Find the Right Online Degree for You
Our team has evaluated 50+ online universities, analyzed graduation rates and career outcomes, and surveyed thousands of online students - so you can choose a program that actually delivers on its promises.
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Our Top Picks
Hand-picked by our expert team after extensive testing.
Western Governors University
WGU pioneered the competency-based model that lets you progress as fast as you can demonstrate mastery. With flat-rate tuition of ~$4,000 per 6-month term (take unlimited courses), motivated students regularly finish bachelor's degrees in 18-24 months. WGU is regionally accredited and consistently ranks among the best values in higher education.
Pros
- +Best value in online education - flat-rate tuition rewards fast learners
- +Competency-based model lets experienced professionals finish degrees quickly
- +Strong employer recognition - especially in IT, business, healthcare, and education
- +Regionally accredited with strong graduation and satisfaction rates
Cons
- −Self-paced format requires strong self-discipline and motivation
- −Limited social interaction - no traditional campus community
- −Not ideal for students who need structured schedules and regular deadlines
Southern New Hampshire University
SNHU offers over 200 online degree programs with some of the most affordable per-credit tuition in the country. Their 24/7 support, generous transfer credit policy (up to 90 credits), and 8-week term structure make them one of the most student-friendly online universities for working adults.
Pros
- +Widest selection of online programs - almost any field of study available
- +Very affordable per-credit tuition for both undergraduate and graduate programs
- +Generous transfer policy lets you bring in prior credits from almost any source
- +Structured 8-week terms with clear deadlines - good for students who need structure
Cons
- −Large enrollment means less personalized attention from advisors
- −Brand perception is still growing among some employers in competitive fields
- −Not competency-based - you must complete each course regardless of prior knowledge
Purdue University Global
Purdue Global combines the brand power of the Purdue University system with a fully online format designed for working adults. The ExcelTrack competency-based option lets experienced students accelerate, while traditional course-based programs offer structured learning paths.
Pros
- +Purdue name carries weight with employers across industries
- +ExcelTrack option provides competency-based acceleration like WGU
- +Strong career services and employer partnerships
- +Military-friendly with Yellow Ribbon and tuition discounts
Cons
- −Slightly higher tuition than WGU and SNHU for comparable programs
- −Brand is 'Purdue Global' not 'Purdue University' - some employers distinguish
- −Student reviews cite occasional advisor responsiveness issues
Latest Resources
Guides, tips, and industry insights from our editorial team.
How to Choose the Best Online Degree Program in 2026: The Complete Decision Guide
After evaluating 50+ programs and surveying 8,000 online students, we built a step-by-step framework for finding the right program for your career goals and budget.
How Much Does an Online Degree Cost in 2026? Complete Pricing Breakdown
Online degree costs range from $12,000 to $100,000+ depending on the school and program. Here's what students actually pay, broken down by degree level and institution type.
Online Degree Accreditation: Why It Matters and How to Verify It
Accreditation is the single most important factor in choosing an online program. An unaccredited degree can be worthless. Here's how to check and what the different types mean.
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