Best Online Accelerated Bachelor’s Degrees
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- An accelerated bachelor's degree may let you graduate in just three years.
- Consider an accelerated program if you do not work or raise children.
- You can find accelerated programs for STEM and liberal arts majors.
Online degree programs offer you the same education as on-campus learning. However, they may provide more benefits, such as accelerated bachelor's degrees. These programs require a heavier courseload and let you graduate in less than four years.
You can enroll in accelerated bachelor's degree programs for many majors. Use this article to find an accelerated undergraduate degree that aligns with your academic and career goals.
Popular accelerated bachelor's degree online programs can help you qualify for graduate school admissions or new job opportunities. Some programs may require in-person fieldwork, practica, or seminars.
Popular Online Accelerated Bachelor's Degree Programs
Schools offer many online accelerated bachelor's degree programs in healthcare, business, liberal arts, communication, and computer science. Typical majors include nursing, data analytics, cybersecurity, and criminal justice.
Read on to learn more about some of the most popular accelerated online programs.
An accelerated bachelor's degree online program can help you launch your career in less than four years. Check with schools' admissions departments to find out whether they offer these majors in an accelerated format.
Featured Online Bachelor's Degrees
1. Bachelor's in Accounting
A bachelor's in accounting prepares you for roles in accounting, bookkeeping, auditing, financial analysis, and financial management. Core requirements include courses in federal taxation, business accounting, accounting information systems, and law. You can also continue your education by pursuing certified public accountant licensure.
Featured Online Accounting Programs
2. Bachelor's in Business Administration
This program teaches you how organizations operate. Many business administration programs offer concentrations such as finance, business information technology, and healthcare management. Other options include human resources management and international business. A BBA prepares you for careers in finance, business leadership, and marketing.
Featured Online Business Administration Programs
3. Bachelor's in Communication
A bachelor's in communication program explores communication systems, technologies, and theories. You can apply your communication expertise in many careers, such as politics, marketing, human resources, business, and sales. Typical coursework covers intercultural communication, public speaking, and organizational communication.
Featured Online Communication Programs
4. Bachelor's in Computer Science
Online accelerated bachelor's in computer science programs often include classes in software security, full-stack development, and project management. Popular computer science careers for recent graduates include web developer, computer support technician, and software engineer.
Featured Online Computer Science Programs
5. Bachelor's in Counseling
An accelerated bachelor's degree in counseling emphasizes human behavior, psychology, and case management. Your counseling career opportunities depend on your specialization, such as substance misuse, mental health, or school counseling. Once you earn your undergraduate degree, you can pursue a master's degree in counseling to qualify for clinical counseling roles.
Featured Online Counseling Programs
6. Bachelor's in Criminal Justice
Online accelerated bachelor's degrees in criminal justice require coursework in the U.S. correctional system and law enforcement. There are many criminal justice career fields you can pursue with this degree, including criminology, cybersecurity, and emergency management.
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), emergency management directors earned a median annual pay of more than $75,000 per year in May 2021.
Featured Online Criminal Justice Programs
7. Bachelor's in Education
The best online programs in education prepare you for a career as an entry-level teacher. Many entry-level education careers pay more than the U.S. median salary of $45,760, depending on your state of residence. For example, high school teachers earn a median annual salary of $61,820 (BLS, May 2021).
Featured Online Education Programs
8. Bachelor's in Finance
With a core curriculum in business and finance fundamentals, an accelerated bachelor's degree in finance can prepare you for an entry-level job in the financial sector.
You can use your online accelerated finance degree to explore careers in financial analysis or management. Both careers feature a high entry-level median salary. Financial analysts, for example, make a median annual salary of $95,570 (BLS, May 2021).
Featured Online Finance Programs
9. Bachelor's in Graphic Design
An online degree in graphic design may require classes in motion, publication, and web design. You can work with your career counselor to choose a specialization. Although some entry-level careers may pay less than the U.S. median salary ($45,760), experienced professionals can earn more than $50,000 per year (BLS, May 2021).
Featured Online Graphic Design Programs
10. Bachelor's in Healthcare Administration
Accelerated online bachelor's degrees in healthcare administration require classes in organizational leadership and project management. Healthcare administration features many lucrative career opportunities, such as hospital administrator and nursing home administrator. The average salary for both careers exceeds $90,000 (Payscale, March 2023).
Featured Online Healthcare Administration Programs
11. Bachelor's in History
An online history degree blends a general education curriculum with coursework in geography, global history, and women's history. Accelerated online bachelor's in history programs prepare you for careers like curator and archivist. Professionals in these roles can earn more than $50,000 per year (BLS, May 2021).
Featured Online History Programs
12. Bachelor's in Human Resources
With classes in business fundamentals, marketing, and human behavior, online human resources degrees prepare you for entry-level HR jobs. Top careers for human resources graduates include human resources managers and specialists. Both jobs feature a median salary exceeding $60,000 per year (BLS, May 2021).
Featured Online Human Resources Programs
13. Bachelor's in Information Technology
Rigorous online information technology programs help you develop the technical and business skills you need to stand out from other job applicants. Lucrative information technology careers include information systems analyst and software developer.
With an online bachelor's degree in IT, you can pursue a variety of computer-related careers that pay more than a median of $75,000 per year (BLS, May 2021).
Featured Online Information Technology Programs
14. Bachelor's in Liberal Arts
An online accelerated bachelor's degree in liberal arts can prepare you for many career paths. Some careers for liberal arts majors include working as a technical writer, editor, or public relations specialist. As a technical writer, you can earn about $78,000 per year (BLS, May 2021).
Featured Online Liberal Arts Programs
15. Bachelor's in Marketing
In an online bachelor's in marketing program, you may take courses in economics, business, and psychology. Many entry-level marketing careers pay more than the U.S. median salary ($45,760), including market research analysts and marketing managers. Market research analysts, for example, make a median annual salary of about $63,000 (BLS, May 2021).
Featured Online Marketing Programs
16. Bachelor's in Nursing (BSN)
An accelerated bachelor's degree in nursing typically includes classes in pathophysiology, microbiology, and pharmacology. In-person clinical rotations complement online coursework and prepare you for the NCLEX-RN Exam. You may start your career as a registered nurse, a position with a median salary exceeding $77,000 per year (BLS, May 2021).
Featured Online Nursing Programs
17. Bachelor's in Psychology
An online bachelor's in psychology helps you develop transferable skills that you can apply to a variety of entry-level psychology careers. Some graduates go on to pursue a master's or professional degree in psychology to work in clinical positions.
A licensed psychologist with a doctoral degree can earn more than $80,000 per year (BLS, May 2021).
Featured Online Psychology Programs
18. Bachelor's in Public Relations
An online bachelor's in public relations prepares you for a career in a variety of industries, including business and entertainment. Entry-level careers for public relations majors include public relations specialists and coordinators. Public relations specialists earn a median annual salary of about $62,000 (BLS, May 2021).
Featured Online Public Relations Programs
19. Bachelor's in Social Work
Online social work degrees often include an in-person internship or practicum. Depending on your state's licensure requirements, a BSW may qualify you to work as a social worker or substance misuse counselor. These positions earn a median annual salary of about $48,000 and $50,000, respectively (BLS, May 2021).
Featured Online Social Work Programs
Admission Requirements
Most accelerated bachelor's programs have the same admission requirements as traditional programs. Degree-completion programs may also include minimum age requirements.
Some schools also request online or in-person interviews. The following list includes typical admission requirements for many accelerated online bachelor's programs.
Application
You may submit applications through a school's website. The application form typically asks for general contact information, your college GPA, extracurricular activities, and awards you've received.
In addition, some schools request a professional resume and a personal statement or college application essay. Accelerated programs vary in their admission requirements, so make sure to research the specific requirements at your prospective programs before applying.
Transferable Credits
Some programs require you to hold a certain number of transferable credits. For example, degree-completion programs may require you to have 60 credits. Many schools offer online courses to help you fulfill the necessary credit requirements for enrolling in an accelerated bachelor's program.
Associate Degree
Some programs require you to hold an associate degree or complete the school's general education requirements. Programs that require an associate degree typically consist of upper-level coursework and may be completed in 1-2 years.
Letters of Recommendation
Many schools request 2-3 letters of recommendation. Ideally, these references should come from people who can attest to your ability to succeed and persevere in a demanding accelerated learning environment.
Consider asking for letters of recommendation from past professors or high school teachers, academic advisors, and employers.
Work Experience
Some programs require a minimum amount of work experience in a particular field. For example, an accelerated online bachelor's in business administration may require two years of experience in a business-related profession.
You may gain this experience through professional employment or by working with volunteer organizations.
Official Transcripts
You often must submit official transcripts from all colleges you have attended. You may also need to provide high school transcripts if you earned a limited number of credits from community colleges or other institutions. Minimum GPA requirements differ between programs, ranging from about 2.0-3.0.
How Do I Choose an Accelerated Online Program?
Choosing an accelerated bachelor's degree requires analyzing different programs' tuition rates, formats, and other factors. Research your prospective college's website and contact admissions departments to find out the latest information.
Cost
Tuition costs for accelerated online bachelor's programs can range from about $300-$1,195 per credit. Generally, you will find higher tuition at private universities and lower costs at in-state public colleges.
Additional online program costs for you to consider include technology and assessment fees. Make sure to compare the costs of on-campus vs. online college programs before applying.
Program Format
Many accelerated bachelor's degree online programs offer an asynchronous learning format. This enables you to set your own study schedule while completing assignments and taking tests within given periods.
Typically, accelerated programs compress classes into 5- to 10-week sessions. You could also decide to follow a full-time or part-time schedule to earn your degree in 2-3 years.
Location
Some online programs require on-campus participation, such as a one-time orientation or an ongoing field experience. In addition, if you are pursuing internships or looking to relocate, you may want to consider a local school, particularly if it provides networking opportunities. Also, some online programs charge out-of-state student fees.
Accreditation
Accreditation ensures colleges meet high educational standards. Make sure the Council for Higher Education Accreditation or the U.S. Department of Education recognizes your school's accrediting agency. Proper accreditation can also make it easier to transfer credits.
If you attend an improperly accredited institution, you cannot qualify for federal financial aid, and employers may not acknowledge your degree. In addition to school accreditation, some specific programs may also earn programmatic accreditation.
Student Support
Many accelerated online bachelor's degree programs offer student support services. This support can be crucial to your success and ability to complete a program.
Some online student services to look for include student and professional mentorships, tutoring, academic advising, and career guidance. In addition, some programs offer support in finding a local internship placement.
Best Accredited Two-Year Online Bachelor's Programs
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Campbellsville University
Campbellsville, KY - 4 years
- Online + Campus
100% Online | Self-Paced Classes
Avg. Cost per Credit
In State | $399
Out of State | $399
Credits to Graduate
120
Program Information
Program Accreditation | International Accreditation Council for Business Education (BBA)
CU — a Christian university in Kentucky — offers an online bachelor's in business administration. BBA students may choose from six concentrations: accounting, business information technology, healthcare management, human resource management, management, and marketing.
Learners can transfer up to 72 credits and earn their degree in as little as two years. Core requirements include courses in accounting, marketing, management, and microeconomics. This online BBA program prepares graduates for roles like logistician, customer success manager, and finance manager.
ROI Value Score: Low
We’ve reviewed hundreds of schools to find the ones that give you the best bang for your buck.
We compared how much you could earn in 10 years with a degree from this school versus only having a high school diploma. Then we compared that amount against school costs and financial aid opportunities. A higher return for your investment results in a higher score for this school.
City University of Seattle
Seattle, WA - 4 years
- Online + Campus
100% Online | Self-Paced Classes
Avg. Cost per Credit
In State | $420
Out of State | $420
Credits to Graduate
180 quarter credits
Program Information
Program Accreditation | N/A
CityU is a private nonprofit institution that offers several online programs, including bachelor's options in management, cybersecurity, and data science. As part of the National University System, the school offers accelerated options for adult learners. Depending on their previous experience, learners can graduate in as little as two years.
Students can take flexible four-week classes to fulfill their general education requirements quickly. Additionally, a prior learning assessment program enables students to earn up to 45 credits by demonstrating knowledge gained through professional and life experiences.
ROI Value Score: High
We’ve reviewed hundreds of schools to find the ones that give you the best bang for your buck.
We compared how much you could earn in 10 years with a degree from this school versus only having a high school diploma. Then we compared that amount against school costs and financial aid opportunities. A higher return for your investment results in a higher score for this school.
Utica College
Utica, NY - 4 years
- Online + Campus
100% Online | Self-Paced Classes
Avg. Cost per Credit
In State | $400-$475
Out of State | $400-$475
Credits to Graduate
120
Program Information
Program Accreditation | N/A
Utica's numerous online programs include bachelor's in accounting, business administration, business data analytics, cybersecurity operations management, cybersecurity, fraud and financial crime investigation, healthcare management, health sciences, and nursing.
Online students receive access to Microsoft Office, a success coach, and online therapy with a licensed mental health counselor. Admission requirements include a minimum cumulative high school GPA of 3.0. Experienced students may be able to complete some programs in about two years.
ROI Value Score: Medium
We’ve reviewed hundreds of schools to find the ones that give you the best bang for your buck.
We compared how much you could earn in 10 years with a degree from this school versus only having a high school diploma. Then we compared that amount against school costs and financial aid opportunities. A higher return for your investment results in a higher score for this school.
San Diego State University
San Diego, CA - 4 years
- Online + Campus
100% Online | Self-Paced Classes
Avg. Cost per Credit
In State | $431-$491
Out of State | $431-$491
Credits to Graduate
120
Program Information
Program Accreditation | N/A
SDSU's Global Campus offers several online bachelor's programs, including American Indian studies, business administration, criminal justice, economics, and public health. These degree completion programs require 60 transferable credits and can be completed in about two years. Minimum GPA requirements range from 2.0-2.9, depending on the program.
SDSU provides several virtual opportunities for online students, such as esports leagues, student success and career services, and leadership workshops. Additionally, online learners may attend virtual wellness sessions in yoga, fitness, meditation, and other activities.
ROI Value Score: High
We’ve reviewed hundreds of schools to find the ones that give you the best bang for your buck.
We compared how much you could earn in 10 years with a degree from this school versus only having a high school diploma. Then we compared that amount against school costs and financial aid opportunities. A higher return for your investment results in a higher score for this school.
University of Colorado Boulder
Boulder, CO - 4 years
- Online + Campus
100% Online | Self-Paced Classes
Avg. Cost per Credit
In State | $740
Out of State | $847
Credits to Graduate
45
Program Information
Program Accreditation | N/A
CU-Boulder's online BS in applied computer science post-baccalaureate program is designed for students who already hold a bachelor's degree. CU-Boulder recommends that working adults allow 2-3 years to complete this degree, although an accelerated pathway can expedite graduation.
Core courses focus on computer science, software development, programming languages, and algorithms. Elective coursework includes options like data science, artificial intelligence, data mining, and cybersecurity. According to CU-Boulder, more than 90% of its computer science undergraduates find employment within six months of earning their degree.
ROI Value Score: High
We’ve reviewed hundreds of schools to find the ones that give you the best bang for your buck.
We compared how much you could earn in 10 years with a degree from this school versus only having a high school diploma. Then we compared that amount against school costs and financial aid opportunities. A higher return for your investment results in a higher score for this school.
Brescia University
Owensboro, KY - 4 years
- Online + Campus
100% Online | Self-Paced Classes
Avg. Cost per Credit
In State | $425
Out of State | $425
Credits to Graduate
128
Program Information
Program Accreditation | N/A
This Catholic university offers online bachelor's programs in accounting, psychology, integrated studies, theology, social work, and business. The eight-week course format helps experienced learners earn a degree in as little as two years. Social work and theology majors must complete a field placement in addition to online classes.
Students may transfer in up to 86 credits from a four-year college or 67 credits from a community college. Students with less than 45 transferable credits may complete an online associate degree before entering their degree completion program.
ROI Value Score: Medium
We’ve reviewed hundreds of schools to find the ones that give you the best bang for your buck.
We compared how much you could earn in 10 years with a degree from this school versus only having a high school diploma. Then we compared that amount against school costs and financial aid opportunities. A higher return for your investment results in a higher score for this school.
Aurora University
Aurora, IL - 4 years
- Online + Campus
100% Online | Self-Paced Classes
Avg. Cost per Credit
In State | $425
Out of State | $425
Credits to Graduate
120
Program Information
Program Accreditation | N/A
AU's online programs are designed for students with two or more years of relevant life or work experience. Accelerated bachelor's programs are available in nine areas, including business administration, cybersecurity, healthcare administration, social work, and psychology.
Programs may accept up to 90 credits from a four-year college or university and up to 68 credits from a junior college. Students can save money in classes that use free digital education resources instead of traditional textbooks. The school offers local placement support for programs that require internships.
ROI Value Score: Medium
We’ve reviewed hundreds of schools to find the ones that give you the best bang for your buck.
We compared how much you could earn in 10 years with a degree from this school versus only having a high school diploma. Then we compared that amount against school costs and financial aid opportunities. A higher return for your investment results in a higher score for this school.
University of Arkansas-Fort Smith
Fort Smith, AR - 4 years
- Online + Campus
100% Online | Self-Paced Classes
Avg. Cost per Credit
In State | $256-$302
Out of State | $256-$302
Credits to Graduate
120
Program Information
Program Accreditation | Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (LPN- and RN-to-BSN)
U of A offers a dozen online bachelor's programs, some of which can be completed in about two years. Nursing programs include degree completion pathways for LPNs and RNs. Students can earn a BS in nursing by completing online coursework and clinical experiences.
Students can also pursue a bachelor's in human resource and workforce development education. To qualify for this program, applicants must take certain prerequisites and hold at least three years of full-time work experience and a minimum 2.5 GPA.
ROI Value Score: Medium
We’ve reviewed hundreds of schools to find the ones that give you the best bang for your buck.
We compared how much you could earn in 10 years with a degree from this school versus only having a high school diploma. Then we compared that amount against school costs and financial aid opportunities. A higher return for your investment results in a higher score for this school.
Cleveland State University
Cleveland, OH - 4 years
- Online + Campus
100% Online | Self-Paced Classes
Avg. Cost per Credit
In State | $240-$509
Out of State | $240-$716
Credits to Graduate
120
Program Information
Program Accreditation | Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (RN-to-BSN), Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (BBA)
Students at CSU can choose from three online degree completion pathways. Requirements for the online RN-to-BSN program include holding an active Ohio RN license and a minimum grade of "C" in prerequisite coursework. Students may complete this accelerated program in one year.
Applicants to the BA in organizational leadership or BBA program must possess 60 credits and a minimum GPA of 2.0. Students may also apply for prior learning experience credit.
ROI Value Score: Medium
We’ve reviewed hundreds of schools to find the ones that give you the best bang for your buck.
We compared how much you could earn in 10 years with a degree from this school versus only having a high school diploma. Then we compared that amount against school costs and financial aid opportunities. A higher return for your investment results in a higher score for this school.
Biola University
La Mirada, CA - 4 years
- Online + Campus
100% Online | Self-Paced Classes
Avg. Cost per Credit
In State | $604
Out of State | $604
Credits to Graduate
120
Program Information
Program Accreditation | N/A
Biola offers 10 online bachelor's programs, including options like applied psychology; Bible, theology, and apologetics; biblical ministries; business management; and public relations and digital media management.
Accelerated programs include 7-week courses that enable experienced students to complete their degree in as little as two years. Students may transfer in up to 70 credits and earn credits based on prior work or volunteer experience. Applicants must adhere to the Christian faith.
ROI Value Score: Low
We’ve reviewed hundreds of schools to find the ones that give you the best bang for your buck.
We compared how much you could earn in 10 years with a degree from this school versus only having a high school diploma. Then we compared that amount against school costs and financial aid opportunities. A higher return for your investment results in a higher score for this school.
Featured Online Bachelor's Degrees
Frequently Asked Questions About Accelerated Online Bachelor's Programs
Is an accelerated bachelor's degree worth it?
An accelerated bachelor's degree can be worth it if you are looking to enter the workforce quickly or advance in your current position. An accelerated program requires strong time management skills and keeping up with an intensive pace.
However, it can also lead to increased potential earnings by entering your field sooner than you would if completing a traditional four-year program.
You should expect the same coursework as a conventional program, covering identical material in a concentrated time. Because you'll spend less time in school, you may also save money on associated costs.
Can I finish my bachelor's degree online?
Yes. Many online degree-completion programs are designed for students who started their undergraduate degree but did not finish. Other programs target students who earned their associate degree, or veterans who want to leverage their experience and skills.
You may face challenges completing a program for several reasons, including financial hardship, work schedules, and family responsibilities. But online programs offer the flexibility to help working adults and those caring for family members pursue their academic goals. Asynchronous learning formats can provide more schedule flexibility.
What is the fastest way to finish a bachelor's degree?
The quickest way to complete a bachelor's degree is to take advantage of all the options a school offers to reduce completion times. These options include taking accelerated courses, transferring credits, and completing tests to earn credits for prior knowledge of a subject.
You can take tests through CLEP and the DANTES Subject Standardized Tests. In addition, taking AP courses and passing the AP exams in high school may result in college credits or allow you to skip general education courses. If you have several years of work or military experience, you can also receive credits for life experience.
Can you complete a bachelor's degree in one year?
You can complete a bachelor's degree in one year if you have a sufficient number of transferable credits and enroll in an accelerated bachelor's degree program. Any opportunity to earn more college credits can speed up the time to completion.
Finishing your degree in one year may require full-time and year-round enrollment. You should prepare yourself for intense workloads and keep your end goals in sight if you find yourself overwhelmed. Because online programs offer greater flexibility, you can usually schedule your studies around work and other commitments.
