Affordable Online Bachelor’s Degrees

ASO Staff Writers
By
Updated on February 28, 2024

A bachelor’s degree is the minimum education requirement for many professional career paths. Building broad knowledge in a variety of subjects, a bachelor’s serves as an introduction to the world of higher education for many students, preparing graduates to enter the workforce or pursue advanced degrees.

Most bachelor’s programs take about four years of full-time study to complete. Entry requirements can vary widely among schools, but many colleges require at least a high school diploma and standardized test scores.

This page offers an overview of affordable online bachelor’s degrees, including typical course requirements, professional organizations for students, and scholarship opportunities.

What Can I Do With an Online Bachelor’s Degree?

A bachelor’s degree introduces students to a field’s major principles and guiding concepts. Students may earn bachelor’s degrees in disciplines such as English, history, psychology, or computer science.

In general, bachelor’s programs do not confer the highest level of knowledge available in a professional field. However, the broad nature of the subject matter featured in many programs can serve as an advantage. By not specializing their skills and knowledge too narrowly, graduates keep their career options open.

In many instances, bachelor’s degree-holders advance their career by earning a master’s degree, which develops highly specialized knowledge in a specific field.

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Do I Need a Master’s Degree?

A master’s degree builds advanced knowledge beyond the scope of a bachelor’s degree. For some career paths, a master’s may serve as the minimum education requirement; for others, a master’s can provide a practical path to career advancement.

Master’s degree programs build on undergraduate knowledge and skills, often allowing students to specialize in an area of a broader field. Graduates with a bachelor’s in business, for example, might pursue a graduate program in marketing or finance.

While a master’s can increase career options and earning potential, not all career paths require a graduate degree. Less time-intensive paths, such as earning professional certifications or joining professional organizations, can also result in career advancement.

Accreditation for an Online Bachelor’s Degree

When researching undergraduate programs — and particularly when researching online programs — students should make sure that prospective colleges hold accreditation. The accreditation process evaluates the academic and administrative functions of higher education institutions, ensuring that schools offer proper educational and professional preparation. Attending an accredited school expands employment, financial aid, and educational opportunities.

Schools may hold regional or national accreditation, with regional accreditation generally considered the more prestigious of the two. National accreditation serves trade and vocational schools, while regional accreditation typically serves nonprofit, degree-granting schools.

The Council for Higher Education Accreditation lists recognized regional accrediting organizations. Any school that holds accreditation from one of these agencies can generally be considered reputable.

Frequently Asked Questions

question-mark-circleHow much does an online bachelor’s degree cost?

While exact tuition rates vary greatly among programs, the typical cost of an online bachelor’s degree ranges from $38,496-$60,593.

question-mark-circleHow long does it take to get a bachelor’s degree online?

Completion time varies among programs, but most bachelor’s degrees take about four years of full-time study to complete.

question-mark-circleHow do you earn a bachelor’s degree?

Bachelor’s candidates typically complete a selection of required general education courses along with courses in their chosen major.

question-mark-circleCan you graduate with a bachelor’s degree in 3 years?

Many colleges offer accelerated bachelor’s programs that may enable students to graduate in three years. However, these programs usually require candidates to complete a heavier course load each semester.

What Are the Requirements for a Bachelor’s Degree?

Admission requirements vary widely among colleges, but most programs require applicants to hold at least a high school diploma or GED certificate. Many schools also call for test scores, most commonly from the SAT or ACT. More selective programs may maintain additional requirements, such as letters of recommendation, a portfolio of student work, and evidence of community service or extracurricular activities.

Once admitted, undergraduates typically complete around 120 credits to earn a bachelor’s degree. Some schools may include a significant culminating project, such as a capstone or thesis.

Courses in an Online Bachelor’s Degree Program

Undergraduate courses vary by major. However, most schools offer similar general education requirements, which build foundational knowledge applicable to many academic majors. These courses cover introductory topics from fields of study such as history, English, science, and math. This list highlights general education courses commonly found in undergraduate curriculums.

  • minusIntroduction to Composition

    Writing plays an important role in any college major, so almost all schools require students to complete an introductory composition course. These courses typically explore various types of essays and expository writing, teaching students how to comprehend written arguments and argue their own claims in writing. Many courses may also include a research component.
  • minusIntroduction to Natural Sciences

    Most undergraduates complete at least 1-2 general science courses. These courses typically cover the major principles of a scientific discipline, such as biology. They also cover the attitudes and practices of scientific inquiry, including experimentation, objectivity, logic, precision, and tentativeness. At many schools, students must complete at least one course that comes with a lab component.
  • minusIntroduction to Social Sciences

    The social sciences focus on the exploration and examination of human behavior and social systems. Undergraduates commonly complete at least one course focusing on either a general introduction to the social sciences or a specific discipline, such as psychology, sociology, or anthropology. These courses explore the basic theories and methods of social and behavioral sciences, such as research and ethics.
  • minusIntroduction to Historical Perspectives

    Studying history helps students understand the processes of historical change while building skills in interpretation, analysis, argumentation, and communication. Students may complete a general introductory course or one focused on a specific historical period or region, such as American history. These courses typically examine tools and methods used to study the past while helping students understand varied perspectives for interpreting history and historical change.
  • minusIntroduction to Literature

    Students typically complete at least one introductory literature course. These courses focus on the major principles and practices of interpreting literary works, including fiction, poetry, and nonfiction. Learners study tools of literary study, such as research and interpretative methods, and gain general skills in writing, analysis, and argumentation.

Certifications and Licensure for Bachelor’s Degree Students

Certifications and licenses demonstrate professional skills and competencies. Bachelor’s degree-holders can pursue professional certifications in many different fields, including education, healthcare, and information technology. This list highlights three popular certifications for undergraduates.

  1. 1

    Teacher Certification

    Teacher certification prepares professionals to teach in K-12 schools. Specific certification requirements vary among states, and many states call for different prerequisite courses depending on the grade level and subject candidates wish to teach. Middle and high school teachers may also need to complete subject area exams.

  2. 2

    Registered Nurse

    The registered nurse (RN) credential ranks among the most popular certifications for nursing students. Nurses can earn the credential with just an associate degree, but a bachelor’s program offers more comprehensive education and may lead to more advanced positions.

  3. 3

    CompTIA A+

    An industry-standard credential for IT professionals, CompTIA’s A+ certification primarily serves information technology and computer science majors. Indicating proficiency in areas including hardware, operating systems, networking, security, and cloud computing, A+ certification prepares recipients for technical support and end point management roles.

Professional Organizations for Bachelor’s Degree Students

Professional organizations can provide students with valuable academic and networking opportunities, including conferences, mentorship, and internships. Some organizations serve students of a specific professional or academic interest, while others serve students of a specific background.

Known as the international honor society for business schools, Beta Gamma Sigma offers global events, networking opportunities, and professional development opportunities. Undergraduate members must be in the top 10% of their class at an accredited business program.
The country’s longest-standing professional organization for Latinos, ALPFA serves more than 81,000 members and hosts nearly 160 student chapters around the United States. The organization offers fellowship programs, student conventions and other networking events, job resources, and student awards.
Serving high-achieving college students across the country, NSCS offers career resources, graduate school connections, service opportunities, and leadership preparation. The organization hosts chapters at colleges and universities around the U.S. and awards more than $750,000 in undergraduate scholarships annually.
Known as the National College Honor Society, Alpha Chi hosts more than 300 collegiate chapters at schools around the country. The organization offers networking, leadership, and service opportunities for gifted college students. Alpha Chi also awards more than $166,000 annually in scholarships and grants.

Scholarships for Bachelor’s Degree Students

Any student wondering how to pay for a bachelor’s degree should explore financial aid opportunities like loans, grants, and scholarships. Unlike loans, grants and scholarships do not require repayment, making them ideal forms of financial aid. The following list outlines several scholarship opportunities for bachelor’s students.

Coca Cola Scholars Program cursor-click

Who Can Apply: High school seniors who demonstrate leadership ability and a commitment to improving their schools and communities qualify for the award. The program awards 150 students each year. Applicants must not be children or grandchildren of current or former Coca Cola employees.

Amount: $20,000

Undergraduate Distance Learning Degrees Academic Scholarships cursor-click

Who Can Apply: Any undergraduate student pursuing an associate or bachelor’s degree through distance learning can apply. Applicants need at least 30 credits remaining of their undergraduate studies.

Amount: $500

Get Educated Online College Scholarship Program cursor-click

Who Can Apply: Any student currently enrolled in an accredited online degree program can apply. Applicants must hold a minimum 3.0 GPA and submit a 500-word essay responding to the prompt “What an Online College Degree Means to Me.”

Amount: $1,000

Bohn and Fletcher Scholarship cursor-click

Who Can Apply: Any undergraduate student currently enrolled in an accredited degree program can apply. Applicants must submit a short essay, as well as a video that summarizes key points from their essay.

Amount: $1,000

Niche ‘No Essay’ College Scholarship cursor-click

Who Can Apply: Any student enrolled or planning to enroll in a college degree program can apply. Applicants must sign up for a free account on Niche, and scholarships are awarded randomly. The award may cover any education-related expenses.

Amount: $2,000

Most Affordable Online Bachelor’s Degrees

#1 Affordable Online Bachelor’s Degrees

Indian River State College

  • Location-markerFort Pierce, FL
  • 4 year
  • Campus + Online
Average Undergrad Tuition
  • In-State$2,496
  • Out-of-state$9,360
Average Graduate Tuition
  • In-StateN/A
  • Out-of-stateN/A
  • Retention RateN/A
  • Acceptance RateN/A
  • Students Enrolled16,942
  • Institution TypePublic
  • Percent Online Enrollment45%
  • AccreditationYes
#2 Affordable Online Bachelor’s Degrees

South Texas College

  • Location-markerMcAllen, TX
  • 4 year
  • Campus + Online
Average Undergrad Tuition
  • In-State$2,610
  • Out-of-state$6,000
Average Graduate Tuition
  • In-StateN/A
  • Out-of-stateN/A
  • Retention Rate64%
  • Acceptance RateN/A
  • Students Enrolled33,054
  • Institution TypePublic
  • Percent Online Enrollment26%
  • AccreditationYes
#3 Affordable Online Bachelor’s Degrees

Sentara College of Health Sciences

  • Location-markerChesapeake, VA
  • 4 year
  • Online
Average Undergrad Tuition
  • In-State$364
  • Out-of-state$364
Average Graduate Tuition
  • In-State$520
  • Out-of-state$520
  • Retention RateN/A
  • Acceptance RateN/A
  • Students Enrolled370
  • Institution TypePrivate
  • Percent Online Enrollment100%
  • AccreditationYes
#4 Affordable Online Bachelor’s Degrees

Elizabeth City State University

  • Location-markerElizabeth City, NC
  • 4 year
  • Campus + Online
Average Undergrad Tuition
  • In-State$1,000
  • Out-of-state$5,000
Average Graduate Tuition
  • In-State$3,375
  • Out-of-state$16,437
  • Retention Rate70%
  • Acceptance Rate66%
  • Students Enrolled1,769
  • Institution TypePublic
  • Percent Online Enrollment42%
  • AccreditationYes
#5 Affordable Online Bachelor’s Degrees

CUNY Lehman College

  • Location-markerBronx, NY
  • 4 year
  • Campus + Online
Average Undergrad Tuition
  • In-State$6,930
  • Out-of-state$14,880
Average Graduate Tuition
  • In-State$11,090
  • Out-of-state$20,520
  • Retention Rate83%
  • Acceptance Rate38%
  • Students Enrolled15,143
  • Institution TypePublic
  • Percent Online Enrollment27%
  • AccreditationYes
#6 Affordable Online Bachelor’s Degrees

St. Petersburg College

  • Location-markerClearwater, FL
  • 4 year
  • Campus + Online
Average Undergrad Tuition
  • In-State$1,943
  • Out-of-state$7,774
Average Graduate Tuition
  • In-StateN/A
  • Out-of-stateN/A
  • Retention RateN/A
  • Acceptance RateN/A
  • Students Enrolled28,853
  • Institution TypePublic
  • Percent Online Enrollment59%
  • AccreditationYes
#7 Affordable Online Bachelor’s Degrees

Florida State College at Jacksonville

  • Location-markerJacksonville, FL
  • 4 year
  • Campus + Online
Average Undergrad Tuition
  • In-State$2,095
  • Out-of-state$7,947
Average Graduate Tuition
  • In-StateN/A
  • Out-of-stateN/A
  • Retention RateN/A
  • Acceptance RateN/A
  • Students Enrolled24,605
  • Institution TypePublic
  • Percent Online Enrollment74%
  • AccreditationYes
#8 Affordable Online Bachelor’s Degrees

Florida Gateway College

  • Location-markerLake City, FL
  • 4 year
  • Campus + Online
Average Undergrad Tuition
  • In-State$2,369
  • Out-of-state$9,473
Average Graduate Tuition
  • In-StateN/A
  • Out-of-stateN/A
  • Retention RateN/A
  • Acceptance RateN/A
  • Students Enrolled3,406
  • Institution TypePublic
  • Percent Online Enrollment63%
  • AccreditationYes
#9 Affordable Online Bachelor’s Degrees

Tallahassee Community College

  • Location-markerTallahassee, FL
  • 4 year
  • Campus + Online
Average Undergrad Tuition
  • In-State$2,002
  • Out-of-state$7,982
Average Graduate Tuition
  • In-StateN/A
  • Out-of-stateN/A
  • Retention RateN/A
  • Acceptance RateN/A
  • Students Enrolled11,683
  • Institution TypePublic
  • Percent Online Enrollment45%
  • AccreditationYes
#10 Affordable Online Bachelor’s Degrees

Eastern Florida State College

  • Location-markerCocoa, FL
  • 4 year
  • Campus + Online
Average Undergrad Tuition
  • In-State$1,892
  • Out-of-state$7,573
Average Graduate Tuition
  • In-StateN/A
  • Out-of-stateN/A
  • Retention RateN/A
  • Acceptance RateN/A
  • Students Enrolled15,352
  • Institution TypePublic
  • Percent Online Enrollment48%
  • AccreditationYes
#11 Affordable Online Bachelor’s Degrees

California State University, Dominguez Hills

  • Location-markerCarson, CA
  • 4 year
  • Campus + Online
Average Undergrad Tuition
  • In-State$5,742
  • Out-of-state$17,622
Average Graduate Tuition
  • In-State$7,176
  • Out-of-state$16,680
  • Retention Rate77%
  • Acceptance Rate77%
  • Students Enrolled17,977
  • Institution TypePublic
  • Percent Online Enrollment51%
  • AccreditationYes
#12 Affordable Online Bachelor’s Degrees

University of South Florida-Sarasota-Manatee

  • Location-markerSarasota, FL
  • 4 year
  • Campus + Online
Average Undergrad Tuition
  • In-State$4,206
  • Out-of-state$15,121
Average Graduate Tuition
  • In-State$8,350
  • Out-of-state$19,048
  • Retention Rate81%
  • Acceptance Rate24%
  • Students Enrolled2,207
  • Institution TypePublic
  • Percent Online Enrollment69%
  • AccreditationYes
#13 Affordable Online Bachelor’s Degrees

Texas A&M University-Central Texas

  • Location-markerKilleen, TX
  • 4 year
  • Campus + Online
Average Undergrad Tuition
  • In-State$4,944
  • Out-of-state$15,072
Average Graduate Tuition
  • In-State$4,405
  • Out-of-state$12,000
  • Retention RateN/A
  • Acceptance Rate97%
  • Students Enrolled2,440
  • Institution TypePublic
  • Percent Online Enrollment63%
  • AccreditationYes
#14 Affordable Online Bachelor’s Degrees

University of Oklahoma-Norman Campus

  • Location-markerNorman, OK
  • 4 year
  • Campus + Online
Average Undergrad Tuition
  • In-State$4,788
  • Out-of-state$20,169
Average Graduate Tuition
  • In-State$6,583
  • Out-of-state$21,242
  • Retention Rate88%
  • Acceptance Rate80%
  • Students Enrolled28,079
  • Institution TypePublic
  • Percent Online Enrollment33%
  • AccreditationYes
#15 Affordable Online Bachelor’s Degrees

Shiloh University

  • Location-markerKalona, IA
  • 4 year
  • Online
Average Undergrad Tuition
  • In-State$5,250
  • Out-of-state$5,250
Average Graduate Tuition
  • In-State$3,420
  • Out-of-state$3,420
  • Retention RateN/A
  • Acceptance Rate33%
  • Students Enrolled41
  • Institution TypePrivate
  • Percent Online EnrollmentN/A
  • AccreditationYes
#16 Affordable Online Bachelor’s Degrees

Pasco-Hernando State College

  • Location-markerNew Port Richey, FL
  • 4 year
  • Campus + Online
Average Undergrad Tuition
  • In-State$2,297
  • Out-of-state$9,272
Average Graduate Tuition
  • In-StateN/A
  • Out-of-stateN/A
  • Retention RateN/A
  • Acceptance RateN/A
  • Students Enrolled11,672
  • Institution TypePublic
  • Percent Online Enrollment40%
  • AccreditationYes
#17 Affordable Online Bachelor’s Degrees

City Vision University

  • Location-markerKansas City, MO
  • 4 year
  • Online
Average Undergrad Tuition
  • In-State$6,000
  • Out-of-state$6,000
Average Graduate Tuition
  • In-State$6,400
  • Out-of-state$6,400
  • Retention RateN/A
  • Acceptance RateN/A
  • Students Enrolled83
  • Institution TypePrivate
  • Percent Online EnrollmentN/A
  • AccreditationYes
#18 Affordable Online Bachelor’s Degrees

Saint Johns River State College

  • Location-markerPalatka, FL
  • 4 year
  • Campus + Online
Average Undergrad Tuition
  • In-State$2,067
  • Out-of-state$8,403
Average Graduate Tuition
  • In-StateN/A
  • Out-of-stateN/A
  • Retention RateN/A
  • Acceptance RateN/A
  • Students Enrolled7,392
  • Institution TypePublic
  • Percent Online Enrollment44%
  • AccreditationYes
#19 Affordable Online Bachelor’s Degrees

Indiana University-Northwest

  • Location-markerGary, IN
  • 4 year
  • Campus + Online
Average Undergrad Tuition
  • In-State$6,895
  • Out-of-state$19,346
Average Graduate Tuition
  • In-State$7,264
  • Out-of-state$17,113
  • Retention Rate64%
  • Acceptance Rate75%
  • Students Enrolled3,877
  • Institution TypePublic
  • Percent Online Enrollment57%
  • AccreditationYes
#20 Affordable Online Bachelor’s Degrees

Fayetteville State University

  • Location-markerFayetteville, NC
  • 4 year
  • Campus + Online
Average Undergrad Tuition
  • In-State$2,982
  • Out-of-state$14,590
Average Graduate Tuition
  • In-State$3,438
  • Out-of-state$14,503
  • Retention Rate74%
  • Acceptance Rate69%
  • Students Enrolled6,551
  • Institution TypePublic
  • Percent Online Enrollment70%
  • AccreditationYes