuition Rates

With this data, we developed our final list of schools with the best online bachelor’s degree completion programs.

The tuition fees listed in this article are based on in-state undergraduate tuition per academic year. Note that the costs for out-of-state students may differ. More importantly, the costs for an online degree completion program are often significantly less than a full bachelor’s program. All figures come from NCES College Navigator.

Looking for the fastest degree completion program? You can finish your degree online fast with the schools on our list. The methodology we used to determine our list of the 20 best online degree completion programs is below.

Student-to-Faculty Ratio

15:1 and under- 3 Points

16:1 to 20:1- 2 Points

More than 20:1- 1 Point

Undergraduate Tuition Per Year

Less than $10,000/year- 3 Points

$10,001-$20,000/year- 2 Points

More than $20,000/year- 1 Point

Graduation Rate

50% or greater- 3 Points

25%-49%- 2 Points

Less than 25%- 1 Point

You may also find our rankings of the Top 35 Fastest Online College Programs and the Top 20 Fastest Online Doctoral Programs useful.

1. Colorado State University

Colorado State University Profile

Colorado State University is a public land-grant research university in Fort Collins, Colorado. The university was established in 1870 and is home to over 33,000 students. CSU is the flagship university of the Colorado State University System. And it is classified among “R1: Doctoral Universities – Very high research. There are about 160 online degree programs available through several different colleges and schools. CSU offers the cheapest online bachelor’s completion programs on our list.

Online degree programs at Colorado State are offered through the CSU-Global Campus. There are currently 15 bachelor’s online degree programs. And each of these can also serve as a completion program. There are also many additional specializations available. And students can tailor a program of study to meet their individual career and educational goals. The online bachelor’s degree completion degrees include:

Accounting
Business Management
Computer Science
Criminal Justice
Cyber Security
Finance
Healthcare Administration & Management
Human Resource Management
Human Services
Information Technology
Interdisciplinary Professional Studies
Management Information Systems & Business Analytics
Marketing
Organizational Leadership
Project Management

CSU has a generous transfer policy of up to 90 credits toward your degree. Classes begin every month, so you don’t have to wait to start pursuing your degree. The courses are eight weeks long and presented asynchronously. This allows students the flexibility to study whenever it is convenient. A unique feature of CSU Global is that the online degree programs come with a tuition guarantee. Students already benefit by paying the same rates as a Colorado resident would. The tuition guarantee assures you that even if the school were to raise costs, your tuition would stay the same as long as you are enrolled.

Each student at Colorado State has a student success counselor. This individual will help you tailor your educational plan to satisfy the requirements needed to earn your degree. Other student services at CSU include:

Military Support Services
Tutoring
A Writing Center
Career Navigation Services
24/7 Tech Support
Disability and Accessibility Services

Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission

Tuition: $8,400

Score: 8

2. Westfield State University

Westfield State University is a public university located in Westfield, Massachusetts. Horace Mann founded the school in 1838. Westfield was the first public, coed college in the country that didn’t discriminate based on race, gender, or socioeconomic status. The school currently has just over 6,000 students enrolled. Westfield confers degrees at the bachelor’s and master’s levels. The college prides itself on being a comprehensive university for continuing education. Westfield also offers cheap online degree completion programs.

At Westfield, there are various ways to earn credit outside of a classroom setting. For example, you can receive credit for internships, military experience, and CLEP testing. You can also get credit through a Prior-Learning Portfolio in which you demonstrate proficiency in a particular area.

The degree completion programs at Westfield are designed for students who have completed the Mass Transfer Compact. So they are geared toward those with an associate degree from a participating community college. Other students are admitted to the program on a case-by-case basis. However, you will need to consult with an advisor to determine an individual plan of study. The bachelor’s completion programs at WSU include:

Accounting
Criminal Justice
Finance
History
Liberal Studies
Management.
Marketing
Psychology
Sociology

Classes are offered during regular Fall and Spring semesters. There are also two summer sessions that are six weeks long. And there is one accelerated two-week winter session. Westfield has one of the top 100 online bachelor’s programs, according to U.S. News & World Report.

Accreditation: New England Association of Schools and Colleges

Tuition: $11,139

Score: 8

3. Florida Institute of Technology

Another school that offers affordable degree completion programs is Florida Tech. Florida Institute of Technology is a private research university in Melbourne, Florida. The purpose of the university when it was established in 1958 was to support NASA. At that time, it was known as Brevard Engineering College. It took its current name in 1966, shortly after receiving accreditation. The school has been ranked by various publications for excellence in certain areas. For example, U.S. News & World Report lists the school as a tier-one national university. FIT is best known for its cutting-edge research. This is especially true in the areas of Physics, Laser Optics, and Robotics.

Florida Tech started as a niche study area but now comprises four academic divisions. And the school has a broad selection of online degree programs, including 16 online degrees. Students can enroll year-round because there are six different start dates. All online courses are asynchronous, so you don’t have to be online at set times to participate in classes or lectures. Instead, your course materials will be available 24/7. The courses are presented in accelerated eight-week terms.

The transfer policy at Florida Tech is a bit more stringent than some of the other listed schools. Each academic department determines how many credits are eligible for transfer. And credits will only be considered for courses taken at a regionally accredited U.S. College. Credits for life experience are not eligible. And credits for military Courses will only be considered if they appear on an official Joint Services Transcript. Additionally, community college transfers are only approved if the school has a formal agreement with Florida Tech.

The online undergraduate online degree programs at Florida Institute of Technology include:

Accounting
Applied Psychology
Applied Psychology Child Advocacy
Applied Psychology Clinical Psychology
Applied Psychology Forensic Psychology
Applied Psychology Organizational Psychology
Aviation Management
Business Administration Accounting
Business Administration Computer Information Systems
Business Administration Healthcare Management
Business Administration Management
Business Administration Marketing
Human Resources Management
Management
Computer Information Systems
Online Human Resources Management Minor

Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

Tuition: $12,240

Score: 8

4. University of Louisville

Another school offering some of the best degree completion programs online is UofL. The University of Louisville is a public research university in Louisville, Kentucky. With three campuses, it is part of the University System of Kentucky. And it comprises 12 schools and colleges. The school pursues excellence and inclusiveness in education. And they have a diverse student population. Over 23,000 students attend the University of Louisville.

UofL has a robust program offering undergraduate and graduate online degrees and certificates. Students who want to earn their bachelor’s degree online have several options:

General Studies
Business Administration
Accountancy
Communication
Nursing
Organizational Leadership and Learning
Political Science
Psychology
Social Work
Sociology
Sport Administration
Women’s, Gender, and Sexuality Studies

The BS in General Studies is the perfect option for students looking for a degree completion program. It is designed for those who already have some college credits. However, they must have been away from college for at least two years. This is also ideal for students who want to leverage their prior professional experiences.

Students in the general studies program can finish their degree online in the areas of their choice. And they can create their own schedule with 100 percent online courses. Students have 24/7 access to materials and can tailor their learning schedule around their own needs.

The degree requires a total of 120 credit hours, but students can transfer up to 40 credits. All students must pursue two focus areas. This can be two certificates, two minors, or a combination. However, they must choose from areas of interest that already exist at UofL.

A unique aspect of this program is the Prior Learning Assessment component. Students can undertake the assessment to earn tuition-free credits for previous occupational learning. They can then apply these credits toward their bachelor’s completion program.

Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

Tuition: $12,370

Score: 8

5. Arizona State University

Arizona State University Profile

Arizona State University is a public research university in Phoenix, Arizona. There are five campuses in the Phoenix metropolitan area. And there are an additional four learning centers throughout the state. Like most public universities across the country, ASU was established as a normal school to train teachers. Founded in 1885, it has gone through five name changes. Over a century later, ASU is now one of the largest universities in the country. It also has the esteemed distinction of being an R1 Research University. Additionally, U.S. News & World Report has ranked Arizona State as the most innovative university in the nation for seven consecutive years. The school enrolls over 75,000 students.

Online degrees are offered at the undergraduate and graduate levels, with at least 350 programs to choose from. These are provided through 16 academic divisions. As a result, ASU has a wide range of degree completion programs. They are designed to be as flexible as possible to help students achieve their academic and career goals. Some of the areas of interest include:

Art and design
Behavioral sciences
Business
Communication and digital media
Computer science and technology
Education
Engineering
Geographical sciences and urban planning
Health and wellness
History
Humanities
Language
Law, criminal justice, and public service
Management
Science
Sustainability

Students at ASU are allowed to transfer up to 90 of the required credits. And there are start dates every seven and a half weeks. Classes are condensed down to seven and a half weeks each. Plus, they are presented asynchronously. This means that you can log in at any time, and all your coursework will be available to you. For the spring and fall semesters, you can take up to 18 credits at a time. And for the summer sessions, you can take up to seven credits at a time. Depending on how many credits you transfer, it’s possible to earn your degree at ASU in as little as two years.

Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission

Tuition: $12,370

Score: 7

6. University of Oklahoma

The University of Oklahoma is a public space-grant research university in Norman, Oklahoma. It was founded in 1890, long before the Oklahoma Territory became a state. OU is most well-known for its athletic programs. However, it ranks first among public universities that enroll National Merit Scholars. And it is among the top ten schools to graduate Rhodes Scholars. OU is a relatively large university, serving roughly 29,000 students. There are 15 colleges and schools that make up the University. And they offer a combined 407 different areas of study. The diverse range of academic pursuits at OU attracts students from more than 100 countries around the world.

The University of Oklahoma offers four online bachelor’s completion programs. These include:

Organizational Leadership
Criminal Justice
Lifespan Care Administration
Integrative Studies

These bachelor’s completion programs are perfect for busy adults who want to complete their academic journey. Students can complete all of them 100 percent online. In addition, they are presented in an asynchronous format in five eight-week sessions throughout the year. This means you can complete your studies on your own time when it is convenient for you.

The school allows you to transfer up to 90 of the required 120 credits for a bachelor’s degree. And you can enroll in up to nine credit hours per eight-week session or 19 credit hours per semester. Plus, if you have an associate degree, you can bring up to 60 hours with you from your previous program.

The University does not award credit for life or work experience. However, the degree program can still allow you to graduate in as little as 18 months of full-time study. Additionally, if you have military experience, you may be eligible to apply academic credits applied toward your OU degree. This will be handled on a case-by-case basis. Students with more questions can schedule an online meeting with admissions.

Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission

Tuition: $12,012

Score: 7

7. University of Massachusetts Amherst

UMass Amherst Profile

The University of Massachusetts Amherst is a public land-grant research university. Founded in 1863, it is the flagship institution of the University of Massachusetts System. UMass Amherst has a student body of over 30,000. It is also the largest university in New England. U.S. News & World Report has counted the university among the top 30 best public universities in America.

UMass Amherst offers nearly 30 bachelor’s completion programs, many of them entirely online. One such program is the online Bachelor of Business Administration degree. This BBA is AACSB-accredited and offers five majors to choose from:

Accounting
Finance
Management
Marketing
Operations and Information Management

The BBA completion program is offered through the Isenberg School of Management. You will need 120 credits to earn the degree. And you must earn at least 45 of those credits from UMass Amherst. However, you can transfer up to 75 credits toward the program. During most semesters, students can take anywhere from one to five courses.

Another excellent degree completion program is offered through the UMass University Without Walls. It’s an Interdisciplinary Studies BA or BS degree that is highly flexible. Students can choose from various areas of study to design a personal concentration that leads to the completion of a degree. With this program, students can even get credit for life experience. And all students have individual support and an advisor to help them meet their professional and educational goals. Some of the available degree completion programs include:

Advocacy and Social Justice Studies
Applied Psychology
Arts Management
Children’s Learning and Development
Criminal Justice Studies
Film and Media Studies
Health Studies
Human Services
Journalism Studies
Sustainability Studies
Translation and Interpreting
Writing and Literary Studies

The credit requirements for the Interdisciplinary Degree are the same as the BBA. Students are awarded a diploma in their academic major, regardless of whether they attend classes online or on campus. Each student also earns a certificate that recognizes their specific degree concentration.

Accreditation: New England Association of Schools and Colleges

Tuition: $16,439

Score: 7

Related: Online Business Degrees

8. Utica University

Utica University is a private university in Utica, New York. It began in 1946 as an extension of Syracuse University. But in 1999, the school began offering its own programs. There are now 90 programs in total. Utica University is renowned for its cybersecurity programs. The NSA and DHS have designated Utica as a National Center of Academic Excellence in Cyber Defense Education. Utica Online is where the University offers ten fast bachelor’s completion programs. They include:

Accounting
Business Administration
Data Analytics
Criminal Justice
Cybersecurity
Cybersecurity Operations Management
Fraud and Financial Crime Investigation
Health Care Management
Health Sciences
Nursing

Online students tackle the same rigorous, expertly designed curriculum as on-campus students. But they get to do so with a flexible schedule that puts them in control. Additionally, students have access to many unique benefits. These include:

Get Free access to Microsoft Office.
Enjoy free mail storage, cloud storage,, and other useful Google Apps for Education.
Use Canvas, Engage, and BannerWeb to access courses, interact with students, find your schedule, and more.
Access 24/7 tech support.
Utilize an online library and database.
Collaborative with a community of fellow students.
Receive personalized career coaching.

Utica offers an easy way to find out how many credits you can apply to your desired program. You can consult the transfer Evaluation Database (TES). Additionally, the school maintains articulation agreements with many institutions. Transfer credit is given for courses taken at a regionally accredited institution. A “C” grade or better is required.

Accreditation: Middle States Commission on Higher Education

Tuition: $24,214

Score: 7

9. Walsh University

Walsh University is a private Roman Catholic-affiliated college in North Canton, Ohio. The college started in 1951 in Maine as the LaMennais College. But it relocated in 1959 and adopted its current name. This private liberal arts college serves almost 3,000 students and online degrees are offered at the undergraduate and graduate levels. There are more than 70 different majors for undergraduate students.

Accelerated degree programs are a notable feature at the school. These online programs are provided through the Walsh University School for Professional Studies. A few of these online degree completion programs include:

Esports & Gaming Management
Professional Sales
Supply Chain Management
Communication – Digital Media
Organizational Development and Leadership
Web Design
Actuarial Science
Cybersecurity
Data Analytics
Healthcare Administration
Public Health
Social and Behavioral Sciences

In addition to its 22 online degree programs, Walsh offers a B.A. in Interdisciplinary Studies. With this program, students build their own major and choose three areas of study to focus on. The options include:

Accounting
Corporate Communication
Digital Media
Leadership
Management
Marketing
Psychology
Sociology
Theology

A transfer credit evaluation will be completed once the school receives your transcripts. You can transfer credits from regionally accredited institutions with a grade of “C-” or better. The amount of credit applied will depend on the accelerated degree programs you are interested in. Students must complete at least 32 semester hours at Walsh. And a minimum of 15 hours must be in their major field. Students can also request an unofficial credit evaluation online.

Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission

Tuition: $32,315

Score: 7

10. University of the Incarnate Word

The University of the Incarnate Word is a private Catholic university in San Antonio. Texas. The school was established by the Sisters of Charity of the Incarnate Word in 1881. At that time, it was a women’s institution. The university is co-educational now and has a student body of over 8,500. Online degrees are offered at the associate, bachelor, master’s, and doctorate levels. And there are various certificate programs available as well. UIW is made up of 12 different colleges and schools.

UIW offers several programs to complete your degree online. Courses are eight weeks long, and there are six terms a year. You can take two courses per eight-week term. Classes are asynchronous, so your coursework is accessible 24/7. And course materials are available for the entire term so that you can work at your pace. There are nine online bachelor’s degree programs to choose from. These include:

Administration
Applied Arts and Sciences
Business Administration
Criminal Justice
Health Sciences
Human Resources
Leadership Studies
Organizational Development
Psychology

UIW is committed to ensuring the affordability of these programs. Students benefit from free textbooks, no application fees, and discounted tuition rates. There are no on-campus requirements for these programs. However, SPS does offer in-person classes for some programs. These are optional for students who want the on-campus experience.

The school has several resources available for students. These include:

Academic Advising
Academic Success Team
Virtual Computer Lab
Library Services
Tech Support
Counseling
Financial Aid and Scholarships
Student Disability Services
Library and Online Resources
Financial Wellness Programs

Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools

Tuition: $33,100

Score: 7

11. University of Indianapolis

University of Indianapolis Profile

The University of Indianapolis is a private university in Indianapolis, Indiana. It is affiliated with the United Methodist Church. UINDY was founded in 1902 and now offers online degrees from the associate to doctoral levels. The college is organized into nine schools and is home to eight different centers and institutes. More than 80 undergraduate majors are available, and more than 30 graduate-level programs of study. U.S. News & World Report has recognized the university in several areas. In the categories of best regional universities in the Midwest, the college is among the top 50.

UINDY offers several accelerated degree programs online. These are offered on campus, online, and hybrid (a combination of in-person and online). They include:

Business Administration
Community & Nonprofit Leadership
Early Childhood Education
Organizational Leadership
Public Health Education & Promotion
Liberal Studies

The liberal studies program is excellent for students who want to complete a bachelor’s degree. This 120-credit-hour program offers the option of adding a concentration or minor. Liberal studies students gain a well-rounded higher education. And they learn problem-solving, critical thinking, and communication skills. New students can start in August, January, or May.

Courses are eight weeks long, and the majority should be eligible to be completed online. If you need a face-to-face course to finish your degree, classes only meet once per week in the evening. This ensures students can get there without interrupting their schedules. Because of this, some programs are only suitable for students living in or near Indianapolis. The accelerated degree programs can be completed in just two years.

Students at the University of Indianapolis have many opportunities to gain additional credits toward these accelerated degree programs. For example, they can earn credits through testing programs. This includes exams like CLEP, DANTES, and Excelsior College Examinations. They can also earn through a Prior Learning Assessment (PLA) Portfolio.

Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission

Tuition: $33,520

Score: 7

12. Palm Beach Atlantic University

Palm Beach Atlantic University is a private Christian university in West Palm Beach. Founded in 1968, the school offers a range of bachelor’s, master’s, and doctorate online degrees. There are more than 50 programs of study available. And the 12:1 student-to-faculty ratio means you will have plenty of one-on-one mentoring with faculty. The university is comprised of nine schools. In 2017, U.S. News & World Report ranked the programs at PBA among the 25 best online education programs in the nation.

At PBA, nontraditional students can earn a high-quality education online. PBA allows students to transfer more than half of the necessary credits to graduate. And classes are offered in eight-week terms to help you finish your degree as soon as possible. Courses are accessible on virtually any smart device. You will go through your programs in a cohort model and enjoy affordable tuition rates. Degree completion programs include:

Computer Science
Christian Studies
Ministry
Organizational Leadership
Global Leadership in Spanish
Community Psychology
Digital Storytelling
Gaming & Interactive Design
Communication
Nursing R.N. to B.S.N.
Business Administration

PNA claims its students enjoy academic quality that most universities cannot match. Online students at PBA attend classes in real time and have a high level of interaction with their instructors and fellow students. You’ll participate in project-based assignments and discussions. And you will always have academic help and technical support close at hand.

It takes the average student five semesters to earn their degree. Students can transfer up to 67 credits from a two-year school or up to 88 from an undergraduate program. And dedicated transfer admissions specialists will support you every step of the way.

The school’s Office of Career Development offers services to all students. These include networking, career counseling, interview skills, and more. And the DIVE program connects students with excellent internship opportunities. Finally, PBA has your back if you need help paying for your education. The school offers over $27 million a year in financial assistance. A full 97 percent of undergraduate students receive some form of financial aid.

Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools

Tuition: $34,134

Score: 7

13. Albertus Magnus College

Albertus Magnus College is a private Roman Catholic college in New Haven, Connecticut. The Dominican Sisters of St. Mary of the Springs established the college in 1925. Originally it was a school for women but became coeducational in 1985. Today, this is a small college of around 1,500 total students. It offers various associate’s, bachelor’s, and master’s degree programs. And many of these programs are online. Despite the small size, nearly 60% of the students study for their degrees at least partially online.

The accelerated degree completion programs at Albertus Magnus College are an excellent option for finishing a degree. You can enroll in an asynchronous format and access your coursework 100 percent online. However, if you live locally and want to attend campus for some courses, you can also look at the college’s Flex programs. Classes are eight weeks long, and this concise format allows you to earn as many as 30 credits in one year. In addition, the school accepts up to 64 credits from junior and community colleges and 90 credits from four-year colleges.

The accelerated degree completion programs at AMC include:

Accounting
Business Management
Communications
Computer Information Systems
Criminal Justice
Cyber Security
Finance
General Studies
Health Care Management
Human Services
Humanities
Philosophy and Religion
Project Management
PsychologyPublic Administration
Social Science
Sociology

Online students at AMC have access to several personalized services to help them succeed in their studies. These include:

Disability Services
Academic Advising
Academic Support Center
Research Support Services
Counseling Services
Dominican Ministries
Study Abroad Programs
Tech Support
Library and Online Resources

Accreditation: New England Association of Schools and Colleges

Tuition: $36,442

Score: 7

14. DeSales University

DeSales University is a private Catholic university in Center Valley, Pennsylvania. The university was established in 1964, and classes began in 1965. This is a smaller college with just over 3,000 students. The school confers bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral online degrees. U.S. News & World Report has ranked the university among the top 50 best-value schools. And it has also been ranked as one of the best schools for veterans. DeSales was first granted its university status in the year 2000. Before that, it was known as Allentown College.

DeSales offers accelerated online degree programs through its Adult Studies Program. The program allows you to transfer up to 75 credits earned at another accredited school. Plus, students can earn credits through work experience, military, or corporate training. Classes are presented in three, six, and eight-week sessions, depending on the course. There are several undergraduate majors to choose from, all of which allow you to complete your studies 100 percent online. These include:

Accounting & Forensic Accounting
Business Administration
Criminal Justice
Finance
Financial Planning
Homeland Security
Human Resource Management
Management
Management of Information Technology
Marketing
Pharmaceutical Marketing
Psychology
Supply Chain Management
Theology

An impressive feature of these bachelor’s completion programs is that there are many start dates throughout the year. Classes are just as rigorous as those taught on campus. Yet the online format means students can have a better work-life-study balance. The courses may be asynchronous, synchronous, or a mix of both. Desales uses Blackboard as its online learning management platform.

All students have access to a ton of online resources and support. For example, the school has a Center for Educational Resources and Technology Department (CERT). CERT provides students with orientation, workshops, and other remote services for online learning. In addition, all students have access to the Trexler Library and its online databases. And the school’s Academic Resource Center helps online students become better learners. Finally, students are encouraged to request peer and professional tutoring if they need help.

Accreditation: Middle States Commission on Higher Education

Tuition: $41,000

Score: 7

15. Champlain College

Champlain College is a private college in Burlington, Vermont. It is a relatively small institution with just under 5,000 students. Champlain was founded in 1878 as a business school and didn’t start to expand academically for decades. However, the school offered the first remote programs in the 90s, making it one of the pioneers of educational innovation. Now, the college has associate’s, bachelor’s, and master’s online degrees in more than 80 areas of study. In addition, 70% of all undergraduate students at Champlain College are enrolled in online programs. U.S. News & World Report has ranked Champlain’s online bachelor’s programs among the best in the nation.

There are 14 bachelor’s degree programs offered online at Champlain College. The programs include:

Accounting
Business Management
Computer & Information Systems
Information Technology
Computer Forensics & Digital Investigations
Cybersecurity
Economic Crime Investigation
Healthcare Administration
Human Resource Management
Integrated Studies
Management Information Systems
Marketing and Communication
Software Development
Web Design & Development

Please note that the business management program has nine concentrations. All courses are 100% online and accessible 24/7. Online students take two seven-week courses each trimester. This allows them to complete their online degrees faster than through a traditional program. Online students also have access to the same advisement and resources as on-campus students.

Additionally, remote students may pay lower tuition based on the number of credits they can transfer into the program. Champlain has an extremely generous transfer policy. With an associate degree, students can transfer up to 45 credit hours. And the school accepts up to 90 credit hours for a bachelor’s degree. Additionally, students can earn credit for prior learning through several avenues. Industry certification, professional training, and more may apply. And one of the best things about the PLC program is students can earn these additional credits even while attending classes at Champlain.

Accreditation: New England Association of Schools and Colleges

Tuition: $42,984

Score: 7

16. Drexel University

Drexel University Profile

Drexel University is a private research university in Philadelphia. The university was founded in 1891. And its mission was to provide academic opportunities to people regardless of their background. There are just over 24,000 students that attend Drexel. Online degrees are offered at both the undergraduate and graduate levels in a broad range of fields. U.S. News & World Report has recognized Drexel University as among the top 20 most innovative schools in America.

The university also has shown a longstanding commitment to distance education. It created its first distance learning program in 1996, making it one of the earliest universities in the country to do so.

The school offers a unique Bachelor of Science in General Studies degree completion program. It is offered online and in person. This program provides a flexible way for students to finish an undergraduate degree. And it also allows you to maximize prior military or professional learning to save time and money on your education.

Students need a minimum of 180 hours of coursework for the BS in General Studies. But Drexel’s generous transfer policy allows you to transfer up to 135 credits. All applicants are reviewed on a case-by-case basis. You can customize your degree to just about any major or specialization. Some of the most popular degree completion programs are in majors like:

Healthcare
Applied Arts
Business
Computing
Law & Government
Education
Natural Sciences
Engineering
Social Sciences
Communication

Students in the degree completion program at Drexel can take advantage of program flexibility. For example, you can take online or on-campus courses full or part-time. And you can create a course of study that works around your current scheduling needs. In addition, all students get one-on-one advising to help them design a program that will meet their professional goals. The school also offers many resources and networking opportunities. For example, students have access to the Steinbright Career Development Center. Steinbright is an excellent resource for connecting with industry leaders worldwide. Additionally, the Center works with a vast network of employer partners.

Accreditation: Middle States Commission on Higher Education

Tuition: $57,136

Score: 7

17. Northeastern University

Northeastern University Profile

Northeastern University is a private research university in Boston, Massachusetts. It was founded as the Evening Institute for Younger Men in the fall of 1898. In its first forty years, it expanded to take shape as the reputable college it is today. Northeastern University is classified as an R1 Research University by the Carnegie Foundation. Northeaster has the most expensive tuition on our list. However, it also has the highest graduation rate (91 percent) on our list. Additionally, the school has a comfortable student-to-faculty ratio of 14:1.

Northeastern serves over 20,000 students through nine colleges and schools. Degrees are awarded at all levels, from bachelor’s to doctorate. Many publications have recognized the school. And it has received high rankings for best internships, career services, and business programs. U.S. News & World Report has also ranked the university among the top 50 best national universities.

The College of Professional Studies at NU offers a variety of programs for nontraditional students. It offers more than 80 online programs. The university is intent on providing flexible and accessible programs for working professionals. Northeastern offers ten bachelor’s completion programs. They include:

Advanced Manufacturing Systems
Analytics
Digital Communication and Media
Finance and Accounting Management
Healthcare Administration
Information Technology
Interdisciplinary Studies
Management
Project Management
Psychology

One of NU’s newest and most popular degree completion programs is in project management. This online Bachelor of Science in Project Management is a 100 percent online asynchronous program. So students can complete their coursework on their own schedules. A minimum of 120 semester hours are required. And at least 60 of those must be earned at Northeastern.

Through these programs, you will have a chance to work on experiential learning opportunities. This often means you will work on real-world projects for leading companies in a virtual environment. The programs also feature a wide range of electives in industry-specific areas. This allows students to design a program that aligns with their goals and interests.

Accreditation: New England Association of Schools and Colleges

Tuition: $57,592

Score: 7

18. California University of Pennsylvania (Penn West)

The California University of Pennsylvania (also called Penn West) is a public university in California, Pennsylvania. Shortly after it opened in 1852, it was chartered as a normal school for training teachers. But in 1983, it became a university. There are more than 150 undergraduate programs to choose from at Calu U. The University also operates a virtual campus called Cal U Global Online. And through the virtual campus, students can also choose from dozens of online programs.

Cal U Global Online is an excellent option for a fast online degree completion program. You’ll get competitive tuition rates, free textbooks, and no fees. Classes are offered 100 percent online and allow you to work at your own pace. In addition, the school has a generous transfer policy and unmatched flexibility. As a result, you can complete a bachelor’s degree in just four semesters in some cases. This makes it one of the fastest degree completion programs on our list. The typical student that transfers the maximum 90 credits into the program can complete their degree in only one year.

One thing that makes CalU stand out is the diverse range of degree completion programs it offers. Possible majors include:

Arabic Language and Cultures
Business Administration: Integrated Business
Computer Information Systems
Criminal Justice: Cyber Forensics
Criminal Justice: Forensic Investigation
Criminal Justice: Homeland and International Security
Economics
Event Planning and Management
Exercise Science
Industrial Technology Management
Jurisprudence: Legal Studies
Liberal Studies
Nursing: RN-BSN
Science and Technology Multidisciplinary Studies
Sociology: Social Deviance

CalU offers six start dates a year so you can get moving with your education quickly. Class sizes are generally small and under 19 students, so you will get plenty of one-on-one interaction with your instructors. To find out how many credits you can transfer, reach out for a free courtesy check of your college transcript. An admissions counselor will help you map a fast and cost-effective track to complete your bachelor’s degree. In addition to academic transfers, the school offers alternatives to earning credits. These include military credits, Prior Learning Assessment, and CLEP/DANTES/AP exams.

Accreditation: Middle States Association of Colleges and Schools

Tuition: $11,108

Score: 6

19. King University

King University is a private university in Bristol, Tennessee. It is formally affiliated with the Presbyterian Church. The university was established in 1867 as King College but became King University in 2013 when it was granted university status. Degrees are available at the undergraduate and graduate levels. Undergraduates can choose from 80 areas of study through the school’s seven academic divisions. There are 2,162 students at King University, and over half are taking at least some classes online.

The degree completion programs at the university allow students to transfer in as many as 76 credits. For some students, this means they can earn a bachelor’s degree in as little as 16 months. In addition, courses are 100% online, and you can access learning materials 24/7. The bachelor’s degree completion programs at King include:

English
Accounting
Communication
Criminal Justice
Healthcare Administration
History
Information Technology
Psychology
Religious Studies
Business Administration – Business Management
Social Work
RN to BSN

The platform students use to access courses at Kind is Canvas. In addition to inexpensive tuition and asynchronous programs, online students can take advantage of several resources:

Student Tutoring Services
Career Services
Resume Help
Internships
Job Search Platform
Networking
Interview Preparation
Counseling Services
Writing Resources

Online students are eligible for federal financial aid, and King has several opportunities for financing an online degree. Additionally, the school is a Yellow Ribbon Military Friendly School. GI benefits are accepted.

Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.

Tuition: $32,838

Score: 6

20. California Baptist University

California Baptist University is a private Christian university in Riverside, California. It first opened in 1950. And it has maintained an affiliation with the California Southern Baptist Convention since that time. The first year saw an enrollment of 120 students, but now there are nearly 10,000. CBU offers degrees at all levels through 11 different colleges and schools. U.S. News & World Report has ranked California Baptist University among the top regional universities in the nation. The university has also been recognized for the quality of its online programs in the past. And it was once ranked 8th in the U.S. for online bachelor’s programs.

CBU Online is California Baptist University’s online college. There are more than 40 majors and concentrations offered online. Most of these boast an average completion time of just 16 months. A few of the online degree completion programs at CBU include

Business Administration
Accounting
Criminal Justice
Cybersecurity
Healthcare Administration and Management
Kinesiology
Marketing
Organizational Leadership
Psychology
Public Health
Sport and Performance Psychology
Strategic Communication

Each semester is comprised of two separate eight-week sessions. Students must take 12 units per semester. However, they are welcome to take more if they can commit to the additional time. Classes start every eight weeks and are offered year-round. CBU Online lets you transfer up to 100 credits.

One of the most popular degree completion programs is the Bachelor of Arts in Interdisciplinary Studies. This 100 percent online degree lets students design a program that works for them. Students in this program complete their core requirements and choose two to three areas of emphasis. These areas can be any of the undergraduate programs offered at CBU.

Those who graduate with this degree will be prepared for various professional roles in the community. Coursework involves real-world case studies and projects with practical applications. Students will learn to interpret data, conduct research, and think critically. In addition, they will get plenty of opportunities to collaborate with their fellow students.

Accreditation: Western Association of Schools and College

Tuition: $37,018

Score: 6

This concludes our ranking of the top online degree completion programs

OCP staff 2023