Online colleges are more popular than ever. Even traditional programs have had to move their courses online in recent years to help accommodate the demand for online degrees by remote and non-traditional students.
Most schools and distance education programs have, in recent decades, opened their virtual doors to students from all 50 states and in many, several other countries. These pivots to distance learning have helped make it easier to get a degree from anywhere while balancing other work and life priorities.
And, students who attend these universities or colleges aren't sacrificing education quality for convenience, either. These schools make use of the best that technology has to offer – using tools such as video lectures, group chats, multimedia presentations, and interactive software – to provide distance education students with a quality of education that mirrors the traditional experience.
Featured Online Programs
Figuring out where to apply? These top, accredited schools offer a variety of online degrees. Consider one of these accredited programs, and discover their value today.
The 10 Best Affordable Online Colleges of 2021
Degree Requirements
Undergraduate online degrees will require a high school diploma or GED. The program requirements may also ask for SAT scores and a minimum GPA, but it will vary depending on the college and the admissions requirements for each degree. Most programs will require at least a 2.0 GPA, but some may have higher requirements.
To graduate from a bachelor's degree program, you'll generally need to complete at least 120 college credits, including both core classes and degree-specific courses. The courses you're required to take will depend heavily on your chosen major.
If you're applying for a graduate degree program, you'll need a bachelor's degree in a relevant field. Many programs also ask for GRE or GMAT scores, and a minimum GPA — though that will depend on the admissions requirements for the specific program you're applying for. You'll also likely be asked to submit letters of recommendation.
Scholarships & Financial Aid
There are plenty of scholarships available for students who complete their degree online. Distance learning scholarships can be found for each level of degree and across all majors. Individual colleges often have financial aid specifically for their online students as well.
Get Educated Online College ScholarshipThis scholarship is geared toward students attending an accredited online university degree program. Awarded based on academic merit and financial need. No restrictions on residency or university, but you will need at least a 3.0 GPA.
Amount: $1,000 Deadline: October 15 and March 15
Study.com Undergraduate Distance Learning ScholarshipThis scholarship is for any student pursuing an online associate or bachelor's degree. All specializations are eligible and you must already be enrolled (or have accepted admission) to an accredited university.
<Amount: $500Deadline: April 1
AFCEA Undergraduate STEM Major ScholarshipThis organization offers a variety of scholarships for STEM undergraduate students. Must be a second year college student at time of application and have a minimum 3.0 GPA.
Amount: $2,500 to $5,000Deadline: May 31
AAUW Re-Entry Woman ScholarshipThis scholarship is for women over the age of 23 returning to school. You must be enrolled or accepted to a degree program in order to apply. Applicants must also be engaged in leadership activity and have completed at least 20 college-level credits.
Amount: $2,000Deadline: May 1
Popular Online Degrees
Online education is becoming an increasingly popular choice for students. According to the National Center for Education Statistics (NCES), nearly 7 million students are enrolled in distance education courses. Some majors are better suited for online education than others. Here are some of themost popularonline degrees:
Accounting
Business Administration
Finance
Human Resources
Health Administration
Nursing
Psychology
