15 Best Self-paced Online Colleges Ranked for 2025

Badge for BEST ONLINE SELF PACED COLLEGES
By Dave Tomar
Reviewed By Jenn Finley
Published:
Updated:

Key Takeaways

  • Self-paced online college is designed for working professionals and adult students with busy schedules.
  • Self-paced online college programs are for students who are disciplined in their studies and have strong time management skills.
  • Self-paced online courses allow students to find time to work on their lessons, assignments, and projects without the added stress of delayed submission.

Best Self-paced Online Colleges in 2025

  1. University of Washington
  2. University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign
  3. University of Florida
  4. University of Massachusetts
  5. University of North Dakota
  6. Liberty University
  7. Fort Hays State University
    +2
  8. Capella University
    +2
  9. Western Governors University
    +2
  10. Upper Iowa University
    –2

2025 Ranking Update

Our Influence Ranking Engine™ leverages machine learning to track the real-world influence of colleges and universities over time. Below you’ll see which schools gained or lost ground for the 2025 school year.

Fort Hays State University and Capella University both gained 2 positions in our 2025 ranking update of the best self-paced online colleges.

Featured Programs

What is self-paced online education?

Unlike competency-based education, self-paced online students learn at their own pace. Their assignments don’t have preset deadlines, and their instructors are there only to provide guidance and feedback on their performance.

Designed for maximum flexibility, it allows students to attend class at times that are convenient for them. Self-paced courses enable distance learners to schedule their coursework around existing commitments and responsibilities.

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Is Self-Paced Learning Right For Me?

Are you currently working but want to study further to achieve your educational and career goals without giving up your job? Are you an independent, disciplined, self-motivated go-getter who can work independently and commit to producing results?

If you answered yes to those questions, enrolling in a self-paced online college could be your first step toward fulfilling your desire for professional success and advancement!

Many students enjoy the flexibility of the schedule and learning speed of self-paced online courses. However, self-paced online college is not for everyone.

For some people, self-paced online courses are not as effective as the courses offered in traditional on-campus programs as students have complete control of their academic activities and study schedules. Unless a student has excellent time management and is very disciplined in their studies, they may find it difficult to stay on track.

At the same time, others believe that self-paced education is more effective than traditional learning, because it allows students to study and absorb information at their own speed.

An online degree can spell flexibility and convenience for students with busy schedules. Online college students may find it easier to manage work, school, and family commitments.

Pros of Self-Paced Learning:

  • Cost-effective: self-paced learning is usually cheaper than traditional education
  • Flexibility: students can set their own schedules
  • Personalization: students can decide what topics they want to spend more time on
  • Accessibility: students can access their course materials at anytime

Cons of Self-Paced Learning:

  • Procrastination: without hard deadlines, students could delay or avoid studying
  • Support: while online education has come a long way, there still may be limits on peer and professor interaction
  • Lack of structure: students could struggle with organization and motivation if there are no set schedules
  • Potential for distraction: ever found yourself deep cleaning your stove when you should be studying? Us too.
  • Self-assessment challenges: without regular assessments, students might struggle to know how they are progressing

Key Point: With the advent and availability of self-paced online degree programs, it is now easier than ever for students with work, family, or distance constraints to complete a college degree at a top-ranked online college or university.

Woman working on a laptop
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The Best Self-Paced Online Colleges

Now that we have all the information on self paced online courses, it’s time to explore your best options!

  1. #1

    University of Washington

    Seattle , WA
    #5 50 Best Public Colleges and Universities Ranked for Students in 2025 #5 Most Affordable Colleges and Universities in the U.S. 2025 #5 50 Best Public Grad Schools 2025 #5 Best Value Colleges and Universities Ranked for Students in 2025
    Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $12K

    Acceptance

    48%

    Graduation

    84%

    Student body

    58K

    Career Outlook for degree at University of Washington

    Cost of Degree: $12,643
    Expenses: $21,909
    Starting Salary: $69,600
    Cost Recoup Time: 10 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary

    The University of Washington Online offers a Professional & Continuing Education program that allows professionals to continue learning amid full-time work, distance constraints, and personal commitments.

    It consists of several online certificate programs, bachelor’s and master’s degree programs, and self-paced online courses that allow you to explore and learn about a subject of interest. UW’s flexible online programs allow you to earn the same credentials as its on-campus students.

    Cost per Credit Hour: $231 - $578

    Financial Aid Options: Available

    What we love about the University of Washington:

    Like its on-campus degrees, the University of Washington’s online programs produce the most competent professionals. When you study at UW, you will be given the same access to its services and resources to ensure that even as an online student, you can reach your full potential at UW.

    The University of Washington University is great for students who:

    Are curious, have an open mind for change, and dream and love to innovate

    The University of Washington may not be the best fit for students who:

    Don’t have the will and drive to break barriers to make education possible and achievable for them.

    Compare school
  2. #2

    University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign

    Champaign , IL
    #12 Best Value Colleges and Universities Ranked for Students in 2025 #17 Most Affordable Colleges and Universities in the U.S. 2025 #18 50 Best Public Colleges and Universities Ranked for Students in 2025 #18 50 Best Public Grad Schools 2025
    Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $18K

    Acceptance

    45%

    Graduation

    85%

    Student body

    62K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1415/31

    Career Outlook for degree at University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign

    Cost of Degree: $18,060
    Expenses: $17,638
    Starting Salary: $70,900
    Cost Recoup Time: 10 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary

    The University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign is a leader and pioneer in innovative online education.

    Made stronger by years of experience, it is consistently finding ways to integrate technology into education regardless of the methods used in putting it into practice.

    Cost per Credit Hour: $416

    Financial Aid Options: Available

    What we love about the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign:

    The enticing thing about the University of Illinois at Urbana Champaign is its offering of over a hundred online programs for both certificates and degrees that are handled by the same faculty that teach traditional on-campus students. Many of the university’s online degree programs are recognized and acclaimed nationally for excellence.

    The University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign is great for students who:

    Seek career advancement by pursuing a degree that provides them specialized skills at a convenient learning pace

    The University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign might not be the best fit for students who:

    See online college education as a lonely, sedentary method to learn

    Compare school
  3. #3

    University of Florida

    Gainesville , FL
    #2 Top 15 Best Online Colleges for Transfer Students in 2025 #2 Online Colleges with the Most Generous Financial Aid in 2025 #6 15 Best Online Colleges for Veterans to Start Their Careers #13 Best Value Colleges and Universities Ranked for Students in 2025
    Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $6K

    Acceptance

    23%

    Graduation

    90%

    Student body

    63K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1395/30

    Career Outlook for degree at University of Florida

    Cost of Degree: $6,381
    Expenses: $16,220
    Starting Salary: $65,700
    Cost Recoup Time: 8 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary

    The University of Florida Flexible Learning program is a fully-online college that offers quality courses designed to produce a skilled professional as you attain your academic objectives. It offers an ongoing enrollment that allows you to register and start your self paced online courses at a convenient time for you.

    Cost per Credit: $212.71

    Financial Aid Options: Available

    What we love about the University of Florida:

    The University of Florida Flexible Learning program does not require admission from prospective students who wish to enroll in its flex courses. You only need to provide some basic documentation to register in the school’s self-paced online programs.

    The University of Florida is great for students who:

    Want to complete a degree program on their terms

    The University of Florida may not be the ideal school for students who:

    Seek to count UF Flexible Learning courses to be counted as credits. The courses at Flex Learning are considered non-degree credits. The units of Flex Learning courses count towards a degree only if the student is subsequently admitted to the University of Florida.

    Compare school
  4. #4

    University of Massachusetts

    #9 Top 20 Most Affordable Online Doctorate of Education (PhDs) 2025 #21 Top 50 Best No GRE Online PhD Degree Programs (Doctorates) #5 Fastest Accelerated Online Master's of Counseling Degree Programs 2024

    The University of Massachusetts Global offers its MyPath program to cater to working adults who want to earn a bachelor’s or master’s degree without giving up their full-time job.

    MyPath’s programs are self-paced online programs that allow you complete control of your schedule and learning pace. It also assesses your prior work experience to determine your skill sets and allows you to move on to other areas you need to focus on.

    Cost per Credit Hour: $500

    Financial Aid Options: Available

    What we love about UMass Global:

    UMass Global’s MyPath program is flexible and recognizes the skills you already have, allowing you to move concentrate in areas where you are weaker. Skipping areas that you already know can help shorten your study time and allow you to save time and money.

    UMass Global is great for students who:

    Can work independently, without preset schedules and deadlines associated with the classroom structure.

    UMass Global might not be the best fit for students who:

    Don’t have the motivation and self-discipline to take time to study and consistently make progress.

    Compare school
  6. #5

    University of North Dakota

    Grand Forks , ND
    #1 Best Schools for Becoming an Air Traffic Controller in 2024 #1 Best Public Colleges in North Dakota 2024 #1 Best Grad Schools North Dakota 2025 #1 Best Research Universities in North Dakota 2024
    Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $11K

    Acceptance

    83%

    Graduation

    63%

    Student body

    17K

    Career Outlook for degree at University of North Dakota

    Cost of Degree: $10,951
    Expenses: $15,292
    Starting Salary: $57,800
    Cost Recoup Time: 10 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary

    The University of North Dakota is the biggest institution for tertiary education in North Dakota. It started its distance education program in 1911 with correspondence courses and continued until technology made online college possible. UND is a top seven self-paced online university in the US, according to ZDNet.

    Cost per Credit Hour: $355.85

    Financial Aid Options: Available

    What we love about the University of North Dakota:

    We love UND’s commitment to providing students with 24/7 free access to online tutoring services and an array of other student services, including career advising and tech support.

    The University of North Dakota is great for students who:

    Are willing to go beyond their comfort zone to be trained to lead, develop the capacity to generate new ideas, and embrace the role of technology in the modern world.

    The University of North Dakota might not be the best fit for students who:

    Don’t see themselves as a leader and are not responsive to the role of change in coping with the world’s needs.

    Compare school
    7. Woman writing in a notebook
  7. #6

    Liberty University

    Lynchburg , VA
    #9 Top 20 Best Military Friendly Online Colleges Ranked for 2025 #10 Best Online Christian Colleges and Universities for Doctoral Degrees 2025 #11 Top 15 Best Online Colleges for Transfer Students in 2025 #1 Best Christian Colleges in Virginia 2025
    Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $23K

    Acceptance

    99%

    Graduation

    66%

    Student body

    131K

    Career Outlook for degree at Liberty University

    Cost of Degree: $15,822
    Expenses: $21,458
    Starting Salary: $41,400
    Cost Recoup Time: 15 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary

    Liberty University is an evangelical school catering to more than 100,000 students located in over 15 colleges and offering than 700 programs at the certificate, bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral levels. More than 600 of these programs are available globally via self paced online courses.

    Cost per Credit: $455 for part-time students; $390 for full-time students

    Financial Aid Options: Available

    What we love about Liberty University:

    As one of the top online schools in the US, Liberty University’s online college is respected because it offers no less than accessible, affordable, and high-quality education.

    Liberty University is great for students who:

    Work and study to achieve their dream career.

    Liberty University might not be the best fit for students who:

    Easily get distracted and need more focus to accomplish things without close supervision.

    Liberty University’s Online Degrees

    BS in Commercial Music
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BS in Fashion Merchandising
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BFA in Graphic Design
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BS in Accounting
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BSBA in Business Administration
    Degree Concentrations
    • Automotive Dealership Management
    • Communication
    • Data Analytics
    • Digital Marketing And Advertising
    • Economics
    • Entrepreneurship
    • Finance
    • Financial Planning
    • Green And Sustainable Management
    • Healthcare Management
    • Human Resource Management
    • International Business
    • Leadership
    • Marketing Analytics
    • Marketing: Sales Management And Professional Selling
    • Project Management
    • Public Administration
    • Real Estate
    • Strategic Marketing Management
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BEd in Business Education 6-12
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BS in Christian Leadership And Management
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BS in Sports Management
    Degree Concentrations
    • Conference And Event Management
    • Sports Administration
    • Sports Communication And Public Relations
    • Sports Outreach
    • Sports Venue Management
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BS in Computational Mathematics
    Degree Concentrations
    • Actuarial
    • Computer Science
    • Engineering
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BS in Information Systems
    Degree Concentrations
    • Accounting Information Systems
    • Data Networking
    • Database
    • Information Assurance
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BS in Information Technology
    Degree Concentrations
    • Application And Database Development
    • Data Networking And Security
    • Gaming Design
    • Web And Mobile Programming
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BS in Computer Science Cybersecurity
    • Required Credits: 121
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BS in Criminal Justice
    Degree Concentrations
    • Business Administration And Management
    • Corrections And Human Services
    • Crime Scene Investigation
    • Criminal Psychology
    • Homeland Security
    • Juvenile Justice
    • Public Administration
    • Strategic Intelligence
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BS in Fire Administration
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BS in Government
    Degree Concentrations
    • National Security
    • Politics And Policy
    • Public Administration
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BS in Law And Policy
    Degree Concentrations
    • Pre-Law
    • Public Policy
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BS in Paralegal Studies
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BS in Early Childhood Education
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BS in Elementary Education
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BEd in Elementary Education
    Degree Concentrations
    • Middle Grades English
    • Middle Grades Mathematics
    • Middle Grades Science
    • Middle Grades Social Science
    • Special Education
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BEd in English Education 6-12
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BEd in Mathematics Education 6-12
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BEd in Middle Education
    Degree Concentrations
    • English
    • Math
    • Science
    • Social Science
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BEd in Physical Education 6-12
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BEd in Physics Education - Earth Science 6-12
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BEd in Social Studies Education
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BS in Special Education
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BEd in Special Education
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BS in Teaching English As A Second Language
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BS in Applied Ministry
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BS in Biblical And Educational Studies
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BS in Cultural Engagement
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BS in English And Writing
    Degree Concentrations
    • Creative Writing
    • Journalism
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BEd in English As A Second Language
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BS in History
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BS in Interdisciplinary Studies
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BS in Military Studies
    Degree Concentrations
    • History
    • International Security
    • Professional
    • Resiliency
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BS in Political Science
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BS in Public Administration
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BS in Religion
    Degree Concentrations
    • Apologetics
    • Biblical And Theological Studies
    • Christian Counseling
    • Christian Ministries
    • Evangelism
    • Global Studies
    • Nextgen
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BS in Social Media Management
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BSW in Social Work
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BS in Strategic Communication
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BS in Worship Studies
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BS in Health Sciences
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BS in Healthcare Administration
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BS in Informatics-Healthcare Informatics
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BSN in Nursing (Rn To Bsn)
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BSRT in Respiratory Therapist
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BSN in Nursing Global Studies (Rn To Bsn)
    • Required Credits: 127
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BS in Psychology
    Degree Concentrations
    • Addictions And Recovery
    • Christian Counseling
    • Criminal Psychology
    • Online Crisis
    • Development Psychology
    • Life Coaching
    • Military Resilience
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BS in Aviation
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BS in Aviation Maintenance Management
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BS in Aviation Management
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BS in Civil Engineering
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BS in Industrial Engineering
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    Compare school
  8. #7

    Fort Hays State University

    Hays , KS
    #13 Top 20 Best Military Friendly Online Colleges Ranked for 2025 #4 Best Liberal Arts Colleges in Kansas 2024 #7 Most Affordable Colleges in Kansas 2025 #7 Best Public Colleges in Kansas 2024
    Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $5K

    Acceptance

    88%

    Graduation

    51%

    Student body

    18K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1065/21

    Career Outlook for degree at Fort Hays State University

    Cost of Degree: $5,633
    Expenses: $14,744
    Starting Salary: $42,700
    Cost Recoup Time: 10 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary

    Fort Hayes University has been helping students learn from home for over 100 years. Today, with more than 200 online certificate and degree programs, FHSU has become a provider of award-winning self paced online courses to students worldwide.

    Cost per Credit Hour: $226.88

    Financial Aid Options: Available

    What we love about Fort Hays State University:

    The affordable tuition and award-winning education are two things we love about FHSU. Its tuition is ranked among the lowest in the United States. The university’s online bachelor’s degree and graduate programs are also named one of the “Best Online Programs” by U.S. News & World Report.

    Fort Hays College is great for students who:

    Love challenging academic programs that explore hands-on experiential learning opportunities.

    Fort Hays College might not be the best fit for students who:

    Are not driven by a desire to grow.

    Compare school
  10. #8

    Capella University

    Minneapolis , MN
    #6 Most Affordable Colleges in Minnesota 2024 #5 Fastest Accelerated Online Doctorate of Cybersecurity #6 Top 10 Best Online PhD of Information Technology Programs (Doctorates) #6 Top 8 Best Online Applied Behavioral Analysis PhDs (Doctorates)
    Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $14K

    Student body

    68K

    Career Outlook for degree at Capella University

    Cost of Degree: $14,436
    Starting Salary: $72,600

    Capella University is offering its self-paced distance higher education through Flexpath. It is a program that gives students full control of their schedules and learning pace and allows them to earn their degrees at a minimal cost, with over 160 undergraduate and graduate programs.

    Cost per Credit Hour: $350 - $415

    Financial Aid Options: Available

    What we love about Capella University:

    Capella University’s Flexpath program is an attraction to students who work, study, and do other tasks at the same time. It allows students to set their own deadlines and move forward at their own pace.

    Capella University is great for students who:

    Need a reliable on-demand online program that can help them achieve their dream degrees and careers — without giving up their work schedules and family obligations.

    Capella University might not be the best fit for students who:

    Don’t see distance learning as a key to acquiring competencies for professional excellence.

    Compare school
  11. #9

    Western Governors University

    Salt Lake City , UT
    #7 Online Colleges with the Most Generous Financial Aid in 2025 #2 Best Private Colleges in Utah 2025 #4 Best Liberal Arts Colleges in Utah 2025 #7 Best Colleges in Utah 2025
    Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $8K

    Graduation

    49%

    Student body

    214K

    Career Outlook for degree at Western Governors University

    Cost of Degree: $8,300
    Starting Salary: $48,100

    Western Governors University is an online university offering accredited, affordable, and career-focused higher education in an accelerated and self-paced format. Aiming to make college education more accessible, WGU focuses on improving student opportunities without looking at their background.

    Average Yearly Tuition: Bachelor’s: $7,452

    Average Yearly Tuition: Master’s: $7,842

    Financial Aid Options: Available

    What we love about Western Governors University:

    We love WGU’s affordable flat-rate tuition, which requires students to pay on a six-month term and not by credit. By enrolling in one of WGU’s online programs, you will pay one low flat rate for as many courses as you can handle!

    We also favor WGU’s high employer satisfaction rate of 98%.

    Western Governors University is great for students who:

    Need a low-cost, quality flexible online degree program they can take while working.

    Western Governors University might not be the best fit for students who:

    Can’t stand alone to give 100% attention to a self-paced online bachelor’s degree program.

    Compare school
  12. #10

    Upper Iowa University

    Fayette , IA
    #6 Best Private Colleges in Iowa 2024 #9 Best Small Colleges in Iowa 2025 #9 Best Colleges in Iowa 2024 #9 Best Liberal Arts Colleges in Iowa 2025
    Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $34K

    Acceptance

    54%

    Graduation

    42%

    Student body

    7K

    Median SAT/ACT

    970/21

    Career Outlook for degree at Upper Iowa University

    Cost of Degree: $19,000
    Expenses: $15,022
    Starting Salary: $45,500
    Cost Recoup Time: 13 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary

    Upper Iowa University is recognized across the country as a leader in distance education. Offering online programs leading to bachelor’s degree and master’s degrees for more than 40 years, the university guarantees total flexibility to allow you to finish your coursework within the prescribed period.

    Cost per Credit Hour: $330

    Financial Aid Options: Available

    What we love about Upper Iowa University:

    Upper Iowa University’s self-paced distance learning allows you to take advantage of learning at your own pace, but it is consistent in providing you with one-on-one interaction with your instructors

    Upper Iowa University is great for students who:

    Need the flexibility of time to juggle study with work, family, and personal obligations.

    Upper Iowa University might not be the best fit for students who:

    Don’t see self-paced distance education as a way to acquire solid knowledge and skills needed for professional success.

    Upper Iowa University’s Online Degrees

    BS in Human Services
    • Required Credits: None Reported
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BA in Communication Studies
    Degree Concentrations
    • Communication Studies
    • Mass Media
    • and Sports Communication
    • Required Credits: None Reported
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BS in Criminal Justice
    Degree Concentrations
    • Homeland Security
    • Required Credits: None Reported
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BS in Emergency and Disaster Management
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BS in Business Administration
    Degree Concentrations
    • Entrepreneurship
    • Finance
    • General Business
    • Global
    • Health Services Administration
    • Human Resource Management
    • Marketing
    • Sports Administration
    • Required Credits: None Reported
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BS in Information Systems
    Degree Concentrations
    • Information Systems and Security and Integration (ISSI)
    • and Information Systems and Technology Management (ISTM)
    • Required Credits: None Reported
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BS in Business Management
    Degree Concentrations
    • Financial Management
    • Accounting
    • Required Credits: None Reported
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BS in Nursing
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BS in Public Administration
    Degree Concentrations
    • General
    • Emergency Management
    • Fire Science or Law Enforcement
    • Policy and Politics
    • Required Credits: None Reported
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: None Reported
    BS in Information Technology
    Degree Concentrations
    • Cyber Security and Computer Forensics (SEC)
    • and Network Management (NET)
    • Required Credits: None Reported
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BS in Social Science
    Degree Concentrations
    • General Social Science
    • History
    • Political Science
    • Psychology
    • Sociology
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BA in Sociology
    • Required Credits: None Reported
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    Compare school
  13. #11

    Thomas Edison State University

    Trenton , NJ
    #4 Most Affordable Online Colleges Ranked for Students 2024 #9 Best Schools for Becoming an Air Traffic Controller in 2024 #15 Top 20 Best Military Friendly Online Colleges Ranked for 2025 #6 Best Small Colleges in New Jersey 2025
    Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $7K

    Student body

    13K

    Career Outlook for degree at Thomas Edison State University

    Cost of Degree: $6,638
    Starting Salary: $57,300

    The self-paced online distance learning curricula at Thomas Edison State University is designed for adults who need a flexible school schedule that will accommodate their busy work and family schedules and obligations.

    Offering self-paced courses in more than 100 study areas in associate and bachelor’s degree programs, students can access the university’s flexible online courses anytime and anywhere they want.

    At Thomas Edison State University, you will need 60 credits to complete an associate degree program and 120 credits to finish a bachelor’s degree program.

    Cost per Credit Hour: NJ Residents - $411, Others (US) - $535

    Financial Aid Options: Available

    What we love about Thomas Edison State University:

    We love Thomas Edison State University’s commitment and passion to serve busy yet motivated adults.

    Thomas Edison University is ideal for students who:

    Desire to achieve educational and professional achievement despite having gone beyond the regular college graduation age.

    Thomas Edison University might not be the best fit for students who:

    Lack the will to strive to continue what they have started in order to achieve their educational and career goals

    Thomas Edison State University’s Online Degrees

    BSBA in Accounting
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BSBA in Accounting/Cpa
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BSBA in Entrepreneurship
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BSBA in Finance
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BSBA in General Management
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BSBA in Human Resource Management/Organizational Management
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BSBA in Marketing
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BSBA in Operations Management
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BS in Organizational Leadership
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BSBA in Computer Information Systems
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BA in Computer Science
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BS in Data Science And Analytics
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BS in Information Technology
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BS in Technical Studies
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BA in Criminal Justice
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BS in Cybersecurity
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BS in Homeland Security And Emergency Management
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BA in Communication
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BA in English
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BA in History
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BA in International Studies
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BA in Liberal Studies
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BS in Professional Studies
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BA in Sociology
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BSBA in Healthcare Management
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BSN in Nursing
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BS in Radiation Protection/Health Physics
    • Required Credits: 125
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BA in Psychology
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BS in Electrical Technology
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BS in Energy Systems Technology
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BA in Mathematics
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BS in Nuclear Engineering Technology
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BS in Electronic Systems Engineering Technology
    • Required Credits: 124
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    Compare school
    14. Woman sitting on an office sofa with a laptop

  15. #12

    Columbia College

    Columbia , MO
    #8 Online Colleges with the Most Generous Financial Aid in 2025 #6 Best Online Associate in Human Services #9 Best Online Associate Degrees in Missouri 2024 #11 Best Online MBA Programs in Missouri
    Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $24K

    Graduation

    43%

    Student body

    9K

    Career Outlook for degree at Columbia College

    Cost of Degree: $12,268
    Expenses: $14,602
    Starting Salary: $43,000
    Cost Recoup Time: 12 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary

    Offering online courses since 2000, Columbia College is one of the pioneers in distance education. Currently, this school offers more than 30 flexible online degree programs. More than 20,000 higher education students from all levels enroll in the self paced online courses of Columbia College each year.

    Cost per Credit Hour: $375

    Financial Aid Options: Available

    What we love about Columbia College:

    Aside from being a military-friendly institution, Columbia College provides a team of expert career advisors committed to helping you find internship and job opportunities. The school offers this service free for life.

    Columbia College is great for students who:

    Love to think, devise plans, execute what they have in mind, and are willing to take risks for what they believe in.

    Columbia College might not be the best fit for students who:

    Are procrastinators and not self-driven.

    Columbia College ’s Online Degrees

    BS in Accounting
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BA in History
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BS in Cybersecurity
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BA in English
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BA in Business Administration
    Degree Concentrations
    • Innovation & Entrepreneurship
    • Marketing
    • Human Resources
    • Finance
    • Management
    • Accounting
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BA in Healthcare Management
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BS in Healthcare Management
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BA in Human Resource Management
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BS in Human Resource Management
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BA in General Studies
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BA in Human Services
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BS in Human Services
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BA in Innovation and Entrepreneurship
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BA in Psychology
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BS in Nursing
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BS in Criminal Justice Administration
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BA in Management
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BA in Organizational Leadership
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BS in Organizational Leadership
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BA in Political Science
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BA in Public Administration
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BA in Finance
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BS in Finance
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BS in Management Information Systems
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BA in Sociology
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BA in International Business
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BS in International Business
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BA in Sports Management
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BS in Sports Management
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BA in Marketing
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    Compare school
  16. #13

    South Texas College

    McAllen , TX

    Tuition + fees

    $5K

    Graduation

    26%

    Student body

    40K

    Career Outlook for degree at South Texas College

    Cost of Degree: $5,220
    Starting Salary: $36,500
    >

    South Texas College offers quality online certificate, associate, and bachelor’s degree programs to help you pursue higher education to help you thrive in this busy and competitive world.

    Cost per Seven-Week Term:

    • In-district students - $850
    • In-state students - $910
    • Out-of-state students - $1,500

    Financial Aid Options: Available

    What we love about South Texas College:

    The most enticing part about South Texas College Online is its low tuition cost which is one of the country’s lower costs. It enables you to earn the desired degree for a few hundred dollars.

    South Texas College is great for students who:

    Desire to earn a degree without the hassles associated with traditional on-campus life like parking and enduring long queues.

    South Texas College might not be the best fit for students who:

    Don’t value time and a sense of urgency even if they take flexible online courses.

    Compare school
    17. Woman in orange overalls working on a laptop
  18. #14

    Rasmussen University

    #10 10 Fastest Accelerated Online Bachelor's of Finance Degree Programs 2025

    To fulfill its commitment to working students who want to create balance in their work, study, and personal life, Rasmussen University launched its flexible online education, which has been operating for almost two decades.

    The university opened its online college to cater to students who need distance education programs that work well with their busy schedules and provide them with knowledge, skills, and confidence to reach their career goals.

    Cost per Credit: $175 + $15 book fee

    Financial Aid Options: Available

    What we love about Rasmussen University:

    We are amazed at Rasmussen’s commitment to providing many ways to support its students. Rasmussen’s student support services include 24/7 access to technical support, student tutoring, and career advising. They make the student’s educational journey a pleasant experience.

    Rasmussen University is great for students who:

    Need a flexible online class to balance their work, study, and personal or family time.

    Rasmussen University might not be the best fit for students who:

    Don’t exercise self-discipline, reliable organizational skills, and self-drive to finish their work on time.

    Compare school

    19. Bonus: Penn Foster College

    If you are looking for an accredited distance education school that provides career diplomas and certificate programs, you should consider Penn Foster College. The former International Correspondence School (ICS) was a pioneer in self-paced distance education long before the advent of internet technology.

    Having mastered remote learning for dozens of decades, Penn Foster can provide the training you need to develop your knowledge and skills for in-demand technical careers.

    Penn Foster also offers an online high school education program. It is intended to benefit individuals who want to finish high school to qualify for admission to a certificate or college degree program.

    20. Cost per Month: $59

    Financial Aid Options: Available

    What we love about Penn Foster College:

    Penn Foster’s mission and commitment to helping future-conscious individuals prepare for thriving careers are worth commending. It has consistently provided students with over 100 self-paced vocational and online bachelor’s degree programs for over 100 years.

    Penn Foster College is great for students who:

    Want to acquire affordable, accessible, flexible, and career-focused education

    Penn Foster College might not be the best fit for students who:

    Aspire to become white-collar, suit-and-tie workers right after graduation. Penn Foster is focused on molding students to become technically educated to prepare them to take on highly sought-after technical jobs after completing an entire program.

Find other top schools with a look at these online program rankings.

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Back to Top

Admission Requirements for Self-Paced Programs

Admission requirements can vary from one school to the next. The requirements may also depend on the level of degree that you wish to take. These are the general admission requirements for prospective students:

  • Associate Degrees
    • Applicants should be 18 years of age
    • High school diploma or GED-General Education Development test results
    • Meet GPA requirements
  • Bachelor’s Degrees
    • High school transcript
    • GPA
    • ACT or SAT scores
    • Personal Essay
    • An interview
  • Master’s Degrees
    • Completion of a bachelor’s degree
    • A completed application and fees
    • GPA of 3.0
    • GRE or GMAT results
    • Letters of recommendation
    • Personal essay

    Degrees, Curricula, and Courses

    Most traditional colleges also offer many degrees online. However, some schools are purely online, but have several degree offerings. As an online student, you will surely find an online degree and curriculum that fits your educational and professional goals.

    Back to Top

    Student Submitted Questions on the Best Self-Paced Online Colleges

    Marianne asks, “What are some factors I should consider when trying to find the best self-paced online college?”

    Dr. James Barham’s answer: First and foremost, you should identify what you want to do based on your strengths, interests, and career goals and find a program that will help you accomplish this. The school should be regionally accredited, have a good reputation, and a high graduation rate. Make sure that the school’s faculty members are contributing to the field and that the school’s student support services are substantial and easily accessible.

    There might be other factors that are important to you, such as cost, how diverse the student body, or financing options. You should be able to find the answers to most of your questions on the school or program’s website.

    Anthony asks, “Are there benefits to self-paced education outside of just the flexibility and cost?”

    Dr. Jed Macosko’s answer: Self-paced learning is not for everyone. But according to a recent study, it can help many online students remember more. It can also increase focus for students who might work better alone. Additionally, there is a more easily customized learning experience, meaning that students can dive deeper into whatever topics they wish to. This can help students master topics that they would not have been able to in a traditional classroom.

    Self-paced learning has also been found to reduce anxiety for some students as there is not as much of a rush to finish the coursework on a specific timeline. It can also lower potential competition among peers. In regards to life skills, self-paced study is a great opportunity for students to foster self-discipline and learn initiative and time management skills, all of which will be valuable.

    Man working at a desk wearing headphones

    Find other top schools with a look at our University Rankings Guide.

    Learn more about the college admissions process with a look at our complete guide.

    Or get valuable study tips, advice on adjusting to campus life, and much more at our student resource homepage.

Do you have a question about this topic? Ask it here