Has anyone here found a regionally accredited online college that doesn't cost an arm and a leg? I'm thinking about going this route to have flexibility with my location and schedule, but I want to make sure I'm getting a quality education. Rigor, course variety, student support, transferable credits—these are all important to me too. Thanks!
Several regionally accredited online colleges offer affordable degree programs that you might find suitable. Keep in mind that prices can vary based on the specific degree you're seeking, but typically, these institutions are considerably less expensive than traditional colleges while still offering academic rigor, variety of courses, and generous student support.
1. Western Governors University: This school operates mainly online, offering numerous bachelor's and master's degree programs in business, education, information technology, health, and nursing. The tuition cost is based on a six-month term, not per credit hour, which appeals to many students who can complete more classes in a term without additional charges.
2. Southern New Hampshire University: SNHU offers an extensive selection of online programs ranging from associates to PhD level. They are known for their flexible course structure and strong student support services.
3. Arizona State University: ASU offers a wide variety of online degree programs through their ASU Online platform. They charge a flat tuition rate per course, not per credit, so the faster you progress, the more you save.
4. Florida International University: FIU Online offers numerous online degree programs and is noted for its aggressive tuition strategies, aiming to make college education accessible and affordable.
5. Purdue University Global: This is the online branch of the renowned Purdue University system, offering a wide array of programs tailored to working adults. It focuses on affordability with competitive tuition rates.
Make sure to dig into each school and course you're considering. Look at course syllabi if they’re available, check the school's accreditation status, and get a sense of how well graduates from your prospective program fare in the job market.
Remember, financial aid and scholarships are available for online students too, and many online programs have tuition payment plans, which can bring down the curse of sticker shock.
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