Types of Degree Programs

Many online colleges offer several degree programs including an associate’s degree, a bachelors degree and post-graduate programs like masters degrees. Each type of degree program has required courses that must be passed in order to earn the degree. The shortest program is the associate’s degree, which is available in many different subjects including healthcare, technology, computer science, HVAC, web design, business administration, history and social sciences.

Associates Degrees

Generally, the more education an individual has, the higher that person’s earning power will be regardless of the career field. An associate’s degree provides students with an opportunity to enter their chosen field quickly. Getting an associate’s online degree still allows the student to continue his or her education and earn a bachelors degree while working. A few careers, like engineering and teaching, may require a bachelor’s degree for entry level positions.

If a student or professional has already earned a bachelors degree, it may be time to consider a masters or an MBA for further career advancement. MBAs can serve advantageous in a multitude of industries and sectors, making management candidates more well-rounded and able to climb the corporate latter.

Choosing A College Degree Program

Many colleges and universities offer at least some courses online and some schools offer most of their courses through home study on a computer. Even schools which offer most courses online may require that some classes be attended at their facility, particularly for degrees in the healthcare field. It is usually best to choose an online college or university with a campus facility near the student’s home. Financial aid programs and scholarships may also influence the choice of college.

Student Loans For Online Students

Student loans for continuing education are usually available through the Financial Aid Department of the college offering the online degree, and are typically in the form of subsidized and non-subsidized Stafford Loans. Student loan repayments are usually deferred until the degree is earned or the student stops taking classes, at which time, the student has a grace period of 6 months before payments begin. It is not necessary to provide collateral for student loans and the interest rates are low, usually between 5% and 6.8% for government loans. In most cases, the student loans are provided to cover the cost of the courses that are taken each semester and a minimum course load may be required.

Pell Grants

Grants do not have to be paid back, and Pell grants are offered to students through the federal government. Students must complete a minimum of 12 credit hours per semester to be eligible for a Pell grant. A GPA of 3.0 is required for continuing eligibility, and Pell grants pay up to $3,000 per semester and do not have to be repaid as long as the student meets minimum eligibility requirements. The student must be enrolled in an online degree program and be taking classes before he or she can receive money from a Pell grant.

Online Degree

An online degree program can offer many advantages, especially for students who are already members of the work force. In most cases students can work at their own pace, although those receiving financial aid may have to complete courses within a set time frame. An online degree can open the doors to a new career or increase an individual’s earning potential while he or she continues working at their current job.

Information Technology

Computer-related training is one of the most beneficial areas of study for job advancement, as well as career changes. Online college degrees in web design and programming are ideal for individuals interested in becoming their own boss or looking for additional income to supplement their current position. A bachelor of science in information technology can open the door to a variety of lucrative jobs, including careers in animation, software development, computer security, and systems analysis. Online master’s degrees are also available in information systems and IT for professionals looking to make a jump in their career or switch career paths altogether.

Business and Management

There are several online college degrees in business that offer opportunities in a variety of industries. With a business associate’s degree, it is possible to find jobs in the hospitality industry, as well as business management, finance, and accounting jobs in many fields. A Bachelor of Business Administration and Bachelor of Science in Business degrees can be the springboard to land careers in banking, accounting, marketing, health care management, or management positions in any industry. Many students and career professionals are earning online college degrees in business to become more successful entrepreneurs as well.

Education

Teachers are also taking advantage of the convenience of earning an online degree, especially those who would like to attain their Masters of Education degree, doctorate, or even teacher certifications. Associate and bachelor degrees in education are also available through most online colleges. These degrees provide the education needed to find a job as a certified teacher, teaching assistant or an elementary school teacher, and require the necessary field experience that will help the student succeed in the education industry.

Health Care

Moving into the health care industry is one of today’s most common career changes. Online college degrees are available in a number of health care related specialties to make it easier for individuals to enter this profitable job market. A Bachelor of Science in Health Administration degree can lead to management positions in hospitals, emergency rooms, physician’s offices, and long-term care centers. The courses needed to become a RN, a massage therapist, or a pharmacy technician can also be taken through many online colleges.

Criminal Justice

Qualified criminal justice professionals are also in high demand in the modern employment market. Online college degrees make it possible to become a paralegal, a corrections officer, or a human services worker. Law enforcement studies are available as well with concentrations in forensics, investigating, psychology, and more. It is even possible to get a job in the field of homeland security with an online college degree. Many criminal justice students work toward online degrees that will lead to promotions in their current positions.

Online College Degrees

These are only a few of the many degrees that are available through online colleges and universities. Other online college degrees include graphic and web design, degrees in the fashion industry, communications, interior design, and engineering. Whether you are looking to make a career change or earn a promotion, there’s an online college degree program that can help you do it.

Ashford University Online

With an established history of providing quality higher education for nearly a century, Ashford University has online degree programs in human services, health care, education, journalism, and more. Ashford is one of the top online schools for adults who are ready to finish a degree without neglecting their career. Up to 99 approved credits from previous coursework can transfer to Ashford to help students attain their degrees faster.

Colorado Technical Institute

Another school known for its high standards, CTU has provided students with essential career skills for almost 50 years. A wide range of online programs are offered for undergraduate and graduate students, including human services, MBAs, and software systems engineering. The support, flexibility, and interactive resources are what make CTU one of the top online schools for working adults, as well as recent graduates.

Everest University Online

Everest University has traditional campuses throughout the United States, as well as one of the top online schools in the nation. Students can benefit from expert instructors, around the clock support, and the respect of earning a degree from a nationally recognized, accredited online university. Associate and bachelor’s degrees are offered in homeland security, accounting, paralegal, and other in-demand career fields.

Florida Tech University

Recognized by US News and World Report as one of America’s top universities, the Florida Institute of Technology has an intriguing selection of online degree and certification programs. From forensic psychology to health care management, there are options for new students as well as working adults. Florida Tech is the only online school that offers the Mini MBA program for busy adults interested in beginning their Master’s degree.

Walden University

One of the first schools to offer distance learning was Walden University. Founded in 1970 to provide working teachers with a way to earn their doctoral degree, Walden now offers nearly 200 online degree specializations in the areas of education, social services, health science, and more. Walden was the first school to provide students with a 100% online Master’s in Education program, and is one of the top online schools for degrees that encourage positive social change.

Top Online Schools

In 2009, 12 million college students took classes online and experts suggest that almost all post-secondary students will attend at least one class for their degree from an online school by 2014. The number of online institutions will also continue to grow to meet this demand. Before enrolling in an online degree program, research several of the top online schools that meet your requirements and make a well-informed decision on which school is best for you. Be sure to check an online college’s accreditation, student feedback and reviews, and request free information from the school through us to learn about all the programs and degrees the university has to offer. Some top online schools even offer demonstrations of their courses online to make your decision easier and help you determine if it is a learning environment you would thrive in.

Strayer University

Serving the educational needs of working adults since 1892, Strayer University is considered one of the best online colleges because of their ability to adapt your online degree to almost any schedule. Students earning an online degree at Strayer have the option of completing their classes online or on-campus, or their course load may be a combination of the two. Strayer University is also one of the few online colleges that operate on the quarter system, allowing students to complete their degrees faster.

Kaplan University

Also an established online university, Kaplan University was founded in 1937 and offers classes in both virtual and traditional settings as well. Kaplan’s extensive selection of online courses, degrees, and certifications make it one of the best online colleges. From elementary test prep and tutoring to English language programs and master’s degrees, there are more than 100 online programs available at Kaplan.

Rasmussen College

Another online college with a long history of providing quality education, Rasmussen College began as a business school to meet the educational demands of the workforce at the turn of the 20th century. Rasmussen currently has 5 traditional campuses, along with one of the best online colleges. Students can earn online degrees in health care, business, technology and design, criminal justice, and education. Pharmacy technician and paralegal certification courses are available as well.

University of Phoenix

It isn’t the oldest online college, but University of Phoenix is the largest. With more than 200 traditional campuses and a tremendous selection of online courses, programs, and degrees, University of Phoenix is rightfully known as one of the best online colleges. From students earning associate, bachelor, master, and doctoral degrees to those taking enrichment courses for job advancement, University of Phoenix provides an interactive learning environment with personalized support for a great online degree experience.

American Intercontinental University

With 4 campus locations in South Florida, Atlanta, Houston, and London, as well as an award-winning virtual campus, AIU offers graduate and undergraduate degree programs with specializations in many of today’s top career paths, including forensic science, network analysis, and health care management. AIU’s up-to-date curricula and versatile online learning formats are what make it one of the best online colleges to get a degree from.

Capella University

Capella University is much younger than the schools mentioned above, but gained recognition quickly as one of the best online colleges after receiving accreditation in 1993. With no traditional campuses, Capella University offers a 100% online degree with 43 different degree programs, and enrolls students from 59 different countries. Graduates from Capella experience high success rates, and generally advance quickly in their field.

Best Online Colleges

From the course of study to how the material is taught, there are many things to consider when choosing an online college. Students should look for an accredited school with good student reviews that can meet your study and scheduling needs. Many of the best online colleges offer a free demonstration of their learning formats, and some may also provide a tour of their resource and support services. Take the time to compare all the features before deciding on the best online college for your degree or program of interest.

University of Phoenix

Established in 1976, University of Phoenix is North America’s largest private university. University of Phoenix is nationally accredited and has more than 200 campuses, as well as online classes. An extensive catalog of courses, personalized support, and cutting-edge curriculum make University of Phoenix one of the best online schools for both graduate and undergraduate degrees, as well as certifications and continuing education classes.

Kaplan University Online

Kaplan University was founded in 1937 and has offered online courses for more than 10 years. Kaplan’s online catalog includes courses in over 100 programs, including primary and secondary education, English language programs, and exam preparation. Online degrees and certifications are available in business, legal studies, nursing, and many other majors. Kaplan is an accredited online college with flexible options for every educational need.

Capella University

With students across the globe in over 50 countries, Capella University is known as one of the best online schools for their tremendous selection of programs and courses, as well as the success rates of their graduates. Capella began in 1993, offering doctorate degrees in just four areas. Today, the online university gives both graduate and undergraduate students the opportunity to pursue an online degree in more than 130 specializations.

American Intercontinental University

Since 1970, American Intercontinental University has provided undergraduate and graduate students with industry-current degree programs in information technology, design, education, criminal justice, and business. AIU Online started in 2001 and became the fifth AIU campus in 2002. AIU was named one of the best online schools in the 2009 Computer World Honors Program and continues to be a leader in career-specific training.

Strayer University

Founded in 1892 to provide working adults with educational opportunities Strayer University is one of the best online schools for students who need a flexible schedule while earning their degree. Unlike most colleges, Strayer operates on quarters rather than semesters. This allows students to take more courses in a year and to graduate faster. Those enrolled in a Strayer degree program can take classes online, as well as on-campus at locations throughout the eastern US.

Rasmussen College

After launching the Rasmussen Practical School of Business in 1900, Rasmussen College has continued to evolve to provide students with the tools they need to succeed in a modern business environment. Today, Rasmussen offers degrees in technology and design, education, health sciences, justice, and business through 5 campus locations as well as a convenient online school. Exceptional student support and career placement services make Rasmussen a favorite among online colleges.

Best Online Schools

Earning an online degree is a great option for students of all ages, from established professionals working toward a master’s degree or PhD to high school graduates pursuing an associate’s or bachelor’s degree. There are dozens of online schools and universities that offer a variety of programs and courses. Be sure to check an online college’s accreditation and student reviews, as well as the course catalog, before deciding on the best online schools to compare. Online-Degree-Schools.net can help students by providing free information requests and catalogues to help you compare the top online schools and colleges and determine which offers the best degree program for your needs.

Criminal Justice

One of the best online programs for an intriguing career path that allows an individual to protect his or her fellow citizens is in criminal justice. From courses in criminal profiling and online security to learning the basics of the legal system or becoming a paralegal, earning an online degree in criminal justice can create opportunities for jobs in law enforcement, Homeland Security, and investigation. Online programs are offered for associate and bachelor’s degrees, as well as graduate programs with master’s degrees. There are also online certification programs for paralegals, security professionals, and other popular positions.

Nursing

The demand for nurses is growing at a rapid rate. There are many different types of nurses that are needed in hospitals, physician’s offices, and care centers, and just as many online nursing programs that help students attain these positions. One of the best online programs is the RN-to-BSN degree, which allows registered nurses (RNs) to work toward their Bachelor of Science in nursing degree using the field experience gained through their daily work responsibilities. Online nursing programs are available for dental assistants, medical technicians, and therapists as well.

Computer and IT

Graduates with computer training are a must in today’s technologically advanced workforce. From software development and web design to network security and data communications analysis, there are several important positions in the IT industry. The best online programs for IT professionals typically make use of the latest technology, offering anytime access from all web enabled devices, real-time interaction with faculty and classmates, and downloadable podcasts of course material.

Business

A strong business sense is also a tremendous asset in the current job market. An individual with a business degree can take a number of career paths, including operations management, finance and human resources, or may even choose to go into business for themselves with an entrepreneurship degree. The best online programs in business include degrees with specializations in marketing, accounting, and e-commerce. MBAs are also popular online degree programs, especially for business professionals that would like to advance into executive management positions. Many online schools have respected MBA programs that students and professionals can learn more about by requesting free information to compare colleges and degrees.

Health Care

Online programs in health care can open many different doors in the job market as well. Health care administration is one of the best online programs for individuals seeking a field that is in high demand. There is also a need for more medical transcriptionists and coders in the health care industry. Degrees and certifications for these positions, as well as massage therapists, pharmacy technicians, counselors, and other personal care professions can be earned through most online colleges.

From career switches to promotions, online degree programs are the most convenient way to earn the education needed to reach your career goals while still balancing the responsibilities of everyday life. The best online programs feature student support services, interactive class settings, and a variety of multi-media instruction methods to benefit every learning style.

Health Care

A large portion of the job market is made up of positions in the health care industry, accounting for half of the fastest-growing occupations. One of the best online degrees in health care is in health administration. Health service manager positions are available in hospitals, doctor’s offices, and long-term care services, with the demand continuing to grow in each field. The average graduate with an online degree in healthcare makes over $93,000 a year and the possibility of advancement is favorable. There are dozens of online schools offering degrees and programs in healthcare; all students have to do is request free information to learn more about online colleges.

Nursing

Nursing is another example of the many job opportunities within the health care industry. The Department of Labor forecasts at least 600,000 new jobs for RNs within the next 10 years, and average annual salaries of about $67,700. The best online degrees in nursing can be earned through an accredited online college and are ideal for those who are already working in the field of nursing and would like to move ahead, as well as individuals wanting to enter the health care industry. Online colleges also offer master’s degrees in nursing for those professionals interested in improving their career path and increasing their salary.

Information Technology

Like the health care industry, careers in the IT field pay well and are growing at a fast pace. Computer systems analysis jobs, for example, are expected to increase by 20% before 2018 and typically earn about $81,000 per year. The best online degrees in computers are those with concentrations in systems analysis, networking, systems security, and web design. The fields of software development and programming are also positive paths for career changes and offer plenty of room for advancement.

Criminal Justice

Jobs in the field of criminal justice are also in high demand. Available positions for probation and corrections officers, as well as security managers, are increasing each year and are projected to continue. Online degrees in criminal justice are best for detectives and inspectors seeking promotions, individuals interested in working in the field of Homeland Security, and anyone who would like a career in law enforcement or criminal justice. Concentrations in forensic science or case management are also popular.

Business

The versatility of a degree in business makes it one of the best online degrees to pursue. Depending on the focus, a business degree can open the door to careers in finance, accounting, economics, management, and much more. Graduates with business degree specializations in marketing can make an average of more than $66,500 per year, while small business owners who earn online degrees in business often surpass 6-figure incomes while also having the freedom of working for themselves.

Best Online Degrees

Whether it’s an online degree in criminal justice to increase the odds of job advancement, or a nursing degree to make a positive career change, online degrees offer flexibility for adults who want a quality education without disrupting their everyday routine. The best online degrees allow graduates to enjoy rewarding, in-demand careers in a variety of well-paying industries.