Best Online Colleges for Busy Adults 2024

Are you a busy adult looking to graduate fast and affordably without sacrificing the quality of education? You’re not alone! Navigating the world of online colleges can be overwhelming, especially when trying to find a reputable institution that meets your needs.

Today, we’re diving into the seven best online colleges that cater specifically to busy adults, ensuring you can graduate quickly and inexpensively. By the end of this blog, you’ll also discover a strategy to help you graduate from any of these colleges in under one year!

Honourable Mentions

Before we jump into our top picks, let’s highlight a few honorable mentions that deserve your attention:

• Excelsior University: This institution allows you to transfer up to 3 credits, leaving you with only 30 credits to complete at approximately $3,500 in tuition.
• Liberty University: With an impressive selection of 187 degrees and concentrations, Liberty University is a great choice for those who can’t find their major elsewhere.
• Columbia Southern University: This accredited institution boasts a 46% graduation rate and offers courses at a mere $270 per credit hour.
• Arizona State University and Oregon State University: Both universities are highly respected, offering strong faculty credentials and a challenging academic environment.
• Harvard Extension School: Although not cheap and with a tricky financial aid process, it’s considered one of the fanciest online programs available.
• University of the People: Renowned as the cheapest school globally, it does not require any tuition fees.
• UMass Global: This institution offers the most affordable Competency-Based Education (CBE) we’ve encountered.

The Countdown: Top 7 Online Colleges for Busy Adults

7. Charter Oak State College

Charter Oak State College is a hidden gem that offers a unique asynchronous learning model. This means you get to choose your homework schedule, with options for 5, 8, or 15-week terms. With 20 bachelor’s degrees available, including business and healthcare administration, this college is perfect for busy adults. The average online college cost is about $400 per credit hour, but Charter Oak charges only $329. They also accept a plethora of transfer credits, allowing you to potentially graduate in as little as two months

6. Purdue University Global

Purdue University Global, owned by the prestigious Purdue University, offers a fantastic Competency-Based Education (CBE) model. This model allows you to pay for a specific amount of time rather than per credit hour. For just $2,500, you can complete as many credits as possible in 10 weeks. This innovative approach puts you in control of your learning pace, making it easier than ever to finish your degree quickly.

5. Southern New Hampshire University (SNHU)

SNHU is often referred to as the “Walmart of higher education,” but in the best way possible! They offer a wide range of degrees at competitive prices, around $330 per credit hour. With a flexible learning environment, SNHU is highly accommodating to transfer students and has a solid reputation for student satisfaction. Whether you’re pursuing a degree in game development or business, SNHU is a fantastic choice for busy adults.

4. Thomas Edison State University

Thomas Edison State University is known for its efficiency and flexibility, making it an excellent choice for busy adults. They offer a flat rate of $4,299 per term, allowing you to take as many courses as you want. While they accept up to 75% of transfer credits, they also have their internal testing system, enabling you to earn credits through exams. This means you could potentially complete your degree in record time!

3. Liberty University

Liberty University stands out for its extensive range of programs and strong support for adult learners. It may be the most expensive on our list, charging $390 per credit hour, but its reputation and resources are worth it. With the possibility of transferring 75% of your degree, you could graduate for under $11,000, significantly less than the average cost of online education.

2. Western Governors University (WGU)

WGU is a pioneer in the realm of Competency-Based Education. For just $3,800 per six-month term, you can complete as many classes as you can handle, often graduating for under $5,000. WGU is particularly well-regarded for its programs in technology, business, education, and healthcare, making it a top contender for those looking to fast-track their education.

1. University of Maine at Presque Isle (UMPI)

At the top of our list is the University of Maine at Presque Isle. UMPI offers a unique competency-based program that costs around $1,500 for an 8-week term. Students have reported completing up to 42 credits in one term! The flexibility of submitting drafts for feedback before final submission ensures that students rarely fail a course. With a variety of programs available, including a build-it-yourself Bachelor of Liberal Studies, UMPI is an outstanding choice for busy adults looking to graduate quickly and affordably.

Strategies for Fast Graduation

Now that you have a comprehensive list of the best online colleges for busy adults, let’s discuss strategies to help you graduate in under one year:

1. Transfer Credits: Maximise your previous college credits and consider alternative credits from recognized platforms like Sophia, Study.com, and other accredited institutions.
2. Competency-Based Education: Enroll in schools that offer CBE programs, allowing you to progress at your own pace and earn credits faster.
3. Prior Learning Assessment: Take advantage of testing out of courses or earning credits through work experience, certifications, and military training.
4. Full Course Load: If feasible, take a full course load each term to accelerate your graduation timeline.
5. Stay Organised: Keep track of deadlines, assignments, and transfer credit evaluations to ensure you’re on the right path.