Finish what you started: the value of completing your bachelor’s degree online

Finishing bachelor's degree online

In the digital age, finishing a bachelor’s degree online has become an accessible and practical option for many individuals. According to U.S. News and World Report, millions of students each year opt to take online classes.

Whether you are a working professional, a parent or someone with prior college credits, completing your degree online provides the flexibility and convenience needed to achieve your academic goals while balancing other responsibilities. 

Options for earning a degree online

There are multiple pathways to earning a bachelor’s degree online. Many accredited universities offer fully online degree programs in various fields, including business, healthcare, technology and education. Some of the most common options include:

  1. Fully online programs: Universities provide comprehensive degree programs that can be completed entirely online, allowing students to learn at their own pace and on their own schedule.
  2. Hybrid programs: Some institutions offer a mix of online and in-person courses, giving students the opportunity to take advantage of both remote learning and traditional classroom experiences.
  3. Competency-based programs: These programs focus on allowing students to progress at their own speed based on their mastery of the subject matter rather than following a fixed academic schedule.
  4. Credit transfer programs: Students who have completed some college coursework can transfer eligible credits to an online program, reducing the time and cost required to finish their degree.

The benefits of earning a degree online

Online learning has revolutionized higher education by providing opportunities for individuals who might not have the ability to attend traditional on-campus classes. Key benefits of earning a degree online include:

  1. Flexibility: Online programs allow students to create a study schedule that fits their work and personal commitments, making it easier to balance education with other responsibilities.
  2. Cost-effectiveness: Many online programs offer lower tuition costs compared to traditional in-person degrees, and students save money on commuting, housing and other campus-related expenses.
  3. Access to diverse programs: Online education provides access to a wide range of programs and specializations that may not be available at local institutions.
  4. Career advancement: Completing a degree online can lead to better job prospects, higher salaries, and opportunities for career growth in various industries without having to put the rest of your life on pause.
  5. Personalized learning experience: Many online programs offer adaptive learning technologies, interactive coursework and multimedia resources that cater to different learning styles.

How people with some college credit can finish their degree online

With so many benefits of online degrees, it’s easy to see why 96% of online college graduates recommend online learning. For individuals who have started but not completed a bachelor’s degree, online programs provide an excellent pathway to graduation. Here’s how they can take advantage of online education to finish their degree:

  1. Credit evaluation: Many universities offer credit evaluations to determine which previous coursework can be applied toward the degree, minimizing redundant classes and saving time.
  2. Accelerated courses: Some online programs offer shorter, intensive courses that allow students to complete their degrees more quickly.
  3. Flexible enrollment options: Online universities often have multiple start dates throughout the year, allowing students to begin when it’s most convenient for them.

How ASU Earned Admission supports students finishing their degree online

ASU’s Earned Admission program provides an innovative and affordable way for students to complete their bachelor’s degrees online. Students take Universal Learner Courses at a reduced cost, only paying for credits once they pass the course. By maintaining a GPA of 2.75 or higher in these courses, students can earn admission into ASU and continue their degree program online.

This program is particularly beneficial for students with some college credit, as it provides a low-risk way to prove academic readiness while keeping costs manageable. The flexibility of online coursework enables students to work at their own pace, making it easier to balance education with work and personal commitments.Finishing a bachelor’s degree online is a valuable investment in one’s future. With a wide variety of options available, online education provides a practical solution for individuals looking to advance their careers or complete unfinished degrees. ASU’s Earned Admission program is a prime example of how students can successfully transition into an online degree program while managing their responsibilities.