How to Get an Accredited Online Degree for Less Money
Earning a degree is a significant investment in your future, but the rising costs of higher education can be daunting. Fortunately, accredited online degrees offer a flexible and often more affordable alternative to traditional on-campus programs. With careful planning and strategic choices, you can reduce the financial burden while still receiving a high-quality education. In this article, we’ll explore practical tips and strategies to help you get an accredited online degree for less money.
Why Choose an Accredited Online Degree?
Before diving into cost-saving strategies, it’s important to understand why accreditation matters. An accredited degree ensures that the program meets rigorous academic standards set by recognized accrediting bodies. This accreditation is crucial for:
- Employer Recognition : Employers value degrees from accredited institutions because they guarantee quality education.
- Transferability : Credits earned from accredited programs are more likely to transfer to other schools if needed.
- Financial Aid Eligibility : Only students enrolled in accredited programs qualify for federal financial aid.
With that in mind, let’s explore how to make earning an accredited online degree more affordable.
1. Start with Community College
One of the most effective ways to save money is to begin your education at a community college. Many community colleges now offer online associate degree programs that are significantly cheaper than four-year universities.
How It Works:
- Complete general education requirements (e.g., math, English, sciences) at a community college.
- Transfer those credits to a four-year institution to complete your bachelor’s degree online.
Benefits:
- Lower Tuition Costs : Community college tuition is typically a fraction of what you’d pay at a university.
- Flexible Scheduling : Many community colleges cater to working adults with evening or asynchronous classes.
- Guaranteed Transfer Agreements : Some states have articulation agreements that ensure seamless credit transfers.
2. Take Advantage of Credit-by-Exam Programs
Credit-by-exam programs allow you to earn college credits by passing standardized tests instead of taking traditional courses. These exams are often much cheaper than paying for a full semester of classes.
Popular Options:
- CLEP (College-Level Examination Program) : Offers exams in subjects like history, literature, and business.
- DSST (DANTES Subject Standardized Tests) : Covers topics such as health sciences, technology, and humanities.
- AP (Advanced Placement) Exams : If you took AP classes in high school, some colleges accept these scores for credit.
Cost Savings:
- Each exam typically costs between $80-$150, compared to hundreds or thousands per course.
Tip:
Check with your target university to confirm which exams they accept for credit.
3. Apply for Scholarships and Grants
Scholarships and grants are free money that doesn’t need to be repaid. They’re available for online students just as they are for on-campus learners.
Where to Look:
- University Scholarships : Many schools offering online degrees have scholarships specifically for distance learners.
- Private Organizations : Websites like Fastweb, Scholarships.com, and Cappex list thousands of opportunities.
- Employer Tuition Assistance : Some companies offer tuition reimbursement programs for employees pursuing degrees related to their jobs.
Proactive Steps:
- Start applying early and apply to multiple scholarships to increase your chances.
- Tailor your applications to highlight your unique qualifications and goals.
4. Choose Affordable Universities
Not all online degree programs are created equal when it comes to cost. Research universities known for offering affordable yet accredited online degrees.
Examples of Affordable Institutions:
- Western Governors University (WGU) : Known for competency-based learning, where you progress at your own pace.
- University of Florida Online : Offers competitive tuition rates for both in-state and out-of-state students.
- Southern New Hampshire University (SNHU) : Provides a wide range of online programs at reasonable prices.
Factors to Consider:
- Compare tuition rates across multiple schools.
- Look for flat-rate tuition models, which charge the same regardless of residency status.
5. Opt for Competency-Based Programs
Competency-based education allows you to advance through coursework based on mastery rather than time spent in class. This model can save you both time and money.
How It Works:
- Instead of completing a fixed number of semesters, you demonstrate proficiency in each subject area.
- Once you’ve mastered the material, you move on to the next module.
Benefits:
- Faster graduation timelines mean lower overall costs.
- Ideal for self-motivated learners who already possess knowledge in certain areas.
Example Schools:
- Western Governors University (WGU)
- Capella University
- Purdue University Global
6. Utilize Open Educational Resources (OER)
Textbooks and course materials can add up quickly. To cut costs, look for programs that incorporate Open Educational Resources (OER) —free or low-cost learning materials.
What Are OER?
- Textbooks, videos, quizzes, and other resources available under open licenses.
- Platforms like OpenStax and MERLOT provide free access to high-quality materials.
How to Find Them:
- Ask admissions counselors if the program uses OER.
- Search for OER repositories independently and use them to supplement your studies.
7. Leverage Military or Employer Benefits
If you’re a veteran, active-duty service member, or employed by a company with educational benefits, take advantage of these resources.
Veterans’ Benefits:
- The GI Bill covers tuition and fees for eligible veterans at many accredited online institutions.
- Yellow Ribbon Program supplements additional costs not covered by the GI Bill.
Employer Benefits:
- Some employers partner with specific universities to offer discounted tuition rates.
- Others provide direct tuition assistance or reimbursement programs.
8. Avoid Unnecessary Fees
Many online programs tack on extra fees for technology, library access, or student services. While some fees are unavoidable, others can be minimized or avoided altogether.
Tips to Minimize Fees:
- Choose schools with transparent pricing structures.
- Opt out of optional fees, such as campus recreation or alumni association dues.
- Use public libraries or free online tools instead of paying for premium subscriptions.
9. Accelerate Your Degree Timeline
The longer you spend in school, the more you’ll pay in tuition and fees. Accelerating your degree timeline can lead to significant savings.
Strategies for Acceleration:
- Enroll in accelerated programs that offer shorter terms (e.g., 8-week courses instead of 16-week semesters).
- Take the maximum number of credits allowed per term without compromising your performance.
- Combine summer sessions with regular semesters to graduate faster.
10. Negotiate Tuition Rates
Believe it or not, tuition rates aren’t always set in stone. Some universities may be willing to negotiate discounts, especially if you’re a strong candidate or facing financial hardship.
How to Negotiate:
- Contact the admissions office or financial aid department to discuss your situation.
- Highlight any competing offers from other schools.
- Emphasize your commitment to enrolling if a discount is offered.
