The most popular online schools are brick and mortar schools that have expanded with online programs to offer students more options. Getting a degree from an accredited college or university still makes a lot of sense if you want to distance yourself from dead-end jobs that don’t pay living wages.
The flexibility of web-based, distance learning makes it possible for almost anyone to earn a four-year degree in a hot career field. Here are some of the most popular online schools in these key career areas:
Top Online Universities for Business Programs
Southern New Hampshire University
Southern New Hampshire University (SNHU) is a private school that has offered business-related educational programs since 1932 when it was called the New Hampshire School of Accounting and Secretarial Science.
Today, SNHU is a leader in online business programs and delivers four-year degree programs in accounting, business administration, and finance. Its online degree programs are delivered in a self-paced format. You submit weekly assignments on pre-set days and participate in class discussions by posting comments and questions on digital message boards.
Purdue University Global
Purdue University Global offers online degree programs in accounting, business administration, and finance. The public school’s 100 percent online delivery format caters to busy adults who want to switch careers or return to school to complete a degree. Purdue students have the option of taking business courses solely online or attending some classes in person at one of the school’s Indiana campuses.
The Purdue University Global difference is its vetted, experienced staff. About 97 percent of Purdue’s professors have advanced degrees. Purdue University Global is confident that you’ll love your academic experience at the school and offers a three-week introductory learning period. Test drive your new Purdue University Global business degree program for three weeks by only paying the application fee.
Ashford University
Ashford University is an online school that caters to working adults who need a flexible learning format and a robust business curriculum to achieve their career goals. Students can choose to learn at their own pace or follow an accelerated schedule that allows them to finish a course in five weeks. Ashford offers online business degrees in these specialties:
- Accounting
- Business Administration
- Entrepreneurship
- Finance
- Information Technology
- Marketing
- Real Estate Studies
- Supply Chain Management
Top Online Universities for Education and Teaching
University of Phoenix
The University of Phoenix offers online degree programs in a variety of education specialty areas. You can earn a four-year education degree in Early Childhood Education and Elementary Teacher Education.
If you need an advanced degree, the University of Phoenix delivers customizable programs in Adult Education and Training, Administration and Supervision, and Educational Leadership. It features instructors who have decades of real-world experience that supports their academic credentials.
Walden University
Walden University offers online education degree programs for educators who want to move up in their field. You can earn an advanced degree in these areas:
- Early Childhood Studies
- Higher Education
- Instructional Design and Technology
Walden University is known for offering valuable experiential learning opportunities such as residencies, practicums, and internships.
Liberty University
Liberty University is a faith-based, private school that offers online education degrees in areas such as Elementary Education, Special Education, and Middle Education. While Liberty University began as a traditional university in central Virginia, the school has earned a great reputation for its online programs.
By completing the school’s online degree in education, you’ll be prepared for licensure in Virginia. Textbooks are electronic for Liberty’s online degree programs, which saves students thousands of dollars.
Top Online Universities for Computer Science
Drexel University
Drexel University is a top-rated school that has translated many of its outstanding traditional degree programs into exceptional online offerings. At Drexel University, you can earn a four-year degree in Computing and Security Technology from anywhere in the world.
During this program, your instructor assigns work that you can complete at times that are convenient for you. He or she introduces live classes occasionally to encourage collaboration among students. At Drexel, you’ll benefit from the school’s built-in network of alumni, faculty, and industry partners.
University of Illinois Online
The University of Illinois is a regional leader in research-based higher education. Its Springfield campus offers a four-year degree in Computer Science to online students who want the quality experience of a top-ranked school but the flexibility of attending class from anywhere. At the University of Illinois, you’ll choose from among these computer science specializations.
- Software Engineering
- Information Assurance
- Systems Security
While enrolled in the online computer science degree program at the University of Illinois, you’ll have access to the school’s digital library, career services, and internship opportunities. Successful completion of the four-year computer science degree program will give you the needed skills for a technical career in the public or private sector. It will also prepare you to gain entrance into the school’s advanced degree program in computer science, which U.S. News & World Report ranked fifth in the nation.
University of Maryland Global Campus
The University of Maryland Global Campus (UMGC) is a state school that offers quality technical degree programs at affordable rates. At UMGC, you can earn a four-year degree in these computer science specialty areas.
- Computer Networks and Security
- Information Science
- Data Analytics
UMGC doesn’t want limited funds to stop you from pursuing your career goals in computer science. Most students are eligible to receive a variety of financial aid products such as scholarships, grants, veteran’s education benefits, and tuition assistance for federal employees. UMGC also offers its students digital textbooks at no cost.
Most Popular Online Schools for You
While the highlighted online schools have some exceptional offerings, the online university that you choose must fit your unique interests and career objectives.
Making a list of your professional goals and asking university representatives detailed questions about their schools’ academic programs will help with your decision-making about online education.
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