Best Online Degrees for 2024

Online college degree programs managed by reputable brick and mortar institutions are usually legitimate, as they are typically equivalent in scope and reputation to their traditional on-campus programs.

Look for colleges that are accredited by an organization recognized by the U.S. Department of Education and/or the Council for Higher Education Accreditation (CHEA). Accreditation can prove your degree is being awarded by a quality academic institution, and ensure employers of the quality of your education. In order to attain accreditation, schools undergo a review process and must meet a set of academic standards.

The fees you pay for an online degree program can often be comparable to an on-campus program. A 2020 Quality Matters Report found that 69 percent of online programs charge the same tuition per course or credit hour as the on-campus rate. While the tuition may be comparable, certain benefits offered by online degree programs may help cut down on costs. For example, you may be able to save on commuting costs or residential fees.

Earning a college degree can be difficult for many individuals as they need to work full-time making it difficult to adhere to a strict schedule. You can explore how online degrees are worth it in-depth and how you can overcome difficulties you may face on this path.

According to a study on online degrees, employers are more likely to consider the reputation of the institution from which the degree was earned as opposed to the medium of education. Online college degrees are no different from those earned in a traditional campus-based environment. In fact, many online college degree programs undergo the same stringent tests as traditional degree programs to gain accreditation.

Additionally, employers who have taken online courses are more likely to prefer candidates with online degrees due to the perception that online degree programs can build soft skills in students. The study concludes by stating that as more and more employers have online degrees themselves, the acceptance of online education is rising.

The table below lists the earning potential by degree levels using 2019 data from the BLS:

Earning potential can vary by the field you work in as well as your position in a company. More advanced degrees can lead to jobs with more responsibility as well as higher wages. Although the field you work in can have a big part to play in your wages, your degree can make a big difference too.

There are more and more new degree programs being made available online as universities increase their online offerings. You may be able to find online degree programs in fields as varied as the culinary arts to computer sciences. Many universities choose to extend their on-campus degrees to online formats so that more students can have access to their offerings.

With such a wide array of online degrees available, a list would make for exhausting reading. This is why we've created a handy Degree Finder that you can use to see how the major you are interested in stacks up against others. Not sure what major is best for the career you are interested in? The same tool lets you search by occupation too!

Each online degree program has its individual application criteria and requirements. Typically, the application process includes the following steps:

• Completing an online application form
• Paying an application fee (which is often non-refundable)
• Submitting official transcripts from previous education. Some programs may require you to submit an application essay, a cover letter or references as well.
• Transferring prior educational credits as necessary
• Applying for financial aid and exploring financing options
• Going through the orientation for your online degree program

According to a survey by the Learning House, the availability of scholarships and financial aid is a strong draw for students of online degree programs. Students of accredited online degree programs may be eligible for the same financial aid, scholarships, loans and grants as students of traditional degree programs.

Many online colleges offer the services of a financial aid advisor who can help you navigate through the complexities of receiving federal financial aid and help you explore other financing options as well. If you would like to explore the topic in depth, have a look at our Guide to Financial Aid Options for Online College Students.