Best Online Bachelor’s of Education Degree Programs for 2023

Q: What can I expect from an online college course?

If this is your first time taking an online course, the experience may require a time of adjustment. Although you’ll typically learn the same material and take the same exams as your on-campus peers, going online will require greater independence and responsibility than going in person. You’ll be accountable for your own time management, for harnessing the online educational technology that you’ll need to use, and for completing the course requirements, such as listening to lectures, learning lessons, reading texts, and handing in assignments. This means you’ll need to create a suitable workspace for yourself, maintain a realistic schedule, and take the initiative in building relationships with your instructors and classmates. With online college, your goal is to find a balance between independence and engagement.

Q: Is online college easier than campus-based college?

No. The only part of online education that’s easier than campus-based education is ease of access: all you need is a computer and an internet connection for online education. But even this seeming advantage of online education can be misleading: what’s easier, studying online with your computer and internet connection from your home where you need to cook, clean, pay rent, and maintain a job? Or studying on campus in a dorm where all your living needs are handled by the school, and college staff are there to help you every step of the way? If you take the commute to campus out of the equation, campus-based education is easier. All the support structures available on campus for students, especially with real people to help you in person, are not there online. The demands on you as an online student will largely be the same as for your campus-based counterpart, but without the same helps. In general, your online courses will present the same material and test you in the same way as traditional in-person courses. In many cases, you’ll even have the same instructors as your on-campus counterparts. In fact, if you are adjusting to the experience of independent learning with remote educational technology for the first time, online college may be considerably more challenging than campus-based college. For a few insights on how to manage this new online experience, check out our 10 Tips for Adjusting to School Online.

Q: Why does accreditation matter in online college?

Accreditation is especially important when it comes to online college. This is because the online education landscape is a mix of highly-reputable non-profit institutions on the one end and less-than-reputable for-profit institutions on the other end. Accreditation gives you the power to identify the more reputable actors in online education. Accreditation is a stamp of approval from an independent accrediting agency indicating that a college or university is meeting standards of quality and credibility. School-wide accreditation falls into two major categories: regional and national accreditation. Regional accreditors generally hold jurisdiction only over schools in the states comprising their region, whereas national accreditors hold jurisdiction over schools in all states. Regional accreditation is widely regarded as a more rigorous standard of quality and credibility than national accreditation. Attending a college or university that is not regionally accredited could limit your opportunities. For students seeking an online education, we strongly recommend that they opt for regionally accredited schools. Regional accreditation ensures eligibility for federal loans and grants, ensures your college credits can be transferred between schools, and ensures that your degree credits can be accepted if you wish to earn an advanced degree. For more on this important topic, check out our What is Accreditation and Why Does It Matter? College & University Accreditation Guide.

Q: Will I be able to transfer my online college degree?

As long as your online college degree is regionally accredited (see the previous point), you should have little difficulty transferring most of your credits or credentials to another regionally accredited undergraduate school. Every school carries its own standards and procedures for granting a transfer of credits. In many cases, you will encounter some bureaucratic haggling in which some of your credits will be transferred and others may be refused. However, provided that you have attended an online school with recognized regional accreditation, you should be in good shape in transferring your credits earned online.

Q: Will employers respect my online degree?

In most cases, as long you graduate from a well-regarded, regionally-accredited online college, prospective employers won’t look sideways at your degree. In fact, unless you attend an exclusively online college or university, there will likely be no specific indicator on your degree, transcript, or resumé differentiating your school from its brick-and-mortar counterpart. This means that your employer will likely only differentiate between an online and in-person degree if you mention this distinction. Some employers may express the concern that because you did your degree online, you may need to transition from an online education experience to in-person workplace experience. But in an age of Covid, that concern seems much diminished. The fact is that much employment these days is remote. And collaboration increasingly happens online over Zoom. Many employers will therefore view your online degree as evidence of valuable 21st century professional skills such as independence, self-motivation, time management, and tech savvy.

Q: What are the disadvantages of online classes?

If you are a student who thrives on the dynamic energy of in-person discussion, who requires the physical surroundings of a classroom to feel engaged, or who considers the social aspects of education to be of equal importance to the actual content of your courses, online education will be less than ideal for you (though depending on your circumstances, it may also be the only viable option). While there is much in traditional campus-based education that can be substituted or simulated through the online medium, some students may find that there is nothing that can replace the conversation, collaboration, and motivation that occur in an actual in-person classroom setting. As you transition to online education, one of the biggest challenges you will likely face in getting the most out of your online classes is overcoming this difference between “real reality” and “virtual reality.” Fortunately, we’ve got some great Tips for Online Education Beginners.

By James Barham and James Barham

Published: Jun 21, 2021
Updated: Sep 9, 2023

Find top-ranked online bachelor’s in education degree programs that will prepare students for the teacher certification exams mandated by each state.

Top 10 Online Bachelor's in Education Degrees

University of Georgia
University of Missouri
Arizona State University
University of South Carolina
University of Arkansas
East Carolina University
Old Dominion University
Liberty University
Appalachian State University
Northern Arizona University

Liberty University 99%
Mississippi University for Women 99%
Prescott College 99%
Bluefield State University 97%
Old Dominion University 96%
University of Southern Mississippi 96%
Concord University 96%
East Carolina University 94%
Nova Southeastern University 93%
Maryville University 92%

St. Petersburg College 23 to 1
Florida State College at Jacksonville 23 to 1
Northern Arizona University 22 to 1
University of the Cumberlands 20 to 1
Granite State College 20 to 1
East Carolina University 19 to 1
University of Arkansas 19 to 1
Regent University 19 to 1
University of Missouri 18 to 1
Old Dominion University 18 to 1

Campbell University $38,160
Bay Path University $35,781
Cardinal Stritch University $34,762
Prescott College $34,701
Nova Southeastern University $34,570
Brenau University $32,530
Catawba College $32,380
Notre Dame College $31,350
Webster University $28,700
Fontbonne University $28,200

Chaminade University of Honolulu $27,720
Nova Southeastern University $21,153
Bay Path University $19,235
Point University $16,200
Regent University $15,590
National University $15,480
Saint Leo University $15,218
Prescott College $14,880
Maryville University $14,346
Campbell University $14,041

Bluefield State University
Point University
Midway University
Athens State University
Fontbonne University
Charter Oak State College
Granite State College
Concord University
University of West Alabama
Bay Path University

University of Georgia 40%
Regent University 41%
Point University 47%
National University 55%
Catawba College 56%
William Carey University 57%
Webster University 59%
University of South Carolina 62%
Oklahoma State University–Stillwater 68%
Saint Leo University 71%

Prescott College 9 to 1
Cardinal Stritch University 9 to 1
Fontbonne University 10 to 1
Chaminade University of Honolulu 10 to 1
Brenau University 11 to 1
Webster University 12 to 1
Wilmington University 12 to 1
Bay Path University 12 to 1
Mississippi University for Women 12 to 1
Catawba College 12 to 1

Western Carolina University $1,000
University of North Carolina at Pembroke $1,000
St. Petersburg College $1,943
Florida State College at Jacksonville $2,095
Appalachian State University $4,242
East Carolina University $4,452
Chadron State College $5,208
Oklahoma State University–Stillwater $5,417
Idaho State University $5,928
Athens State University $6,750

Catawba College $3,594
University of North Carolina at Pembroke $4,280
University of the Cumberlands $4,282
Western Carolina University $4,435
Chadron State College $4,650
East Carolina University $4,749
Appalachian State University $4,839
Stephen F. Austin State University $5,262
Oklahoma State University–Stillwater $5,611
Park University $6,435

Featured Programs

Key Takeaways

The recent shortage of qualified teachers makes a degree in education a solid career choice. And the degrees on our list will produce graduates with some of the most sought-after skills.
A holistic bachelor’s in education degree produces the most skilled teachers that can work in various settings and around students of specific school-age groups.
As educators or teachers, graduates of an online bachelor’s in education must have a passion for this extremely important work and possess strong problem-solving and communication skills to do their jobs effectively.

Table of Contents

What’s In An Online Undergraduate Degree in Education

A bachelor’s degree in education is a four-year program that prepares you for a career in education or teaching. For online schools, this program may also be completed in four years, although some schools offer acceleration programs to allow students to finish the course more quickly.

People who hold an online bachelor’s in education degree usually work as high school teachers, middle school teachers, and elementary school teachers. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), teaching positions are expected to grow 4-5% in the next decade.

Online Bachelor’s in Education Degree Courses

Educational Foundations: In this course, you will learn about theory in education. This course specifically focuses on ethics, history, and politics. You will also study the origins of the American education system, as well as the legal roles and responsibilities of teachers.
Educational Technology for Teaching and Learning: This online education degree course covers the strategies you can employ to integrate technology into your classroom. This course supports digital learning experiences, student engagement, and creativity. Especially in light of the pandemic, teachers are expected more than ever to be knowledgeable in using technology in their classrooms.
Introduction to Curriculum, Instruction, and Assessment. Upon completion, students are equipped to assess crucial issues in teaching. This course demonstrates the personality traits and skills needed for graduates to become effective teachers, as well as draft standards-based, clear lesson plans and assessments.
Educational Psychology: This course provides online education degree students an overview of the theories and principles of psychology in relation to education. You will understand how children learn, how you can help them develop psychologically, and how you can motivate them.
Managing Engaging Learning Environments: This course discusses the theoretical and practical principles around classroom layouts and how they correlate with providing positive behavioral reinforcement.

Online Bachelor’s in Education: Keys to Success

Check state certification requirements: Every educational certification varies across states. Make sure you check first that the certification from the online education program you are considering meets your state’s requirements.
Be prepared for field experience: While online bachelor’s in education is offered, be prepared for some in-person experience. Usually, fieldwork can be completed during an internship, practicum, or student teaching.

If you seek a teaching job in a specific age group or subject area, make sure you use the required field time to obtain experience in this specific area. Employers will prefer applicants who know the job they are applying for.

Embrace technology: As you go through your coursework in your education degree, make sure you have soaked up as much knowledge as you can, especially on the system used in delivering your course. Know about the best methods suitable for online-based teaching because soon, you will be on the other side of the equation. You will be the one giving assignments, and no longer be the one completing them.
Networking: This is interrelated to your field experience. If possible, try to create and establish as many networks as you possibly can during your education schooling. Many teachers are hired based on recommendations from their college instructors, especially when they are impressed with the student teacher’s performance. It’s best to make a solid network of education professionals even when you’re still completing your bachelor’s.
Continued Professional Development: For teachers, completing a bachelor’s degree in education is just the beginning. Learning never ends for educators. That is why after you secure a teaching position, you should continue taking additional classes. Oftentimes, school districts offer continuing education programs with reimbursed tuition.

Also, consider continuing on to get a master’s degree. This degree usually results in better career opportunities and higher salaries.

There are many professional training opportunities and lectures available to teachers as well. Many of them cover the latest curriculum trends and technology. Be sure to take advantage of them.

Frequently Asked Questions About Education Degrees

Why get a bachelor’s in education?

Leading a classroom is an incredibly rewarding career. The best path to becoming a teacher is by first becoming a student in an education program. The bachelor’s degree in education prepares students to sit for the teacher certification exams mandated by each state.

What will I learn when getting a bachelor’s degree in education?

Education majors will learn everything they need to successfully manage a classroom, network with parents and administration, and create engaging assignments and assessments. A degree in education will typically focus on one age group or subject area so that students have a deep understanding of the group they plan to teach.

How long does it take to get a bachelor’s degree in education?

Programs take 4 years or less and can be completed online or in-person. Both types of degree usually require students to complete a practicum in a classroom in order to gain real world teaching experience.

Learn more about how to major in education.

How do we determine the best online education bachelor's degree programs?

Methodology

Pursuing your degree online doesn’t mean you need to settle for an inferior school. Today, most universities and colleges offer online degrees, and many respected schools are seeing significant growth in their numbers of online students.

The people affiliated with a school are ultimately what make it great. This is why influence — i.e., the academic impact of faculty and alumni associated with a school — gets at the heart of what is truly best in education. The combined influence score of a college or university’s top academic influencers is the best indicator of academic excellence. For our online degree rankings, we focus on the academic influence of faculty and alumni in the specific disciplines we’re ranking.

If you are serious about finding the best online colleges, you should be asking where the most influential professors are teaching, and whether their graduates themselves are advancing the school’s reputation for academic excellence. Most ranking sites rely on an opaque combination of reputation surveys and arbitrary performance metrics. Influence, as measured by our InfluenceRanking engine, provides a ranking that is free from bias, insulated from manipulation, and reflective of real-world educational outcomes.

Ranking The Best Online Bachelor’s in Education Programs

An online bachelor’s degree program in education offers every student the opportunity to truly become experts in their field. We indexed some of the country’s best web-based education degrees at the undergraduate level. All are considered excellent programs.

A standout feature of each school is the superior coursework they offer to impart to every future teacher the modern theories, principles, and techniques of the practice.

Besides technical knowledge and the basics of ethical practice, the coursework also promotes the most important skills for a teacher to possess, including patience, a genuine love for teaching, and a deep concern for the welfare of students.

Professors who are notable for their contributions to the field make up the teaching staff in the bachelor’s in education online programs of the schools on our list.

Each program has earned the nod of regional accrediting academic agencies, proving the top-quality teaching degree online programs they offer.

Median Salaries of Similar Careers in the U.S.

The following graph depicts the average salaries of similar occupations to Elementary School Teachers, Except Special Education in the U.S.

Source: U.S. BUREAU OF LABOR STATISTICS

Annual Salary

36460Preschool Teachers, Except Special Education

64490Kindergarten Teachers, Except Special Education

66880Middle School Teachers, Except Special and Career/Technical Education

67080Elementary School Teachers, Except Special Education

69410Career/Technical Education Teachers, Middle School

50 Best Online Bachelor’s in Education Degree Programs

#1
University of Georgia
Athens , GA
#14 Best Value Colleges and Universities Ranked for Students in 2023 #2 Most Affordable Colleges in Georgia Ranked for Students in 2023 #2 Best Public Colleges in Georgia 2023 #3 The Most Influential Universities and Colleges Ranked by State 2023
Other Rankings
Tuition + fees
$12K
Acceptance
40%
Graduation
88%
Student body
39K
Median SAT/ACT
1355/31
Online Degrees
BS in Education

Concentrations

Special Education

Required Credits: 120
Completion time: 48 months
Format: Online
Compare school
#2
University of Missouri
Columbia , MO
#1 Most Affordable Colleges in Missouri 2023 #1 Best Public Colleges in Missouri 2023 #2 Best Research Universities in Missouri 2023 #2 The Most Influential Universities and Colleges Ranked by State 2023
Other Rankings
Tuition + fees
$11K
Acceptance
77%
Graduation
73%
Student body
26K
Median SAT/ACT
1215/26
Online Degrees
BES in Educational Studies

Required Credits: 120
Completion time: None Reported
Format: Online
BS in Early Childhood Education in a Mobile Society

Required Credits: 120
Completion time: `
Format: Online
Compare school
#3
Arizona State University
Tempe , AZ
#2 Top 15 Best Online Colleges for Transfer Students in 2023 #2 Top 20 Best Military Friendly Online Colleges Ranked for 2023 #22 Most Affordable Colleges and Universities in the U.S. 2023 #22 50 Best Public Grad Schools 2023
Other Rankings
Tuition + fees
$11K
Acceptance
88%
Graduation
66%
Student body
73K
Median SAT/ACT
1210/24
Online Degrees
BAE in Educational Studies

Concentrations

Educational Studies
Early Childhood Educational

Required Credits: 114-120
Completion time: None Reported
Format: Online
BAS in Early Childhood Education

Required Credits: 114-120
Completion time: None Reported
Format: Online
Compare school
#4
University of South Carolina
Columbia , SC
#1 Best Colleges in South Carolina 2023 #1 Best Research Universities in South Carolina 2023 #1 Most Affordable Colleges in South Carolina 2023 #1 Best Grad Schools in South Carolina 2023
Other Rankings
Tuition + fees
$13K
Acceptance
62%
Graduation
78%
Student body
33K
Median SAT/ACT
1240/28
Online Degrees
BA in Special Education

Required Credits: 120
Completion time: 4 years
Format: Online
BA in Elementary Educational Studies

Required Credits: 120
Completion time: 4 years
Format: Online
Compare school
#5
University of Arkansas
Fayetteville , AR
#1 The Most Influential Universities and Colleges Ranked by State 2023 #1 Best Public Colleges in Arkansas 2023 #1 Most Affordable Colleges in Arkansas 2023 #1 Best Grad Schools in Arkansas 2023
Other Rankings
Tuition + fees
$10K
Acceptance
83%
Graduation
70%
Student body
25K
Median SAT/ACT
1185/26
Online Degrees
BS in Education

Concentrations

Human Resources And Workforce Development Education

Required Credits: 120
Completion time: 4 years
Format: Online
Compare school
#6
Old Dominion University
Norfolk , VA
#4 Most Affordable Colleges in Virginia 2023 #6 Best Grad Schools in Virginia 2023 #6 Best Public Colleges in Virginia 2023 #6 Best Research Universities in Virginia 2023
Other Rankings
Tuition + fees
$11K
Acceptance
96%
Graduation
49%
Student body
19K
Median SAT/ACT
1065/21
Online Degrees
BS in Elementary Education

Required Credits: 120
Completion time: None Reported
Format: Online
BS in Special Education

Required Credits: 120
Completion time: None Reported
Format: Online
BS in Technology Education

Required Credits: 120
Completion time: None Reported
Format: Online
Compare school
#7
East Carolina University
Greenville , NC
#4 Best Public Colleges in North Carolina 2023 #4 Most Affordable Colleges in North Carolina 2023 #6 Best Grad Schools in North Carolina 2023 #6 Best Research Universities in North Carolina 2023
Other Rankings
Tuition + fees
$7K
Acceptance
94%
Graduation
66%
Student body
24K
Median SAT/ACT
1095/21
Online Degrees
BS in Elementary Education (K-6)

Required Credits: 120
Completion time: None Reported
Format: Online
BS in Birth Through Kindergarten (B-K) Teacher Education

Required Credits: 120
Completion time: None Reported
Format: Online
BS in Middle Grades Education

Required Credits: 120
Completion time: None Reported
Format: Online
BS in Special Education

Required Credits: 120
Completion time: None Reported
Format: Online
BS in Family And Consumer Sciences Education

Required Credits: 120
Completion time: None Reported
Format: Online
Compare school
#8
Webster University
Saint Louis , MO
#16 Top 20 Best Military Friendly Online Colleges Ranked for 2023 #1 Best Liberal Arts Colleges in Missouri 2023 #3 Best Private Colleges in Missouri 2023 #5 The Most Influential Universities and Colleges Ranked by State 2023
Other Rankings
Tuition + fees
$29K
Acceptance
59%
Graduation
57%
Student body
6K
Median SAT/ACT
1169/23
Online Degrees
BA in Education

Required Credits: None Reported
Completion time: None Reported
Format: Online
BS in Educational Psychology

Required Credits: 120
Completion time: None Reported
Format: Online
Compare school
#9
Liberty University
Lynchburg , VA
#4 Top 20 Best Military Friendly Online Colleges Ranked for 2023 #8 Top 15 Best Online Colleges for Transfer Students in 2023 #13 Best Online Christian Colleges and Universities for Doctoral Degrees #2 Best Christian Colleges in Virginia 2023
Other Rankings
Tuition + fees
$23K
Acceptance
99%
Graduation
62%
Student body
79K
Median SAT/ACT
1145/25
Online Degrees
BEd in Business Education 6-12

Required Credits: 120
Completion time: 3.5 years
Format: Online
BEd in English Education 6-12

Required Credits: 120
Completion time: 3.5 years
Format: Online
BEd in Mathematics Education 6-12

Required Credits: 120
Completion time: 3.5 years
Format: Online
BEd in Physical Education 6-12

Required Credits: 120
Completion time: 3.5 years
Format: Online
BEd in Physics Education - Earth Science 6-12

Required Credits: 120
Completion time: 3.5 years
Format: Online
BEd in Middle Education

Concentrations

English
Social Science
Math
Science

Required Credits: 120
Completion time: 3.5 years
Format: Online
BS in Early Childhood Education

Required Credits: 120
Completion time: 3.5 years
Format: Online
BEd in Elementary Education

Concentrations

Middle Grades English
Middle Grades Mathematics
Middle Grades Science
Middle Grades Social Science
Special Education

Required Credits: 120
Completion time: 3.5 years
Format: Online
BEd in Special Education

Required Credits: 120
Completion time: 3.5 years
Format: Online
BEd in Social Studies Education

Required Credits: 120
Completion time: 3.5 years
Format: Online
BS in Biblical And Educational Studies

Required Credits: 120
Completion time: 3.5 years
Format: Online
Compare school
#10
Northern Arizona University
Flagstaff , AZ
#3 Best Colleges in Arizona 2023 #3 The Most Influential Universities and Colleges Ranked by State 2023 #3 Most Affordable Colleges in Arizona 2023 #3 Best Public Colleges in Arizona 2023
Other Rankings
Tuition + fees
$12K
Acceptance
78%
Graduation
59%
Student body
25K
Online Degrees
Bachelor of Science in Education in Career and Technical Education

Concentrations

Business and Marketing
Education and Training
Family and Consumer Science
Health Careers
Industrial and Emerging Technologies
Occupational

Required Credits: 120
Completion time: None Reported
Format: Online
Compare school
#11
Nova Southeastern University
Fort Lauderdale , FL
#3 Best Private Colleges in Florida 2023 #10 Best Research Universities in Florida 2023 #10 Best Colleges in Florida 2023 #10 Best Grad Schools in Florida 2023
Other Rankings
Tuition + fees
$35K
Acceptance
93%
Graduation
61%
Student body
14K
Median SAT/ACT
1135/23
Online Degrees
BS in Exceptional Student Education ESOL

Required Credits: 120
Completion time: None Reported
Format: Online
BS in Elementary Education ESOL/Reading

Required Credits: 120
Completion time: None Reported
Format: Online
Compare school
#12
Empire State University
Saratoga Springs , NY
#2 Best Online Associate in Economics #2 Best Online Associate in Education #6 Best Online Bachelor's in Human Development Degree Programs for 2023 #7 Best Online Bachelor's of Economics Degree Programs for 2023
Other Rankings
Tuition + fees
$8K
Graduation
24%
Student body
7K
Online Degrees
BS in Educational Studies

Required Credits: 124
Completion time: 4-5 years
Format: Online
BA in Educational Studies

Required Credits: 124
Completion time: 4-5 years
Format: Online
Compare school
#13
Appalachian State University
Boone , NC
#3 Best Liberal Arts Colleges in North Carolina 2023 #7 Best Public Colleges in North Carolina 2023 #7 Most Affordable Colleges in North Carolina 2023 #9 Best Grad Schools in North Carolina 2023
Other Rankings
Tuition + fees
$7K
Acceptance
85%
Graduation
73%
Student body
20K
Median SAT/ACT
1155/24
Online Degrees
BS in Middle Grades Education

Required Credits: 73
Completion time: None Reported
Format: Online
BS in Elementary Education

Required Credits: 70
Completion time: None Reported
Format: Online
BS in Special Education

Required Credits: 72-75
Completion time: None Reported
Format: Online
Compare school
#14
Idaho State University
Pocatello , ID
#3 Most Affordable Colleges in Idaho 2023 #3 Best Grad Schools in Idaho 2023 #3 Best Public Colleges in Idaho 2023 #3 Best Research Universities in Idaho 2023
Other Rankings
Tuition + fees
$8K
Graduation
39%
Student body
9K
Online Degrees
BA in Secondary Education

Concentrations

Family And Consumer Science
Business Technology
Business Education

Required Credits: 120
Completion time: 4 years
Format: Online
BS in Secondary Education

Concentrations

Business Technology
Business Education

Required Credits: 120
Completion time: 4 years
Format: Online
Compare school
#15
Campbell University
Buies Creek , NC
#7 Best CCCU Colleges and Universities 2023 #2 Best Small Colleges in North Carolina 2023 #3 Best Christian Colleges in North Carolina 2023 #4 Best Private Colleges in North Carolina 2023
Other Rankings
Tuition + fees
$38K
Acceptance
87%
Graduation
56%
Student body
4K
Median SAT/ACT
1110/22
Online Degrees
BS in Elementary Education (K-6)

Required Credits: 124
Completion time: None Reported
Format: Online
Compare school
#16
University of Southern Mississippi
Hattiesburg , MS
#3 Best Grad Schools in Mississippi 2023 #3 Most Affordable Colleges in Mississippi 2023 #3 Best Colleges in Mississippi 2023 #3 Best Public Colleges in Mississippi 2023
Other Rankings
Tuition + fees
$9K
Acceptance
96%
Graduation
52%
Student body
13K
Online Degrees
BS in Elementary Education

Concentrations

Teacher Assistant

Required Credits: 121
Completion time: 2 years
Format: Online
Compare school
#17
Mississippi University for Women
Columbus , MS
#3 Best Liberal Arts Colleges in Mississippi 2023 #4 Best Small Colleges in Mississippi 2023 #6 Most Affordable Colleges in Mississippi 2023 #6 Best Public Colleges in Mississippi 2023
Other Rankings
Tuition + fees
$8K
Acceptance
99%
Graduation
45%
Student body
3K
Median SAT/ACT
1145/21
Online Degrees
BS in Elementary Education

Required Credits: 120
Completion time: None Reported
Format: Online
BS in Public Health Education

Required Credits: 124
Completion time: None Reported
Format: Online
BAS in Public Health Education

Required Credits: 124
Completion time: None Reported
Format: Online
Compare school
#18
St. Petersburg College
St. Petersburg , FL
#1 Best Online Associate in Fire Science Degree Programs #2 Best Online Associate in Emergency Management #2 Best Online Associate in Web Design #3 Best Online Bachelor's in Cybersecurity in Florida
Other Rankings
Tuition + fees
$3K
Graduation
36%
Student body
17K
Online Degrees
BS in Educational Studies And Community Leadership

Concentrations

Interdisciplinary Studies
Educational Interpreting
Early Childhood Education

Required Credits: 120
Completion time: None Reported
Format: Online
BS in Educational Studies And Community Leadership Degree with Preschool Specialization

Concentrations

Educational Interpreting
Early Childhood Education
Interdisciplinary Studies

Required Credits: 120
Completion time: None Reported
Format: Online
BS in Elementary Education

Required Credits: 120
Completion time: None Reported
Format: Online
Compare school
#19
Park University
Parkville , MO
#20 Most Affordable Online Colleges Ranked for Students 2023 #1 Best Online Associate in Building and Construction Degree Programs #1 Best Online Associate in Psychology #3 Top 10 Best Online MBA in Economics Degree Programs Ranked in 2023
Other Rankings
Tuition + fees
$12K
Graduation
24%
Student body
7K
Online Degrees
BS in Education Studies

Concentrations

Early Childhood Education: Teaching Young Children

Required Credits: 58
Completion time: None Reported
Format: Online
Bachelor of Science in Education in Middle School Education

Required Credits: 120
Completion time: None Reported
Format: Online
Compare school
#20
Bay Path University
Longmeadow , MA
#3 Best Online Bachelor’s of Counseling Degree Programs for 2023 #3 Best Online Associate Degrees in Massachusetts 2023 #5 Best Online Bachelor’s in Child Development Degree Programs for 2023 #5 Best Online Degrees for a Career in Teaching Ranked 2023
Other Rankings
Tuition + fees
$36K
Acceptance
75%
Graduation
51%
Student body
3K
Median SAT/ACT
1055/27
Online Degrees
BA in Education Studies

Required Credits: None Reported
Completion time: None Reported
Format: Online
BA in Elementary Education

Required Credits: None Reported
Completion time: None Reported
Format: Online
Compare school
#21
University of North Carolina at Pembroke
Pembroke , NC
#17 Best Online Colleges in North Carolina 2023 #17 Best Online Master's Programs in North Carolina 2023 #17 Best Online Bachelor's of Economics Degree Programs for 2023 #22 Best Online Bachelor's in Hospitality and Tourism Degree Programs for 2023
Other Rankings
- #6 The Most Affordable Traditional MBA Degree Programs for 2023
Tuition + fees
$3K
Acceptance
92%
Graduation
43%
Student body
7K
Median SAT/ACT
1000/19
Online Degrees
BIS in Applied Education Studies

Concentrations

Learning And Development

Required Credits: 120
Completion time: 18-24 months
Format: Online
Compare school
#22
Saint Leo University
Saint Leo , FL
#18 The Best Catholic Colleges and Universities Ranked for 2023 #5 Best Christian Colleges in Florida 2023 #2 Best Online Bachelor's in Cybersecurity in Florida #3 10 Fastest Accelerated Online Bachelor's of Computer Science
Other Rankings
Tuition + fees
$26K
Acceptance
71%
Graduation
46%
Student body
9K
Online Degrees
BA in Educational Studies

Concentrations

Early Childhood Development

Required Credits: 120
Completion time: None Reported
Format: Online
BA in Elementary Education Grades K-6

Required Credits: 120
Completion time: None Reported
Format: Online
Compare school
#23
Prescott College
Prescott , AZ
#1 Best Liberal Arts Colleges in Arizona 2023 #1 Best Small Colleges Arizona 2023 #2 Best Private Colleges in Arizona 2023 #5 Best Colleges in Arizona 2023
Other Rankings
Tuition + fees
$35K
Acceptance
99%
Graduation
40%
Student body
<1K
Median SAT/ACT
1192/19
Online Degrees
BA in Education

Required Credits: 120
Completion time: None Reported
Format: Online
BA in Adventure Education

Required Credits: 120
Completion time: None Reported
Format: Online
Compare school
#24
National University
La Jolla , CA
#1 Best Online Bachelor's in Strategic Communications Degree Programs #2 Best Online Bachelor's in Cybersecurity in California #2 Best Online Associate Degrees in California 2023 #3 Most Affordable Early Childhood Education Bachelor's (Online, On-Campus)
Other Rankings
Tuition + fees
$13K
Acceptance
55%
Graduation
47%
Student body
25K
Online Degrees
BA in Elementary Education

Concentrations

Nevada Elementary Licensure
BAECE: Early Childhood Education

Required Credits: 180
Completion time: 4.5-5.5 years
Format: Online
BA in English Education

Concentrations

Nevada Secondary Licensure

Required Credits: 180
Completion time: 4.5-5.5 years
Format: Online
Compare school
#25
Charter Oak State College
New Britain , CT
#6 Most Affordable Online Colleges Ranked for Students 2023 #6 Best Public Colleges in Connecticut 2023 #7 Best Small Colleges in Connecticut 2023 #7 Most Affordable Colleges in Connecticut 2023
Other Rankings
Tuition + fees
$8K
Student body
<1K
Online Degrees
BS in Early Childhood Education

Required Credits: 120
Completion time: 4 years
Format: Online
Compare school
#26
Granite State College
Concord , NH
#11 Most Affordable Online Colleges Ranked for Students 2023 #5 Best Public Colleges in New Hampshire 2023 #6 Most Affordable Colleges in New Hampshire 2023 #8 Best Small Colleges in New Hampshire 2023
Other Rankings
Tuition + fees
$8K
Graduation
22%
Student body
1K
Online Degrees
BS in Applied Studies- Education And Training

Required Credits: 120
Completion time: 4 years
Format: Online
BS in Early Childhood Education

Concentrations

Teacher Certification

Required Credits: 120
Completion time: 4 years
Format: Online
BA in English Language Arts Teacher Certification

Concentrations

Early Childhood Education And Early Childhood Special Education
Elementary Education And General Special Ed
General Special Ed

Required Credits: 120
Completion time: 4 years
Format: Online
BA in Social Studies Teacher Certification

Concentrations

Elementary Education And General Special Ed
General Special Ed

Required Credits: 120
Completion time: 4 years
Format: Online
Compare school
#27
Western Carolina University
Cullowhee , NC
#7 Most Affordable Graduate Schools Ranked for 2023 #6 Best Liberal Arts Colleges in North Carolina 2023 #9 Best Public Colleges in North Carolina 2023 #9 Most Affordable Colleges in North Carolina 2023
Other Rankings
Tuition + fees
$4K
Acceptance
79%
Graduation
61%
Student body
11K
Median SAT/ACT
1120/22
Online Degrees
BS in Birth-Kindergarten Education

Required Credits: 120
Completion time: None Reported
Format: Online
Compare school
#28
Brenau University
Gainesville , GA
#2 Best Online Associate Degrees in Georgia 2023 #3 Best Online Associate in Education #7 Best Online MBA Programs in Georgia #14 Best Online Master's Programs in Georgia 2023
Other Rankings
Tuition + fees
$33K
Acceptance
89%
Graduation
47%
Student body
2K
Median SAT/ACT
1045/20
Online Degrees
BS in Elementary Education

Required Credits: 120
Completion time: None Reported
Format: Online
Compare school
#29
Regent University
Virginia Beach , VA
#13 Best CCCU Colleges and Universities 2023 #1 Best Christian Colleges in Virginia 2023 #5 Best Private Colleges in Virginia 2023 #9 Best Research Universities in Virginia 2023
Other Rankings
Tuition + fees
$19K
Acceptance
41%
Graduation
62%
Student body
7K
Median SAT/ACT
1080/25
Online Degrees
BS in Early Childhood Education (Non Licensure)

Required Credits: 120
Completion time: 4 years
Format: Online
BS in Professional Studies-Teacher Education

Required Credits: 120
Completion time: 4 years
Format: Online
Compare school
#30
Point University
West Point , GA
#2 Best Online Bachelor's in Cybersecurity in Georgia #4 Best Online Certificate in Liberal Arts and Humanities Ranked for Students #4 Best Online Associate in Education #6 Best Online Associate in Marketing
Other Rankings
Tuition + fees
$22K
Acceptance
47%
Graduation
29%
Student body
1K
Median SAT/ACT
995/19
Online Degrees
BS in Education

Concentrations

Child Development

Required Credits: 120
Completion time: 48 months
Format: Online
Compare school
#31
Wilmington University
New Castle , DE
#1 Best Private Colleges in Delaware 2023 #3 Best Grad Schools in Delaware 2023 #3 Best Research Universities in Delaware 2023 #3 Best Colleges in Delaware 2023
Other Rankings
Tuition + fees
$12K
Graduation
23%
Student body
10K
Online Degrees
BS in Education

Concentrations

Early Childhood Education
Elementary Education K-6
Middle Level Education Grades 6-8
Skilled And Technical Sciences

Required Credits: 120
Completion time: 4 years
Format: Online
Compare school
#32
Bluefield State University
Bluefield , WV
#7 Best Public Colleges in West Virginia 2023 #8 Most Affordable Colleges in West Virginia 2023 #8 Best Small Colleges in West Virginia 2023 #8 Best Liberal Arts Colleges in West Virginia 2023
Other Rankings
Tuition + fees
$8K
Acceptance
97%
Graduation
32%
Student body
1K
Median SAT/ACT
960/19
Online Degrees
BS in Elementary Education

Concentrations

Middle Education

Required Credits: 120
Completion time: None Reported
Format: Online
Compare school
#33
State University of New York at Oswego
Oswego , NY
#1 Best Online Bachelor’s in Agribusiness and Agriculture Degree Programs #6 Best Online MBA Programs in New York #9 Best Online Master's in Agriculture and Agribusiness Degree Programs #10 Best Online Colleges in New York 2023
Other Rankings
Tuition + fees
$9K
Acceptance
80%
Graduation
66%
Student body
7K
Median SAT/ACT
1105/23
Online Degrees
BS in Business and Marketing Education

Concentrations

Degree Completion

Required Credits: 127
Completion time: 4-5 years
Format: Online
BS in Technical Education 7-12

Concentrations

Degree Completion

Required Credits: 127
Completion time: 4-5 years
Format: Online
BS in Family and Consumer Sciences Education

Concentrations

Degree Completion

Required Credits: 127
Completion time: 4-5 years
Format: Online
BS in Agricultural Education

Concentrations

Degree Completion

Required Credits: 127
Completion time: 4-5 years
Format: Online
BS in Trade Education 7-12

Concentrations

Degree Completion

Required Credits: 127
Completion time: 4-5 years
Format: Online
BS in Health Careers Education 7-12

Concentrations

Degree Completion

Required Credits: 127
Completion time: 4-5 years
Format: Online
Compare school
#34
Florida State College at Jacksonville
Jacksonville , FL
#5 Most Affordable Early Childhood Education Bachelor's (Online, On-Campus) #9 Best Online Associate Degrees in Florida 2023 #10 Best Online Associate in Early Childhood Education #12 Best Online Bachelor's in Network Administration Degree Programs for 2023
Other Rankings
Tuition + fees
$3K
Graduation
39%
Student body
15K
Online Degrees
BS in Early Childhood Education Bs

Required Credits: 120
Completion time: None Reported
Format: Online
Compare school
#35
Catawba College
Salisbury , NC
#6 Best Small Colleges in North Carolina 2023 #9 Best Liberal Arts Colleges in North Carolina 2023 #10 Best Private Colleges in North Carolina 2023 #12 Best Online Colleges in North Carolina 2023
Other Rankings
- #16 Best Online Bachelor's in Accounting
Tuition + fees
$32K
Acceptance
56%
Graduation
60%
Student body
1K
Median SAT/ACT
1040/19
Online Degrees
BAE in Birth-Kindergarten Education.

Required Credits: 56
Completion time: None Reported
Format: Online
Compare school
#36
Notre Dame College
Cleveland , OH
#1 Best Online Bachelor's in Cybersecurity Degree Programs in Ohio #3 Best Online Associate Degrees in Ohio 2023 #9 Best Online MBA Programs in Ohio #9 Fastest Accelerated Online Bachelor's of Psychology Programs
Other Rankings
Tuition + fees
$31K
Acceptance
82%
Graduation
39%
Student body
1K
Online Degrees
BA in Education

Concentrations

Mild/Moderate Intervention Specialist

Required Credits: 119
Completion time: 4 years
Format: Online
BA in Education

Concentrations

Early Childhood

Required Credits: 127
Completion time: 4 years
Format: Online
Compare school
#37
University of the Cumberlands
Williamsburg , KY
#6 Best Christian Colleges in Kentucky 2023 #6 Best Grad Schools in Kentucky 2023 #6 Best Research Universities in Kentucky 2023 #7 Best Private Colleges in Kentucky 2023
Other Rankings
Tuition + fees
$10K
Acceptance
85%
Graduation
48%
Student body
16K
Median SAT/ACT
1035/21
Online Degrees
BA in Elementary Education

Concentrations

English/Communications
Interdisciplinary
Social and Behavioral Studies
Special Education*

Required Credits: 120
Completion time: None Reported
Format: Online
Bachelor of Science or Bachelor of Applied Science in Interdisciplinary Early Childhood Education

Required Credits: 120
Completion time: None Reported
Format: Online
Compare school
#38
Oklahoma State University–Stillwater
Stillwater , OK
#2 Most Affordable Colleges in Oklahoma 2023 #2 Best Public Colleges in Oklahoma 2023 #3 Best Research Universities in Oklahoma 2023 #3 Best Colleges in Oklahoma 2023
Other Rankings
Tuition + fees
$9K
Acceptance
68%
Graduation
66%
Student body
21K
Median SAT/ACT
1135/24
Online Degrees
BS in Elementary Education

Required Credits: 120
Completion time: 4 years
Format: Online
Compare school
#39
Maryville University
Saint Louis , MO
#10 Best Research Universities in Missouri 2023 #3 Best Online Bachelor's of Cybersecurity Degree Programs in Missouri #4 Best Online MBA in Data Analytics Ranked for Students in 2023 #4 Best Online MBA Programs in Missouri
Other Rankings
Tuition + fees
$27K
Acceptance
92%
Graduation
73%
Student body
9K
Online Degrees
BA in Human Development and Family Studies

Concentrations

Child Life Specialist
Early Child Development
Youth Development
Family Life Education
Adult Development and Aging

Required Credits: 128
Completion time: None Reported
Format: Online
Compare school
#40
Bellevue University
Bellevue , NE
#7 Most Affordable Online Colleges Ranked for Students 2023 #2 Best Liberal Arts Colleges in Nebraska 2023 #2 Best Private Colleges in Nebraska 2023 #4 Best Grad Schools in Nebraska 2023
Other Rankings
Tuition + fees
$8K
Graduation
23%
Student body
9K
Online Degrees
BS in Adult Education

Required Credits: 127
Completion time: None Reported
Format: Online
BS in Public Health Education

Required Credits: 120
Completion time: None Reported
Format: Online
Compare school
#41
University of West Alabama
Livingston , AL
#2 Most Affordable Online PhD Programs Ranked for Students in 2023 #7 Best Online MBA in Data Analytics Ranked for Students in 2023 #10 Top 10 Best Online Counseling PhD Degree Programs (Doctorates) #10 Most Affordable Online Master's Degree Programs Ranked for Students
Other Rankings
Tuition + fees
$11K
Acceptance
74%
Graduation
39%
Student body
5K
Online Degrees
BS in Special Education: Collaborative Teacher, K-6/6-12

Required Credits: 128
Completion time: 3-4 years
Format: Online
Compare school
#42
Stephen F. Austin State University
Nacogdoches , TX
#8 Best Online Bachelor's in Human Development Degree Programs for 2023 #12 Best Online Master’s in Human Services #15 Best Online Colleges in Texas 2023 #22 Best Online Master's Programs in Texas 2023
Tuition + fees
$11K
Acceptance
83%
Graduation
53%
Student body
11K
Median SAT/ACT
1065/21
Online Degrees
BBA in Business Administration

Concentrations

Business Communication and Corporate Education

Required Credits: 120
Completion time: 4-5 years
Format: Online
BS in Interdisciplinary Studies

Concentrations

Special Education Teacher Certification

Required Credits: None Reported
Completion time: None Reported
Format: Online
Compare school
#43
William Carey University
Hattiesburg , MS
#4 Best Christian Colleges in Mississippi 2023 #4 Best Private Colleges in Mississippi 2023 #6 Best Research Universities in Mississippi 2023 #7 Best Grad Schools in Mississippi 2023
Other Rankings
Tuition + fees
$14K
Acceptance
57%
Graduation
60%
Student body
4K
Median SAT/ACT
1190/23
Online Degrees
BS in Physical Education

Required Credits: 120
Completion time: 4 years
Format: Online
BS in Health, Physical Education And Recreation

Required Credits: 120
Completion time: 4 years
Format: Online
Compare school
#44
Fontbonne University
Saint Louis , MO
#7 Best Christian Colleges in Missouri 2023 #9 Best Small Colleges in Missouri 2023 #22 Best Online Colleges in Missouri 2023
Tuition + fees
$28K
Acceptance
78%
Graduation
61%
Student body
1K
Online Degrees
BS in Special Education: Paraprofessional Pathways to Teaching

Required Credits: None Reported
Completion time: None Reported
Format: Online
Compare school
#45
Chadron State College
Chadron , NE
#1 Best Small Colleges in Nebraska 2023 #3 Best Liberal Arts Colleges in Nebraska 2023 #4 Best Public Colleges in Nebraska 2023 #5 Most Affordable Colleges in Nebraska 2023
Other Rankings
Tuition + fees
$7K
Graduation
39%
Student body
2K
Online Degrees
BS in Education

Concentrations

Special Education (K-12)

Required Credits: 128
Completion time: None Reported
Format: Online
Compare school
#46
Cardinal Stritch University
Milwaukee , WI
#5 Best Grad Schools in Wisconsin 2023 #5 Best Christian Colleges in Wisconsin 2023 #5 Best Research Universities in Wisconsin 2023 #7 Best Small Colleges in Wisconsin 2023
Other Rankings
Tuition + fees
$35K
Acceptance
89%
Graduation
54%
Student body
1K
Median SAT/ACT
1037/20
Online Degrees
BA/BS in Education Studies

Concentrations

Introduction to Education
Classroom Management and Culture
Reading and Language Arts Integration
Secondary Curriculum and Methods
and Secondary Education Application

Required Credits: None Reported
Completion time: None Reported
Format: Online
Compare school
#47
Concord University
Athens , WV
#5 The Most Influential Universities and Colleges Ranked by State 2023 #9 Best Public Colleges in West Virginia 2023 #10 Most Affordable Colleges in West Virginia 2023 #10 Best Small Colleges in West Virginia 2023
Other Rankings
Tuition + fees
$9K
Acceptance
96%
Graduation
42%
Student body
2K
Median SAT/ACT
930/19
Online Degrees
BS in Education

Required Credits: 120
Completion time: None Reported
Format: Online
Compare school
#48
Athens State University
Athens , AL
#3 Best Online Bachelor's in Cybersecurity in Alabama #8 Most Affordable Online Master's Degree Programs Ranked for Students #10 Best Online Colleges in Alabama 2023 #10 Best Online Bachelor's in Religious Studies Degree Programs for 2023
Other Rankings
- #16 Most Affordable Online Bachelor's Degree Programs Ranked for 2023
- #17 Best Online Master's Programs in Alabama 2023
Tuition + fees
$9K
Student body
2K
Online Degrees
BS in Education

Concentrations

Post-Secondary Instructor
Military Instructor
Early Instructor
Secondary Instruction
Instructional Design

Required Credits: 124
Completion time: 4 years
Format: Online
Compare school
#49
Chaminade University of Honolulu
Honolulu , HI
#23 The Best Catholic Colleges and Universities Ranked for 2023 #2 Best Liberal Arts Colleges in Hawaii 2023 #2 Best Private Colleges in Hawaii 2023 #3 Best Colleges in Hawaii 2023
Other Rankings
Tuition + fees
$27K
Acceptance
90%
Graduation
66%
Student body
2K
Median SAT/ACT
1050/20
Online Degrees
BS in Secondary Education

Required Credits: 120
Completion time: 4 years
Format: Online
BS in Early Childhood Education

Required Credits: 120
Completion time: 4 years
Format: Online
BA in Elementary Education For Oceania

Required Credits: 120
Completion time: 4 years
Format: Online
BS in Special Education

Required Credits: 120
Completion time: 4 years
Format: Online
BS in Early Childhood Education

Concentrations

Montessori Credential

Required Credits: 120
Completion time: 4 years
Format: Online
BS in Elementary Education

Required Credits: 120
Completion time: 4 years
Format: Online
Compare school
#50
Midway University
Midway , KY
#4 Best Online Bachelor's in Math Degree Programs Ranked for Students #7 Best Online Associate Degrees in Kentucky 2023 #14 Best Online Bachelor’s of Graphic Arts Degree Programs for 2023 #18 Best Online Bachelor's of English Degree Programs for 2023
Other Rankings
- #24 Best Online Bachelor’s of Elementary Education Degree Programs for 2023
Tuition + fees
$25K
Acceptance
78%
Graduation
58%
Student body
1K
Median SAT/ACT
1080/21
Online Degrees
BA in Education Studies

Concentrations

English
Math
Science
Social Studies

Required Credits: 120
Completion time: None Reported
Format: Online
BA in Elementary Education

Required Credits: 120
Completion time: None Reported
Format: Online
BA in Middle School Education

Concentrations

English
Mathematics
Social Studies
Science

Required Credits: 120
Completion time: None Reported
Format: Online
BA in Secondary Education

Concentrations

English
Math

Required Credits: 120
Completion time: None Reported
Format: Online
Compare school

Online Degree Frequently Asked Questions

If this is your first time taking an online course, the experience may require a time of adjustment. Although you’ll typically learn the same material and take the same exams as your on-campus peers, going online will require greater independence and responsibility than going in person. You’ll be accountable for your own time management, for harnessing the online educational technology that you’ll need to use, and for completing the course requirements, such as listening to lectures, learning lessons, reading texts, and handing in assignments. This means you’ll need to create a suitable workspace for yourself, maintain a realistic schedule, and take the initiative in building relationships with your instructors and classmates. With online college, your goal is to find a balance between independence and engagement.

No. The only part of online education that’s easier than campus-based education is ease of access: all you need is a computer and an internet connection for online education. But even this seeming advantage of online education can be misleading: what’s easier, studying online with your computer and internet connection from your home where you need to cook, clean, pay rent, and maintain a job? Or studying on campus in a dorm where all your living needs are handled by the school, and college staff are there to help you every step of the way?

If you take the commute to campus out of the equation, campus-based education is easier. All the support structures available on campus for students, especially with real people to help you in person, are not there online. The demands on you as an online student will largely be the same as for your campus-based counterpart, but without the same helps.

In general, your online courses will present the same material and test you in the same way as traditional in-person courses. In many cases, you’ll even have the same instructors as your on-campus counterparts. In fact, if you are adjusting to the experience of independent learning with remote educational technology for the first time, online college may be considerably more challenging than campus-based college. For a few insights on how to manage this new online experience, check out our 10 Tips for Adjusting to School Online.

Accreditation is especially important when it comes to online college. This is because the online education landscape is a mix of highly-reputable non-profit institutions on the one end and less-than-reputable for-profit institutions on the other end. Accreditation gives you the power to identify the more reputable actors in online education. Accreditation is a stamp of approval from an independent accrediting agency indicating that a college or university is meeting standards of quality and credibility. School-wide accreditation falls into two major categories: regional and national accreditation. Regional accreditors generally hold jurisdiction only over schools in the states comprising their region, whereas national accreditors hold jurisdiction over schools in all states. Regional accreditation is widely regarded as a more rigorous standard of quality and credibility than national accreditation.

Attending a college or university that is not regionally accredited could limit your opportunities. For students seeking an online education, we strongly recommend that they opt for regionally accredited schools. Regional accreditation ensures eligibility for federal loans and grants, ensures your college credits can be transferred between schools, and ensures that your degree credits can be accepted if you wish to earn an advanced degree. For more on this important topic, check out our What is Accreditation and Why Does It Matter? College & University Accreditation Guide.

As long as your online college degree is regionally accredited (see the previous point), you should have little difficulty transferring most of your credits or credentials to another regionally accredited undergraduate school. Every school carries its own standards and procedures for granting a transfer of credits. In many cases, you will encounter some bureaucratic haggling in which some of your credits will be transferred and others may be refused. However, provided that you have attended an online school with recognized regional accreditation, you should be in good shape in transferring your credits earned online.

In most cases, as long you graduate from a well-regarded, regionally-accredited online college, prospective employers won’t look sideways at your degree. In fact, unless you attend an exclusively online college or university, there will likely be no specific indicator on your degree, transcript, or resumé differentiating your school from its brick-and-mortar counterpart. This means that your employer will likely only differentiate between an online and in-person degree if you mention this distinction.

Some employers may express the concern that because you did your degree online, you may need to transition from an online education experience to in-person workplace experience. But in an age of Covid, that concern seems much diminished. The fact is that much employment these days is remote. And collaboration increasingly happens online over Zoom. Many employers will therefore view your online degree as evidence of valuable 21st century professional skills such as independence, self-motivation, time management, and tech savvy.

If you are a student who thrives on the dynamic energy of in-person discussion, who requires the physical surroundings of a classroom to feel engaged, or who considers the social aspects of education to be of equal importance to the actual content of your courses, online education will be less than ideal for you (though depending on your circumstances, it may also be the only viable option).

While there is much in traditional campus-based education that can be substituted or simulated through the online medium, some students may find that there is nothing that can replace the conversation, collaboration, and motivation that occur in an actual in-person classroom setting. As you transition to online education, one of the biggest challenges you will likely face in getting the most out of your online classes is overcoming this difference between “real reality” and “virtual reality.” Fortunately, we’ve got some great Tips for Online Education Beginners.

The advantages of online classes are many. Above all, online courses give you the freedom and flexibility to attend class from anywhere that works for you, whether you’re at home, in a coffee shop, or in a quiet conference room at work. In many cases, you’ll also enjoy the convenience of asynchronous learning opportunities-educational experiences that you can complete at your own pace and on your own schedule. This may include pre-taped lectures, ongoing chat-board discussions, and 24/7 access to digital materials. And of course, just as there are some learners who prefer the energy of a live classroom, there are those who learn best when working in their own personal space, free from distractions. If this sounds like you, you might find the solitude of online learning to be a major advantage.

Whether you’re just getting started on your college search, you’re looking for survival tips on your way to a bachelor’s degree, or you’re preparing for the transition into grad school, we’ve got guides, how to’s and tons of other valuable resources to keep you moving forward in your educational journey.

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Key Takeaways

What’s In An Online Undergraduate Degree in Education

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Online Bachelor’s in Education: Keys to Success

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Why get a bachelor’s in education?

What will I learn when getting a bachelor’s degree in education?

How long does it take to get a bachelor’s degree in education?

Ranking The Best Online Bachelor’s in Education Programs

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50 Best Online Bachelor’s in Education Degree Programs

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